id large_stringlengths 11 17 | text large_stringlengths 357 1.01M | added large_stringlengths 10 10 ⌀ | title_language large_stringclasses 1 value | publication_date large_stringlengths 10 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
US-8056297-F | Eyeglass frame
FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an eyeglass frame showing my new design;
FIG. 2 is a rear elevational view thereof;
FIG. 3 is a left side elevational view thereof;
FIG. 4 is a right side elevational view thereof;
FIG. 5 is a top plan view thereof;
FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view thereof; and,
FIG. 7 is a front perspective view thereof.
The ornamental design for eyeglass frame, as shown and described.
| 1997-12-05 | en | 1998-12-22 |
US-11399099-F | Spoon
FIG. 1 is a top view of a spoon showing my new design;
FIG. 2 is a right side elevational view thereof; the left side view being a mirror image thereof;
FIG. 3 is a bottom plan view thereof;
FIG. 4 is a cross-section view taken along line 4--4 of FIG. 1; and,
FIG. 5 is a cross section view taken along line 5--5 of FIG. 1.
The ornamental design for a spoon, as shown and described.
| 1999-11-16 | en | 2000-09-26 |
US-3697395-F | Fleece-type chew toy for dogs
FIG. 1 is a side view of a fleece-type chew toy for dogs;
FIG. 2 is a side view thereof taken from the opposite side of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a front view thereof;
FIG. 4 is a top plan view thereof;
FIG. 5 is bottom plan view thereof; and,
FIG. 6 is a rear view thereof.
The ornamental design for a fleece-type chew toy for dogs, as shown.
| 1995-03-31 | en | 1997-02-18 |
US-9450698-F | High rise faucet with pull-out spray
FIG. 1 is a top, front perspective view of a high rise faucet with pull-out spray showing my new design;
FIG. 2 is a front elevational view thereof;
FIG. 3 is a top plan view thereof;
FIG. 4 is a right side elevational view thereof, the left side being a mirror image;
FIG. 5 is a rear elevational view thereof;
FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view thereof;
FIG. 7 is a top, front perspective view of a second embodiment of the high rise faucet with pull-out spray, differing from the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 in having an on-off button on the top of the pull-out spray;
FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the second embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7; and,
FIG. 9 is a right side elevational view of the second embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7.
The broken line showing of the aerator in FIGS. 2, 4, 6 and 9, and of the spray apertures in the faceplate in FIGS. 2, 4, 6 and 9 are for purposes of illustration only and form no part of the claimed design.
The ornamental design for a high rise faucet with pull-out spray, as shown and described.
| 1998-10-05 | en | 1999-11-23 |
US-83043992-F | Remote controller for bs tuner
FIG. 1 is a front, bottom end and right side perspective view of a remote controller for bs tuner according to the present design;
FIG. 2 is a front elevational view thereof;
FIG. 3 is a top end plant view thereof;
FIG. 4 is a left side elevational view thereof;
FIG. 5 is a right side elevational view thereof;
FIG. 6 is a rear elevational view thereof; and,
FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view thereof.
The ornamental design for a remote controller for bs tuner, as shown and described.
| 1992-02-06 | en | 1993-12-14 |
US-2555194-F | Flavor injector
FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a flavor injector showing my new design;
FIG. 2 is a right side perspective view thereof;
FIG. 3 is a front perspective view thereof; and,
FIG. 4 is a left side perspective view thereof.
The ornamental design for a flavor injector, as shown and described.
| 1994-07-05 | en | 1996-08-06 |
US-201715422882-A | Bimetallic device sensitive to temperature variations
ABSTRACT
A bimetallic device, the difference in expansion coefficient of which is between 10 and 30 10 −6 K −1 , for providing a resonator with thermal compensation via the balance wheel.
This application claims priority from European Patent application 16158884.3 of Mar. 7, 2016, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a bimetallic device sensitive to temperature variations and particularly to such a device comprising two materials, for which the difference between the expansion coefficients allows a variation in curvature according to the temperature change.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Bimetallic devices are known for manufacturing compensating balance wheels with a cut-out rim that is formed by two half-rings, each made up of a first steel layer soldered on a second brass layer. Thus formed, the rim opens when the temperature drops and closes when the temperature rises in order to compensate for the effect of the temperature on the flexibility of a balance spring.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The object of the present invention is to overcome all or part of the disadvantages of the known devices by proposing an alternative bimetallic device to those described above.
To this end, the invention relates to a bimetallic device comprising at least one first silicon-based layer and at least one second metal-based layer, characterised in that said at least one first and at least one second layers are arranged to attach to each other so that the curvature of the bimetallic device varies according to the temperature.
It is thus understood that the difference in the expansion coefficient of the bimetallic device is between approximately 10 and 30 10−6 K−1 depending on the materials used. This difference, which is much higher than that of the steel-brass pairing of approximately 6 10−6 K−1, allows the bimetallic device to have higher temperature sensitivity.
Furthermore, it is possible to work the silicon-based and metal-based materials into a wide variety of shapes and with high manufacturing precision. By way of an example, dry etching the silicon-based material and electroforming the metal-based material on the silicon-based material provides manufacturing precision of approximately one micron.
According to further advantageous variants of the invention:
said at least one first silicon-based layer comprises monocrystalline silicon, doped monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, doped polycrystalline silicon, porous silicon, silicon oxide, quartz, silica, silicon nitride or silicon carbide;
said at least one second metal-based layer comprises silver, magnesium, lead, thallium, nickel, copper, zinc, gold, aluminium or indium or vulcanite;
under the ambient temperature and pressure conditions the bimetallic device forms a curved strip;
said at least one first and at least one second layers are attached to each other by nesting and/or by using a bonding material and/or said at least one second layer is electroformed on said at least one first layer;
the bimetallic device comprises a fixing base integral with one of said at least one first and at least one second layers that allows the bimetallic device to be mounted on a part;
the bimetallic device comprises a block integral with the end of one of said at least one first and at least one second layers that allows the influence of the bimetallic device to be enhanced;
the bimetallic device comprises adjustable stop means that allow the minimum and/or maximum curvature variations of the bimetallic device to be limited;
the bimetallic device comprises a plurality of first layers arranged to attach to a single second layer, or conversely, a plurality of second layers arranged to attach to a single first layer.
According to a first embodiment, the invention relates to a compensating balance wheel comprising at least one bimetallic device according to any of the preceding variants.
Consequently, the bimetallic device according to the invention particularly can be advantageously used to provide a resonator with main or auxiliary thermal compensation via the balance wheel.
According to a first alternative, the compensating balance wheel comprises a cut-out rim that is formed by two bimetallic devices, each connected by at least one arm to a central opening in order to modify the inertia of the balance wheel according to the temperature.
According to a second alternative, the compensating balance wheel comprises a one-piece rim that is connected by at least one arm to a central opening and said at least one bimetallic device is mounted on the rim in order to modify the inertia of the balance wheel according to the temperature.
According to a third alternative, the compensating balance wheel comprises a one-piece rim that is connected by at least one arm to a central opening and said at least one bimetallic device is mounted on said at least one arm in order to modify the inertia of the balance wheel according to the temperature.
According to a second embodiment, the invention relates to a compensating index comprising at least one bimetallic device according to any of the preceding variants.
Consequently, the bimetallic device according to the invention particularly can be advantageously used to provide a resonator with high-precision auxiliary thermal compensation through the indexing.
According to a first alternative, the compensating index thus can comprise a gap that is arranged to receive a hairspring and is connected to said at least one bimetallic device in order to modify the position of the gap according to the temperature.
According to a second alternative, the compensating index can comprise a gap that is arranged to receive a hairspring, the size of the gap being controlled by said at least one bimetallic device in order to modify the gap according to the temperature.
According to a third embodiment, the invention relates to a temperature sensor comprising at least one bimetallic device according to any of the preceding variants.
Consequently, the bimetallic device according to the invention particularly can be advantageously used for high-precision temperature measurement.
The temperature sensor thus can comprise a pointer and a flexible device for tracking the movement of said at least one bimetallic device in order to modify the position of the pointer according to the temperature.
Finally, according to a fourth embodiment, the invention relates to a compensating balance spring comprising at least one bimetallic device according to any of the preceding variants.
Consequently, the bimetallic device according to the invention particularly can be advantageously used to provide a resonator with high-precision auxiliary thermal compensation through the pinning point.
The compensating balance spring thus can comprise an overcoil connected to said at least one bimetallic device that is arranged to be fixed to a beam in order to modify the active length of the compensating balance spring according to the temperature.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further features and advantages will become apparent from the following description, which is provided by way of a non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of a bimetallic device according to the invention;
FIGS. 2 to 4 show partial representations of variants of a bimetallic device according to the invention;
FIGS. 5 to 9 show alternative representations of a first embodiment using a bimetallic device according to the invention;
FIGS. 10 and 11 show alternative representations of a second embodiment using a bimetallic device according to the invention;
FIG. 12 shows a representation of a third embodiment using a bimetallic device according to the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The invention relates to a bimetallic device sensitive to temperature variations. The invention has been developed for horological applications for auxiliary thermal compensation or for mechanical temperature measurement. However, the bimetallic device cannot be limited to applications in the horological field.
The bimetallic device according to the invention comprises at least one first silicon-based layer and at least one second metal-based layer.
Said at least one first silicon-based layer can comprise monocrystalline silicon, doped monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, doped polycrystalline silicon, porous silicon, silicon oxide, quartz, silica, silicon nitride or silicon carbide. Of course, when the silicon-based material is in a crystalline phase, any crystalline orientation can be used.
Furthermore, said at least one second metal-based layer can comprise silver and/or magnesium and/or lead and/or thallium and/or nickel and/or copper and/or zinc and/or gold and/or aluminium and/or indium and/or vulcanite.
According to the invention, said at least one first and at least one second layers are arranged to attach to each other so that the curvature of the bimetallic device varies according to the temperature. Indeed, the strip that is formed by said at least one first and at least one second layer curves with the increase in temperature on the side where the expansion coefficient is the weakest.
Furthermore, this particularly means that the bimetallic device can comprise a plurality of first layers arranged to attach to a single second layer or, alternatively, that a plurality of second layers are arranged to attach to a single first layer.
Thus, for the horological applications, the aim is to find a difference in the expansion coefficient of the bimetallic device of between approximately 10 and 30 10−6 K−1 and to find low sensitivity to the magnetic fields. In a preferred manner, the monocrystalline silicon—nickel/phosphorus alloy pairing is used.
Therefore, the monocrystalline silicon comprises a linear expansion coefficient α at 25° C. of approximately 2.5 10−6 K−1, whereas the metals or metallic alloys generally comprise linear expansion coefficients α at 25° C. that are substantially between 13 and 32 10−6 K−1. It is thus understood that the difference in expansion coefficient of the bimetallic device allows high temperature sensitivity.
According to the invention, under the ambient temperature and pressure conditions (ATPC) that correspond to a temperature of 25° C. and to a pressure of 100 kPa, the bimetallic device preferably forms a curved strip.
A first example of a bimetallic device 1 is shown in FIG. 1. The bimetallic device 1 comprises a first silicon-based layer 3 and a second metal-based layer 5. As explained above, the strip 7 that is formed by said first and second layers 3, 5 curves with the increase in temperature on the side where the expansion coefficient is the weakest, i.e. the first silicon-based layer 3.
As shown in FIG. 1, said at least one first and at least one second layers 3, 5 are attached to each other by nesting. Thus, nesting means 2, 2′, 4 can be seen that are formed either by a groove-hook assembly 4 or by catch-rib assemblies 2, 2′.
Of course, in a further or alternative manner, said at least one first and at least one second layers can be attached to each other by using a bonding material or by electroforming.
More specifically, in a further or alternative manner, the strip 7 can be rigidly connected by bonding or brazing said first 3 and second 5 layers or the second layer 5 can be electroformed on the first layer 3.
As shown in FIG. 1, the bimetallic device 1 further comprises a fixing base 9 integral with one of said first 3 and second 5 layers that allows the bimetallic device 1 to be mounted on another part. In the example of FIG. 1, the fixing base 9 is integrally formed with the second metal-based layer 5 and comprises a through hole 8 that can be tapped.
According to the variants shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the bimetallic device can comprise adjustable stop means that allow the minimum and/or maximum curvature variations of the bimetallic device to be limited. Indeed, it can be worthwhile for the part on which the bimetallic device is added to be able to limit any influence over only a certain temperature range, i.e. above a predefined temperature, below a predefined temperature or between two predefined temperatures.
FIG. 2 shows two types of adjustable stop means 11, 13 that allow the minimum and/or maximum variations of curvature of the bimetallic device to be limited. Indeed, depending on the choice of materials for the layers 3, 5, it is possible to determine whether to limit the movement of the strip to less curvature or to more curvature or to both. The first adjustable stop means 11 thus comprise a threaded cylindrical stop 12 that is intended to limit the movement of the strip through contact with the first layer 3, whereas the second adjustable stop means 13 comprise an L-shaped stop 14 that comprises a threaded vertical section and is intended to limit the movement of the strip through contact with the second layer 5.
Alternatively, FIG. 3 shows two types of adjustable stop means 15, 17 that allow the minimum and/or maximum curvature variations of the bimetallic device to be limited. Indeed, depending on the choice of materials for the layers 3, 5, it is possible to determine whether to limit the movement of the strip to less curvature or to more curvature or to both. The first adjustable stop means 15 thus comprise a threaded cylindrical stop 16 that is intended to limit the movement of the strip through contact with a part facing the first layer 3, whereas the second adjustable stop means 17 comprise a threaded cylindrical stop 18 that is intended to limit the movement of the strip through contact with a part facing the second layer 5.
According to a third variant shown in FIG. 4, the bimetallic device can further comprise a block 6 that can be integral with the end of one of said at least one first and at least one second layers 3, 5 in order to enhance the influence of the bimetallic device. Indeed, it can be worthwhile for the part on which the bimetallic device is added to be able to enhance the influence by modifying the centre of mass of the bimetallic device.
Alternatively, the block 6 can be an inertia block fixed on the end of one of said at least one first and at least one second layers 3, 5 in the same way as the first and second adjustable stop means 15, 17. The inertia block thus can be formed from a third material, which is denser, for example, than said at least one first and at least one second layers 3, 5.
A first embodiment of the invention relates to a compensating balance wheel comprising at least one bimetallic device according to any of the preceding variants. It is thus understood that the bimetallic device according to the invention particularly can be advantageously used to provide a resonator, which may or may not comprise a compensating balance spring, with auxiliary or main thermal compensation at the balance wheel.
According to a first alternative shown in FIG. 5, the compensating balance wheel 21 comprises a cut-out rim 23 formed by two bimetallic devices 25, 27 respectively formed by at least one first and at least one second layer 28, 28′, 26, 26′. Each bimetallic device 25, 27 is connected by at least one arm 22 to a central opening 24 in order to modify the inertia of the balance wheel 21 according to the temperature. FIG. 5 shows that the second layers 26 and/or 26′ and/or said at least one arm 22 and/or the opening 24 can be one-piece. It can also be seen that inertia blocks 29, 29′ are used to adjust the inertia of the compensating balance wheel 21.
It is thus understood that the bimetallic devices 25, 27 according to the invention are advantageously used to provide a resonator, which may or may not comprise a compensating balance spring, with auxiliary or main thermal compensation at the balance wheel. It is also understood that, depending on the thermal compensation to be provided, the materials and the geometries that are used for the bimetallic device 25, 27 and, possibly, for the block/inertia block 6 and/or the fixing base 9 and/or the stop means 11, 13, 15, 17 will be selected in order to adjust the working of the timekeeping movement as precisely as possible. It is also possible for the position of the bimetallic device 25, 27 to be adjusted, i.e. its fixing position relative to the opening 24, as well as the angle that it forms relative to the arm 22, in order to optimise its use.
Of course, a plurality of bimetallic devices 25, 27 can be distributed over the same section of the cut-out rim 23 or at said at least one arm 22. It is also possible, in a manner similar to the example of FIG. 8, that the bimetallic device 25, 27 that is used comprises a plurality of first layers arranged to attach to a single second layer or, alternatively, that a plurality of second layers are arranged to attach to a single first layer.
According to a second alternative shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the compensating balance wheel 31, 41, 51 comprises a non-cut-out rim 33 that is connected by at least one arm 32 to a central opening 34. Furthermore, said at least one bimetallic device 35, 45, 55 is mounted on the rim 33 in order to modify the inertia of the compensating balance wheel 31, 41, 51 according to the temperature.
Depending on the choice of materials for the first and second layers, it is possible to determine whether to fix the bimetallic device to the internal diameter of the rim, as shown in FIG. 6, or to fix the bimetallic device to the external diameter of the rim, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, or to do both.
In the example of FIG. 7, the bimetallic device 45 comprises a strip, which is formed by a single first layer and a single second layer, and which is added onto the external diameter of the rim 33. Of course, a plurality of bimetallic devices 45 can be distributed over the external diameter of the rim 33.
It is also possible, as shown in FIG. 8, that the bimetallic device 55 that is mounted on the external diameter of the rim 33 comprises a plurality of first layers arranged to attach to a single second layer or, alternatively, that a plurality of second layers are arranged to attach to a single first layer.
It is thus understood that the bimetallic devices 45, 55 according to the invention are advantageously used to provide a resonator comprising a compensating balance spring with auxiliary thermal compensation at the balance wheel. It is particularly understood that, depending on the auxiliary compensation to be provided, the materials and the geometries that are used for the bimetallic device 45, 55 and, possibly, for the block/inertia block 6 and/or the fixing base 9 and/or the stop means 11, 13, 15, 17 will be selected in order to adjust the working of the timekeeping movement as precisely as possible. It is also possible to adjust the position of the bimetallic device 45, 55 on the rim 33 in order to optimise its influence.
In the example of FIG. 6, the bimetallic device 35 comprises a strip, which is formed by a single first layer and a single second layer and which is added onto the internal diameter of the rim 33. Of course, a plurality of bimetallic devices 35 can be distributed over the internal diameter of the rim 33.
It is also possible, in a manner similar to the example of FIG. 8, that the bimetallic device that is mounted on the internal diameter of the rim 33 comprises a plurality of first layers arranged to attach to a single second layer or, alternatively, that a plurality of second layers are arranged to attach to a first single layer.
It is thus understood that the bimetallic devices 35 according to the invention are advantageously used to provide a resonator comprising a compensating balance spring with auxiliary thermal compensation at the balance wheel. It is particularly understood that, depending on the auxiliary compensation to be provided, the materials and the geometries that are used for the bimetallic device 35 and, possibly, for the block/inertia block 6 and/or the fixing base 9 and/or the stop means 11, 13, 15, 17 will be selected in order to adjust the working of the timekeeping movement as precisely as possible. It is also possible to adjust the position of the bimetallic device 35 on the rim 33 in order to optimise its influence.
According to a third alternative shown in FIG. 9, the compensating balance wheel 61 comprises a non-cut-out rim 63 that is connected by at least one arm 62 to a central opening 64. Furthermore, said at least one bimetallic device 65 is mounted on said at least one arm 62 in order to modify the inertia of the compensating balance wheel 61 according to the temperature.
In the alternative of FIG. 9, the bimetallic device 65 comprises a strip with a projecting block, which strip is formed by a single first layer and a single second layer and is added onto the upper surface of one of the arms 62 using one of the holes 66 arranged on the arms 62. Of course, a plurality of bimetallic devices 35 can be distributed over the upper and/or lower surface of one or a plurality of the arms 62 using one or more of the holes 66.
It is also possible, in a manner similar to the example of FIG. 8, that the bimetallic device that is mounted on the upper surface of one of the arms 62 comprises a plurality of first layers arranged to attach to a single second layer or, alternatively, that a plurality of second layers are arranged to attach to a single first layer.
It is thus understood that the bimetallic devices 65 according to the invention are advantageously used to provide a resonator comprising a compensating balance spring with auxiliary thermal compensation at the balance wheel. It is particularly understood that, depending on the auxiliary compensation to be provided, the materials and the geometries that are used for the bimetallic device 65 and, possibly, for the block 6 and/or the fixing base 9 and/or the stop means 11, 13, 15, 17 will be selected in order to adjust the working of the timekeeping movement as precisely as possible. It is also possible to adjust the position of the bimetallic device 65 on each arm 62, i.e. its fixing position between the opening 64 and the rim 63, as well as the positioning relative to the length of the arm 62, i.e. the angle between the start of the bimetallic device 65 and the length of the arm 62, or the direction of the curvature of the bimetallic device (substantially parallel to the curvature of the rim 63 or opposite the curvature), in order to optimise its influence.
According to a second embodiment, the invention relates to a compensating index 71, 91 comprising at least one bimetallic device 75, 95 according to any of the preceding variants.
Consequently, the bimetallic device 75, 95 according to the invention advantageously can be used to provide a resonator with high-precision auxiliary thermal compensation through the indexing.
Indeed, the index is used to modify the daily working of the timepiece, by extending or shortening the active length of the balance spring of a balance wheel-balance spring resonator. The index is normally adjusted with low friction on the top balance-endpiece. The daily working of the timepiece is modified by turning the index. In order to simplify the adjustment, graduations are generally marked on the balance-cock that allow the effect of the alteration to be approximately assessed.
According to a first alternative shown in FIG. 10, the compensating index 71 comprises a gap i that is arranged to receive a hairspring formed in an arm 72. The arm 72 is rotationally mounted relative to an opening 74 and is connected to said at least one bimetallic device 75 in order to modify the position of the gap i, i.e. the clearance of the balance spring, according to the temperature.
More specifically, the bimetallic device 75 comprises a concentrically extending U-shaped strip that is formed by a single first layer and a single second layer. The bimetallic device 75 is mounted between the arm 72 supporting two pins 76 or, alternatively, an index key, forming the gap i, and a fixing ring 77 at the top balance-endpiece. As shown in FIG. 10, one end 78 of the strip is pivotally mounted on the arm 72 in order to force said arm to move during temperature variations.
It is thus understood that the arm 72 and/or the pins 76 and/or a section of the strip of the bimetallic device 75 and/or the opening 74 and/or the fixing ring 77 can be integral.
Of course, a plurality of bimetallic devices 75 can be distributed between the arm 72 and the fixing ring 77, i.e. one between the opening 74 and the start of the pins 76 and one between the opening 74 and the fixing ring 77, for example. It is also possible, in a manner similar to the example of FIG. 8, that the bimetallic device 75 that is used comprises a plurality of first layers arranged to attach to a single second layer or, alternatively, that a plurality of second layers are arranged to attach to a single first layer.
It is thus understood that the bimetallic devices 75 according to the invention are advantageously used to provide a resonator comprising a compensating balance spring with auxiliary thermal compensation at the index. It is particularly understood that, depending on the auxiliary compensation to be provided, the materials and the geometries that are used for the bimetallic device 75 and, possibly, for the block/index block 6 and/or the fixing base 9 and/or the stop means 11, 13, 15, 17 will be selected in order to adjust the working of the timekeeping movement as precisely as possible. It is also possible to adjust the position of the bimetallic device 75 in order to optimise its influence.
According to a second alternative shown in FIG. 11, the compensating index 91 comprises a gap i that is arranged to receive a hairspring formed in an arm 92. The arm 92 is preferably rotationally mounted relative to an opening 94. Furthermore, the size of the gap i is advantageously controlled by said at least one bimetallic device 95 in order to modify the gap i according to the temperature.
More specifically, the bimetallic device 95 comprises a U-shaped strip that is formed by a single first layer and a single second layer. The bimetallic device 95 is mounted on the arm 92 at one 93 of its ends and comprises a first pin 96 on its other end. A second pin 96 is mounted on the arm 92 opposite the first pin in order to form the gap i and an index tip 97 is mounted opposite the arm 92 relative to the opening in order to allow the index 91 to be adjusted.
It is thus understood that the arm 92 and/or the pins 96 and/or a section of the strip of the bimetallic device 95 and/or the opening 94 and/or the index tip 97 can be integral.
Of course, a plurality of bimetallic devices 95 can be distributed between the arm 92 and the index tip 97, i.e. by including a second device between the opening 94 and the start of the pins 96, for example. It is also possible, in a manner similar to the example of FIG. 8, that the bimetallic device 95 that is used comprises a plurality of first layers arranged to attach to a single second layer or, alternatively, that a plurality of second layers are arranged to attach to a single first layer.
It is thus understood that the bimetallic devices 95 according to the invention are advantageously used to provide a resonator comprising a compensating balance spring with auxiliary thermal compensation at the index. It is particularly understood that, depending on the auxiliary compensation to be provided, the materials and the geometries that are used for the bimetallic device 95 and, possibly, for the block/index block 6 and/or the fixing base 9 and/or the stop means 11, 13, 15, 17 will be selected in order to adjust the working of the timekeeping movement as precisely as possible. It is also possible to adjust the position of the bimetallic device 95 in order to optimise its influence.
It also can be contemplated that a bimetallic device of the type shown in FIG. 11 can be adapted so as not to modify the position of an index pin but to modify the position of the pinning point of a balance spring according to the temperature. It is thus understood that the bimetallic device will be mounted between a fixed point of the timekeeping movement, such as a beam, and the external curve of a balance spring so that the active length of the balance spring can be modified according to the temperature without having to use an index.
According to a third embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the invention relates to a temperature sensor 81 comprising at least one bimetallic device 85 according to any of the preceding variants.
Consequently, the bimetallic device 85 according to the invention advantageously can be used for high-precision temperature measurement.
In the example of FIG. 11, the temperature sensor 81 thus can comprise a pointer 83 and a flexible device 87 for tracking the movement of said at least one bimetallic device in order to modify the position of the pointer 83 according to the temperature.
More specifically, the bimetallic device 85 comprises a strip, which is formed by a single first layer and a single second layer and which is mounted in order to be in permanent contact with a feeler 80 of the flexible device 87 for tracking movement. As shown in FIG. 11, the feeler 80 is rigidly connected to a pivot 82 intended to create a rotation movement B on the basis of the movements A of the bimetallic device 85. The pivot 82 communicates its movement B to the counter gear 84 that is pivotally mounted according to the rotation C via the spring 86 in order to force the feeler 80 to always follow the surface of the bimetallic device 5. As shown in FIG. 11, the counter gear 84 engages with the gear 88 of the pointer, which is like a hand, for example, in order to move the temperature indication according to the rotation movement D.
Of course, a plurality of bimetallic devices 85 can be used to indicate an average temperature value via a differential. It is also possible, in a manner similar to the example of FIG. 8, that the bimetallic device 85 that is used comprises a plurality of first layers arranged to attach to a single second layer or, alternatively, that a plurality of second layers are arranged to attach to a single first layer.
It is thus understood that the bimetallic devices 85 according to the invention are advantageously used to provide temperature measurement precision. It is particularly understood that, depending on the measurement precision to be provided, the materials and the geometries that are used for the bimetallic device 85 and, possibly, for the block 6 and/or the fixing base 9 and/or the stop means 11, 13, 15, 17 will be selected in order to adjust the operation of the temperature sensor as precisely as possible. It is also possible to adjust the position of the bimetallic device 85 in order to optimise its use.
Of course, the present invention is not limited to the example shown, but is susceptible to various variants and modifications that will become apparent to persons skilled in the art. In particular, increasing numbers of the components that are made for a time-keeping part are silicon-based. For this reason, any silicon-based component can be modified during manufacturing to integrate a bimetallic device according to the invention such as, for example, the balance spring or the escapement.
Thus, by way of an example, according to a fourth embodiment, the invention relates to a compensating balance spring comprising at least one bimetallic device. Indeed, the bimetallic device according to the invention particularly can be advantageously used to provide a resonator with high-precision auxiliary thermal compensation at the pinning point.
More specifically, the compensating balance spring thus can comprise an overcoil that is connected, as one-piece or not as one-piece, to said at least one bimetallic device that is arranged to be fixed to a beam in order to modify the active length of the compensating balance spring according to the temperature.
1. A bimetallic device comprising at least one first silicon-based layer and at least one second metal-based layer, wherein said at least one first and at least one second layers are arranged to attach to each other so that the curvature of the bimetallic device varies according to the temperature.
2. The bimetallic device according to claim 1, wherein said at least one first silicon-based layer comprises monocrystalline silicon, doped monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, doped polycrystalline silicon, porous silicon, silicon oxide, quartz, silica, silicon nitride or silicon carbide.
3. The bimetallic device according to claim 1, wherein said at least one second metal-based layer comprises silver, magnesium, lead, thallium, nickel, copper, zinc, gold, aluminium or indium or vulcanite.
4. The bimetallic device according to claim 1, wherein, under the ambient temperature and pressure conditions, the bimetallic device forms a curved strip.
5. The bimetallic device according to claim 1, wherein said at least one first and one second layers are attached to each other by nesting.
6. The bimetallic device according to claim 1, wherein said at least one first and at least one second layers are attached to each other by using a bonding material.
7. The bimetallic device according to claim 1, wherein said at least one second layer is electroformed on said at least one first layer.
8. The bimetallic device according to claim 1, wherein the bimetallic device comprises a fixing base integral with one of said at least one first and at least one second layers that allows the bimetallic device to be mounted on a part.
9. The bimetallic device according to claim 1, wherein the bimetallic device comprises a block integral with the end of one of said at least one first and at least one second layers that allows the influence of the bimetallic device to be enhanced.
10. The bimetallic device according to claim 1, wherein the bimetallic device comprises adjustable stop means that allow the minimum and/or maximum curvature variations of the bimetallic device to be limited.
11. The bimetallic device according to claim 1, wherein the bimetallic device comprises a plurality of first layers arranged to attach to a single second layer.
12. The bimetallic device according to claim 1, wherein the bimetallic device comprises a plurality of second layers arranged to attach to a single first layer.
13. A compensating balance wheel comprising at least one bimetallic device according to claim 1.
14. The compensating balance wheel according to claim 13, wherein the compensating balance wheel comprises a cut-out rim that is formed by at least two bimetallic devices, each connected by at least one arm to a central opening in order to modify the inertia of the compensating balance wheel according to the temperature.
15. The compensating balance wheel according to claim 13, wherein the compensating balance wheel comprises a non-cut-out rim connected by at least one arm to a central opening and wherein said at least one bimetallic device is mounted on the rim in order to modify the inertia of the compensating balance wheel according to the temperature.
16. The compensating balance wheel according to claim 13, wherein the compensating balance wheel comprises a non-cut-out rim connected by at least one arm to a central opening and wherein said at least one bimetallic device is mounted on said at least one arm in order to modify the inertia of the compensating balance wheel according to the temperature.
17. A compensating index comprising at least one bimetallic device according to claim 1.
18. The compensating index according to claim 17, wherein the compensating index comprises a gap that is arranged to receive a hairspring and is connected to said at least one bimetallic device in order to modify the position of the gap according to the temperature.
19. The compensating index according to claim 17, wherein the compensating index comprises a gap that is arranged to receive a hairspring, the size of the gap being controlled by said at least one bimetallic device in order to modify the gap according to the temperature.
20. A temperature sensor comprising at least one bimetallic device according to claim 1.
21. The temperature sensor according to claim 20, wherein the temperature sensor comprises a pointer and a flexible device for tracking the movement of said at least one bimetallic device in order to modify the position of the pointer according to the temperature.
22. A compensating balance spring comprising at least one bimetallic device according to claim 1.
23. The compensating balance spring according to claim 22, wherein the overcoil of the compensating balance spring is connected to said at least one bimetallic device that is arranged to be fixed to a beam in order to modify the active length of the compensating balance spring according to the temperature.
| 2017-02-02 | en | 2017-09-07 |
US-201414549548-A | Light socket cameras
ABSTRACT
A security system can be used to trigger appliances. The security system can comprise a light socket camera that can be rotatably attached to a light socket of a building. The light socket camera can receive an audible instruction from a user, and in response to receiving the audible instruction from the user, the security system can trigger the appliance to perform an operation.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/469,583; filed Aug. 27, 2014; and entitled SMART LOCK SYSTEMS AND METHODS; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/469,583 claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/872,439; filed Aug. 30, 2013; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/469,583 claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/099,888; filed Dec. 6, 2013; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,823,795 on Sep. 2, 2014; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/469,583 claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/142,839; filed Dec. 28, 2013; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,842,180 on Sep. 23, 2014; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/275,811; filed May 12, 2014; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/275,811 claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/098,772; filed Dec. 6, 2013; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,780,201 on Jul. 15, 2014; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/275,811 claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/859,070; filed Jul. 26, 2013; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/463,548; filed Aug. 19, 2014; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/039,394; filed Aug. 19, 2014; and entitled LIGHT SOCKET CAMERAS; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/018,605; filed Jun. 29, 2014; and entitled LIGHT SOCKET CAMERAS; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/549,545; filed Nov. 20, 2014; and entitled LIGHT SOCKET CAMERAS; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. This application and U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/549,545 claim the benefit of and are continuation-in-parts of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/534,588; filed Nov. 6, 2014; and entitled LIGHT SOCKET CAMERAS; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
1. Technical Field
Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to devices and methods that enable people to observe remote locations. Certain embodiments relate to using a computing device to see video taken by a remotely located camera.
2. Description of Related Art
Video cameras can record images of various events that are viewable by remotely located people. Additionally, video cameras can be supported by objects such as tripods. Furthermore, video cameras often require electrical power. Some video cameras receive electrical power from batteries and/or power outlets.
SUMMARY
The disclosure describes methods for using a light socket camera to trigger an appliance. The methods can include using a light socket camera to receive an audible instruction from a user, wherein the audible instruction is an instruction to trigger an appliance communicatively coupled to the light socket camera and electrically coupled to a building. The light socket camera can be electrically coupled to the building. The light socket camera can include an outer housing comprising a proximal end, a distal end that is opposite the proximal end, and a sidewall that extends between the proximal end and the distal end, a camera coupled to the outer housing, whereby the camera is configured to record a video, a speaker located within an internal portion of the outer housing, whereby the speaker is configured to transmit an audible message, a microphone located within an internal portion of the outer housing, whereby the microphone is configured to receive an audible instruction, a communication module located within an internal portion of the outer housing, whereby the communication module is configured to connect to a network, and a screw thread contact located adjacent the proximal end of the outer housing, whereby the screw thread contact is rotatably attached to a light socket of the building. In response to receiving the audible instruction from the user, methods can also include using the light socket camera to transmit a trigger command to the appliance, wherein the trigger command triggers the appliance to perform an operation. In response to transmitting the trigger command to the appliance, methods can also include performing the operation via the appliance.
The audible instruction can be a first audible instruction to activate the appliance. As such, the method can further include using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user, wherein the second audible instruction comprises an instruction to deactivate the appliance. In response to receiving a second audible instruction from the user, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit a deactivation command to the appliance. In response to transmitting the deactivation command to the appliance, methods can also include deactivating the appliance.
The building can include an enclosed interior portion and an exterior portion opposite the interior portion. In some methods, at least a portion of the appliance is located along the exterior portion of the building, and at least a portion of the light socket camera is located along the exterior portion of the building. In some methods the appliance is located entirely within the interior portion of the building, and the light socket camera is located entirely within the interior portion of the building. Furthermore, in some methods at least a portion of the appliance is located along the exterior portion of the building, and wherein the light socket camera is located entirely within the interior portion of the building.
The building can comprise a first room and a second room. The light socket camera can be located in the first room and the appliance can be located in the second room. The appliance can be selected from the group consisting of a light, television, garage door opener, and door lock.
As well, the appliance can be a light, and the audible instruction can be a first audible instruction comprising an instruction to illuminate the light. The method can further include using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user, wherein the second audible instruction comprises an instruction to deactivate the light. In response to receiving a second audible instruction from the user, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit a deactivation command to the light. In response to transmitting the deactivation command to the appliance, methods can include deactivating the light.
The appliance can be a television, and the audible instruction can be a first audible instruction comprising an instruction to activate the television. Methods can include using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user, wherein the second audible instruction comprises an instruction to deactivate the television. In response to receiving the second audible instruction from the user, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit a deactivation command to the television. As well, in response to transmitting the deactivation command to the television, methods can include deactivating the television. Methods can also include using the light socket camera to receive a third audible instruction from the user, wherein the third audible instruction comprises an instruction to change an input channel of the television. In response to receiving the third audible instruction from the user, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit a change command to the television. In response to transmitting the change command to the television, methods can include changing the input channel of the television.
The appliance can be a garage door opener, and the audible instruction can be a first audible instruction comprising an instruction to open a garage door mechanically coupled to the garage door opener. Methods can further include using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user, wherein the second audible instruction comprises an instruction to close the garage door. In response to receiving the second audible instruction from the user, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit a close command to the garage door opener. In response to transmitting the close command to the garage door opener, methods can include closing the garage door.
Methods can also include using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user, wherein the second audible instruction comprises an instruction to lock the door lock. In response to receiving the second audible instruction from the user, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit a lock command to the door lock. In response to transmitting the lock command to the door lock, methods can include moving a lock of the door lock to a locked position.
The light socket camera can be a first light socket camera, and the appliance can include a second light socket camera having a camera, a speaker, and a microphone, wherein the second light socket camera is communicatively coupled to the first light socket camera. The second light socket camera can be electrically coupled to the building and mechanically coupled to an electrical outlet of the building.
Methods can include using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction to determine whether a visitor is located within a line of sight of the second light socket camera. In response to receiving the second audible instruction, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit a line of sight command to the second light socket camera. In response to transmitting the line of sight command to the second light socket camera, methods can also include determining whether the visitor is located within the line of sight of the second light socket camera.
The audible instruction can further include an instruction to determine an identity of the visitor. In response to determining that the visitor is located within the line of sight of the second light socket camera, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit an identity command to the second light socket camera. In response to transmitting the identity command to the second light socket camera, methods can include determining the identity of the visitor.
Using the light socket camera to determine the identity of the visitor can comprise using the light socket to determine the identity of the visitor via one of facial recognition, iris recognition, and retina scanning.
The appliance can be a first appliance, and the audible instruction can be a first audible instruction comprising an instruction to activate the first appliance. Methods can further include using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user. The second audible instruction can include an instruction to activate a second appliance. In response to receiving the second audible instruction, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit an activation command to the second appliance. In response to transmitting the activation command to the second appliance, methods can include activating the second appliance.
The first appliance can be a light, and the second appliance can be a television. Methods can further include using the light socket camera to receive a third audible instruction from the user, wherein the third audible instruction comprises an instruction to unlock a door lock. In response to receiving the third audible instruction, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit an unlock command to the door lock. In response to transmitting the unlock command to the door lock, methods can include moving a lock of the door lock to the unlocked position.
Methods can include using the communication module to wirelessly transmit the command to the appliance via one of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radio frequency, Near Field Communication, and infrared.
As well, methods can include using the communication module to transmit the command to the appliance via a wire, wherein the wire is electrically and communicatively coupled to the light socket camera. The wire can comprise a copper wire located within the building, wherein the copper wire is electrically coupled to a transformer such that the copper wire transmits electricity from the transformer to the light socket camera, and the copper wire transmits electricity from the transformer to the appliance, and wherein the copper wire communicatively transmits the command from the light socket camera to the appliance.
Furthermore, in response to receiving the audible instruction from the user, the method can further include using the light socket camera to determine the identity of the user. In response to determining the identity of the user, methods can include using the light socket camera to determine whether the user is an authorized user or an unauthorized user of the appliance. In response to determining the user is an authorized user of the appliance, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit the trigger command to the appliance, wherein the trigger command triggers the appliance to perform an operation. In response to transmitting the trigger command to the appliance, methods can include performing the operation via the appliance.
Methods can also include using the light socket camera to determine whether an Internet connection exists between the light socket camera and a remote server. In response to determining that the Internet connection does not exist between the light socket camera and the remote server, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit the trigger command to the appliance via a WiFi router. In response to determining that the Internet connection does exist between the light socket camera and the remote server, methods can include using the light socket camera to transmit the trigger command to the appliance via the remote server.
Furthermore, methods can include using the light socket camera to determine whether the light socket camera is electrically coupled to the building. In response to determining the light socket camera is not electrically coupled to the building and in response to receiving the audible instruction from the user, methods can include using the light socket camera to activate a light on the light socket camera to thereby illuminate an area adjacent the light socket camera.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features, aspects, and advantages are described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, the invention. In the drawings, like reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout similar embodiments.
FIG. 1 a illustrates a front view of a communication system, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 1 b illustrates a front view of a security system, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 2 illustrates a computing device running software, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which a security system is connected to a building, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a light socket, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a light bulb mechanically and electrically coupled to a light socket, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a security system prior to the security system being mechanically and electrically coupled to the light socket, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 7 illustrates the security system mechanically and electrically coupled to the light socket, according to some embodiments.
FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate perspective views of security systems, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of electrical contacts, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of a security system with a cone-shaped mirror, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the security system with a cone-shaped mirror, according to some embodiments.
FIGS. 13 a, 13 b, 13 c, and 13 d illustrate side views of security systems with respective dome camera assembly, according to various embodiments.
FIG. 13 e illustrates a top-down view of a security system with a horizontal field of vision, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of a security system, according to some embodiments.
FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate a user interface with an adjustable viewing orientation, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 17 illustrates a security system detecting a visitor, according to some embodiments.
FIGS. 18-27 illustrate flow-charts of various methods of using a security system, according to various embodiments.
FIG. 28 a illustrates a security system detecting a sound, according to an embodiment.
FIGS. 28 b-28 f illustrate various responses to detecting the sound from FIG. 28 a, according to various embodiments.
FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate flow-charts of various methods of using a security system, according to various embodiments.
FIG. 31 a illustrates a security system detecting an audible instruction, according to an embodiment.
FIGS. 31 b-31 f illustrate various responses to detecting the audible instruction from FIG. 31 a, according to various embodiments.
FIGS. 32 a and 32 b illustrate various embodiments of a security system, first appliance and second appliance being located inside or outside a building, according to various embodiments.
FIGS. 33 a and 33 b illustrate various embodiments of a security system being connected to an appliance via a wireless connection and a wired connection, according to various embodiments.
FIG. 34 illustrates a flow-chart of a method of using a security system, according to an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Although certain embodiments and examples are disclosed below, inventive subject matter extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses, and to modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, the scope of the claims appended hereto is not limited by any of the particular embodiments described below. For example, in any method or process disclosed herein, the acts or operations of the method or process may be performed in any suitable sequence and are not necessarily limited to any particular disclosed sequence. Various operations may be described as multiple discrete operations in turn, in a manner that may be helpful in understanding certain embodiments; however, the order of description should not be construed to imply that these operations are order dependent. Additionally, the structures, systems, and/or devices described herein may be embodied as integrated components or as separate components.
For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain aspects and advantages of these embodiments are described. Not necessarily all such aspects or advantages are achieved by any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, various embodiments may be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other aspects or advantages as may also be taught or suggested herein.
System Embodiments
Communication systems can provide a secure and convenient way for a remotely located individual to see and/or communicate with a person who is within the field of vision of a camera and/or within the range of a microphone. Communication systems can include a camera that is attached to a light socket to couple the camera to a wall and to provide electricity to the camera.
Some communication systems can allow an individual to hear, see, and talk with visitors. For example, communication systems can use a computing device to enable a remotely located person to see, hear, and/or talk with visitors. Computing devices can include computers, laptops, tablets, mobile devices, smartphones, cellular phones, and wireless devices (e.g., cars with wireless communication). Specifically, example computing devices include the iPhone, iPad, iMac, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro made by Apple Inc. Communication between a remotely located person and a visitor can occur via the Internet, cellular networks, telecommunication networks, and wireless networks.
Referring now to FIG. 1 a, communication systems 200 can be a portion of a smart home hub. Communication systems 200 can facilitate home automation. In some cases, cameras 208 are electrically coupled to a light socket of a building 300 and are integrated into a holistic home automation system and/or home security system. Various systems described herein enable home surveillance and/or complete home automation. Cameras 208 threadably screwed into an interior light socket can enable a remote user to see events inside of a building 300 (shown in FIG. 3). As well, cameras 208 threadably screwed into exterior light sockets can enable a remote user to see events outside of a building 300.
In some embodiments, the security system 202 c controls various electrical items in a home (e.g., lights, air conditioners, heaters, motion sensors, garage door openers, locks, televisions, computers, entertainment systems, appliances, pool monitors, elderly monitors, and the like). In some embodiments, the computing device 204 controls the security system 202 c and other electrical items in a home (e.g., lights, air conditioners, heaters, motion sensors, garage door openers, locks, televisions, computers, entertainment systems, appliance, pool monitors, elderly monitors, and the like).
FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a communication system embodiment. The communication system 200 can include a security system 202 c (e.g., a camera assembly) and a computing device 204. Although the illustrated security system 202 c includes many components in one housing, several security system embodiments include components in separate housings. The security system 202 c can include a camera assembly 208. The camera assembly 208 can include a video camera, which in some embodiments is a webcam. The camera assembly 208 can be configured to take videos of a surrounding area for viewing via the Internet. However, it should be appreciated that the camera assembly 208 can be a still camera, any type of digital camera, virtual camera, and the like. Generally, it should be appreciated that the camera assembly 208 can be any type of camera or optical instrument that records images that can be stored directly, transmitted to another location, or both.
Now with added reference to FIG. 1 b, the security system 202 c can include a proximal end 280 and a distal end 282 that is opposite the proximal end 280. The camera assembly 208 can be located at the distal end 282 of the security system 202 c. However, it should be appreciated that the camera assembly 208 can be positioned at any location on the security system 202 c, such as the sidewall 680. The security system 202 c can also include a foot contact 618 located at the proximal end 280 of the security system 202 c.
It should be appreciated that the security system 202 c can include more than one camera assembly 208. For example, the security system 202 c may include two cameras. In some embodiments, the security system 202 c includes a first camera disposed at the distal end 282 of the security system 202 c, and a second camera disposed along the sidewall 680 of the security system 202 c. In this manner the second camera may face perpendicular to the direction the first camera is facing. This may allow the security system 202 c to have a larger field of vision of the area to which the security system 202 c is monitoring.
Moreover, the security system 202 c can also include a third camera, a fourth camera, and a fifth camera. The cameras can be mounted at any location along the security system 202 c to thereby expand the field of vision of the security system 202 c. As well, the camera(s) 208 may be configured to move away from the security system 202 c and pivot along at least two axes. The movement of the camera(s) 208 may be controlled via manual manipulation by a person, a command from a remote computing device 204, automatically in response to the occurrence of an event, or the like.
As shown in FIG. 1 a, the security system 202 c can include a diagnostic light 216 and a power indicator light 220. In some embodiments, the diagnostic light 216 is a first color (e.g., blue) if the security system 202 c and/or the communication system 200 is connected to a wireless Internet network and is a second color (e.g., red) if the security system 202 c and/or the communication system 200 is not connected to a wireless Internet network. In some embodiments, the power indicator 220 is a first color if the security system 202 c is connected to a power source. The power source can be power supplied by the building 300 to which the security system 202 c is attached. The security system 202 c can receive electricity via the light socket to which the security system 202 c is attached. In some embodiments, the power indicator 220 is a second color or does not emit light if the security system 202 c is not connected to the power source.
The security system 202 c (e.g., a camera assembly) can include an outer housing 634, which can be water resistant and/or waterproof. The outer housing 634 can be made from metal or plastic, such as molded plastic with a hardness of 60 Shore D. In some embodiments, the outer housing 634 is made from brushed nickel or aluminum. The outer housing 634 can be rigid.
Rubber seals can be used to make the outer housing 634 water resistant or waterproof. The security system 202 c can be electrically coupled to a power source, such as wires electrically connected to a building's electrical power system. In some embodiments, the security system 202 c includes a battery for backup and/or primary power.
As shown in FIG. 1, the security system 202 c can include a screw thread contact 614 having a proximal end adjacent the foot contact 618 and a distal end that is opposite the proximal end. The distal end of the screw thread contact 614 can be located adjacent the proximal end of the outer housing 634. The screw thread contact 614 can also include a threaded sidewall that extends between the proximal end and the distal end of the screw thread contact 614. In this manner, the threaded sidewall of the screw thread contact 614 can be configured to rotatably attach to the light socket 650.
The security system can include lights 626, which can be LED lights configured to illuminate a room and/or an outdoor area. In some embodiments, the lights 626 can provide at least 10 lumens, at least 1,000 lumens, at least 4,000 lumens, and/or less than 40,000 lumens. The lights 626 can be aligned such that the lights 626 are parallel to a central axis 266 of a screw thread contact 614. The lights 626 can be oriented such that they face away from the foot contact 618.
As well, the security system 202 c can include lights 630, which can be infrared lights. The lights 630 can illuminate an area in front of the camera assembly's 208 field of vision to enable the camera assembly 208 to capture easily viewable and high-quality video. In this regard, the lights 630 can be located at the distal end 282 of the security system 202 c, adjacent to the camera assembly 208. Infrared light can be suitable for nighttime video recording. In some embodiments the security system 202 c includes a photosensor and/or a photodetector to determine whether the field of vision of the camera assembly 208 is illuminated. In response to determining that the field of vision is not illuminated, the security system 202 c can illuminate the light and use the camera assembly 208 to record a video of the visitor. It should be appreciated that the security system 202 c can include any type of sensor configured to determine an amount of light, such as a reverse-biased light emitting diode (LED), photovoltaic cell, photodiode, ultraviolet light sensor, and the like.
The lights 626 and 630 can be controlled by any number of means. For example, the security system 202 c can be configured to receive a first instruction from the remote computing device 204. The first instruction can include a command to illuminate either or both of the lights 626 and/or 630. In response to receiving the first instruction from the remote computing device 204, the security system 202 c can illuminate the lights 626 and/or 630. As well, the security system 202 c can receive a second instruction from the remote computing device 204. The second instruction can include a command to de-activate the lights 626 and/or 630. Accordingly, in response to receiving the second instruction from the remote computing device 204, the security system 202 c can de-activate the lights 626 and/or 630.
The security system 202 c can also be configured to illuminate and de-activate the lights 626 and/or 630 in a number of different manners. For example, the security system 202 c can be configured to receive an audible instruction via the microphone 234 of the security system 202 c. The audible instruction can be a spoken command by the visitor to thereby illuminate and/or de-activate the lights 626 and/or 630. For example, the audible instruction can be the visitor saying, “Turn lights on,” “Illuminate lights,” “Lights off,” “Dim lights,” and the like. Generally, the audible instruction can be any spoken command or noise from the visitor, which is thereby received by the security system 202 c to illuminate the lights. Accordingly, in response to receiving the audible instruction from the visitor, the security system 202 c can illuminate or de-activate the lights 626 and/or 630.
As well, the security system 202 c can include a communication module 262 configured to enable wireless communication with the computing device 204. The communication module 262 can include a WiFi antenna and can be configured to enable the security system 202 c to connect to a wireless network 308 of a building 300 (shown in FIG. 3).
Wireless communication 230 can enable the security system 202 c (e.g., a camera assembly) to communicate with the computing device 204. Accordingly, the security system 202 c may include a communication module 262 located within an internal portion of the outer housing 634. The communication module 262 may be configured to connect to a wireless communication network. Some embodiments enable communication via cellular and/or WiFi networks. Some embodiments enable communication via the Internet. Several embodiments enable wired communication between the security system 202 c and the computing device 204. The wireless communication 230 can include the following communication means: radio, WiFi (e.g., wireless local area network), cellular, Internet, Bluetooth, telecommunication, electromagnetic, infrared, light, sonic, and microwave. Other communication means are used by some embodiments. In some embodiments, such as embodiments that include telecommunication or cellular communication means, the security system 202 c can initiate voice calls or transmit text messages to a computing device 204 (e.g., a smartphone, a desktop computer, a tablet computer, a laptop computer).
Several embodiments use near field communication (NFC) to communicate between the computing device 204 and the security system 202 c. The security system 202 c and/or the computing device 204 can include a NFC tag. Some NFC technologies include Bluetooth, radio-frequency identification, and QR codes.
Several embodiments include wireless charging (e.g., near field charging, inductive charging) to supply power to and/or from the security system 202 c and the computing device 204. Some embodiments use inductive charging (e.g., using an electromagnetic field to transfer energy between two objects).
Some embodiments include computer software (e.g., application software), which can be a mobile application designed to run on smartphones, tablet computers, and other mobile devices. Software of this nature is sometimes referred to as “app” software. In some embodiments the computer software includes software designed to run on desktop computers and laptop computers.
The computing device 204 can run software with a graphical user interface. The user interface can include icons or buttons. In some embodiments, the software is configured for use with a touch-screen computing device such as a smartphone or tablet.
The security system 202 c can include a motion detector 218 configured to detect the presence of people (e.g., in the outdoor area or room in which the security system 202 c is located) or objects. The security system 202 c can also be placed outdoors to detect people or objects outside. The motion detector 218 can be an infrared motion detector.
As illustrated in FIGS. 6-10, the security system 202 c can be attached to a light socket 650 to couple the security system 202 c to an electrical power source (e.g., of a building 300 shown in FIG. 3). The security system 202 c can include a screw thread electrical contact 614, which can comprise a conductive metal. The security system 202 c can also include a foot electrical contact 618, which can comprise a conductive metal. The screw thread contact 614 can be electrically insulated from the foot electrical contact 618 by insulation 638.
The security system 202 c can be coupled to the light socket 650 via any number of connection methods. For example, the screw thread contact 614 of the security system 202 c can be rotatably attached to the light socket 650 to thereby couple the security system 202 c to the light socket 650. When the security system 202 c is coupled to the light socket 650, the foot contact 618 of the security system 202 c can be electrically coupled to the foot contact 654 of the light socket 650, to thereby couple the security system 202 c to the electrical power source (i.e. to energize the security system 202 c).
A power converter 610 can be electrically coupled to the screw thread contact 614 and the foot contact 618. The power converter 610 can be configured to convert electricity from the building 300 (shown in FIG. 3) to a type of power that is more suitable for the security system 202 c. In some embodiments, the power converter 610 converts an input voltage to a lower voltage and/or converts AC to DC power. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the power converter 610 can be configured to adapt to the input voltages of any country, and thereby convert the input voltage to a voltage suited for the security system 202 c.
FIG. 2 illustrates a computing device 204 running software. The software includes a user interface 240 displayed on a display screen 242. The user interface 240 can include a security system indicator 244, which can indicate the location of the security system that the user interface is displaying. For example, a person can use one computing device 204 to control and/or interact with multiple security systems, such as one security system located at a front door and another security system located at a back door. Selecting the security system indicator 244 can allow the user to choose another security system (e.g., the back door security system rather than the front door security system).
The user interface 240 can include a connectivity indicator 248. In some embodiments, the connectivity indicator can indicate whether the computing device is in communication with a security system, the Internet, and/or a cellular network. The connectivity indicator 248 can alert the user if the computing device 204 has lost its connection with the security system 202 c; the security system 202 c has been damaged; the security system 202 c has been stolen; the security system 202 c has been removed from its mounting location; the security system 202 c has lost electrical power; and/or if the computing device 204 cannot communicate with the security system 202 c. In some embodiments, the connectivity indicator 248 alerts the user of the computing device 204 by flashing, emitting a sound, displaying a message, and/or displaying a symbol.
Referring now to FIG. 1 a, in some embodiments, if the security system 202 c loses power, loses connectivity to the computing device 204, loses connectivity to the Internet, and/or loses connectivity to a remote server, a remote server 206 transmits an alert (e.g., phone call, text message, image on the user interface 240) regarding the power and/or connectivity issue. In several embodiments, the remote server 206 can manage communication between the security system 202 c and the computing device 204. In some embodiments, information from the security system 202 c is stored by the remote server 206. In several embodiments, information from the security system 202 c is stored by the remote server 206 until the information can be sent to the computing device 204, uploaded to the computing device 204, and/or displayed to the remotely located person via the computing device 204. The remote server 206 can be a computing device that stores information from the security system 202 c and/or from the computing device 204. In some embodiments, the remote server 206 is located in a data center.
In some embodiments, the computing device 204 and/or the remote server 206 attempts to communicate with the security system 202 c. If the computing device 204 and/or the remote server 206 is unable to communicate with the security system 202 c, the computing device 204 and/or the remote server 206 alerts the remotely located person via the software, phone, text, a displayed message, and/or a website.
In some embodiments, the computing device 204 and/or the remote server 206 attempts to communicate with the security system 202 c periodically; at least every five hours and/or less frequently than every 10 minutes; at least every 24 hours and/or less frequently than every 60 minutes; or at least every hour and/or less frequently than every second.
In some embodiments, the server 206 can initiate communication to the computer device 204 and/or to the security system 202 c. In several embodiments, the server 206 can initiate, control, and/or block communication between the computing device 204 and the security system 202 c.
In several embodiments, a user can log in to an “app,” website, and/or software on a computing device (e.g., mobile computing device, smartphone, tablet, desktop computer) to adjust the security system settings discussed herein.
In some embodiments, a computing device can enable a user to watch live video and/or hear live audio from a security system due to the user's request rather than due to actions of a visitor. Some embodiments include a computing device initiating a live video feed (or a video feed that is less than five minutes old).
Referring now to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the user interface 240 displays an image 252 such as a still image or a video of an area near and/or in front of the security system 202 c. The image 252 can be taken by the camera assembly 208 and stored by the security system 202 c, server 206, and/or computing device 204. The user interface 240 can include a recording button 256 to enable a user to record images, videos, and/or sound from the camera assembly 208, microphone of the security system 202 c, and/or microphone of the computing device 204.
In several embodiments, the user interface 240 includes a picture button 260 to allow the user to take still pictures and/or videos of the area near and/or in front of the security system 202 c. The user interface 240 can also include a sound adjustment button 264 and a mute button 268. The user interface 240 can include camera manipulation buttons such as zoom, pan, and light adjustment buttons. In some embodiments, the camera assembly 208 automatically adjusts between Day Mode and Night Mode. Some embodiments include an infrared camera and/or infrared lights to illuminate an area near the security system 202 c to enable the camera assembly 208 to provide sufficient visibility (even at night).
In some embodiments, buttons include diverse means of selecting various options, features, and functions. Buttons can be selected by mouse clicks, keyboard commands, or touching a touch screen. Many embodiments include buttons that can be selected without touch screens.
In some embodiments, the user interface 240 includes a quality selection button, which can allow a user to select the quality and/or amount of data transmitted from the security system 202 c to the computing device 204 and/or from the computing device 204 to the security system 202 c.
In some embodiments, video can be sent to and/or received from the computing device 204 using video chat protocols such as FaceTime (by Apple Inc.) or Skype (by Microsoft Corporation). In some embodiments, these videos are played by videoconferencing apps on the computing device 204 instead of being played by the user interface 240.
As shown in FIG. 2, the user interface 240 can include a termination button 276 to end communication between the security system 202 c and the computing device 204. In some embodiments, the termination button 276 ends the ability of the person located near the security system 202 c (i.e., the visitor) to hear and/or see the user of the computing device 204, but does not end the ability of the user of the computing device 204 to hear and/or see the person located near the security system 202 c.
In some embodiments, a button 276 is both an answer button (to accept a communication request from a visitor) and a termination button (to end communication between the security system 202 c and the computing device 204). The button 276 can include the word “Answer” when the system is attempting to establish two-way communication between the visitor and the user. Selecting the button 276 when the system is attempting to establish two-way communication between the visitor and the user can start two-way communication. The button 276 can include the words “End Call” during two-way communication between the visitor and the user. Selecting the button 276 during two-way communication between the visitor and the user can terminate two-way communication. In some embodiments, terminating two-way communication still enables the user to see and hear the visitor. In some embodiments, terminating two-way communication causes the computing device 204 to stop showing video from the security system and to stop emitting sounds recorded by the security system.
In some embodiments, the user interface 240 opens as soon as the security system 202 c detects a visitor (e.g., senses indications of a visitor). Once the user interface 240 opens, the user can see and/or hear the visitor. The security system 202 c can include a microphone 234 and a speaker 236 to enable the user to hear the visitor and to enable the visitor to hear the user. In this regard, the speaker 236 may be configured to transmit an audible message to the visitor and the microphone 234 may be configured to receive an audible message from the visitor. In some embodiments the speaker 236 and microphone 234 are located within an internal portion of the outer housing 634. However, in other embodiments, the speaker 236 and microphone 234 are located along an external surface of the outer housing 634. Thus, the security system 202 c can enable the user to communicate with the visitor.
Some method embodiments include detecting a visitor with a security system. The methods can include causing the user interface 240 (shown in FIG. 2) to display on a remote computing device 204 due to the detection of the visitor (e.g., with or without user interaction). The methods can include displaying video from the security system and/or audio from the security system.
In some embodiments, the software includes means to start the video feed on demand. For example, a user of the computing device might wonder what is happening near the security system 202 c. The user can open the software application on the computing device 204 and instruct the application to show live video and/or audio from the security device 202 c even if no event near the security system 202 c has triggered the communication.
In several embodiments, the security device 202 c can be configured to record video, images, and/or audio when the security device 202 c detects movement and/or the presence of a person. The user of the computing device 204 can later review all video, image, and/or audio records when the security device 202 c detected movement and/or the presence of a person.
Referring now to FIG. 1 a, in some embodiments, the server 206 controls communication between the computing device 204 and the security system 202 c, which can include a camera, a microphone, and a speaker. In several embodiments, the server 206 does not control communication between the computing device 204 and the security system 202 c.
In some embodiments, data captured by the security system and/or the computing device 204 (such as videos, pictures, and audio) is stored by another remote device such as the server 206. Cloud storage, enterprise storage, and/or networked enterprise storage can be used to store video, pictures, and/or audio from the communication system 200 or from any part of the communication system 200. The user can download and/or stream stored data and/or storage video, pictures, and/or audio. For example, a user can record visitors for a year and then later can review the visits from the last year. In some embodiments, remote storage, the server 206, the computing device 204, and/or the security system 202 c can store information and statistics regarding visitors and usage.
The communication system 200 can include the security system 202 c, the computing device 204, and/or the server 206. Some communication systems use many systems to enable communication between the security system 202 c and the computing device 204.
FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which a security system 202 c is connected to a building 300, which can include an entryway 310 that has a door 254. Electrical wires 304 can electrically couple the security system 202 c to the electrical system of the building 300 such that the security system 202 c can receive electrical power from the building 300 (e.g., via a light socket that is attached to the building 300).
A wireless network 308 can allow devices to wirelessly access the Internet. The security system 202 c can access the Internet via the wireless network 308. The wireless network 308 can transmit data from the security system 202 c to the Internet, which can transmit the data to remotely located computing devices 204. The Internet and wireless networks can transmit data from remotely located computing devices 204 to the security system 202 c. In some embodiments, a security system 202 c connects to a home's WiFi.
As illustrated in FIG. 3, one computing device 204 (e.g., a laptop, a smartphone, a mobile computing device, a television) can communicate with multiple security systems 202 c. In some embodiments, multiple computing devices 204 can communicate with one security system 202 c.
In some embodiments, the security system 202 c can communicate (e.g., wirelessly 230) with a television 306, which can be a smart television. Users can view the television 306 to see a visitor and/or talk with the visitor.
As well, in some embodiments, the visitor and user of the remote computing device 204 are able to talk with each other, via the security system 202 c and the remote computing device 204. For example, the security system 202 c may be configured to transmit a first audible message to the visitor. The first audible message may be received by a microphone in the remote computing device 204 and transmitted to the security system 202 c. In this regard, the first audible message may be audibly transmitted to the visitor via the speaker 236 in the security system 202 c. As well, the security system may be configured to transmit a second audible message to a user of the remote computing device 202 c. The second audible message may be received by the microphone 234 in the security system 202 c and transmitted to the remote computing device. In this regard, the second audible message may audibly transmitted to the user via a speaker in the remote computing device 204.
FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a light socket 650. The light socket 650 can include a screw thread contact 652 configured to mechanically and electrically couple with the screw thread contact 614 of the security system 202 c (shown in FIG. 1 a). The light socket 650 can also include a foot contact 654 configured to electrically couple with the foot contact 618 of the security system 202 c (shown in FIG. 1 a). The foot contact 654 of the light socket 650 can be located at the distal end of the light socket 650.
In some embodiments, the security system 202 c can be described as having a proximal end and a distal end that is opposite the proximal end. The camera assembly 208 can be located at the distal end of the security system 202 c. The security system 202 c can include the foot electrical contact 618 located at the proximal end of the security system 202 c. In order to energize the security system 202 c, the security system 202 c can be oriented such that the foot electrical contact 618 faces the foot contact 654 of the light socket 650. In this manner the distal end of the security system 202 c faces away from the foot contact 654 of the light socket 650. As well, the camera assembly 608 can face away from the foot contact 654 of the light socket 650. Once the security system 202 c is oriented in this manner, the security system 202 c can be attached to the light socket 650.
In some embodiments, the security system 202 c is rotated as it is attached to the light socket 650. As shown in FIG. 6, the security system 202 c can be rotated in a direction of rotation 690 about a first axis 266 to thereby attach the security system 202 c to the light socket 650. As such, the foot contact 654 of the light socket 650 can be electrically coupled to the security system 202 c. Furthermore, in many embodiments the foot contact 654 of the light socket 650 is electrically coupled to a light switch (not shown). In this manner, the foot contact 654 of the light socket 650, and the foot contact 618 of the security system 202 c can be energized, when the light switch is activated (i.e. turned on).
FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a light bulb 656 mechanically and electrically coupled to the light socket 650. The light bulb 656 can be removed and replaced by a security system that comprises lights and a camera.
FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the security system 202 c just before the security system 202 c is screwed into the light socket 650 to mechanically couple the security system 202 c to a wall and/or to a building 300. Screwing the security system 202 c into the light socket 650 also enables the security system 202 c to receive electricity from the building 300 (shown in FIG. 3).
FIG. 7 a illustrates the security system 202 c screwed into the light socket 650. In this configuration, the security system 202 c is electrically coupled to a power supply of the building 300. The light socket 650 can be located indoors or outdoors.
FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the security system 202 c. Not all of the lights 626, 630 are labeled to clarify other features. The camera assembly 208 can be aligned with a central axis 266 of the screw thread contact 614. The camera assembly 208 can include a fisheye lens. The camera assembly 208 can also include a cone-shaped mirror to enable viewing 360 degrees around the camera and/or around the outer housing 634. Software can be used to convert videos and/or pictures taken using the cone-shaped mirror into different formats (e.g., that are easier for users to interpret and/or include less distortion).
FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate a security system 202 d that can include any of the features described in the context of the security system 202 c shown in FIGS. 1 a, 1 b and 3-8. The security system 202 d, as shown in FIG. 9, can also be configured to screw into the light socket 650. In this manner, the security system 202 d can be rotated in a direction of rotation 690 about a first axis 266 to thereby attach the security system 202 d to the light socket 650. The security system 202 d can include a camera assembly 208 d that faces a radial direction that is perpendicular to the first axis 266.
As shown in FIG. 9, the security system 202 d can include a motion detector 218 d configured to detect visitors (e.g., people moving outside of a building 300, people moving inside of a room). The motion detector 218 d can be located at the distal end of the security system 202 c such that the motion detector 218 d faces away from the foot contact 618 of the security system 202 c.
Furthermore, the security system 202 d can include a rotatable camera housing 658. A camera assembly 208 d can be coupled to the rotatable camera housing 658 such that the camera assembly 208 d rotates around the perimeter of the outer housing 634 of the security system 202 d as the camera housing 658 rotates around the perimeter of the outer housing 634. The camera housing 658 can rotate around a central axis 266 of the screw thread contact 614.
In some embodiments, the camera housing 658 can rotate in response to an event, such as a person entering a room, outdoor area, or space adjacent to the security system 202 c. For example, the motion detector 218 d can detect the person(s), such as the visitor(s), and in response to the motion detector 218 d detecting the person(s), the security system 202 c can cause the camera housing 658 to rotate to a position whereby the camera assembly 208 can record an image and/or video of the person(s).
The camera housing 658 can be rotated via any number of rotation methods. In some embodiments, the rotation of the camera housing 658 is caused by a command from a remote computing device, such as a smart phone, tablet, or other cellular device. For example, a user of the remote computing device can input a command into an app that is run on the remote computing device. The command can then be transmitted from the remote computing device to the security system 202 c, to thereby rotate the camera housing 658.
Describing the camera housing 658 differently, the sidewall 680 of the security system 202 c can comprise a first portion, such as an outer housing 634, and a second portion, such as a rotatable camera housing 658, which is distal to the first portion. The second portion, or rotatable camera housing 658, can be rotatable about the first axis 266. The camera housing 658 can be manually rotated by the user. For example, the user can grip the camera housing 658 with his or her hand and rotate the camera housing 658 to a desired position. As well, the camera housing 658 can be rotated by the security system 202 c, such as, in response to an event. For example, when the security system 202 c detects the visitor, via the motion detector 218 d, the security system 202 c can then determine whether the visitor is located within a field of vision of the camera 208. Accordingly, in response to determining that the visitor is not located within the field of vision of the camera 208, the security system 202 c can rotate the second portion, or camera housing 658. Furthermore, the security system 202 c can rotate the camera 208 about the first axis until 266 the visitor is within a field of vision of the camera 208.
Additionally, the security system 202 c may be configured to receive an instruction from a remote computing device 204. The instruction may include a command to rotate the second portion, or camera housing 658, to any location as determined by the user of the remote computing device 204. Accordingly, in response to receiving the instruction from the remote computing device 204, the security system 202 c may be configured to rotate the second portion such that the camera 208 rotates about the first axis 266. As such, the user of the remote computing device 204 may be able to remotely rotate the camera housing 658 to thereby change the field of vision of the camera 208.
The security system 202 d can use a microphone 234 to listen for visitors. When the security system 202 d detects visitors (e.g., via motion or sound), the security system 202 d can turn on LED lights 626, record sounds from the visitors, and/or take videos of the visitors. In some embodiments, the security system 202 d records when visitors move by the security system 202 d.
FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of electrical contacts. Connecting the security system 202 d to the light socket 650 can enable the security system 202 d to be electrically connected to a power supply.
FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of a security system 202 c with a cone-shaped mirror 670. Supports 662 can extend from an end of the security system 202 c that is opposite an end that includes the screw thread contacts 614 (labeled in FIG. 12).
FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the security system with a cone-shaped mirror 670. The camera assembly 208 can include a camera that is oriented towards the cone-shaped mirror to enable the security system 202 c to record visitors in many directions around the security system 202 c. Software can be used by the security system 202 c, the remote computing device 204, and/or the server 206 to reduce and/or eliminate distortion in pictures taken using the security system 202 c.
FIG. 13 a illustrates a side view of a security system 202 e with a dome camera assembly 208 e. The dome camera assembly 208 e can have a shape that is half of a sphere. In some embodiments, the dome camera assembly 208 e includes an outer cover 228 that has a curved and/or spherical shape (e.g., half of a sphere). The cover 228 can be a translucent material such as plastic and/or polycarbonate.
The field of vision 238 of the dome camera assembly 208 e can include half of a sphere. In some embodiments, the field of vision 238 includes approximately 360 degrees around the base of the cover 228 and/or around a central axis 266 of the screw thread contacts 614. In several embodiments, the field of vision 238 includes at least 330 degrees around the base of the cover 228. In some embodiments, the field of vision 238 is approximately 180 degrees in a plane that includes the central axis 266 of the screw thread contacts 614 (e.g., in the plane represented by the page on which FIG. 13 a appears). In several embodiments, the field of vision 238 is at least 140 degrees and/or less than 260 degrees in a plane that includes the central axis 266.
FIGS. 13 b-13 e further illustrate the field of vision in various embodiments. With specific reference to FIG. 13 b, the field of vision 238 g can be defined by a vertical field of vision 692 g and a horizontal field of vision 694 g. The vertical field of vision 692 g can be any angle less than 180 degrees (as shown by the distal plane 693), such as 140 degrees. Because FIGS. 13 b-13 e are side views, the horizontal field of vision 692 g and the vertical field of vision 694 g are actually radial, meaning that they extend 360 degrees around the perimeter of the camera assembly 208 g. This 360 degree periphery is further illustrated in FIG. 13 e. FIG. 13 e is a top down view, looking from above the security system (when it is mounted to the light socket 650) to the ground below the security system. FIG. 13 e shows that the horizontal field of vision 694, 694 g actually covers 360 degrees around the perimeter of the security system and the axis 266. While the vertical field of vision is not illustrated in FIG. 13 e, the vertical field of vision is also radial, in that it covers the 360 degree area around the security system.
The security system 202 h illustrated in FIG. 13 c may define a 180 degree vertical field of vision, which means that the camera assembly 208 h is able to see anything that is level with or below the distal plane 693.
Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 13 d, the security system 202 j may be configured to achieve a vertical field of vision 692 j that is greater than 180 degrees. For example, some embodiments may have a vertical field of vision equal to at least 250 degrees, up to 250 degrees, up to 280 degrees, and in some embodiments, up to 300 degrees. (It should be appreciated that in some embodiments that utilize multiple cameras, a vertical field of vision of up to 360 degrees may be achieved.) In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13 d, to accomplish a vertical field of vision greater than 180 degrees, the camera assembly 208 j may be configured to move vertically downward. Specifically, the camera assembly 208 j may be configured to move along a camera assembly direction of movement 209 j, as shown in FIG. 13 d. In this regard, the camera assembly 208 j may thereby gain separation from the distal end of the security system 202 j. This may allow the camera assembly 208 j to achieve a greater line of sight past the sidewalls in the upward, or proximal, direction.
It should be appreciated that various methods may be used to retain the camera assembly 208 h at various locations along the camera assembly direction of movement 209 h. In some embodiments, the camera assembly 208 h may be configured to engage mechanical latches to secure the camera assembly 208 h at discrete locations along the direction of movement 209 h. In some embodiments, the camera assembly 208 h may be configured to be retained at any location along the direction of movement 209 h via friction. In some embodiments, the camera assembly 208 h may be threadably engaged and disengaged at various locations along the direction of movement 209 h. As well, once the camera assembly 208 h has been moved to its desired vertical position, the camera assembly 208 h is still thereby mechanically and electrically coupled to the security system.
As well, it should be appreciated that the camera assembly 208 h may be vertically moved along the direction of movement 209 h in response to any command or manual movement. For example, the camera assembly 208 h may be moved in response to a command from a remote computing device 204. As well, the camera assembly 208 h may be moved along the direction of movement 209 h in response to detecting a visitor. For example, the camera assembly 208 h may be positioned in a retracted position, whereby the camera assembly 208 h is located substantially within the security system as shown in FIGS. 13 c and 13 d. Accordingly, in response to the motion detector 218 detecting a visitor, the camera assembly 208 h may then move to an extended position (as shown in FIG. 13 d) to capture a greater vertical field of vision than in the retracted position. Moreover, the camera assembly 208 h may be manually moved by a user.
FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of the security system 202 e from FIG. 13 a. The dome camera assembly 208 e can be used with any of the security systems described herein. The security system 202 e can include lights (e.g., LEDs) on an end that is opposite the end that includes the screw thread contacts 614.
Any of the security systems described herein can use the methods and systems described in U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/463,548; filed Aug. 19, 2014; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. For example, the grid sensor methods can be used with security systems 202 c, 202 d, and 202 e. The security system embodiments described in U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/463,548 can be replaced with security systems 202 c, 202 d, and 202 e. Security systems 202 c, 202 d, and 202 e can be used in the context of the security systems described in any of the patent applications incorporated by reference.
Viewing Perspective
Many of the camera assemblies described herein can be mounted in diverse orientations. The mounting orientations might not be ideal viewing orientations. Embodiments can include changing the viewing orientations (e.g., viewing angles) via software (e.g., an “app”) and/or via a user interface 240 on a display screen 242 of a computing device 204 (see FIG. 2).
Cameras can be mounted in a lamp, jutting out of a wall (e.g., horizontally), and upside down (e.g., hanging down from a ceiling). The software and/or user interface 240 can enable users to select a button to adjust the viewing orientation a certain amount (e.g., 90 degrees).
FIG. 15 illustrates a user interface 240. The image 252 in FIG. 15 is oriented as a landscape, which can span entire viewing portion of the display screen 242 of the remote computing device 204. The user can adjust the viewing orientation by selecting an orientation button (not shown), or simply by rotating the remote computing device 204 to the position of the desired orientation (e.g. if you want to view portrait, just the remote computing device rotate by ninety degrees as shown in FIG. 16). Accordingly, in some embodiments, selecting the orientation button shifts the image 252 ninety degrees. FIG. 16 illustrates the new orientation of the image 252 after selecting the orientation button, or rotating the remote computing device 204 to the desired orientation.
In some embodiments, the security system automatically detects the orientation in which the camera is inserted into a light socket. The security system can then automatically adjust the viewing orientation in response to the detected orientation (e.g., so the image 252 appears right-side up). The security system can detect the inserted orientation via an accelerometer 274.
Visitor Identification Embodiments
Many embodiments may utilize the visitor identification abilities of the person using the remote computing device 204 (shown in FIG. 1 a). Various technologies, however, can be used to help the user of the remote computing device 204 to identify the visitor. Some embodiments use automated visitor identification that does not rely on the user, some embodiments use various technologies to help the user identify the visitor, and some embodiments display images and information (e.g., a guest name) to the user, but otherwise do not help the user identify the visitor.
Referring now to FIG. 1 a, the camera assembly 208 can be configured to visually identify visitors through machine vision and/or image recognition. For example, the camera assembly 208 can take an image of the visitor. Software run by any portion of the system can then compare select facial features from the image to a facial database. In some embodiments, the select facial features include dimensions based on facial landmarks. For example, the distance between a visitor's eyes; the triangular shape between the eyes and nose; and the width of the mouth can be used to characterize a visitor and then to compare the visitor's characterization to a database of characterization information to match the visitor's characterization to an identity (e.g., an individual's name, authorization status, and classification). Some embodiments use three-dimensional visitor identification methods.
Some embodiments include facial recognition such that the camera assembly 208 waits until the camera assembly 208 has a good view of the person located near the security system 202 c and then captures an image of the person's face.
Several embodiments can establish a visitor's identity by detecting a signal from a device associated with the visitor (e.g., detecting the visitor's smartphone). Examples of such a signal include Bluetooth, WiFi, RFID, NFC, and/or cellular telephone transmissions.
Furthermore, many embodiments can identify an identity of a visitor and determine whether the visitor is authorized to be located in a predetermined location. For example, the light socket 650 may be located in a room inside a building 300. The security system 202 c can determine whether the visitor is authorized to be located in the room. In response to determining that the visitor is not authorized to be located in the room, the security system 202 c can transmit an alert to the remote computing device 204 to notify a user of the remote computing device 204 that the visitor is not authorized to be located in the room.
In some embodiments, the security system 202 c may be located outside of a building 300, for example, near a swimming pool. Accordingly, the security system 202 c may be used to determine the identity of the visitor and thereby determine whether the visitor is authorized to be located near the swimming pool. This may allow the user to monitor the swimming pool to determine if small children and/or any other unauthorized people approach the swimming pool. In effect, the security system 202 c can be used as a safety monitor.
Furthermore, the security system 202 c can also sound an audible message to warn the visitor that he or she is not authorized to be located in the room or outdoor area (e.g. swimming pool). For example, in response to determining that the visitor is not authorized to be located in the room or outdoor area, the security system 202 c may broadcast a predetermined audible message, via the speaker 236 in the security system 202 c, to notify the visitor that the visitor is not authorized to be located in the room or outdoor area. The security system 202 c may also be configured to allow the user of the remote computing device 204 to speak to the visitor that is not authorized to be located in the room or outdoor area. For example, if the user's child has approached the swimming pool, the user may speak a message into the remote computing device 204, which may then be transmitted to the security system 202 c and sounded via the speaker in the security system 202 c (e.g. “Mitch, you are not allowed to be in the swimming pool after dark.”).
Embodiments of the security system 202 c, may also save a history of times when the visitor was detected in the room or outdoor area by the security system 202 c. It should be appreciated that this may also be used for a variety of purposes. For example, the user may have a dog walker walk the user's dog when the user is gone at work. In this manner, the security system 202 c may be configured to save a history of times when the dog walker arrives at the building 300, which may allow the user may be able to oversee and determine if the dog walker is walking the user's dog as promised. This may be helpful when the user pays the dog walker's invoice. The user can review the history to determine whether the dog walker's visits to the buildings match the invoiced dates. The person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of situations to utilize this technology.
As well, the security system 202 c may take action in response to determining that the visitor is authorized to be located in the room. For example, the security system 202 c may transmit a second alert to the remote computing device 204, wherein the second alert notifies the user of the remote computing device 204 that the visitor is located in the room. In some embodiments, the second alert may also notify the user of the remote computing device 204 that the visitor is authorized to be located in the room.
In order to determine the identity of the visitor, the security system may utilize any technology capable of identifying a person or a remote computing device, such as facial recognition of a visitor, near field communication of a remote computing device 204 (e.g. identifying a remote computing device 204 associated with the visitor via Bluetooth), and the like.
Methods of Detecting Visitors
It should be appreciated that this disclosure includes a variety of methods of using the security system to detect visitors, like the visitor 1700 shown in FIG. 17. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 18, some methods include using the security system 202 to detect a visitor (at step 1800), and using the camera to take video of the visitor (at step 1802). As well, some embodiments include transmitting the video to a remote computing device 204 (at step 1804) and displaying the video on the remote computing device 204 (at step 1806). This may effectively allow a remote user to monitor the activity around the security system 202.
As shown in FIG. 19, some methods may include orienting the security system 202 such that the foot contact 618 of the security system 202 faces a foot contact 654 of the light socket 650 (at step 1900). FIG. 19 further illustrates a method that may include attaching the security system 202 to the light socket 650 (at step 1902) and electrically coupling foot contact 618 of the security system 202 to the foot contact 654 of the light socket 650. This electrical coupling may thereby energize the security system 202 to power all of the onboard components.
FIG. 20 shows a method that includes using the security system 202 to determine whether the visitor is authorized to be located in a room or in a space that the security system 202 is monitoring (at step 2000). In response to determining that the visitor is not authorized to be located in the room or the space, the method may further include using the security system 202 to transmit an alert to a remote computing device 204 (at step 2002). The alert may be a warning message, such as a text message or email, which warns the user that the unauthorized visitor is located in the room or space. Accordingly, some methods may further include using the security system 202 to determine the identity of the visitor, for example, via facial recognition or detecting a smart phone through NFC (at step 2004). As well, the identity of the visitor may be included in the alert that is sent to the remote user. For example, if the security system detects an unauthorized user, such as a toddler, near a swimming pool, the alert might say, “Timmy is located near the pool.”
As shown in FIG. 21, in response to determining that the visitor is not authorized to be located in the room or space, such as near or in the swimming pool, some methods may further include using the security system to broadcast a predetermined audible message (at step 2100). Using the example in the previous paragraph to further illustrate, when the security system 202 detects the toddler near the swimming pool, the security system 202 might sound an audible message via the speaker 236, such as, “PLEASE MOVE AWAY FROM THE POOL!”
Various methods may enable the visitor and remote user to communicate to each other through the security system 202. For example, some methods may include transmitting a first audible message to a visitor (at step 2200). In execution, the first audible message may be received by a microphone 234 in the remote computing device 204 and transmitted to the security system 202. As well, the first audible message may be audibly transmitted to the visitor via the speaker 236 in the security system 202. As well, methods may include transmitting a second audible message to a user of the remote computing device 204 (at step 2202). The second audible message may be received by the microphone 234 in the security system 202 and transmitted to the remote computing device 204. The second audible message may be audibly transmitted to the user via a speaker 236 in the remote computing device 204.
As well, methods may include using the motion detector 218 to detect the visitor (at step 2300) and using the security system 202 to determine whether the field of vision of the camera is illuminated (at step 2302). In response to detecting the visitor and in response to determining that the field of vision is not illuminated, the method may further include illuminating the light 626 and/or 630 and using the camera 208 to record a video of the visitor (at step 2304).
As illustrated in FIG. 24, methods may include receiving a first instruction from the remote computing device (at step 2400). In response to receiving the first instruction from the remote computing device 204, methods may include using the security system 202 to illuminate the light (at step 2402). As well, some methods may include receiving a second instruction from the remote computing device 204 (at step 2404). In response to receiving the second instruction from the remote computing device 204, methods may include using the security system 202 to de-activate the light 626 and/or 630 (at step 2406). Methods may also include receiving a first audible instruction via the microphone 234 of the security system 202 (at step 2408), and in response to receiving the first audible instruction from the visitor, the method may include using the security system 202 to illuminate the light 626 and/or 630 (at step 2410). As well, some methods may include receiving a second audible instruction via the microphone 234 of the security system 202 (at step 2412) and in response to receiving the second audible instruction from the visitor, the method may include using the security system 202 to de-activate the light 626 and/or 630 (at step 2414).
FIG. 25 illustrates a method that includes orienting the security system 202 such that the proximal end 280 of the security system 202 faces a foot contact 654 of a light socket 650 (at step 2500) and thereby rotating the security system 202 about a first axis 266 to thereby attach the security system 202 to the light socket 650 (at step 2502). The method may also include electrically coupling the foot contact 618 of the security system 202 to the foot contact 654 of the light socket 650 (at step 2504). Methods may include using the motion detector 218 to detect the visitor (at step 2506) and in response to detecting the visitor, the methods may include using the security system 202 to determine whether the visitor is located within a field of vision 238 of the camera 208 (at step 2508). In response to determining that the visitor is not within the field of vision 238 of the camera 208, methods may include using the security system 202 to rotate the second portion such that the camera 208 rotates about the first axis 266 until the visitor is within a field of vision 238 of the camera 208 (at step 2510).
Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 26, methods may include using the security system 202 to receive an instruction from a remote computing device 204 (at step 2600). The instruction may comprise a command to rotate the second portion, or camera rotatable housing 658. In response to receiving the instruction from the remote computing device 204, the method may include using the security system 204 to rotate the second portion such that the camera 208 rotates about the first axis 266 (at step 2602). As well, as illustrated in FIG. 27, some methods may include a first and second camera, and the methods associated may thereby include pivoting the second camera along at least a first direction and a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction (at step 2700).
Detecting Adverse Sounds
The security system 202, or light socket camera, may also be configured to monitor a space by audibly detecting various sounds within the space. The sounds may be adverse sounds, which may include breaking glass, gunshots, shouting, screaming, and the like. In response to detecting the adverse sound(s) via the microphone 234, the security system 202 may be configured to notify a party of the adverse sound(s). It should be appreciated that the adverse sound may comprise any type of sound to indicate that someone or something is in need of help, that a problem has occurred, a crime is being committed, and the like.
As illustrated in FIGS. 28 a, 28 b, 29 and 30, the disclosure includes a method for detecting an adverse sound 2800 (at step 2900). In response to detecting 2801 the adverse sound 2800, the method may include using the security system 202 to notify a party 2804 (at step 2902). The party 2804 to be notified may be any party that a user of the security system 202 may wish to contact, such as the user herself, or any contact listed on the user's contact list, such as a contact list stored within the user's remote computing device 204. As well, the party 2804 may be an emergency dispatcher, such as a 9-1-1 dispatcher (in the U.S.) or a dispatcher who responds to any emergency (in the U.S. or any other country). Generally, it should be appreciated that the party 2804 may be any party who may be interested in the occurrence of the adverse sound 2800.
The security system 202 may notify the party 2804 by sending a notification from the security system 202 to a computing device 204 associated with the party 2804. The security system 202 may transmit the notification through any wireless or wired technology. For example, the computing device 204 may receive the notification via a wireless technology such as radio frequency, WiFi (e.g., wireless local area network), cellular, Internet, Bluetooth, telecommunication, electromagnetic, infrared, light, sonic, and microwave. In this manner, the security system 202 may wirelessly communicate with the computing device 204 via the communication module 262 of the security system 202, which may be configured to connect to a wireless communication network. Furthermore, the security system 202 may transmit the notification through a wired technology, such as through the copper wires within the building 300, which may comprise a wired network. As well, the wired technology may include fiber-optics, Ethernet, telephone (e.g. digital subscribe line “DSL”), cable, and the like.
As well, in response to detecting the adverse sound 2800, the method may further include using the camera 208 of the security system 202 to record one of an audio and video of an area adjacent the security system 202. As shown in FIG. 28 c, upon the security system 202 detecting the adverse sound, the security system 202 may then capture a video or an audio recording 2812 of an event 2814 in an area adjacent the adverse sound 2800. The video and/or audio may be entered as evidence for a criminal investigation, or to determine liability in the event of a personal injury lawsuit. Upon capturing one of the audio and/or video, the method may further include transmitting the audio and/or video to the remote computing device 204.
Aside from documenting the area adjacent the adverse sound 2800, the security system 202 may also audibly sound a warning message through the speaker 236. The warning message may be an audible warning to alert any person or animal within the area of the adverse sound 2800 to leave the area or perhaps that help is on the way. Once the warning message has been sounded, two-way communication may be conducted between a user of a remote computing device 204, who is remotely located from the adverse sound 2800, and a person or animal located nearby the adverse sound 2800. In this manner, if a person is hurt on the ground near where the adverse sound was detected, the user may alert the hurt person that help is en route. It should also be appreciated that in response to detecting the adverse sound 2800, the security system 202 may perform any other function such as flashing a warning light, perhaps to scare away perpetrators.
The security system 202 may also be configured to determine logistical information, which may be helpful to an emergency dispatcher. For example, in response to the adverse sound 2800, the security system 202 may determine a location of the adverse sound 2800 with respect to its location inside or outside of the building 300. In response to determining the location of the adverse sound 2800, the security system 202 may transmit a notification of the location 2818 of the adverse sound 2800 to the party 2804. This may be helpful to emergency personal in order to locate the site of the adverse sound 2800, which may indicate the location of the victim, perpetrator, etc.
With reference to FIG. 28 e, the method may include determining a type of the adverse sound 2800, such as determining whether the adverse sound 2800 comprises a gunshot, scream, etc. In this regard, the security system 202 may include an internal processor to digitally analyze the adverse sound 2800 to determine the type of adverse sound. In some embodiments, the security system 202 may transmit a digital signal, which represents the adverse sound 2800, to an external processor to be digitally analyzed to determine the type of adverse sound. Upon determining the type of adverse sound 2800, the type of adverse sound 2800 may then be communicated to the party 2804, via the remote computing device 204. It should be appreciated that the notification as sent to the remote computing device 204 may be a text message, a phone call (such as a pre-recorded message), or any type of communication that notifies the party 2804 of the adverse sound 2800 and/or the type of the adverse sound.
As well, the security system 202 may also be configured to determine other biographical information such as a time of day that the adverse sound 2800 was detected. In response to determining the time of day of the adverse sound 2800, transmitting a notification of the time of day to the party 2804.
As illustrated in FIG. 28 f, methods may include interaction between two security systems, whereby a first security system 202 notifies a second security system 203 of the adverse sound 2800. For example, in response to detecting the adverse sound 2800, the method may include using the first security system 202 to initiate an event at a second security system 203 communicatively coupled to the first security system 202.
The second security system 203 may perform any event that may be performed by the first security system 202. For example, the second security system 203 may sound an audible message through a speaker 236 of the second security system 203. As well, the second security system 203 may flash a warning light, such as an LED, located on the second security system 203.
In response to either sounding the audible message or flashing the warning light, the second security system 203 may also be configured to use a motion detector of the second security system 203 to detect a motion of a user within an area of the second security system 203. In this manner, the first security system 202, via the second security system 203, may detect whether the user responds to the event or notification of the adverse sound 2800 as detected by the first security system 202. If the second security system 203 does not detect motion of the user, the first security system 202 may initiate other events, such as an event at a third security system, not shown, or an event at a remote computing device 204, such as a text message at a remote computing device 204. The first security system 202 may continue initiating events until the first security system 202 receives confirmation that a user is aware of the adverse sound 2800 as detected by the first security system 202.
The second security system 203 may also audibly project, via the speaker 236, specific information relating to the adverse sound 2800 as detected by the first security system 202. As such, the first security system 202 may be communicatively coupled to the second security system 203, and the first security system 202 may communicate information to the second security system 203, such as the type of adverse sound 2800, the location of the sound, time, etc. For example, in response to a window pane being broken at a back door, the second security system 203 may project a message, “Broken glass detected at the back door!” In this regard, the second security system 203 may notify a user of the type of adverse sound detected, and also the location of the adverse sound.
As well, because the first security system 202 may be configured to determine and distinguish various types of sounds, the first security system 202 may also initiate specific events in response to the type of sound detected. For example, the security system 202 may determine whether the adverse sound 2800 is a first sound or a second sound. In response to determining the adverse sound 2800 is the first sound, the first security system 202 may be configured to initiate a first event at the first security system 202 and/or the second security system 203. In response to determining the adverse sound 2800 is the second sound, the first security system 202 may be configured to initiate a second event at the first security system 202 and/or the second security system 203. It should be appreciated that the second event may be different than the first event. For example, the first sound may be a shouting noise and the first event may comprise flashing a warning light of the first security system 202 and/or the second security system 203. As well, the second sound may be breaking glass and the second event may comprise sounding an audible alarm.
Generally, it should be appreciated that the first security system 202 may be configured to perform specific events in response to specific adverse sounds, as well as instructing the second security system 203 to perform specific events in response to detecting specific adverse sounds.
Moreover, in response to the first security system 202 detecting a first adverse sound, such as crashing noise, the first security system 202 may transmit a text message to the remote computing device 204 to notify the user of the first adverse sound. In response to the first security system 202 detecting a second adverse sound, such as a gunshot, the first security system 202 may notify an emergency dispatcher of the second adverse sound. Generally, in response to any type of adverse sound 2800, the first security system 202 may be configured to perform any of the actions described throughout this disclosure.
Triggering Appliances
With reference to FIG. 34, the security system 202, or light socket camera, may further be configured to receive instructions from a user (at step 3400), such as an audible instruction, and thereby trigger an appliance to perform an operation. For example, the user may audibly instruct the security system 202 to turn on a television. In this manner, the security system 202 may be configured to respond to a predetermined greeting, such as, “Hi Max” or “Hey Max,” or a even predetermined name, such as, “Max.” Audibly speaking the predetermined greeting or name can instruct the security system 202 to perform (via itself) or transmit a command to another appliance (at step 3402) to perform anything stated after the predetermined greeting or name. In response to transmitting the trigger command to the appliance, the method can also include performing the operation via the appliance (at step 3404). For example, if a user audibly says, “Hi Max, please unlock the front door,” the security system 202 can transmit a command to a front door lock that is communicatively coupled to the security system 202. In response to the command being transmitted to the door lock, the door lock can then move to the unlocked position, or if the door lock is already in the unlocked position, the door lock can simply remain in that position.
FIGS. 31 a-31 d illustrate just one of the many examples of how the security system 202 may be used to receive an audible instruction 3102 from a user 3100. As shown in FIGS. 31 a and 31 b, the user 3100 may audibly speak an instruction 3102, such as “Hi Max. Turn on entryway lights and turn on TV and set it to channel 11.” The audible instruction 3102 may be received by the security system 202, at which point it may transmit commands to various appliances. For example, the deactivated television 3106 a may become activated (activated television 3106 b) through a command sent via a wireless or wired connection to the television. Accordingly, the television 3106 b may set it's input channel to channel 11, in response to the user's audible instruction 3102. As well, the deactivated light 3104 a light may become illuminated 3104 b via the command. Accordingly, the security system 202 may also deactivate the television 3106 and light 3104 as shown in FIGS. 31 c and 31 d.
Generally, it should be appreciated that the term “operation” can be broadly defined. For example, the term “operation” can include activate, deactivate, illuminate, begin, stop, end, change, pause, record, identify, run, make, detect, and the like. In this regard, the security system 202 can control any number of appliances to perform any type of operation that is within the normal use of the appliance.
Furthermore, the appliance can be any type of appliance that is communicatively coupled to the security system 202 via a wireless connection or a wired connection. For example, the appliance can be a light, lamp, shower, faucet, dishwasher, door lock, garage door opener, door, fan, ceiling fan, coffee maker, alarm clock, stereo, television, digital video recorder, cable box, digital video disc player, compact disc player, toaster, oven, range, microwave, streaming media player (such as Apple TV), HVAC system (heating, ventilating and air conditioning system), telephone, fax machine, shredder, blender, juicer, space heater, thermostat, camera (such as a nanny camera), power tool (such as a table saw, drill, chain saw, etc.), smoke alarm, a second security system 202 (such as a second light socket camera, or a security system that can be plugged directly into a wall outlet), and any appliance that may be electrically coupled to a building or any appliance that may be communicatively coupled to the security system 202. Specific examples of appliance operations may include closing and/or opening a garage door, turning on and/or turning off a television, pausing a television, setting an input channel of a television to any desired station, changing television volume, making a cup of coffee via a coffee maker, setting a thermostat to a predetermined temperature, unlocking and/or locking a door lock, and the like.
As shown in FIGS. 31 e and 31 f, the security system 202 may trigger appliances located in different places throughout the house. For example, the security system 202 may receive a second audible instruction 3108, and in response to the instruction 3108, the security system 202 may activate an appliance, such as a light on the security system 202, within the same room, such as bedroom 3112, and also another appliance, such as living room light 3110, located in a different room. In this regard, the security system 202 may be configured to control multiple appliances simultaneously, all the while the appliances may be located in the same location or different locations. As long as the appliances are communicatively coupled to the security system 202, then the appliance can be located anywhere.
With reference to FIGS. 32 a and 32 b, the security system 202 a may be located within an enclosed interior portion 3210 or along an exterior portion of the building 3212. In this manner, the security system 202 may trigger appliances 3202, 3204 located within the interior portion 3210 or exterior portion of the building 3212. As well, the security system 202 itself may be located within the interior portion of the building 300 or along the exterior portion of the building 300. Generally, and regardless of where the security system 202 is located, the security system 202 may be configured to simultaneously trigger appliances located inside the building, while also triggering other appliances located outside of the building 300.
Some embodiments of the security system 202 can be configured to trigger appliances after predetermined period of time has passed. For example, the user may audibly instruct the security system 202 to make a cup of coffee in five minutes. Accordingly, the security system 202 may wait five minutes before transmitting the command to the coffee maker. As well, some embodiments may be configured to determine how long it may take to make the cup of coffee and if the it takes two minutes to make the coffee, the security system 202 may transmit the command to the coffee maker in three minutes, which added together with the two minutes to make the coffee will equal five minutes total. However, this is just one of the many examples, and generally, it should be appreciated that the security system 202 may be configured to trigger any appliance after any amount of time and under any logical circumstances.
In some embodiments the security system 202 may be referred to as a first security system 202. In this manner, some embodiments also include triggering a second security system 202, such as a second light socket camera, to determine if another person is present in a different part of the building 300. For example, the user may instruct the first security system 202 to determine if another person is present in the kitchen. In response to receiving the audible instruction, the first security system 202 may to transmit a command to the second security system 202 to determine whether someone is located within the kitchen. In response to the command, the second security system 202 may use a camera to scan the room and determine whether a person is present. As well, the user may wish to determine the identity of a person that may be present. For example, the audible instruction may further include an instruction to determine an identity of the visitor. In response to determining that the visitor is located within the kitchen, the second security system may determine the identity of the visitor, via any identity detection technology such as facial recognition, iris recognition, retina scanning, smart phone detection, and the like.
Accordingly, the first security system 202 may also be configured to determine the identity of a user or visitor. This technology may be implemented to prevent unauthorized users from activating specific appliances. For example, a parent may restrict a child from watching television. In this manner, the child may not be authorized to watch television at specific hours or at any time of day. In effect, the child may audibly instruct the security system 202 to activate a television. The security system 202 may then determine the identity of the child as being an unauthorized user, and in response to this determination, the security system 202 may not activate the television in conformance with the child's instruction. Alternatively, if an authorized user, such as an adult, were to audibly instruct the security system 202 to activate the television, then upon determining that the adult is in fact an authorized user, the security system 202 may transmit a command to the television to thereby activate the television. It should be appreciated that this feature may be implemented with any desired appliance, such as dangerous appliances, like a power tool.
With reference to FIGS. 33 a and 33 b, the security system 202 may transmit commands to any of the appliances 3300 a, 3300 b via a wireless 230 or wired connection 304. For example, the security system 202 may use its communication module 262 to wirelessly 230 transmit the command to the selected appliance via one of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radio frequency, Near Field Communication, infrared, and any other wireless technology discussed in this disclosure.
As shown in FIG. 33 b, security system 202 may use its communication module 262 to transmit the command to the appliance 3300 a, 3300 b via a wire 304 that is electrically and communicatively coupled to the security system 202. For example, the wired connection may comprise a copper wire located within the building 300. The copper wire may any type of traditional copper used for conducting electricity and WiFi throughout a building 300. However, it should be appreciated that the wired communication any type of wired technology as described in this disclosure, such as Ethernet, telephone, and the like.
In some embodiments the security system 202 may be communicatively coupled, via the Internet, to a remote server. In this manner, the security system 202 may communicate with the remote server to thereby transmit the desired command to the appliance via a media access control address (MAC address). In this manner, the remote server digitally encodes the command and transmits the command to the appliance, whereby the appliance performs the desired operation as audibly instructed by the user. Sometimes the Internet connection may be unavailable and the security system 202 may be unable to communicate with the remote server. Accordingly, the security system 202 may still communicate with the desired appliance by transmitting the command from the security system 202, to a WiFi router, and to the desired appliance. In this regard, the security system 202 is able to communicate to the appliance whether or not an Internet connection exists.
The situation may arise where the security system 202 is not communicatively coupled to the appliance within the building, or when the security system 202 is not electrically coupled to the building 300. In this regard, the security system 202 may perform a check to determine whether connectivity or electricity is available, and in response to determining the security system 202 is not electrically coupled to the building 300 (or communicatively coupled to the appliance), the security system 202 may illuminate a light on the security system 202 to thereby illuminate an area adjacent the light socket camera. The illumination of the light may be performed in response to the audible instruction from the user. However, in some embodiments the light on the security system 202 may automatically be illuminated in response to losing connectivity and/or electricity. This may helpful in the event of a power outage when people are trying to navigate their way around the building 300.
Combinations with Embodiments Incorporated by Reference
The embodiments described herein can be combined with any of the embodiments included in the applications incorporated by reference. In various embodiments, the security systems described herein can include features and methods described in the context of security systems from applications incorporated by reference.
Interpretation
None of the steps described herein is essential or indispensable. Any of the steps can be adjusted or modified. Other or additional steps can be used. Any portion of any of the steps, processes, structures, and/or devices disclosed or illustrated in one embodiment, flowchart, or example in this specification can be combined or used with or instead of any other portion of any of the steps, processes, structures, and/or devices disclosed or illustrated in a different embodiment, flowchart, or example. The embodiments and examples provided herein are not intended to be discrete and separate from each other.
The section headings and subheadings provided herein are nonlimiting. The section headings and subheadings do not represent or limit the full scope of the embodiments described in the sections to which the headings and subheadings pertain. For example, a section titled “Topic 1” may include embodiments that do not pertain to Topic 1 and embodiments described in other sections may apply to and be combined with embodiments described within the “Topic 1” section.
Some of the devices, systems, embodiments, and processes use computers. Each of the routines, processes, methods, and algorithms described in the preceding sections may be embodied in, and fully or partially automated by, code modules executed by one or more computers, computer processors, or machines configured to execute computer instructions. The code modules may be stored on any type of non-transitory computer-readable storage medium or tangible computer storage device, such as hard drives, solid state memory, flash memory, optical disc, and/or the like. The processes and algorithms may be implemented partially or wholly in application-specific circuitry. The results of the disclosed processes and process steps may be stored, persistently or otherwise, in any type of non-transitory computer storage such as, e.g., volatile or non-volatile storage.
The various features and processes described above may be used independently of one another, or may be combined in various ways. All possible combinations and subcombinations are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure. In addition, certain method, event, state, or process blocks may be omitted in some implementations. The methods, steps, and processes described herein are also not limited to any particular sequence, and the blocks, steps, or states relating thereto can be performed in other sequences that are appropriate. For example, described tasks or events may be performed in an order other than the order specifically disclosed. Multiple steps may be combined in a single block or state. The example tasks or events may be performed in serial, in parallel, or in some other manner. Tasks or events may be added to or removed from the disclosed example embodiments. The example systems and components described herein may be configured differently than described. For example, elements may be added to, removed from, or rearranged compared to the disclosed example embodiments.
Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each be present.
The term “and/or” means that “and” applies to some embodiments and “or” applies to some embodiments. Thus, A, B, and/or C can be replaced with A, B, and C written in one sentence and A, B, or C written in another sentence. A, B, and/or C means that some embodiments can include A and B, some embodiments can include A and C, some embodiments can include B and C, some embodiments can only include A, some embodiments can include only B, some embodiments can include only C, and some embodiments can include A, B, and C. The term “and/or” is used to avoid unnecessary redundancy.
While certain example embodiments have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions disclosed herein. Thus, nothing in the foregoing description is intended to imply that any particular feature, characteristic, step, module, or block is necessary or indispensable. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the inventions disclosed herein.
The following is claimed:
1. A method for using a light socket camera to trigger an appliance, comprising:
using a light socket camera to receive an audible instruction from a user, wherein the audible instruction is an instruction to trigger an appliance communicatively coupled to the light socket camera and electrically coupled to a building, wherein the light socket camera is electrically coupled to the building, and wherein the light socket camera includes an outer housing comprising a proximal end, a distal end that is opposite the proximal end, and a sidewall that extends between the proximal end and the distal end, a camera coupled to the outer housing, whereby the camera is configured to record a video, a speaker located within an internal portion of the outer housing, whereby the speaker is configured to transmit an audible message, a microphone located within an internal portion of the outer housing, whereby the microphone is configured to receive an audible instruction, a communication module located within an internal portion of the outer housing, whereby the communication module is configured to connect to a network, and a screw thread contact located adjacent the proximal end of the outer housing, whereby the screw thread contact is rotatably attached to a light socket of the building; in response to receiving the audible instruction from the user, using the light socket camera to transmit a trigger command to the appliance, wherein the trigger command triggers the appliance to perform an operation; and in response to transmitting the trigger command to the appliance, performing the operation via the appliance.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the audible instruction is a first audible instruction to activate the appliance, the method further comprising:
using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user, wherein the second audible instruction comprises an instruction to deactivate the appliance; in response to receiving a second audible instruction from the user, using the light socket camera to transmit a deactivation command to the appliance; and in response to transmitting the deactivation command to the appliance, deactivating the appliance.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the building comprises an enclosed interior portion and an exterior portion opposite the interior portion, wherein at least a portion of the appliance is located along the exterior portion of the building, and wherein at least a portion of the light socket camera is located along one of the exterior portion of the building and the interior portion of the building.
4. The method of claim 2, wherein the building comprises an enclosed interior portion and an exterior portion opposite the interior portion, wherein the appliance is located entirely within the interior portion of the building, and wherein at least a portion of the light socket camera is located along one of the exterior portion of the building and the interior portion of the building.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the building comprises a first room and a second room, wherein the light socket camera is located in the first room and the appliance is located in the second room.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the appliance is a light, and wherein the audible instruction is a first audible instruction comprising an instruction to illuminate the light, the method further comprising:
using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user, wherein the second audible instruction comprises an instruction to deactivate the light; in response to receiving a second audible instruction from the user, using the light socket camera to transmit a deactivation command to the light; and in response to transmitting the deactivation command to the appliance, deactivating the light.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the appliance is a television, wherein the audible instruction is a first audible instruction comprising an instruction to activate the television, the method further comprising:
using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user, wherein the second audible instruction comprises an instruction to deactivate the television; in response to receiving the second audible instruction from the user, using the light socket camera to transmit a deactivation command to the television; in response to transmitting the deactivation command to the television, deactivating the television; using the light socket camera to receive a third audible instruction from the user, wherein the third audible instruction comprises an instruction to change an input channel of the television; in response to receiving the third audible instruction from the user, using the light socket camera to transmit a change command to the television; and in response to transmitting the change command to the television, changing the input channel of the television.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the appliance is a garage door opener, wherein the audible instruction is a first audible instruction comprising an instruction to open a garage door mechanically coupled to the garage door opener, the method further comprising:
using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user, wherein the second audible instruction comprises an instruction to close the garage door; in response to receiving the second audible instruction from the user, using the light socket camera to transmit a close command to the garage door opener; and in response to transmitting the close command to the garage door opener, closing the garage door.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user, wherein the second audible instruction comprises an instruction to lock the door lock; and in response to receiving the second audible instruction from the user, using the light socket camera to transmit a lock command to the door lock; and in response to transmitting the lock command to the door lock, moving a lock of the door lock to a locked position.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the light socket camera is a first light socket camera, wherein the appliance comprises a second light socket camera having a camera, a speaker, and a microphone, wherein the second light socket camera is communicatively coupled to the first light socket camera, and wherein the second light socket camera is electrically coupled to the building and mechanically coupled to an electrical outlet of the building.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising:
using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction to determine whether a visitor is located within a line of sight of the second light socket camera; in response to receiving the second audible instruction, using the light socket camera to transmit a line of sight command to the second light socket camera; in response to transmitting the line of sight command to the second light socket camera, determining whether the visitor is located within the line of sight of the second light socket camera.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the light socket camera is a first light socket camera, and wherein the audible instruction further comprises an instruction to determine an identity of the visitor; in response to determining that the visitor is located within the line of sight of the second light socket camera, the method further comprising:
using the light socket camera to transmit an identity command to the second light socket camera, wherein the identity command triggers the second light socket camera to determine the identity of the visitor; and in response to transmitting the identity command to the second light socket camera, using the second light socket camera to determine the identity of the visitor, wherein determining the identity of the visitor comprises using one of facial recognition, iris recognition, and retina scanning.
13. The method of claim 1, wherein the appliance is a first appliance, and wherein the audible instruction is a first audible instruction comprising an instruction to activate the first appliance, the method further comprising:
using the light socket camera to receive a second audible instruction from the user, wherein the second audible instruction comprises an instruction to activate a second appliance; in response to receiving the second audible instruction, using the light socket camera to transmit an activation command to the second appliance; and in response to transmitting the activation command to the second appliance, activating the second appliance.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the first appliance is a light, and wherein the second appliance is a television, the method further comprising:
using the light socket camera to receive a third audible instruction from the user, wherein the third audible instruction comprises an instruction to unlock a door lock; in response to receiving the third audible instruction, using the light socket camera to transmit an unlock command to the door lock; and in response to transmitting the unlock command to the door lock, moving a lock of the door lock to the unlocked position.
15. The method of claim 1, further comprising using the communication module to wirelessly transmit the command to the appliance via one of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radio frequency, Near Field Communication, and infrared.
16. The method of claim 1, further comprising using the communication module to transmit the command to the appliance via a wire, wherein the wire is electrically and communicatively coupled to the light socket camera.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the wire comprises a copper wire located within the building, wherein the copper wire is electrically coupled to a transformer such that the copper wire transmits electricity from the transformer to the light socket camera, and the copper wire transmits electricity from the transformer to the appliance, and wherein the copper wire communicatively transmits the command from the light socket camera to the appliance.
18. The method of claim 1, in response to receiving the audible instruction from the user, the method further comprising:
using the light socket camera to determine an identity of the user; in response to determining the identity of the user, using the light socket camera to determine whether the user is an authorized user or an unauthorized user of the appliance; in response to determining the user is an authorized user of the appliance, using the light socket camera to transmit the trigger command to the appliance, wherein the trigger command triggers the appliance to perform an operation; and in response to transmitting the trigger command to the appliance, performing the operation via the appliance.
19. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
using the light socket camera to determine whether an Internet connection exists between the light socket camera and a remote server; in response to determining that the internet connection does not exist between the light socket camera and the remote server, using the light socket camera to transmit the trigger command to the appliance via a WiFi router; and in response to determining that the Internet connection does exist between the light socket camera and the remote server, using the light socket camera to transmit the trigger command to the appliance via the remote server.
20. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
using the light socket camera to determine whether the light socket camera is electrically coupled to the building; in response to determining the light socket camera is not electrically coupled to the building and in response to receiving the audible instruction from the user, using the light socket camera to activate a light on the light socket camera to thereby illuminate an area adjacent the light socket camera.
| 2014-11-21 | en | 2015-03-19 |
US-201113246997-A | System and Method for Facilitating Downhole Operations
ABSTRACT
A technique is provided to facilitate use of a service tool at a downhole location. The service tool has different operational configurations that can be selected and used without moving the service string.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/626,739, filed Jan. 24, 2007, which was a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/566,459 filed Dec. 4, 2006, which are hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND
In a variety of well completion operations, a sandface assembly, including screens, is conveyed by a service tool and positioned across a hydrocarbon bearing formation. Upon placement of the sandface assembly, numerous well operations, such as placing a gravel pack in the annulus between the Earth formation and the screens, are performed. Successful completion of these operations typically requires numerous movements of the service tool relative to the sandface assembly to effectuate a variety of flow paths.
For successful execution of a service job, a detailed understanding of the downhole interactions between the service tool/service string and the sandface assembly is required. Specific downhole service tools are actuated by movement of the service string which requires an operator to have substantial knowledge of the downhole service tool as well as an ability to visualize the operation and status of the service tool. Typically, the operator marks the service string at a surface location to track the relative positions of the service tool and the downhole sandface assembly. As the service string is moved, each marked position is assumed to indicate a specific position of the service tool relative to the downhole sandface assembly. This approach, however, relies on substantial knowledge and experience of the operator and is susceptible to inaccuracies due to, for example, extension and contraction of the service string. Moreover, in highly deviated wellbores with difficult trajectories, much of the string movement is lost between the surface and the downhole location due to string buckling, compression, and the like. In such systems where gravel packs are performed, the service tool also can be prone to sticking with respect to the downhole sandface assembly.
SUMMARY
In general, the present invention provides a technique for facilitating the use of service tools at downhole locations. The approach utilizes a substantially non-moving service tool. While remaining stationary, the flow paths within the service tool can be repositioned from one operational mode to another to carry out a variety of service procedures at a downhole location.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Certain embodiments of the invention will hereafter be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements, and:
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a service string deployed in a wellbore, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is schematic illustration of valve positions for different operating modes of a service tool, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a valve system used in the service tool, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a service tool with a control system for controlling valve positioning in the service tool, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a steady state control system combined with a valve that can be used in the service tool, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 6 is a graphical representation of steady-state pressure achieved above a pressure threshold to activate the valve illustrated in FIG. 5, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an actuator for use with the valve illustrated in FIG. 5, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the actuator illustrated in FIG. 7 in a different operational configuration, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a service tool, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration demonstrating fluid flow through the service tool when the service tool is in the operational mode illustrated in FIG. 9, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the service tool illustrated in FIG. 9 but in a different operational mode, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration demonstrating fluid flow through the service tool when the service tool is in the operational mode illustrated in FIG. 11, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the service tool illustrated in FIG. 9 but in a different operational mode, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration demonstrating fluid flow through the service tool when the service tool is in the operational mode illustrated in FIG. 13, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the service tool illustrated in FIG. 9 but in a different operational mode, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration demonstrating fluid flow through the service tool when the service tool is in the operational mode illustrated in FIG. 15, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken generally across the axis of the service tool to illustrate fluid flow passages along the service tool, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken generally across the axis of the service tool to illustrate fluid flow passages along the service tool, according to another embodiment of the present invention; and
FIG. 19 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a trigger device that can be used to actuate components in the service string, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In the following description, numerous details are set forth to provide an understanding of the present invention. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these details and that numerous variations or modifications from the described embodiments may be possible.
The present invention relates to a system and methodology for facilitating the operation of a service string in a downhole environment. The service string comprises a service tool that may be moved downhole into a wellbore to a desired formation location. The service tool is used in conjunction with other downhole well equipment, such as a sandface assembly. The service tool may be moved through several operational modes without physically sliding the service tool relative to the sandface assembly, i.e. without lineal movement of the service tool within the sandface assembly otherwise caused by movement of the service string.
Referring generally to FIG. 1, an embodiment of a well system 30 is illustrated as installed in a wellbore 32. In this embodiment, well system 30 comprises a service string 34 having a service tool 36. The service tool 36 can be moved downhole into wellbore 32 for interaction with downhole equipment 38, such as a sandface assembly. In many applications, the service string and the sandface assembly are coupled together at the surface and conveyed downhole as a single unit. After reaching the desired depth and undergoing preliminary operations, the service string is decoupled from the sandface assembly.
The wellbore 32 can be vertical or deviated depending on the type of well application and/or well environment in which service string 34 is used. Generally, wellbore 32 is drilled into a geological formation 40 containing desirable production fluids, such as petroleum. In at least some applications, wellbore 32 is lined with a wellbore casing 42. A plurality of perforations 44 is formed through wellbore casing 42 to enable flow of fluids between the surrounding formation 40 and the wellbore 32. Alternatively, the wellbore may be unlined. In this latter case, the top end of the sandface assembly is positioned in the lower end of the casing before the open hole section begins.
In the embodiment illustrated, sandface assembly 38 comprises a bottom hole assembly 46. In some applications, the bottom hole assembly 46 extends into cooperation with a lower packer 48, installed on a previous trip downhole. In other applications, e.g. open hole applications, the lower packer 48 is not necessary. The bottom hole assembly 46 has a receptacle structure 50 into which service tool 36 of service string 34 is inserted for the performance of various procedures. In one example of bottom hole assembly 46, the receptacle structure 50 comprises a circulation housing having one or more ports 51 through which gravel is placed via the service tool. In this embodiment, the circulation housing also may include a closing sleeve (not shown) which is closed after the process of gravel deposition is completed. The bottom hole assembly 46 also comprises a gravel packing (GP) packer 52 positioned between receptacle structure 50 and the wall of wellbore 32. The circulation housing and gravel packing packer 52 effectively provide the receptacle that works in cooperation with service string 34. By way of example, cooperative features may include a mechanical attachment at the top of packer 52 for receiving the service tool, and polish bores can be located above and below circulation port 51 to ensure gravel deposition is directed only through port 51. The bottom hole assembly 46 further comprises a screen assembly 54 that may be formed of one or more individual screens. In some applications, service string 34, service tool 36 and bottom hole assembly 46 are used in cooperation to carry out a gravel packing operation in which a gravel pack 56 is placed in the region of wellbore 32 generally surrounding screen 54.
Service tool 36 and sandface assembly 38 can be used to carry out a variety of procedures during a given operation, such as a gravel packing operation. Additionally, well system 30 may be switched between many procedures without movement of service string 34. In other words, the service string 34 and service tool 36 “sit still” relative to bottom hole assembly 46 instead of continuously being “pulled up” or “slacked off” to cause changes from one procedure to another.
As illustrated schematically in FIG. 2, the service tool 36 and bottom hole assembly 46 rely on a valve system 58 to achieve desired operating modes without movement, i.e. lifting or settling, of the service tool 36 inside GP packer 52. By way of example, valve system 58 can be used in any of the operating modes A-G during a gravel packing operation. The valve system operating modes control the flow of fluids between various wellbore regions, such as the tubing above GP packer 52 (T1), the tubing below GP packer 52 (T2), the annulus above GP packer 52 (A1), and the annulus below GP packer 52 (A2). (See also FIG. 1).
For example, during running-in-hole of service string 34 to perform a gravel packing operation, valve system 58 is placed in configuration A which enables the open flow of fluid from T1 to T2 and from A2 to A1 during movement downhole. Once at the desired wellbore position, the setting of packer 52 is achieved by actuating valve system 58 to configuration B in which fluid flow is blocked between T1 and T2. After setting packer 52, an annulus test can be performed by actuating valve system 58 to configuration C in which flow between A1 and A2 is blocked. An operational mode for spotting fluids prior to the gravel pack is achieved by actuating valve system 58 to configuration D in which fluids may be flowed down the service string at T1 and returned via the annulus at A1.
In this example, the actual gravel packing is initiated by actuating valve system 58 to configuration E which allows the gravel slurry to flow from T1 to A2 to form gravel pack 56 along the exterior of screen 54. The carrier fluid then flows to T2 and is directed out of the service tool 36 to the annulus at A1 for return to the surface. Subsequently, valve system 58 may be placed in a reversing configuration which is illustrated as configuration F. In this configuration, fluid may be flowed down through A1 and returned via the service string tubing at T1. Valve system 58 also may be adjusted to a breaker configuration G that facilitates the breaking or removal of filter cake when service tool 36 is removed from wellbore 32. By removing the need to physically move the service string 34 to adjust the valve configurations, premature breakage of the filter cake is avoided.
The valve system 58 may be actuated between many operational configurations with no movement of service string 34 relative to packer 52. Other changes between operational configurations only require a simple “pull up” input or a “slack off” input to cause a slight movement above GP packer 52 rather than moving service tool 36 within receptacle structure 50. The ability to easily change from one valve system configuration to another with no or minimal movement of the service string provides a much greater degree of functionality with respect to the operation of the well system. For example, the sequential valve configuration changes from configuration B to configuration D can be repeated or reversed. Additionally, the circulating configuration E and the reversing configuration F are readily reversible and can be repeated. Accordingly, valve system 58 provides great functionality to achieve a desired well operation, e.g. gravel packing operation, without being susceptible to sticking problems and without requiring the operational finesse of conventional systems.
Referring generally to FIG. 3, a schematic illustration of one embodiment of valve system 58 is illustrated. In this embodiment, valve system 58 comprises, for example, a sleeve valve 60, a lower tubing valve 62, an upper tubing valve 64, and a sleeve valve 66. Lower tubing valve 62 and upper tubing valve 64 may be designed as ball valves, however other types of valves also may be used. Additionally, valves 62, 64 and 66 may be arranged as a plurality of valves with each of the individual valves controlled by a valve control system 68 able to individually actuate the valves 62, 64 and 66 between specific operational configurations without movement of service string 34 relative to packer 52.
Control signals can be sent to valve control system 68 via, for example, pressure signals, pressure signals on the annulus, load, e.g. tensile, signals, flow rate signals, other wireless communication signals sent downhole, and electromagnetic signals. In one embodiment, valve control system 68 receives pressure signals sent via the annulus surrounding service string 34 and appropriately actuates one or more of the individual valves 62, 64 and/or 66 in response to the pressure signal. In this example, annular valve 60 is used to control flow between the annulus and the service string and is actuated between open and closed positions with string weight. For example, the service string 34 may be pulled up, i.e. placed in tension for specific command sequences, and the string weight may be slacked-off, i.e. placed under a set down load, for circulation operations. Alternatively, the valve may be designed to open and allow circulation operations when the service string is placed under tension and to close for command sequences when weight is slacked off. Valves 60, 62, 64 and 66 can be individually actuated to achieve any of the valve configurations A-G, for example, illustrated in FIG. 2. Valve control system 68 also may comprise an uplink telemetry system 70 able to output signals, e.g. electrical signals, optical signals, wireless signals, etc., to the surface to confirm the positions of individual valves.
Although other types of valve control systems 68 can be implemented, one example uses an intelligent remote implementation system (IRIS) control technology available from Schlumberger Corporation. An IRIS based control system 68 is able to recognize signatures in the form of, for example, pressure signatures, flow rate signatures or tensile signatures. As illustrated in FIG. 4, one embodiment of an IRIS based control system 68 comprises a control module 72 having a pressure sensor 74 positioned to sense low-pressure, pressure pulse signatures, e.g. pressure pulse signature 76 illustrated in FIG. 4. The pressure sensor 74 is coupled to control electronics 78 having a microprocessor which decodes the pressure pulse signature. The microprocessor compares a given pressure pulse signature against commands in a tool library. If a match is found, the control electronics 78 outputs an appropriate signal to an actuator 80 which opens and/or closes the appropriate valve. In this embodiment, actuator 80 comprises hydrostatic and atmospheric chambers that enable hydraulic control over each valve, e.g. valve 60, 62 or 64, by alternating operating pressure between hydrostatic and atmospheric as in available IRIS control systems. Power is supplied to control electronics 78 and actuator 80 via a battery 82.
With control systems, such as the IRIS based control system available from Schlumberger Corporation, an over-ride can be used to disable electronics 78 and to move the valves to a standard gravel packing operational position. In this embodiment, a high pressure, e.g. approximately 4000 psi, is applied through the annulus to over-ride control 72. For example, control 72 may be provided with a rupture disc (not shown) that ruptures upon sufficient annulus pressure to enable manipulation of service tool 36 to a default position via the pressurized annulus fluid. By way of example, the over-ride may be designed to release service tool 36 from packer 52 while opening lower valve 62, opening port body valve 66, and closing upper valve 64. The service tool 36 can then be operated in this standard service tool configuration.
Other methods and mechanisms also can be used to control one or more of the valves of valve system 58. For example, lower valve 62 can be designed to be responsive to a ball passing through an obstruction in a proximate bore. The obstruction can be a collet device that flexes as the ball passes through. The control senses the flexing and causes lower valve actuation. The ball that passes through the flexing collet can be dissolvable such that it presents no obstruction after performing its primary function. In this embodiment, flow is again enabled when the ball is dissolved. Lower valve 62 also can be designed as a ball valve responsive to a predetermined fluid flow. For example, fluid flow through a venturi can be used to create a pressure drop that is used directly or in conjunction with an appropriate electronic actuator to actuate valve 62 to a desired position, e.g. a closed position. The flow activated control approach also can be used as a backup for a control system, such as the control system described with reference to FIG. 4. In another embodiment, valve 62 is a ball valve controlled by a control device 84, such as the device schematically illustrated in FIG. 5. Control device 84 can be designed to respond to, for example, steady state sensing, flow signatures, and/or a dissolvable ball flexing an obstruction in a proximate bore, as well as other inputs. As illustrated in FIG. 6, one example of control device 84 is designed to respond to a steady-state condition sensed in the wellbore. Another method to control lower valve 62 is to make the valve responsive to a predetermined flow signature.
In this latter embodiment, the first actuation of lower ball valve 62 or other downhole device is performed in response to the sensing of a steady-state condition. The steady-state condition is detected by, for example, unchanging magnitudes of pressure and/or temperature. For example, control device 84 can be designed to actuate when pressure P satisfies the steady state condition at time tn. Satisfaction of the steady-state condition requires that: P(tn)−P(tn-1)˜0; P(tn-1)−P(tn-2)˜0; etc. for t= the predetermined number of times samples. The same approach can be used for determining a steady-state temperature condition necessary for actuation of valve 62.
As illustrated graphically in FIG. 6, the lower ball valve 62 or other appropriate component is actuated when a measured parameter or parameters, e.g. pressure and/or temperature, reaches a steady-state level 102 over a predetermined period of time 104 and above a predetermined threshold 106. The processing for determining an appropriate steady-state condition occurs if the subject parameter or parameters exceed the programmed threshold values. Then, each parameter is sampled at a given frequency to achieve n number of samples in a predetermined period of time. If the measured parameter level for each successive time interval is acceptably small according to the system logic, then the steady-state condition is satisfied and actuator 96 is actuated to change the operational position of valve 62 or other controlled device. However, other methods and mechanisms can be employed to accomplish initial actuation of valve 62, such as the dissolvable ball and other methods discussed above.
Referring again to FIG. 5, another embodiment of control device 84 is designed to receive a pressure signature on the annulus, decode it, and compare it to a command library. If a match is found, control device 84 actuates a solenoid that allows hydrostatic pressure to actuate the correct valve. In the example illustrated, control device 84 comprises a transducer 86 which receives the pressure and/or temperature signal. The transducer 86 outputs the signal to a controller board 88 which processes the signals. By way of example, controller board 88 comprises a digitizer 90 which digitizes the signal for a microprocessor 92 that utilizes decoding logic 94 for determining when an appropriate signal has been sensed. Upon sensing the predetermined signal, controller board 88 outputs an appropriate control signal to an actuator 96 which may be powered via hydrostatic pressure supplied by a hydrostatic pressure source 98. The actuator 96 actuates lower valve 62, for example, to a closed position. The controller board 88 is powered by a battery 100. It should be noted that control device 84 can be used to actuate a variety of other devices within well system 30 or within other types of downhole equipment.
By way of example, actuator 96 may comprise an electro-mechanical device 108 coupled to hydrostatic pressure source 98, as illustrated in FIG. 7. Electro-mechanical device 108 comprises a piston 110 that is selectively displaced to allow flow from hydrostatic pressure source 98 into a chamber 112 that is initially at atmospheric pressure. Piston 110 can be moved by a variety of mechanisms, such as by a solenoid or a motor powered via battery 100. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the hydrostatic pressure applied within chamber 112 enables useful work, such as the translation of a power piston 114. The translation of piston 114 is used to, for example, rotate a ball within a lower ball valve 62 or to achieve another desired actuation within a downhole component.
Referring generally to FIG. 9, one specific embodiment of service tool 36 inserted into bottom hole assembly 46 is illustrated in greater detail. In this embodiment, annular valve 60 is a sliding valve that may be moved between an open, flow position and a closed position Annular valve 60 comprises at least one port 116 that enables flow between an internal annulus of service tool 36 and a wellbore region 120, e.g. annulus, surrounding the service tool, when valve 60 is in an open position. Accordingly, annular valve 60 enables flow between T1 and A1 (when valves 62 and 66 are closed and valve 64 is open) above GP packer 52. For reference, FIG. 9 illustrates annular valve 60 in a closed position.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, valves 62, 64 and 66 are controlled by control module 72 which may be an IRIS based control module responsive to pressure signatures sent downhole, as described previously in this document. Each of the valves 62, 64 and 66 may be individually controlled based on unique pressure signals sent downhole through, for example, the annulus surrounding service string 34. The pressure signals are directed to control module 72 via a port 122 connected to a conduit or snorkel 124 that extends to sensor 74 of control module 72 (see also FIG. 4). In this embodiment, lower valve 62 and upper valve 64 both comprise ball valves that are movable between an open, flow position along tubing interior 118 and a closed position. However, one or both of these valves can be designed to move to selected partially closed positions, thus enabling use of such valve or valves to control the rate of fluid flow along tubing interior 118. Port body valve 66 may comprise a sliding valve selectively moved by control module 72 between an open, flow position and a closed position. In the open position, valve 66 cooperates with a flow port 126 to enable flow between the tubing interior 118 of service tool 36 and a wellbore region 128, e.g. annulus, surrounding the bottom hole assembly and service tool. For reference, FIG. 9 illustrates port body valve 66 in a closed position, and ball valves 62, 64 in open positions.
The service tool 36 and bottom hole assembly 46 illustrated in FIG. 9 can be used to carry out several different gravel packing procedures without moving service tool 36 within bottom hole assembly 46. In one embodiment of a gravel packing operation, the service string 34 is run-in-hole to the desired wellbore location. As the service string 34 is run-in-hole, the various valves are positioned as illustrated in FIG. 9. In other words, annulus valve 60 is closed, port body valve 66 is closed, upper valve 64 is open and lower valve 62 is open. As further illustrated schematically in FIG. 10, this allows the free flow of fluid along tubing interior 118, as indicated by arrows 129. In other words, the wash-down path remains open during running into wellbore 32.
When the service tool 36 and the bottom hole assembly 46 are properly positioned within wellbore 32, lower ball valve 62 is actuated to a closed position, as illustrated in FIG. 11. The initial actuation can be achieved by a variety of methods, including use of a dedicated control device, e.g. control device 84, or use of other actuation techniques. (In one example, the lower valve 62 can be moved to the closed position to enable application of pressure in the tubing interior 118 for pressure operations upon reaching a steady-state condition with respect to pressure and/or temperature within the wellbore.) In the closed position illustrated in FIG. 11, pressure can be applied along tubing interior 118 and through an annular channel 130 to set GP packer 52. The pressure is directed as indicated by arrows 132 in FIG. 12 and then into annular channel 130. Alternatively, a pressure signature can be sent along the path indicated by arrows 132 to an appropriate trigger device 134 used to set packer 52. In one embodiment, trigger device 134 is an IRIS based trigger system designed similar to that described with respect to control module 72 so that a unique pressure signature can be detected and processed by the trigger device. The trigger device then controls a hydraulic actuator which expands and sets packer 52.
Subsequently, the wellbore annulus is pressurized to test the seal formed by GP packer 52. The service string 34 is then manipulated between pulling and slacking off weight to effectively push and pull on packer 52 which tests the ability of the packer to take weight. If the packer 52 is properly set, a slack joint portion 136 of service tool 36 is released to enable the opening and closing of annular valve 60 by movement of slack joint portion 136 relative to the stationary portion of service tool 36 within bottom hole assembly 46. The slack joint portion 136 can be released via a variety of release mechanisms. For example, a trigger device, such as trigger device 134, can be used to move a release catch 138, thereby releasing slack joint portion 136 for movement of valve 60 between open and closed positions. Other release mechanisms e.g. shear pins responsive to annulus pressure to disengage a mechanical lock and other shear mechanisms, also can be used to temporarily lock slack joint portion 136 to the remainder of service tool 36 during the initial stages of the gravel packing operation.
Once slack joint portion 136 is released, weight is slacked-off service string 34 to move annular valve 60 into an open position, as illustrated in FIG. 13. This position allows an operator to spot fluids through the open annular valve 60 into the surrounding annulus. This position is also known as a reverse or reverse flow position that enables a reverse flow of fluids, as indicated by arrows 140 in FIG. 14.
The service string 34 is then pulled up to close annular valve 60. While annular valve 60 is in the closed position, pressure signatures are sent downhole and communicated to control module 72. In response to the pressure signatures, control module 72 actuates the triple valve and moves lower valve 62 to an open position, upper valve 64 to a closed position, and port body valve 66 to an open position. The tension on service string 34 is then slacked off to again open annular valve 60, as illustrated in FIG. 15. In this configuration, gravel pack slurry is pumped down tubing interior 118 and out into the annulus through ports 126. The gravel is then deposited around screen 54, and the carrier fluid is routed upwardly through a washpipe from a lower end of bottom hole assembly 46. The carrier fluid flows upwardly through lower valve 62 around upper valve 64 via port 130 and out into the annulus through port 116 of annular valve 60. The flow path of the gravel packing operation is illustrated schematically via arrows 142 in FIG. 16. In this embodiment, the gravel slurry moves down into lower annulus 128, with clear returns moving up along an interior side of the control module.
Following development of gravel pack 56 around screen 54 (see FIG. 1), service string 34 is picked up slightly to move floating top portion 136 and again close annular valve 60. An appropriate pressure signature is then sent downhole to control module 72. Based on this pressure signature, control module 72 closes lower valve 62, opens upper valve 64, and closes port body valve 66. The pull on service string 34 is then slacked off to again open annular valve 60, which places the service tool 36 in the reverse circulation configuration illustrated in FIG. 13. In this reverse circulation configuration, fluid can be flowed down the annulus and the unused gravel packing slurry can be pushed up to the surface through tubing interior 118.
Upon completion of the reverse circulation, service string 34 is again lifted slightly to move floating top portion 136 and close annular valve 60. Then, an appropriate pressure signature is sent downhole to control module 72 which opens lower valve 62. At this time, service tool 36 also is undocked from GP packer 52 and bottom hole assembly 46 to place the service tool in the “breaker” position. In this position the service tool is configured as a pipe with a through-bore, whereby fluid can be circulated straight down to remove the filter cake accumulated along the wellbore. The service tool 36 may be released from packer 52 via a variety of release mechanisms. In one embodiment, a trigger device, such as trigger device 134, can be used to actuate a release that disengages service tool 36 from packer 52 and bottom hole assembly 46. Other release mechanisms, such as collets, hydraulically actuated latch mechanisms, mechanically actuated latch mechanisms, or other latch mechanisms, also can be used to enable engagement and disengagement of the service tool from the bottom hole assembly.
Flow of fluid between certain ports, such as ports 130 and ports 116 can be achieved by creating flow paths along a body 144 of service tool 36. By way of example, flow paths 146 can be formed by creating a plurality of drilled bypass holes 148 extending generally longitudinally through body 144, as illustrated in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 17. Alternative types of flow paths also can be created. For example, body 144 may be formed by placing a central valve body 150 within a surrounding shroud or housing 152, as illustrated in FIG. 18. The flow paths 146 are thus created intermediate the central valve body 150 and the surrounding shroud 152.
As discussed above, one or more trigger devices 134 can incorporate an IRIS based control system, such as those available from Schlumberger Corporation. The one or more trigger devices 134 can be used, for example, to accomplish one-time actuation, such as the release of floating top portion 136, the release of service tool 36 from packer 52, and/or the setting of GP packer 52. Separate devices may be used for each specific action, or a single trigger device 134 can be designed with a plurality of actuators 154, as illustrated in FIG. 19. As described with respect to control module 72, each trigger device 134 controls the actuation of one or more actuators 154 upon appropriate output from trigger device electronics 156. Device electronics 156 comprises a processor 158 programmed to recognize a specific signature or signatures, such as a pressure signature received by a pressure sensor 160. The trigger device 134 also may comprise an internal battery 162 to power device electronics 156 and actuators 154. As described above with respect to control module 72 and steady-state actuation device 84, actuators 154 can be designed to utilize hydraulic pressure from the environment or from a specific hydraulic pressure source to perform the desired work.
In some applications, it may be desirable to confirm operating configurations of the service tool 36. The tracking of pressure changes in the tubing and/or the annulus can confirm specific changes in operating configuration. For example, changing the valve configuration from a reverse configuration, as illustrated in FIG. 13, to a circulate configuration, as illustrated in FIG. 15, can be confirmed by tracking pressure changes in tubing interior 118. Similarly, changing the valve configuration from a circulate configuration to a reverse configuration also can be confirmed.
In the first example, the change from a reverse configuration to a circulate configuration is confirmed by maintaining pressure in tubing interior 118. As the lower valve 62 is opened, a pressure loss is observed. At this stage, a small flow rate is maintained along tubing interior 118. When the upper valve 64 closes, pressure integrity in tubing interior 118 is observed, and pressure is maintained in tubing interior 118. When the port body valve 66 is opened, a pressure loss is again observed. The specific sequence of pressure losses and pressure integrity enables confirmation that the valve position has changed from a reverse configuration to a circulate configuration. Port 116 is closed to facilitate this observation.
In another example, the change from a circulate configuration to a reverse configuration is confirmed by providing a small flow through the annulus. When the lower valve 62 is closed, a pressure integrity in the annulus is observed. At this stage, pressure is maintained on the annulus. When the upper valve 64 is opened, a return flow is observed along tubing interior 118, and a small flow is maintained along the annulus. When the port body valve is closed, no additional losses occur through the crossover port 126. By tracking this specific sequence of events, proper change from a circulate configuration to a reverse configuration can be confirmed. Furthermore, the flow sweeps gravel from the port body valve 66, thereby increasing its operational reliability.
The specific components used in well system 30 can vary depending on the actual well application in which the system is used. Similarly, the specific component or components used in forming the service string 34 and the sandface assembly 38 can vary from one well service application to another. For example, different types and configurations of the valve actuators may be selected while maintaining the ability to shift from one valve configuration to another without moving the service tool 36 within the receptacle of the sandface assembly 38.
Accordingly, although only a few embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible without materially departing from the teachings of this invention. Such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined in the claims.
1. A method of performing an operation in a wellbore, comprising:
installing a permanent sandface assembly at a desired location in a wellbore adjacent to a well zone; positioning a service tool in the permanent sandface assembly; and transitioning the service tool between circulating flow and reverse flow configurations using a plurality of valves positioned in the service tool, the transitioning being accomplished without moving the service tool with respect to the wellbore.
2. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising actuating at least one valve of the plurality of valves upon sensing a steady-state condition in the wellbore.
3. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein adjusting comprises adjusting at least three valves via a control module responsive to unique control signatures sent downhole.
4. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein adjusting comprises adjusting at least three valves via a control module responsive to wireless signals sent downhole.
5. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein adjusting comprises adjusting at least three valves via a control module responsive to a pressure signature sent downhole.
6. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein adjusting comprises adjusting at least three valves via a control module responsive to pressure signals on the annulus.
7. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein adjusting comprises adjusting at least three valves via a control module responsive to load signatures on a work string coupled to the service tool.
8. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein adjusting comprises adjusting at least three valves via a control module responsive to electromagnetic signatures sent downhole.
9. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising confirming a change in the flow configuration upon adjustment of the plurality of valves.
10. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein transitioning comprises shifting the service tool from the circulating flow configuration to the reversing flow configuration.
11. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein transitioning comprises shifting the service tool from the reversing flow configuration to the circulating flow configuration.
12. A method of servicing a wellbore, comprising:
coupling a service tool with a bottom hole assembly having a packer and a screen such that the service tool is separable from the bottom hole assembly; directing fluid flow through the service tool via a plurality of valves disposed in a body of the service tool; using the fluid flow to form a gravel pack adjacent to a desired zone within a wellbore; adjusting the configuration of the plurality of valves based on signals sent downhole to a control module on the service tool to achieve a first flow configuration and a second flow configuration during formation of the gravel pack; and upon completion of the gravel pack, removing the plurality of valves from the wellbore with the service tool.
13. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein coupling comprises coupling the service tool with the bottom hole assembly having a GP packer.
14. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein adjusting comprises adjusting the configuration of the plurality of valves to a circulating flow configuration without lineal movement of the service tool relative to the bottom hole assembly.
15. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein adjusting comprises adjusting the configuration of the plurality of valves to a reversing flow configuration without lineal movement of the service tool relative to the bottom hole assembly.
16. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein adjusting comprises adjusting at least three valves based on wireless signals sent downhole to the control module.
17. A system for use in a well, comprising:
a service tool to carry out a gravel packing operation while in a permanent completion located downhole in a wellbore, the service tool comprising a plurality of valves mounted on the service tool independent of the permanent completion, the plurality of valves being individually actuatable to transition the service tool between circulating flow and reversing flow during the gravel packing operation independently of the permanent completion.
18. The system as recited in claim 17, wherein the plurality of valves comprises at least three valves individually actuated by a control module within the service tool.
19. The system as recited in claim 18, wherein the control module comprises a sensor to sense a parameter signature sent downhole, the control module being able to adjust the plurality of valves for transitioning the service tool between circulating and reversing configurations.
20. The system as recited in claim 19, wherein the service tool is releasable from the permanent completion to enable retrieval of the service tool and the plurality of valves upon completion of the gravel packing operation.
| 2011-09-28 | en | 2012-01-19 |
US-202017009605-A | Merges using key range data structures
ABSTRACT
Techniques are disclosed relating to merge operations for multi-level data structures, such as log-structured merge-trees (LSM trees). A computer system may store, in a database, a plurality of files as part of an LSM tree and a plurality of database key structures. A given one of the plurality of database key structures may indicate, for a corresponding one of the plurality of files, a set of key ranges derived from database records that are included in the corresponding file. The computer system may determine, using ones of the plurality of database key structures, a key range overlap that is indicative of an extent of overlap of key ranges from a set of the plurality of files with respect to a particular key range. Based on the determined key range overlap, the computer system may assign a priority level to a merge operation that involves the set of files.
BACKGROUND
Technical Field
This disclosure relates generally to database systems and, more specifically, to the use of trie data structures in log-structured merge-tree (LSM tree) related operations.
Description of the Related Art
Modern database systems routinely implement management systems that enable users to store a collection of information in an organized manner that can be efficiently accessed and manipulated. In some cases, these management systems maintain a log-structured merge-tree (LSM tree) having multiple levels that each store information in database records as key-value pairs. An LSM tree normally includes two high-level components: an in-memory buffer and a persistent storage. In operation, a database system initially writes database records into the in-memory buffer before later flushing them to the persistent storage. As part of flushing database records, the database system writes the database records into new files that are included in one of the many levels of the LSM tree. Over time, the database records are rewritten into new files included in lower levels as the database records are shifted down the LSM tree.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating example elements of a database system, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating example elements of merge operations, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating example elements of a database key structure that stores database keys, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating example elements of a multi-level merge operation that involves more than two levels, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating example elements of a merge engine that is capable of performing merge operations, according to some embodiments.
FIGS. 6 and 7 are flow diagrams illustrating example methods that relate to evaluating a merge operation, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating elements of a multi-tenant system, according to some embodiments.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating elements of a computer system, according to some embodiments.
This disclosure includes references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment.” The appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner consistent with this disclosure.
Within this disclosure, different entities (which may variously be referred to as “units,” “circuits,” other components, etc.) may be described or claimed as “configured” to perform one or more tasks or operations. This formulation—[entity] configured to [perform one or more tasks]—is used herein to refer to structure (i.e., something physical, such as an electronic circuit). More specifically, this formulation is used to indicate that this structure is arranged to perform the one or more tasks during operation. A structure can be said to be “configured to” perform some task even if the structure is not currently being operated. A “network interface configured to communicate over a network” is intended to cover, for example, an integrated circuit that has circuitry that performs this function during operation, even if the integrated circuit in question is not currently being used (e.g., a power supply is not connected to it). Thus, an entity described or recited as “configured to” perform some task refers to something physical, such as a device, circuit, memory storing program instructions executable to implement the task, etc. This phrase is not used herein to refer to something intangible. Thus, the “configured to” construct is not used herein to refer to a software entity such as an application programming interface (API).
The term “configured to” is not intended to mean “configurable to.” An unprogrammed FPGA, for example, would not be considered to be “configured to” perform some specific function, although it may be “configurable to” perform that function and may be “configured to” perform the function after programming.
Reciting in the appended claims that a structure is “configured to” perform one or more tasks is expressly intended not to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) for that claim element. Accordingly, none of the claims in this application as filed are intended to be interpreted as having means-plus-function elements. Should Applicant wish to invoke Section 112(f) during prosecution, it will recite claim elements using the “means for” [performing a function] construct.
As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” etc. are used as labels for nouns that they precede, and do not imply any type of ordering (e.g., spatial, temporal, logical, etc.) unless specifically stated. For example, in a processor having eight processing cores, the terms “first” and “second” processing cores can be used to refer to any two of the eight processing cores. In other words, the first and second processing cores are not limited to processing cores 0 and 1, for example.
As used herein, the term “based on” is used to describe one or more factors that affect a determination. This term does not foreclose the possibility that additional factors may affect a determination. That is, a determination may be solely based on specified factors or based on the specified factors as well as other, unspecified factors. Consider the phrase “determine A based on B.” This phrase specifies that B is a factor is used to determine A or that affects the determination of A. This phrase does not foreclose that the determination of A may also be based on some other factor, such as C. This phrase is also intended to cover an embodiment in which A is determined based solely on B. As used herein, the phrase “based on” is thus synonymous with the phrase “based at least in part on.”
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
As mentioned, modern database systems often operate a database that is built around a multi-level LSM tree. During operation, database records are initially written into files that are included in the “top” level of the LSM tree. Over time, those database records are pushed down the levels of the LSM tree by being rewritten into new files included in the next level. When database records are being rewritten into a new file included in the next level, they are normally written into the new file along with other database records that are already present in the next level. This process is referred to as “merging” as the database records of the source/input level are merged with database records of the next level into the same new file.
In some implementations, the database system performs a merge of database records from two different files into a new file if there is any key range overlap between key ranges of those two files. In particular, a file is associated with a key range that is defined by the keys of the database records that are included in that file. Accordingly, the database system determines if there is key range overlap by comparing the minimum and maximum keys of the key ranges of two files. If the key ranges share any overlap (e.g., the value of the minimum key of one key range is between the values of the minimum and maximum keys of the second key range), then the database system merges database records from the two files into a new file.
While some database systems are able to make the determination that two key ranges overlap, these implementations do not provide a mechanism for quantifying the overlap. This can lead to merges with undesirable write amplification in which a merge is performed with two files that share very little overlap in a key range. For example, if two files share an overlap in their key ranges but the overlap is relatively small and the file in the target level contributes more records to the new file, then the database system will mostly be rewriting the file that is already in the target level without adding many records from the file of the source level. (This is referred to herein as an “output-dominated” merge operation as the output/target level contributes most of the records to the new file in the target level. This stands in contrast to an “input-dominated” merge operation in which the input level contributes most of the records to the new file in the target level.) As result, the system wastes resources moving only a few records from the input level into the next level of the LSM tree. The present disclosure addresses at least this technical problem of performing merge operations that are not efficient and have reasonably high write amplification.
The present disclosure describes various techniques for quantifying an overlap between the key ranges of a set of files with respect to a merge key range and assigning a priority to the corresponding merge operation based on the quantified overlap. The present disclosure further describes techniques for performing a multi-level merge operation in which database records are copied from multiple levels into a target level that is several levels down in an LSM tree—this stands in contrast to implementations that perform merges between only two levels at a given time. As used herein, the term “multi-level merge operation” refers to a merge operation involving at least three levels of the LSM tree. The present disclosure also describes techniques for performing more efficient key range lookups using database key structures (e.g., tries).
In various embodiments that are described below, a system stores, as part of an LSM tree implemented in a database, files that include database key structures and database records having data and corresponding database keys. The database key structure of a file may indicate, for a selected key range, an approximate number of keys (and thus database records) associated with the file that fall within the key range. As used herein, the general phrase “a key falls within a key range” refers to the character value of the key being lexicographically between or equal to the character values of the minimum and maximum keys of the key range. For example, the key “MAP” falls within the key range APP→TOP. In various embodiments, the database key structure is a trie. As used herein, the term “trie” is used in accordance with its established meaning and refers to a tree-like data structure whose branches are made of linked nodes that correspond to character values. As such, a branch of a trie can represent a database key where the individual nodes of that branch correspond to the individual characters of the key. When assessing overlap, the system may count the number of branches whose represented key falls within the merge key range. Based on the number of branches, in various embodiments, the system determines an overlap of the corresponding file with respect to the merge key range. The system may then assign a priority level to a merge operation involving that file based on the overlap.
In various cases, database records from a file of an input level and a file of a target level may be merged and the merge key range may correspond to the key range of one of those files (e.g., the file from the input level). Accordingly, the system may determine an overlap of the other file (e.g., the file from the target level) with respect to the merge key range determined by the former file. Based on the key range overlap of the latter file with respect to the former file, the system may assign a priority level to a merge operation involving those files. In various embodiments, the system prioritizes merge operations in which the files share a reasonable key overlap over merge operations in which the files do not.
In various embodiments, the system can perform multi-level merge operations. In some cases, if the number of records that are contributed by a file in a first level and a file in a second level does not satisfy a set of criteria (e.g., a max file size has not been met), then the system may consider merging records from files of additional levels of the LSM tree. As an example, the system may merge records from a file in a third level whose keys fall within the merge key range. In some embodiments, the system considers additional, subsequent levels for the merge operation until the set of criteria are satisfied—e.g., until the system has identified a threshold number of records to write to a new file in the target level. As a result, the system may perform merge operations that involves files from more than only two levels of the LSM tree.
These techniques may be advantageous over prior approaches as these techniques allow for the identification of less beneficial merge operations so that those merge operations can be delayed in view of higher priority merge operations or otherwise remedied. As explained, some merge operations are output-dominated in which the target level contributes most of the records to the new file in the target level. By being able to determine the overlap of a set of files with respect to a merge key range (and, as a result, the number of records contributed by each file), the system can determine whether a merge operation is output-dominated. As such, the system can delay or skip those merge operations that are identified as output-dominated, avoiding high write amplification issues that result from basically rewriting a file that already exists within the target level. Also as explained, some merge operations are input-dominated in which the “highest” level of the merge contributes most of the records to the new file written to the target level. By being able to determine the overlap of a set of files with respect to a merge key range, the system can determine that a merge operation is input-dominated. The system can then look at the overlap of files with respect to the merge key range that are from subsequent levels down that have not been assessed in order to change the merge operation from being input-dominated as the highest level contributes less as a percentage as more files contribute. These techniques also enable a system to perform a merge operation involving more than only two levels of the LSM tree as was previously done. An exemplary application of these techniques will now be discussed, starting with reference to FIG. 1.
Turning now to FIG. 1, a block diagram of a system 100 is shown. System 100 includes a set of components that may be implemented via hardware or a combination of hardware and software routines. In the illustrated embodiment, system 100 includes a database 110 and a database node 150 that interacts with database 110. As further shown, database 110 includes a log-structured merge-tree (LSM tree) 120 having files 130 with corresponding database key structures 140. Also as illustrated, database node 150 includes a merge engine 160. In some embodiments, system 100 may be implemented differently than shown. For example, database key structures 140 may be stored separately from files 130 instead of being a part of files 130.
System 100, in various embodiments, implements a platform service (e.g., a customer relationship management (CRM) platform service) that allows users of that service to develop, run, and manage applications. System 100 may be a multi-tenant system that provides various functionality to multiple users/tenants hosted by the multi-tenant system. Accordingly, system 100 may execute software routines from various, different users (e.g., providers and tenants of system 100) as well as provide code, web pages, and other data to users, databases, and other entities associated with system 100. As shown for example, system 100 includes database node 150 that can store and access data from files 130 of database 110 on behalf of users of system 100.
Database 110, in various embodiments, is a collection of information that is organized in a manner that allows for access, storage, and manipulation of that information. Accordingly, database 110 may include supporting software that allows for database node 150 to carry out operations (e.g., accessing, storing, etc.) on information that is stored at database 110. In some embodiments, database 110 is implemented by a single or multiple storage devices connected together on a network (e.g., a storage attached network (SAN)) and configured to redundantly store information to prevent data loss. The storage devices may store data persistently and thus database 110 may serve as a persistent storage. In various embodiments, database 110 is shared between multiple database nodes 150 such that database records written into files 130 by one database node 150 are accessible by other database nodes 150. Files 130 may be stored as part of LSM tree 120, which is implemented at database 110 in the illustrated embodiment.
Log-structured merge-tree 120, in various embodiments, is a data structure storing files 130 in an organized manner that uses a level-based scheme. LSM tree 120 may comprise two high-level components: an in-memory buffer and an on-disk component. Database node 150, in various embodiments, initially writes database records into an in-memory buffer located at database node 150. As the buffer becomes full and/or at certain points in time, database node 150 may flush database records to database 110 (the on-disk component). As part of flushing database records, database node 150 may write the database records into a set of new files that are included in a “top” level of LSM tree 120.
In various embodiments, LSM tree 120 is organized such that its levels store differing amounts of files 130 in order to improve read performance. The differing amounts of files 130 in each level give LSM tree 120 the appearance of being a tree structure in which the top level stores the least amount of files 130 and each subsequent, lower level stores more files 130 than the previous level. In various embodiments, database node 150 periodically performs a merge operation in which records in files 130 of one level are merged or copied along with other files 130 in the next level down into new files 130 in that next level. In some embodiments, a merge operation considers more than two levels (i.e., the source level and the next level down) when merging. An example of a multi-level merge operation is discussed in more detail with respect to FIG. 4.
Files 130, in various embodiments, are sets of database records. A database record may be a key-value pair comprising data and a corresponding database key that is usable to look up that database record. For example, a database record may correspond to a data row in a database table where the database record specifies values for one or more attributes associated with the database table. In various embodiments, a file 130 is associated with one or more database key ranges defined by the keys of the database records that are included in that file 130. Consider an example in which a file 130 stores three database records associated with keys “AA,” “AAB,” and “AC,” respectively. Those three keys span a database key range of AA→AC and thus that file 130 may be associated with a database key range of AA→AC. As illustrated, files 130 can also include database key structures 140.
Database key structures 140, in various embodiments, store information that is usable to identify the keys and key ranges of files 130. In some embodiments, a database key structure 140 is a trie, which is a tree-like data structure whose branches are made of linked nodes that correspond to character values. Accordingly, a branch of a trie may represent a database key where the individual nodes of the branch correspond to the individual characters of the database key. A trie may be a probabilistic data structure that can provide an indication of the database key ranges associated with one or more files 130. As used herein, the term “probabilistic data structure” refers to a data structure that maintains information indicating that a particular item either does not exist or might exist at a particular location within a system. As an example, a probabilistic data structure can store information that indicates that a database record does not exist or might exist within a file 130. An example of a database key structure 140 as a trie is shown in FIG. 3.
Database node 150, in various embodiments, is hardware, software, or a combination thereof capable of providing database services, such as data storage, data retrieval, and/or data manipulation. Such database services may be provided to other components within system 100 and/or to components external to system 100. As an example, database node 150 may receive a database transaction request from an application server (not shown) that is requesting data to be written to or read from database 110. The database transaction request may specify an SQL SELECT command to select one or more rows from one or more database tables. The contents of a row may be defined in a database record and thus database node 150 may locate and return one or more database records that correspond to the selected one or more table rows. In some cases, the database transaction request may instruct database node 150 to write one or more database records for the LSM tree. As discussed, in various embodiments, database node 150 initially writes database records to an in-memory buffer before flushing those database records to database 110 as files 130 in a top level and merging those database records down the levels of LSM tree 120 over time.
Merge engine 160, in various embodiments, is a set of software routines executable to perform merge operations to merge database records from one or more levels of LSM tree 120 into a target/destination level of LSM tree 120. Merging records from one or more levels into a target level may include copying the records from one or more existing files 130 into a new file 130 in the target level. In various cases, an already existing file 130 in the target level may also contribute database records to the new file 130 in the same level. In various embodiments, a merge key range is used to determine which records from existing files 130 are to be merged into the new file 130 at the target level. Accordingly, merging records into the target level may include copying, into the target level, only the database records whose database key falls within the merge key range. As discussed in greater detail below, merge engine 160 may quantify the overlap of one or more files 130 with respect to the merge key range. The overlap of a file 130 with respect to the merge key range can be expressed as the number of database records of the file 130 whose database key falls within the merge key range. In various embodiments, merge engine 160 assigns a priority to a merge operation based on the overlap of files 130 (involved in the merge operation) with respect to the merge key range. Merge engine 160 may prioritize the performance of merge operations with higher priority over merge operations that have been assigned a lower priority.
Turning now to FIG. 2, a block diagram of example merge operations 200A and 200B are shown. In the illustrated embodiment, merge operation 200A involves a file 130A located in a level 205A and a file 130B located in a level 205B, and merge operation 200B involves a file 130C located in level 205A and a file 130D located in level 205B. As further shown, merge operation 200A involves a merge key range 210A and merge operation 200B involves a merge key range 210B. In some embodiments, merge operations 200A and 220B may be implemented differently than shown. For example, merge operation 200A may involve more than two levels 205 of LSM tree 120—an example of a multi-level merge operation 200 is discussed in more detail with respect to FIG. 4.
As mentioned, in various embodiments, LSM tree 120 is a tiered structure comprising multiple levels 205 in which each subsequent level 205 from the top level 205 stores more files 130 than the previous level 205. A level 205, in various embodiments, is a logical grouping of files 130 that are stored at a particular location. In some cases, a first level 205 may correspond to a different storage device than a second level 205. For example, level 205A may correspond to a solid state drive (SSD) while level 205B may correspond to a hard disk drive (HDD). Over time, database records may be moved to slower storage devices and thus may be merged down levels 205 of LSM tree 120 (e.g., from level 205A to level 205B).
Merge key range 210, in various embodiments, is a key range that defines the scope of database keys 220 that are considered for a corresponding merge operation 200. As shown for example, merge key range 210A spans from a minimum database key 220 of “6” to a maximum database key 220 of “10”. In some cases, database records whose database keys 220 are equal in value to the boundaries of merge key range 210 are considered for a merge while, in other cases, those boundary database records are not considered for the merge. Merge key range 210 may be determined/defined in different ways. In some embodiments, merge key range 210 is defined such that it corresponds to the entire key range of a file 130. For example, merge key range 210 may be set to match the key range of file 130A and thus it will have a key range of 6→12. In some embodiments, merge key range 210 spans a set of amount of keys 220 and may rotate through the entire key range of a level 205. For example, a first merge operation 200 for a level 205 may have a key range 210 that spans keys 220 A→K and a second merge operation 200 for that same level 205 may have a key range 210 that spans keys 220 L→P, etc. In some embodiments, merge key range 210 is specified by a user of system 100.
As shown, merge operation 200A is a merge involving file 130A of level 205A and file 130B of level 205B. Before determining to perform merge operation 200A, database node 150 may determine a priority for merge operation 200A. In order to determine a priority, in various embodiments, database node 150 determines an overlap of ones of the set of files 130 involved in merge operation 200A with respect to merge key range 210A. As shown, for file 130B, an overlap 230A is determined that indicates that file 130B includes three keys 220 within merge key range 210A—this is indicative that file 130B may contribute at least three database records to merge operation 200A. File 130A includes five keys 220 within merge key range 210A and may contribute at least five database records to merge operation 200A. As such, database node 150 may determine that at least eight database records are involved in merge operation 200A and that there is a reasonable balance between the database record contributions from both files 130A and 130B. Based on either or both points (i.e., total records and contribution balance), database node 150 may assign a higher priority level to merge operation 200A than merge operation 200B as discussed below.
As shown, merge operation 200B is a merge involving file 130C of level 205A and file 130D of level 205B. Database node 150 may determine an overlap 230B that indicates that file 130D includes one key 220 within merge key range 210B. Database node 150 may determine that file 130A includes five keys 220 within merge key range 210B and thus a total of at least six database records may be involved in merge operation 200B. Since file 130D is in the target level and contributes reasonably less database records compared to file 130C, merge operation 200B is considered an input-dominated merge operation 200. Consequently, based on merge operation 200B being input-dominated and involving less records than merge operation 200A, in various embodiments, database node 150 assigns a lower priority to merge operation 200B than merge operation 200A. As a result, database node 150 may perform merge operation 200A (and other higher priority merge operations 200) before merge operation 200B. As discussed below, in various embodiments, database node 150 utilizes the database key structure 140 of a file 130 to determine that file's overlap 230 with a merge key range 210.
Turning now to FIG. 3, a block diagram of an example database key structure 140 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, database key structure 140 is a trie that comprises nodes 310A-N that are linked together to form a tree-like structure having branches 320. As depicted for example, nodes 310A, 310B, 310F, and 310K are linked together to create a unique branch 320A. As used herein, the term “unique branch” refers a branch having a set of nodes that form a link from the root node 310 to a terminating node 310 (e.g., node 310K, node 310L, and node 310G) that does not have any children nodes 310—a child node 310 being a node that descends from another node within the tree-like structure. Two or more unique branches 320 can share a common portion. For example, branch 320A and a branch 320 defined by nodes 310A, 310B, 310F, and 310L share linked nodes 310A, 310B, and 310F in common. In some embodiments, database key structure 140 may be implemented differently than shown. For example, database key structure 140 may be an array of database keys 220 instead of a trie.
In order to determine the key range overlap 230 of a file 130 with respect to a merge key range 210, in various embodiments, database node 150 determines the number of unique branches 320 (of the file's database key structure 140) whose representative database key 220 falls within the merge key range 210. Consider an example in which a merge key range 210 of ADA→TOP is used for a merge operation 200. (This is illustrated by branches 320A and 320B with dashed lines. Node 3100 is shown to illustrate branch 320B, but node 3100 is not a part of the illustrated database key structure 140.) Database node 150 may traverse various nodes 310 of database key structure 140 to identify those unique branches 320 whose representative database key 220 falls within ADA→TOP. As depicted, five unique branches 320 falls within ADA→TOP: one branch 320 whose representative database key 220 is “ADA”, another branch 320 whose representative key 220 is “ADZ,” another branch 320 whose representative key 220 is “LA,” another branch 320 whose representative key 220 is “TOE,” and another branch 320 whose representative key 220 is “TOM.” Consequently, database node 150 determines that the file 130 corresponding to the illustrated database key structure 140 shares an overlap 230 of five keys 220 with respect to the merge key range 210 of ADA→TOP.
In some embodiments, database key structures 140 are used in key range lookups/scans to identify files 130 that have database records whose database keys 220 fall within the lookup key range. In particular, database node 150 may receive a request for database records whose database key 220 falls within a particular lookup key range. Since such database records may be included in files 130 that are a part of different levels 205 of LSM tree 120, database node 150 may search a portion or all of levels 205 of LSM tree 120. Instead of first fetching a file 130 to check it for database records within the particular lookup key range, database node 150 may fetch the associated database key structure 140. Database node 150 may then determine if any unique branches 320 fall within the particular lookup key range. If there exist unique branches 320 in the lookup key range, then database node 150 may fetch the file 130 and access the appropriate database records; otherwise, database node 150 may skip fetching the file 130 from database 110. In various embodiments, database key structures 140 have reasonably smaller memory footprints than the corresponding files 130. Consequently, database node 150 may more quickly and efficiently access database key structures 140 from database 110 than accessing the corresponding files 115. As a result, using a database key structure 140 to check for whether a certain database record may be included in a file 130 instead of directly accessing the file 130 to check for the database record can provide a substantial performance boost to system 100.
Turning now to FIG. 4, a block diagram of an example multi-level merge operation 200 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, merge operation 200 involves files 130A, 130B, 130C, and 130D that are located in levels 205A, 205B, 205C, and 205D, respectively, of LSM tree 120. In some embodiments, merge operation 200 may be implemented differently than shown. For example, merge operation 200 may involve a level 205 that contributes multiple files 130 to a multi-level merge operation 200.
Instead of merging database records into the next level 205, in various cases, database node 150 may merge, in a single merge operation 200, database records into a target level 205 that is multiple levels 205 down in LSM tree 120. As illustrated for example, database records from level 205A are merged down three levels into target level 205D. The number of levels 205 involved in a multi-level merge operation 200 may be determined based on one or more of various criteria. In some embodiments, the number of levels 205 (and/or files 130 involved) is determined such that at least a threshold amount of data is merged into a file 130 at the target level 205. Consider the illustrated embodiment for example. Database node 150 may initially determine an overlap 230 of files 130A and 130B with respect to merge key range 210. Based on that overlap 230, database node 150 may determine an amount of data that will be written from those two files 130A and 130B into the new file 130. For example, database node 150 may determine, based on the overlap 230, that file 130A has an overlap of 20 database keys 220 and thus contributes at least 20 database records and file 130B has an overlap of only 4 database keys 220 and thus contributes at least 4 database records. In various cases, database node 150 may determine that writing 24 database records to the new file 130 consumes only half the available space of that file 130. Database node 150 may thus consider the next level (i.e., level 205C) and determine an overlap of file 130C with respect to merge key range 210. File 130C may contribute only 6 database records. As a result, there may be sufficient space remaining in the new file 130 to consider another level 205. Accordingly, database node 150 may then consider level 205D and determine an overlap of file 130D with respect to merge key range 210. In some cases, file 130D may contribute enough database records that database node 150 does not consider the next level 205. Thus, the merge operation 200 of this example involves four levels 205 of LSM tree 120 that contribute database records to file 130E.
In some embodiments, the number of levels 205 (and/or files 130) involved in a merge operation 200 is specified such that at least a specific number of levels 205 contribute database records. In some embodiments, the number of levels 205 is randomly selected. In some cases, database node 150 may skip levels 205 that do not include database records having keys 220 that fall within merge key range 210—these levels 205 may be excluded from the number of levels 205 count. In various embodiments, database node 150 can determine the overlap 230 of each level 205 with respect to merge key range 210 in parallel. That is, for each level 205, database node 150 may concurrently spawn a thread that calculates the overlap 230 of one or more files 130 in that level 205 with respect to merge key range 210.
Turning now to FIG. 5, a block diagram of an example merge engine 160 that interacts with LSM tree 120 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, merge engine 160 includes a merge scheduler process 510, a priority queue 520, and worker processes 530. In some embodiments, merge engine 160 may be implemented differently than shown. As an example, merge engine 160 may include multiple merge scheduler processes 510 (e.g., one per level 205).
Merge scheduler process 510, in various embodiments, is a computer process capable of traversing LSM tree 120 and generating work items 525 to be processed to perform merge operations 200. For a given level 205 of LSM tree 120, in some embodiments, merge scheduler process 510 rotates through merge key ranges 210 for a portion or the entire key range of that level 205. For a given merge key range 210, merge scheduler process 510 may determine an amount of overlap of files 130 that are involved in the corresponding merge operation 200. In various embodiments, merge scheduler process 510 generates a merge work item 525 for that merge operation 200 and assigns a priority level to the work item 525 based on the determined amount of overlaps of those files 103 involved in the merge. Merge scheduler process 510 may then store the generated work item 525 in priority queue 520. Upon reaching the end of a key range for a level 205, merge scheduler process 510 may transition to the next level 205 down or restart from the key range of the current level 205. In some embodiments, multiple merge scheduler processes 510 are spawned—e.g., one per level 205, and the merge scheduler process 510 for a given level 205 continually rotates through a portion or the entire key range for that level 205 generating and storing work items 525 in priority queue 520.
Priority queue 520, in various embodiments, is a data structure that stores work items 525 in an order that is based on their corresponding assigned priority level. In various cases, a first work item 525 having a higher priority level than a second work item 525 may be stored such that the first work item 525 is retrieved from priority queue 520 before the second work item 525. As a result, work items 525 with higher priority levels may be processed before work items 525 with lower priority levels. In some embodiments, merge scheduler process 510 may reevaluate a merge operation 200 to create a work item 525 that replaces a previously created work item 525 for the same merge operation 200. The newer work item 525 may be associated with a higher priority level than the previously created work item 525 and thus may shift in the priority order maintained by priority queue 520. As an example, merge scheduler process 510 may initially determine an overlap of files 130 from various levels 205 with respect to a merge key range 210. Merge scheduler process 510 may create and store a work item 525 in priority queue 520 according to a priority level that is based on the overlap. Over time, LSM tree 120 changes and merge scheduler process 510 may reassess those various levels 205 to determine overlap with the merge key range 210. More database records may have been added and thus the overlap may be greater than when the initial assessment was performed. As a result, merge scheduler process 510 may create a new work item 525 with a higher priority level that replaces the previously stored work item 525. Accordingly, a merge operation 200 for a particular key range 210 may increase in priority level over time.
Worker processes 530, in various embodiments, are computer processes capable of retrieving work items 525 from priority queue 520 and performing the merge operations 200 that are identified by those retrieved work items 525. In some embodiments, multiple worker processes 530 may perform merge operations 200 that share levels 205 in common, but do not overlap in merge key ranges 210. A worker process 530 may further perform merge operations 200 for multiple different levels 205—the worker process 530 does not have to be assigned to a particular set of levels 205 such that the work process 530 performs only merge operations 200 associated with the particular set of levels 205. A worker process 530 may perform a merge operation 200 by copying, into a new file 130 in a target/destination level 205, database records from those files 130 associated with that merge operation 200. In some cases, database records of an involved file 130 that have keys 220 that fall outside of the merge key range 210 may be copied into the new file 130. In other cases, only those database records whose keys 220 fall within the merge key range 210 are copied into the new file 130.
Turning now to FIG. 6, a flow diagram of a method 600 is shown. Method 600 is one embodiment of a method performed by a computer system (e.g., system 100) to evaluate merge operations (e.g., merge operations 200) in order to prioritize the performance of certain merge operations over other ones. In some embodiments, method 600 may be performed by executing program instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Method 600 may include more or less steps than shown. For example, method 600 may include a step in which a merge operation is performed after being assigned a priority level.
Method 600 begins in step 610 with the computer system storing, in a database (e.g., a database 110), a plurality of files (e.g., files 130) as part of a log-structured merge-tree (e.g., an LSM tree 120) and a plurality of database key structures (e.g., database keys structures 140). A given one of the plurality of database key structures may indicate, for a corresponding one of the plurality of files, a set of key ranges derived from database records that are included in the corresponding file. In some cases, the given database key structure is a trie that includes a plurality of branches (e.g., branches 320). A given one of the plurality of branches may include a set of linked nodes (e.g., nodes 310) that correspond to a set of character values of a database key (e.g., key 220) associated with a particular database record included in the corresponding file.
In step 620, the computer system determines, using ones of the plurality of database key structures, a key range overlap (e.g., overlap 230) that is indicative of an extent of overlap of key ranges from a set of the plurality of files with respect to a particular key range (e.g., merge key range 210). Determining the extent of overlap of a key range from a particular one of the set of files with respect to the particular key range may include determining, for a database key structure corresponding to the particular file, a number of unique branches whose representative database key falls within the particular key range. In some cases, the particular key range may correspond to a key range of one of the set of files (e.g., a file 130 in the target level of the merge operation). A number of files in the set of files may be determined such that at least a threshold amount of data (e.g., 2 GB) is merged from the set of files into a file at a target level of the LSM tree. In various cases, ones of the set of files may be identified from at least three different levels of the LSM tree. In some cases, there may exist a level between two levels of the at least three different levels that does not contribute a file to the set of files.
In step 630, the based on the determined key range overlap, the computer system assigns a priority level to a merge operation that involves the set of files. In some embodiments, the computer system generates a work item (e.g., a work item 525) to be processed to perform the merge operation involving the set of files. The work item may be associated with the priority level assigned to the merge operation. In various embodiments, the computer system enqueues the work item in a priority queue (e.g., a priority queue 520) that orders work items according to priority level. The computer system may spawn a plurality of worker processes (e.g., worker processes 530) that are operable to retrieve work items from the priority queue and process the retrieved work items. In various cases, a first given one of the retrieved works items having a greater priority level than a priority level of a second given one of the retrieved work items may be processed before the second given work item. In some embodiments, at least two of the plurality of worker processes process concurrently respective work items involving merge operations that are associated with a same level of the LSM tree. That is, a worker process may not be responsible for merges of a specific level of the LSM tree, but can perform merges for multiple levels. The computer system may perform the merge operation by copying, into a file in a target level of the LSM tree, database records from the set of files.
Turning now to FIG. 7, a flow diagram of a method 700 is shown. Method 700 is one embodiment of a method performed by a computer system (e.g., system 100) to evaluate merge operations (e.g., merge operations 200) in order to prioritize the performance of certain merge operations over other ones. In some embodiments, method 700 may be performed by executing program instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Method 600 may include more or less steps than shown. For example, method 700 may include a step in which a merge operation is performed after being assigned a priority level.
Method 700 begins in step 710 with the computer system storing, in a database (e.g., a database 110), a plurality of files (e.g., files 130) as part of a log-structured merge-tree (e.g., an LSM tree 120) and a plurality of trie data structures (e.g., database key structures 140). A given trie data structure may indicate, for a corresponding one of the plurality of files, a set of database keys (e.g., keys 220) that is associated with the corresponding file.
In step 720, the computer system generates a merge work item (e.g., a merge work item 525) to be performed to merge, into a file included in a target level, content from a set of other files included in at least two levels (e.g., levels 205) of the LSM tree. The merge work item may be assigned a priority level that is determined based on a key range overlap (e.g., an overlap 230) of the set of other files with respect to a particular key range (e.g., a merge key range 210). The key range overlap may be calculated using ones of the plurality of trie data structures. In various cases, the set of other files includes a first file and a second file and the particular key range corresponds to a key range of the first file. As such, the computer system may calculate the key range overlap by determining a number of database keys indicated in a trie data structure corresponding to the second file that fall within the key range of the first file.
In step 730, the computer system stores the merge work item in a priority queue (e.g., a priority queue 520) that orders merge work items according to priority level. The computer system may process a set of work items from the priority queue using a plurality of worker threads (e.g., worker processes 530). In some cases, a given worker thread may not be limited to performing merge operations involving a particular level of the LSM tree. The computer system, in some embodiments, performs a range key lookup for a second particular key range by identifying, based on the plurality of trie data structures, one or more files having database records whose database keys fall within the second particular key range.
Exemplary Multi-Tenant Database System
Turning now to FIG. 8, an exemplary multi-tenant database system (MTS) 800 in which various techniques of the present disclosure can be implemented is shown—e.g., system 100 may be MTS 800. In FIG. 8, MTS 800 includes a database platform 810, an application platform 820, and a network interface 830 connected to a network 840. Also as shown, database platform 810 includes a data storage 812 and a set of database servers 814A-N that interact with data storage 812, and application platform 820 includes a set of application servers 822A-N having respective environments 824. In the illustrated embodiment, MTS 800 is connected to various user systems 850A-N through network 840. The disclosed multi-tenant system is included for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In other embodiments, techniques of this disclosure are implemented in non-multi-tenant environments such as client/server environments, cloud computing environments, clustered computers, etc.
MTS 800, in various embodiments, is a set of computer systems that together provide various services to users (alternatively referred to as “tenants”) that interact with MTS 800. In some embodiments, MTS 800 implements a customer relationship management (CRM) system that provides mechanism for tenants (e.g., companies, government bodies, etc.) to manage their relationships and interactions with customers and potential customers. For example, MTS 800 might enable tenants to store customer contact information (e.g., a customer's website, email address, telephone number, and social media data), identify sales opportunities, record service issues, and manage marketing campaigns. Furthermore, MTS 800 may enable those tenants to identify how customers have been communicated with, what the customers have bought, when the customers last purchased items, and what the customers paid. To provide the services of a CRM system and/or other services, as shown, MTS 800 includes a database platform 810 and an application platform 820.
Database platform 810, in various embodiments, is a combination of hardware elements and software routines that implement database services for storing and managing data of MTS 800, including tenant data. As shown, database platform 810 includes data storage 812. Data storage 812, in various embodiments, includes a set of storage devices (e.g., solid state drives, hard disk drives, etc.) that are connected together on a network (e.g., a storage attached network (SAN)) and configured to redundantly store data to prevent data loss. In various embodiments, data storage 812 is used to implement a database (e.g., database 110) comprising a collection of information that is organized in a way that allows for access, storage, and manipulation of the information. Data storage 812 may implement a single database, a distributed database, a collection of distributed databases, a database with redundant online or offline backups or other redundancies, etc. As part of implementing the database, data storage 812 may store files (e.g., files 130) that include one or more database records having respective data payloads (e.g., values for fields of a database table) and metadata (e.g., a key value, timestamp, table identifier of the table associated with the record, tenant identifier of the tenant associated with the record, etc.).
In various embodiments, a database record may correspond to a row of a table. A table generally contains one or more data categories that are logically arranged as columns or fields in a viewable schema. Accordingly, each record of a table may contain an instance of data for each category defined by the fields. For example, a database may include a table that describes a customer with fields for basic contact information such as name, address, phone number, fax number, etc. A record therefore for that table may include a value for each of the fields (e.g., a name for the name field) in the table. Another table might describe a purchase order, including fields for information such as customer, product, sale price, date, etc. In various embodiments, standard entity tables are provided for use by all tenants, such as tables for account, contact, lead and opportunity data, each containing pre-defined fields. MTS 800 may store, in the same table, database records for one or more tenants—that is, tenants may share a table. Accordingly, database records, in various embodiments, include a tenant identifier that indicates the owner of a database record. As a result, the data of one tenant is kept secure and separate from that of other tenants so that that one tenant does not have access to another tenant's data, unless such data is expressly shared.
In some embodiments, the data stored at data storage 812 is organized as part of a log-structured merge-tree (LSM tree—e.g., LSM tree 120). An LSM tree normally includes two high-level components: an in-memory buffer and a persistent storage. In operation, a database server 814 may initially write database records into a local in-memory buffer before later flushing those records to the persistent storage (e.g., data storage 812). As part of flushing database records, the database server 814 may write the database records into new files that are included in a “top” level of the LSM tree. Over time, the database records may be rewritten by database servers 814 into new files included in lower levels as the database records are moved down the levels of the LSM tree. In various implementations, as database records age and are moved down the LSM tree, they are moved to slower and slower storage devices (e.g., from a solid state drive to a hard disk drive) of data storage 812.
When a database server 814 wishes to access a database record for a particular key, the database server 814 may traverse the different levels of the LSM tree for files that potentially include a database record for that particular key. If the database server 814 determines that a file may include a relevant database record, the database server 814 may fetch the file from data storage 812 into a memory of the database server 814. The database server 814 may then check the fetched file for a database record having the particular key. In various embodiments, database records are immutable once written to data storage 812. Accordingly, if the database server 814 wishes to modify the value of a row of a table (which may be identified from the accessed database record), the database server 814 writes out a new database record to the top level of the LSM tree. Over time, that database record is merged down the levels of the LSM tree. Accordingly, the LSM tree may store various database records for a database key where the older database records for that key are located in lower levels of the LSM tree then newer database records.
Database servers 814, in various embodiments, are hardware elements, software routines, or a combination thereof capable of providing database services, such as data storage, data retrieval, and/or data manipulation. A database server 814 may correspond to database node 150. Such database services may be provided by database servers 814 to components (e.g., application servers 822) within MTS 800 and to components external to MTS 800. As an example, a database server 814 may receive a database transaction request from an application server 822 that is requesting data to be written to or read from data storage 812. The database transaction request may specify an SQL SELECT command to select one or more rows from one or more database tables. The contents of a row may be defined in a database record and thus database server 814 may locate and return one or more database records that correspond to the selected one or more table rows. In various cases, the database transaction request may instruct database server 814 to write one or more database records for the LSM tree—database servers 814 maintain the LSM tree implemented on database platform 810. In some embodiments, database servers 814 implement a relational database management system (RDMS) or object oriented database management system (OODBMS) that facilitates storage and retrieval of information against data storage 812. In various cases, database servers 814 may communicate with each other to facilitate the processing of transactions. For example, database server 814A may communicate with database server 814N to determine if database server 814N has written a database record into its in-memory buffer for a particular key.
Application platform 820, in various embodiments, is a combination of hardware elements and software routines that implement and execute CRM software applications as well as provide related data, code, forms, web pages and other information to and from user systems 850 and store related data, objects, web page content, and other tenant information via database platform 810. In order to facilitate these services, in various embodiments, application platform 820 communicates with database platform 810 to store, access, and manipulate data. In some instances, application platform 820 may communicate with database platform 810 via different network connections. For example, one application server 822 may be coupled via a local area network and another application server 822 may be coupled via a direct network link. Transfer Control Protocol and Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) are exemplary protocols for communicating between application platform 820 and database platform 810, however, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other transport protocols may be used depending on the network interconnect used.
Application servers 822, in various embodiments, are hardware elements, software routines, or a combination thereof capable of providing services of application platform 820, including processing requests received from tenants of MTS 800. Application servers 822, in various embodiments, can spawn environments 824 that are usable for various purposes, such as providing functionality for developers to develop, execute, and manage applications (e.g., business logic). Data may be transferred into an environment 824 from another environment 824 and/or from database platform 810. In some cases, environments 824 cannot access data from other environments 824 unless such data is expressly shared. In some embodiments, multiple environments 824 can be associated with a single tenant.
Application platform 820 may provide user systems 850 access to multiple, different hosted (standard and/or custom) applications, including a CRM application and/or applications developed by tenants. In various embodiments, application platform 820 may manage creation of the applications, testing of the applications, storage of the applications into database objects at data storage 812, execution of the applications in an environment 824 (e.g., a virtual machine of a process space), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, application platform 820 may add and remove application servers 822 from a server pool at any time for any reason, there may be no server affinity for a user and/or organization to a specific application server 822. In some embodiments, an interface system (not shown) implementing a load balancing function (e.g., an F5 Big-IP load balancer) is located between the application servers 822 and the user systems 850 and is configured to distribute requests to the application servers 822. In some embodiments, the load balancer uses a least connections algorithm to route user requests to the application servers 822. Other examples of load balancing algorithms, such as are round robin and observed response time, also can be used. For example, in certain embodiments, three consecutive requests from the same user could hit three different servers 822, and three requests from different users could hit the same server 822.
In some embodiments, MTS 800 provides security mechanisms, such as encryption, to keep each tenant's data separate unless the data is shared. If more than one server 814 or 822 is used, they may be located in close proximity to one another (e.g., in a server farm located in a single building or campus), or they may be distributed at locations remote from one another (e.g., one or more servers 814 located in city A and one or more servers 822 located in city B). Accordingly, MTS 800 may include one or more logically and/or physically connected servers distributed locally or across one or more geographic locations.
One or more users (e.g., via user systems 850) may interact with MTS 800 via network 840. User system 850 may correspond to, for example, a tenant of MTS 800, a provider (e.g., an administrator) of MTS 800, or a third party. Each user system 850 may be a desktop personal computer, workstation, laptop, PDA, cell phone, or any Wireless Access Protocol (WAP) enabled device or any other computing device capable of interfacing directly or indirectly to the Internet or other network connection. User system 850 may include dedicated hardware configured to interface with MTS 800 over network 840. User system 850 may execute a graphical user interface (GUI) corresponding to MTS 800, an HTTP client (e.g., a browsing program, such as Microsoft's Internet Explorer™ browser, Netscape's Navigator™ browser, Opera's browser, or a WAP-enabled browser in the case of a cell phone, PDA or other wireless device, or the like), or both, allowing a user (e.g., subscriber of a CRM system) of user system 850 to access, process, and view information and pages available to it from MTS 800 over network 840. Each user system 850 may include one or more user interface devices, such as a keyboard, a mouse, touch screen, pen or the like, for interacting with a graphical user interface (GUI) provided by the browser on a display monitor screen, LCD display, etc. in conjunction with pages, forms and other information provided by MTS 800 or other systems or servers. As discussed above, disclosed embodiments are suitable for use with the Internet, which refers to a specific global internetwork of networks. It should be understood, however, that other networks may be used instead of the Internet, such as an intranet, an extranet, a virtual private network (VPN), a non-TCP/IP based network, any LAN or WAN or the like.
Because the users of user systems 850 may be users in differing capacities, the capacity of a particular user system 850 might be determined one or more permission levels associated with the current user. For example, when a salesperson is using a particular user system 850 to interact with MTS 800, that user system 850 may have capacities (e.g., user privileges) allotted to that salesperson. But when an administrator is using the same user system 850 to interact with MTS 800, the user system 850 may have capacities (e.g., administrative privileges) allotted to that administrator. In systems with a hierarchical role model, users at one permission level may have access to applications, data, and database information accessible by a lower permission level user, but may not have access to certain applications, database information, and data accessible by a user at a higher permission level. Thus, different users may have different capabilities with regard to accessing and modifying application and database information, depending on a user's security or permission level. There may also be some data structures managed by MTS 800 that are allocated at the tenant level while other data structures are managed at the user level.
In some embodiments, a user system 850 and its components are configurable using applications, such as a browser, that include computer code executable on one or more processing elements. Similarly, in some embodiments, MTS 800 (and additional instances of MTSs, where more than one is present) and their components are operator configurable using application(s) that include computer code executable on processing elements. Thus, various operations described herein may be performed by executing program instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium and executed by processing elements. The program instructions may be stored on a non-volatile medium such as a hard disk, or may be stored in any other volatile or non-volatile memory medium or device as is well known, such as a ROM or RAM, or provided on any media capable of staring program code, such as a compact disk (CD) medium, digital versatile disk (DVD) medium, a floppy disk, and the like. Additionally, the entire program code, or portions thereof, may be transmitted and downloaded from a software source, e.g., over the Internet, or from another server, as is well known, or transmitted over any other conventional network connection as is well known (e.g., extranet, VPN, LAN, etc.) using any communication medium and protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP, HTTPS, Ethernet, etc.) as are well known. It will also be appreciated that computer code for implementing aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be implemented in any programming language that can be executed on a server or server system such as, for example, in C, C+, HTML, Java, JavaScript, or any other scripting language, such as VB Script.
Network 840 may be a LAN (local area network), WAN (wide area network), wireless network, point-to-point network, star network, token ring network, hub network, or any other appropriate configuration. The global internetwork of networks, often referred to as the “Internet” with a capital “I,” is one example of a TCP/IP (Transfer Control Protocol and Internet Protocol) network. It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments may utilize any of various other types of networks.
User systems 850 may communicate with MTS 800 using TCP/IP and, at a higher network level, use other common Internet protocols to communicate, such as HTTP, FTP, AFS, WAP, etc. For example, where HTTP is used, user system 850 might include an HTTP client commonly referred to as a “browser” for sending and receiving HTTP messages from an HTTP server at MTS 800. Such a server might be implemented as the sole network interface between MTS 800 and network 840, but other techniques might be used as well or instead. In some implementations, the interface between MTS 800 and network 840 includes load sharing functionality, such as round-robin HTTP request distributors to balance loads and distribute incoming HTTP requests evenly over a plurality of servers.
In various embodiments, user systems 850 communicate with application servers 822 to request and update system-level and tenant-level data from MTS 800 that may require one or more queries to data storage 812. In some embodiments, MTS 800 automatically generates one or more SQL statements (the SQL query) designed to access the desired information. In some cases, user systems 850 may generate requests having a specific format corresponding to at least a portion of MTS 800. As an example, user systems 850 may request to move data objects into a particular environment 224 using an object notation that describes an object relationship mapping (e.g., a JavaScript object notation mapping) of the specified plurality of objects.
Exemplary Computer System
Turning now to FIG. 9, a block diagram of an exemplary computer system 900, which may implement system 100, database 110, database node 150, MTS 800, and/or user system 850, is depicted. Computer system 900 includes a processor subsystem 980 that is coupled to a system memory 920 and I/O interfaces(s) 940 via an interconnect 960 (e.g., a system bus). I/O interface(s) 940 is coupled to one or more I/O devices 950. Although a single computer system 900 is shown in FIG. 9 for convenience, system 900 may also be implemented as two or more computer systems operating together.
Processor subsystem 980 may include one or more processors or processing units. In various embodiments of computer system 900, multiple instances of processor subsystem 980 may be coupled to interconnect 960. In various embodiments, processor subsystem 980 (or each processor unit within 980) may contain a cache or other form of on-board memory.
System memory 920 is usable store program instructions executable by processor subsystem 980 to cause system 900 perform various operations described herein. System memory 920 may be implemented using different physical memory media, such as hard disk storage, floppy disk storage, removable disk storage, flash memory, random access memory (RAM-SRAM, EDO RAM, SDRAM, DDR SDRAM, RAMBUS RAM, etc.), read only memory (PROM, EEPROM, etc.), and so on. Memory in computer system 900 is not limited to primary storage such as memory 920. Rather, computer system 900 may also include other forms of storage such as cache memory in processor subsystem 980 and secondary storage on I/O Devices 950 (e.g., a hard drive, storage array, etc.). In some embodiments, these other forms of storage may also store program instructions executable by processor subsystem 980. In some embodiments, program instructions that when executed implement merge engine 160 may be included/stored within system memory 920.
I/O interfaces 940 may be any of various types of interfaces configured to couple to and communicate with other devices, according to various embodiments. In one embodiment, I/O interface 940 is a bridge chip (e.g., Southbridge) from a front-side to one or more back-side buses. I/O interfaces 940 may be coupled to one or more I/O devices 950 via one or more corresponding buses or other interfaces. Examples of I/O devices 950 include storage devices (hard drive, optical drive, removable flash drive, storage array, SAN, or their associated controller), network interface devices (e.g., to a local or wide-area network), or other devices (e.g., graphics, user interface devices, etc.). In one embodiment, computer system 900 is coupled to a network via a network interface device 950 (e.g., configured to communicate over WiFi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, etc.).
Although specific embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, even where only a single embodiment is described with respect to a particular feature. Examples of features provided in the disclosure are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive unless stated otherwise. The above description is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.
The scope of the present disclosure includes any feature or combination of features disclosed herein (either explicitly or implicitly), or any generalization thereof, whether or not it mitigates any or all of the problems addressed herein. Accordingly, new claims may be formulated during prosecution of this application (or an application claiming priority thereto) to any such combination of features. In particular, with reference to the appended claims, features from dependent claims may be combined with those of the independent claims and features from respective independent claims may be combined in any appropriate manner and not merely in the specific combinations enumerated in the appended claims.
What is claimed is:
1. A method, comprising:
storing, by a computer system, in a database:
a plurality of files as part of a log-structured merge-tree (LSM tree); and
a plurality of database key structures, wherein a given one of the plurality of database key structures indicates, for a corresponding one of the plurality of files, a set of key ranges derived from database records included in the corresponding file;
determining, by the computer system using ones of the plurality of database key structures, a key range overlap that is indicative of an extent of overlap of key ranges from a set of the plurality of files with respect to a particular key range; and based on the determined key range overlap, the computer system assigning a priority level to a merge operation that involves the set of files.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the given database key structure is a trie that includes a plurality of branches, wherein a given one of the plurality of branches includes a set of linked nodes that correspond to a set of character values of a database key associated with a particular database record included in the corresponding file.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein determining the extent of overlap of a key range from a particular one of the set of files with respect to the particular key range includes:
determining, for a database key structure corresponding to the particular file, a number of unique branches whose representative database key falls within the particular key range.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein a number of files in the set of files is determined such that at least a threshold amount of data is merged from the set of files into a file at a target level of the LSM tree.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein ones of the set of files are identified from at least three different levels of the LSM tree.
6. The method of claim 5, wherein there exists a level between two levels of the at least three different levels that does not contribute a file to the set of files.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
generating, by the computer system, a work item to be processed to perform the merge operation involving the set of files, wherein the work item is associated with the priority level assigned to the merge operation; and enqueuing, by the computer system, the work item in a priority queue that orders work items according to priority level.
8. The method of claim 7, further comprising:
spawning, by the computer system, a plurality of worker processes operable to retrieve work items from the priority queue and process the retrieved work items, wherein a first given one of the retrieved works items having a greater priority level than a priority level of a second given one of the retrieved work items is processed before the second given work item.
9. The method of claim 8, wherein at least two of the plurality of worker processes process concurrently respective work items involving merge operations that are associated with a same level of the LSM tree.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the particular key range corresponds to a key range of one of the set of files.
11. A non-transitory computer readable medium having program instructions stored thereon that are executable by a computer system to cause the computer system to perform operations comprising:
storing, in a database:
a plurality of files as part of a log-structured merge-tree (LSM tree); and
a plurality of database key structures, wherein a given one of the plurality of database key structures indicates, for a corresponding file, a set of database keys derived from database records included in the corresponding file;
determining, using ones of the plurality of database key structures, a key range overlap that is indicative of an extent of overlap of key ranges from a set of the plurality of files with respect to a particular key range; and based on the determined key range overlap, assigning a first priority level to a first merge operation that involves the set of files.
12. The medium of claim 11, wherein determining the key range overlap includes:
identifying, for a particular one of the set of files, a number of database keys indicated by a corresponding database key structure that fall within the particular key range.
13. The medium of claim 11, wherein the operations further comprise:
assigning a second priority level to a second merge operation that involves a different set of files, wherein the key range overlap associated with the first merge operation is greater than a key range overlap associated with the second merge operation, and wherein the first priority level is a higher priority than the second priority level.
14. The medium of claim 11, wherein the operations further comprise:
performing the first merge operation, wherein the performing includes copying, into a file in a target level of the LSM tree, database records from the set of files, and wherein the set of files include files located in at least three different levels of the LSM tree.
15. The medium of claim 11, wherein a number of files in the set of files is determined such that at least a threshold number of levels of the LSM tree are involved in the first merge operation.
16. The medium of claim 11, wherein the operations further comprise:
determining, based on the first priority level, to delay performance of the first merge operation by performing at least one other merge operation before the first merge operation.
17. A method, comprising:
storing, by a computer system, in a database:
a plurality of files as part of a log-structured merge-tree (LSM tree); and
a plurality of trie data structures, wherein a given trie data structure indicates, for a corresponding one of the plurality of files, a set of database keys that is associated with the corresponding file;
generating, by the computer system, a merge work item to be performed to merge, into a file included in a target level, content from a set of other files included in at least two levels of the LSM tree, wherein the merge work item is assigned a priority level that is determined based on a key range overlap of the set of other files with respect to a particular key range, and wherein the key range overlap calculated using ones of the plurality of trie data structures; and storing, by the computer system, the merge work item in a priority queue that orders merge work items according to priority level.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein the set of other files includes a first file and a second file, wherein the particular key range corresponds to a key range of the first file, and wherein the method further comprises:
calculating, by the computer system, the key range overlap by determining a number of database keys indicated in a trie data structure corresponding to the second file that fall within the key range of the first file.
19. The method of claim 17, further comprising:
processing, by the computer system, a set of work items from the priority queue using a plurality of worker threads, wherein a given worker thread is not limited to performing merge operations involving a particular level of the LSM tree.
20. The method of claim 17, further comprising:
performing, by the computer system, a range key lookup for a second particular key range, wherein performing the range key lookup includes identifying, based on the plurality of trie data structures, one or more files having database records whose database keys fall within the second particular key range.
| 2020-09-01 | en | 2022-03-03 |
US-69712203-A | Transflective liquid crystal display device and method of fabricating the same
ABSTRACT
A transflective liquid crystal display device. A first substrate having viewing and peripheral areas is provided. The viewing area comprises transmissive and reflective regions. A backlight device is disposed under the first substrate, used to provide a backlight passing through the transmissive region. A power management controller connects the backlight device to control an intensity of the backlight. At least one photodetector is formed on the first substrate in the peripheral area, wherein the photodetector detects an intensity of ambient light above the first substrate, and then provides a corresponding signal to the power management controller to control the intensity of the backlight. According to the invention, the intensity of the backlight automatically becomes greater when the intensity of the ambient light becomes lower, and the intensity of the backlight automatically becomes lower when the intensity of the ambient light becomes greater.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a transflective liquid crystal display device, and more particularly, to self adjustment of display brightness according to ambient lighting in a transflective liquid crystal display device.
[0003] 2. DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0004] Liquid crystal display (LCD) devices are widely used as displays in devices, such as a portable televisions and notebook computers. Liquid crystal display devices are classified into two types. One is a transmissive type liquid crystal display device using a backlight as a light source, and another is the reflective type liquid crystal display device using an external light source, such as sunlight or an indoor lamp. It is difficult to decrease the weight, the volume, and the power consumption of the transmissive type LCD due to the power required by the backlight component. The reflective type LCD has the advantage of not requiring a backlight component, but it cannot operate without an external light source.
[0005] In order to overcome the drawbacks of these two types of LCDs, a transflective LCD device which can operate as both a reflective and transmissive type LCD is disclosed. The transflective LCD device has a reflective electrode in a pixel region, wherein the reflective electrode has a transmissive portion. Thus, the transflective LCD device consumes less than a conventional transmissive type LCD device because a backlight component is not used when sufficient ambient light is present. Further, in comparison with the reflective type LCD device, the transflective LCD device has the advantage of operating as a transmissive type LCD device using a backlight when no external light is available.
[0006]FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a typical transflective LCD device. The transflective LCD device includes upper and lower substrates 10 and 20 opposite to each other, and a liquid crystal layer 50 interposed therebetween. The upper substrate 10 is called a color filter substrate and the lower substrate 20 is called an array substrate. In the upper substrate 10, on a surface opposing the lower substrate 20, a black matrix 12 and a color filter layer 14 including a plurality of red (R), green (G) and blue (B) color filters are formed. That is, the black matrix 12 surrounds each color filter, in the shape of an array matrix. Further on the upper substrate 10, a common electrode 16 is formed to cover the color filter layer 14 and the black matrix 12.
[0007] In the lower substrate 20, on a surface opposing the upper substrate 20, a TFT “T” as a switching device is formed in shape of an array matrix corresponding to the color filter layer 14. In addition, a plurality of crossing gate and data lines 26 and 28 are positioned such that each TFT is located near each cross point of the gate and data lines 26 and 28. Further on the lower substrate 20, a plurality of pixel regions (P) are defined by the gate and data lines 26 and 28. Each pixel region P has a pixel electrode 22 comprising a transparent portion 22 a and an opaque portion 22 b. The transparent portion 22 a is made of a transparent conductive material, such as ITO (indium tin oxide) or IZO (indium zinc oxide), and the opaque portion 22 b is made of a metal having high reflectivity, such as Al (aluminum).
[0008]FIG. 2 is a sectional view of a conventional transflective LCD device, which helps to illustrate the operation of such devices. As shown in FIG. 2, the conventional transflective LCD device includes a lower substrate 200, an upper substrate 260 and an interposed liquid crystal layer 230. The upper substrate 260 has a common electrode 240 and a color filter 250 formed thereon. The lower substrate 200 has an insulating layer 210 and a pixel electrode 220 formed thereon, wherein the pixel electrode 220 has an opaque portion 222 and a transparent portion 224. The opaque portion 222 of the pixel electrode 220 can be an aluminum layer, and the transparent portion 224 of the pixel electrode 220 can be an ITO (indium tin oxide) layer. The opaque portion 222 reflects ambient light 270, while the transparent portion 224 transmits light 280 from a backlight device 290 disposed at the exterior side of the lower substrate 200. The liquid crystal layer 230 is interposed between the lower and upper substrates 200 and 260. Thus, the transflective LCD device is operable in both reflective and transmissive modes.
[0009] In order to obtain a stable display quality of the transflective LCD, it is desirable for the display brightness to also change when the ambient light of the environment changes. For example, when the ambient light becomes darker, the backlight has to become brighter to maintain the determined total display brightness. Contrarily, when the ambient light becomes brighter, the backlight intensity is decreased to maintain the determined total display brightness and reduce power consumption. Nevertheless, current transflective LCDs require manual adjustment to change the intensity of the backlight. This method of adjustment and is very inconvenient for users.
[0010] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,157,525, Eaton et al disclose an LCD device employing a photodetector to compensate for variation in the characteristics of the liquid crystal. The LCD uses a photodetector to detect the transmissivity of liquid crystal elements under the ON and OFF states. According to the signal from the photodetector, the voltage level of the pixel driving element can be adjusted to obtain an optimum contrast and brightness. Though effective, this method, nevertheless, does not disclose how to obtain optimum display brightness when the ambient light of the environment changes.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The object of the present invention is to provide a smart transflective liquid crystal display device and its fabricating method.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a transflective liquid crystal display device, which can self-adjust a backlight intensity to maintain optimum (or stable) display brightness whether the ambient light of the environment changes.
[0013] In order to achieve these objects, the present invention provides a transflective liquid crystal display device. A display panel having a viewing area is provided, wherein the viewing area comprises a transmissive region and a reflective region. A backlight device is disposed under the display panel, wherein the backlight device provides a backlight passing through the transmissive region. A power management controller is connected to the backlight device, wherein the power management controller controls the intensity of the backlight. At least one photodetector is located on the display panel outside the viewing area, wherein the photodetector detects the intensity of ambient light around the display panel, and then provides a corresponding signal to the power management controller to control the intensity of the backlight. The intensity of the backlight automatically becomes greater when the intensity of the ambient light becomes lower, and the intensity of the backlight automatically becomes lower when the intensity of the ambient light becomes greater, based on a corresponding signal of the power management controller.
[0014] In order to achieve these objects, the present invention additionally provides a method of manufacturing a transflective liquid crystal display device. A first substrate having a viewing area and a peripheral area is provided. A metal layer is formed on part of the first substrate in both the viewing and the peripheral areas, wherein the metal layer in the viewing area serves as a gate. A gate insulating layer is formed on the gate. A semiconductor layer is formed on the gate and the metal layer in the peripheral area. A source electrode and a drain electrode are formed on part of the semiconductor layer on the gate insulating layer. An insulating layer is formed over the first substrate. A first opening and a second opening are formed to penetrate the insulating layer, wherein the first opening exposes the drain electrode and the second opening exposes the semiconductor layer in the peripheral area. A transparent conductive layer is formed in the second opening and the first opening, and the transparent conductive layer extends to part of the insulating layer. A reflective layer is formed on part of the insulating layer. A backlight device is disposed under the first substrate, providing light which passes through the opening in the transparent conductive layer to the exposed underlying insulating layer. A power management controller is connected to the backlight device, wherein the power management controller controls the intensity of the backlight. A photodetector consists of the metal layer, the semiconductor layer and the transparent conductive layer in the peripheral area. The photodetector detects an intensity of ambient light above the first substrate, and then provides a corresponding signal to the power management controller to control the intensity of the backlight. The intensity of the backlight automatically becomes greater when the intensity of the ambient light becomes lower, and the intensity of the backlight automatically becomes lower when the intensity of the ambient light becomes greater, based on a corresponding signal of the power management controller.
[0015] The present invention improves on the prior art in that the transflective LCD device has at least one photodetector located on the LCD panel. The photodetector senses ambient lighting conditions above the first substrate, and then provides a corresponding signal to the power management controller to control the intensity of the backlight. Thus, the total amount of reflected and transmitted light can be optimally maintained. In addition, the photodetector can be simultaneously fabricated with the TFT. The transflective LCD device of the present invention can self-adjust the backlight intensity to provide optimum (or stable) display based on the availability and intensity ambient light, simplifying use thereof and ameliorating the disadvantages of the prior art.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The present invention can be more fully understood by reading the subsequent detailed description in conjunction with the examples and references made to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0017]FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a typical transflective LCD device;
[0018]FIG. 2 is a sectional view of a transflective LCD device according to the prior art, illustrating the operation thereof;
[0019]FIG. 3 is a sectional view according to the present invention;
[0020]FIG. 4 is a topographical view of the display panel showing the placement of the photodetectors of the preferred embodiment of the present invention; and
[0021]FIG. 5 is a sectional view illustrating simultaneous fabrication of the photodetector and the TFT according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts.
[0023]FIG. 3 is a sectional view according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is a topographical view of the display panel showing the placement of the photodetectors of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0024] In FIGS. 3 and 4, the smart transflective LCD device of the present invention comprises a display panel 310, a backlight source (device) 330, a power management controller 350 and at least one photodetector 370.
[0025] The display panel 310 has a viewing area 312, wherein the viewing area 312 further comprises a transmissive region 314 and a reflective region 316.
[0026] As a demonstrative example, a structure of the display panel 310 is described herein, but is not intended to limit the present invention. In FIG. 3, a first substrate 320, serving as a lower substrate, is provided above the backlight device 330. The first substrate 320 can be a glass substrate comprising a thin film transistor (TFT) array (not shown). A pixel electrode 322 is formed on the first substrate 320, wherein the pixel electrode 322 has a transparent portion 324 and an opaque portion 326. The transparent portion 324 of the pixel electrode 322 is located in the transmissive region 314, and the opaque portion 326 of the pixel electrode 322 is located in the reflective region 316. The transparent portion 324 of the pixel electrode 322 can be an ITO (indium tin oxide) or IZO (indium zinc oxide) layer. The opaque portion 326 of the pixel electrode 322 can be an aluminum or silver layer. A second substrate 328, serving as an upper substrate, is opposite the first substrate 320. The second substrate 328 can be a glass substrate comprising a color filter (not shown) formed thereon. Then, liquid crystal molecules fill a space between the first substrate 320 and the second substrate 328 to form a liquid crystal layer 329 therebetween. The display panel 310 is thus obtained.
[0027] The backlight source 330 is disposed under the first substrate 320 and provides a backlight 332 passing through the transmissive region 314 of the display panel 310. The backlight source 330 comprises a light emitting device, such as a cold cathode fluorescent tube (CCFL) or a light emitting diode (LED).
[0028] The power management controller 350 is connected to the backlight device by means of the control line 352 (e.g. an electric wire). The power management controller 350 controls the intensity of the backlight 332 by controlling power output.
[0029] The photodetector(s) 370 is located on the display panel 310 outside the viewing area 312. The photodetector 370 detects the intensity of ambient light 380 around the display panel 310, and then provides a corresponding signal to the power management controller 350 by means of a signal line 371 to control the intensity of the backlight 332. The photodetector 370 can be a photosensitive resistor device or a photodiode device.
[0030] Referring to FIG. 4, there is shown the transflective LCD display panel 310 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The display panel 310 includes the viewing area 312, and in the preferred embodiment, at least four photodetectors 370 are placed at the middle edge of the display panel 310. The reason is that the positions are the nearest points to the center of the viewing area 312 at each edge.
[0031] An operational example is illustrated hereinafter. When the photodetector 370 senses a higher intensity ambient light above the display panel 310, the photodetector 370 provides a first corresponding signal to the power management controller 350. Based on the first corresponding signal, the power management controller 350 will automatically decrease power output to the backlight device 330, thereby dimming the backlight 332. When the photodetector 370 senses less intense ambient light above the display panel 310, the photodetector 370 provides a second corresponding signal to the power management controller 350. Based on the second corresponding signal, the power management controller 350 will automatically increase power output to the backlight device 330, thereby brightening the backlight 332.
[0032] As is apparent from the above description, The transflective LCD device of the present invention can self-adjust the backlight intensity to provide optimum (or stable) display based on the availability and intensity ambient light. That is, the total amount of reflected and transmitted light can be maintained at a desired level, thereby achieving self-adjusting display brightness, and reducing power consumption.
[0033]FIG. 5 is a sectional view illustrating simultaneous fabrication of photodetector and the TFT, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] A lower substrate 500 having a predetermined viewing area 502 (or an interior area) and a predetermined peripheral area 504 is provided. The lower substrate 500 can be a glass substrate.
[0035] A metal layer (510/512) is next formed on part of the lower substrate 500 in both the viewing and the peripheral areas 502, 504. The metal layer 510 in the viewing area 502 serves as a gate 510, and the metal layer 512 in the peripheral area 504 serves as an anode 512 and a light shield 512. The metal layer (510/512) can be an Al layer formed by sputtering.
[0036] A gate insulating layer 514 is formed on the gate 510 and part of the lower substrate 500. The gate insulating layer 514 can be a SiO2 layer formed by deposition.
[0037] Then, a semiconductor layer (516/518) is formed on part of the gate insulating layer 514 and the anode 512. The semiconductor layer 516 on the gate insulating layer 514 serves as a channel layer 516, and the semiconductor layer 518 on the anode 512 serves as a photosensitive layer 518. The semiconductor layer (516/518) can be an amorphous silicon layer. It should be noted that the channel layer 516 and the photosensitive layer 518 can be formed in separate steps. That is, the material of the channel layer 516 can be different from that of the photosensitive layer 518. For example, the channel layer 516 is amorphous silicon and the photosensitive layer 518 is Cadmium Sulfide (CdS) photosensitive material.
[0038] A source electrode 520 and a drain electrode 522 are then formed on part of the channel layer 516 on the gate insulating layer 514. The source electrode 520 and the drain electrode 522 can be metal layers, such as Al.
[0039] Next, a transparent insulating layer 524 is blanketly formed over the lower substrate 500. The transparent insulating layer 524 can be a SiO2 or SiN layer.
[0040] Then, a first opening 526 and a second opening 528 penetrating the insulating layer 524 is formed. The first opening 526 exposes the drain electrode 522 and the second opening 528 exposes the photosensitive layer 518 in the peripheral area 504.
[0041] In FIG. 5, the first opening 526 and the second opening 528 are filled with transparent conductive material to form a transparent portion 530 of a pixel electrode in the viewing area 502 and a cathode 532 in the peripheral area 504. The transparent portion 530 of a pixel electrode also extends to part of the insulating layer 524. The transparent conductive material can be ITO (indium tin oxide) or IZO (indium zinc oxide).
[0042] Next, a reflective layer 534 is formed on part of the insulating layer 524. The reflective layer 534 can be an aluminum layer or silver layer. The reflective layer 534 serves as an opaque portion 534 of the pixel electrode.
[0043] It should be noted that a photodetector 540 comprises the anode 512, the photosensitive layer 518 and the cathode 532 in the peripheral area 504.
[0044] Moreover, as is known in the conventional LCD process and similar to the illustration of FIG. 3, a second substrate (not shown) opposite the first substrate 500 is provided. Liquid crystal molecules fill a space between the first substrate 500 and the second substrate (not shown) to form a liquid crystal layer (not shown). In order to avoid obscuring aspects of the present invention, the detailed processes are not described again here.
[0045] Thus, the present invention provides a transflective LCD device having photodetectors integrated therein. The photodetector senses ambient lighting conditions above the first substrate, and then provides a corresponding signal to the power management controller to control the intensity of the backlight. Thus, the total amount of reflected and transmitted light can be maintained at a desired level. In addition, the photodetector can be simultaneously fabricated with the TFT. The transflective LCD device of the present invention can self-adjust the backlight intensity to provide optimum (or stable) display based on the availability and intensity ambient light, simplifying use thereof and ameliorating the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0046] Finally, while the invention has been described by way of example and in terms of the above, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover various modifications and similar arrangements as would be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the scope of the appended claims should be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and similar arrangements.
What is claimed is:
1. A transflective liquid crystal display device, comprising:
a display panel having a viewing area, wherein the viewing area comprises a transmissive region and a reflective region; a backlight device disposed under the display panel, wherein the backlight device provides a backlight passing through the transmissive region; a power management controller connected with the backlight device, wherein the power management controller controls an intensity of the backlight; and at least one photodetector located on the display panel outside the viewing area, wherein the photodetector detects an intensity of ambient light around the display panel, and then provides a corresponding signal to the power management controller to control the intensity of the backlight; wherein, by the power management controller based on the corresponding signal, the intensity of the backlight automatically becomes greater when the intensity of the ambient light becomes lower, and the intensity of the backlight automatically becomes lower when the intensity of the ambient light becomes greater.
2. The transflective LCD device according to claim 1, wherein the display panel comprises:
a first substrate located above the backlight device; a pixel electrode having a transparent portion and an opaque portion formed on the first substrate, wherein the transparent portion of the pixel electrode is in the transmissive region and the opaque portion of the pixel electrode is in the reflective region; a second substrate opposite the first substrate; and a liquid crystal layer interposed between the first and the second substrates.
3. The transflective LCD device according to claim 1, wherein the backlight device comprises a cold cathode fluorescent tube (CCFL) or a light emitting diode (LED).
4. The transflective LCD device according to claim 1, wherein the photodetector is a photosensitive resistor or a photodiode.
5. The transflective LCD device according to claim 2, wherein the first substrate is a glass substrate.
6. The transflective LCD device according to claim 2, wherein the second substrate is a glass substrate.
7. The transflective LCD device according to claim 2, wherein the transparent portion of the pixel electrode is an ITO (indium tin oxide) layer or an IZO (indium zinc oxide) layer.
8. The transflective LCD device according to claim 2, wherein the opaque portion of the pixel electrode is an aluminum layer or a silver layer.
9. A method of fabricating a transflective liquid crystal display device, comprising the steps of:
providing a first substrate having a viewing area and a peripheral area, wherein the viewing area comprises a transmissive region and a reflective region; disposing a backlight device under the first substrate, wherein the backlight device provides a backlight passing through the transmissive region; providing a power management controller connected with the backlight device, wherein the power management controller controls an intensity of the backlight; and forming at least one photodetector on the first substrate in the peripheral area, wherein the photodetector detects an intensity of ambient light above the first substrate, and then provides a corresponding signal to the power management controller to control the intensity of the backlight; wherein, by the power management controller based on the corresponding signal, the intensity of the backlight automatically becomes greater when the intensity of the ambient light becomes lower, and the intensity of the backlight automatically becomes lower when the intensity of the ambient light becomes greater.
10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising the steps of:
forming a pixel electrode having a transparent portion and an opaque portion on the first substrate, wherein the transparent portion of the pixel electrode is located in the transmissive region and the opaque portion of the pixel electrode is located in the reflective region; providing a second substrate opposite the first substrate; and filling a space between the first substrate and the second substrate with liquid crystal molecules to form a liquid crystal layer.
11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising the steps of:
forming a thin film transistor array on the first substrate, wherein thin film transistors electrically connect the pixel electrode.
12. The method according to claim 10, wherein the transparent portion of the pixel electrode is an ITO (indium tin oxide) layer or an IZO (indium zinc oxide) layer.
13. The method according to claim 10, wherein the opaque portion of the pixel electrode is an aluminum layer or a silver layer.
14. A method of fabricating a transflective liquid crystal display device, comprising the steps of:
providing a first substrate having a viewing area and a peripheral area; forming a metal layer on part of the first substrate in both the viewing and the peripheral areas, wherein the metal layer in the viewing area serves as a gate; forming a gate insulating layer on the gate; forming a semiconductor layer on the gate and the metal layer in the peripheral area; forming a source electrode and a drain electrode on part of the semiconductor layer on the gate insulating layer; blanketly forming an insulating layer over the first substrate; forming a first opening and a second opening penetrating the insulating layer, wherein the first opening exposes the drain electrode and the second opening exposes the semiconductor layer in the peripheral area; forming a transparent conductive layer in the second opening and the first opening, extending to part of the insulating layer; forming a reflective layer on part of the insulating layer; disposing a backlight device under the first substrate, wherein the backlight device provides a backlight passing through the transparent conductive layer extends to part of the insulating layer; and providing a power management controller connected with the backlight device, wherein the power management controller controls an intensity of the backlight; wherein a photodetector consists of the metal layer, the semiconductor layer and the transparent conductive layer in the peripheral area, and the photodetector detects an intensity of ambient light above the first substrate, and then provides a corresponding signal to the power management controller to control the intensity of the backlight; wherein, by the power management controller based on the corresponding signal, the intensity of the backlight automatically becomes greater when the intensity of the ambient light becomes lower, and the intensity of the backlight automatically becomes lower when the intensity of the ambient light becomes greater.
15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the steps of:
providing a second substrate opposite the first substrate; and filling a space between the first substrate and the second substrate with liquid crystal molecules to form a liquid crystal layer.
16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are glass substrates.
17. The method according to claim 14, wherein the metal layer is an Al layer.
18. The method according to claim 14, wherein the insulating layer is a SiO2 layer.
19. The method according to claim 14, wherein the transparent conductive layer is an ITO (indium tin oxide) layer or an IZO (indium zinc oxide) layer.
20. The method according to claim 14, wherein the reflective layer is an aluminum layer or a silver layer.
| 2003-10-31 | en | 2004-11-18 |
US-18166208-A | Processing of data to suspend operations in an input/output processing system
ABSTRACT
A computer program product, an apparatus, and a method for processing communications between a target and an initiator an input/output processing system are provided. The computer program product includes a tangible storage medium readable by a processing circuit and storing instructions for execution by the processing circuit for performing a method. The method includes: sending a message between the initiator and the target, the message requesting suspension of input/output operations between the initiator and the target for a period of time, the period of time being defined by the message; and responsive to the message, suspending input/output operation messages for the period of time.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 12/031,021, filed on Feb. 14, 2008, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
1. Field of the Invention
The present disclosure relates generally to input/output processing, and in particular, to coordinating protocol compatibility and operations associated with input/output processing.
2. Description of Background
Input/output (I/O) operations are used to transfer data between memory and I/O devices of an I/O processing system. Specifically, data is written from memory to one or more I/O devices, and data is read from one or more I/O devices to memory by executing I/O operations.
To facilitate processing of I/O operations, an I/O subsystem of the I/O processing system is employed. The I/O subsystem is coupled to main memory and the I/O devices of the I/O processing system and directs the flow of information between memory and the I/O devices. One example of an I/O subsystem is a channel subsystem. The channel subsystem uses channel paths as communications media. Each channel path includes a channel coupled to a control unit, the control unit being further coupled to one or more I/O devices.
The channel subsystem may employ channel command words (CCWs) to transfer data between the I/O devices and memory. A CCW specifies the command to be executed. For commands initiating certain I/O operations, the CCW designates the memory area associated with the operation, the action to be taken whenever a transfer to or from the area is completed, and other options.
During I/O processing, a list of CCWs is fetched from memory by a channel. The channel parses each command from the list of CCWs and forwards a number of the commands, each command in its own entity, to a control unit coupled to the channel. The control unit then processes the commands. The channel tracks the state of each command and controls when the next set of commands are to be sent to the control unit for processing. The channel ensures that each command is sent to the control unit in its own entity. Further, the channel infers certain information associated with processing the response from the control unit for each command.
Currently, there is no link protocol that allows for the exchange of operating parameters between the channel and the control unit, and allows the control unit to request that new commands be ceased for a selected period of time. Typically, current link protocols require that either the channel cease sending new commands, or that the control unit respond to new commands with a busy message. However, relying on such busy messages may result in errors and possible loss of the logical path established between the control unit and the channel.
Accordingly, there is a need in the art for protocols to allow for the exchange of selected operating parameters and to allow the control unit to request suspension of commands for a selected time period.
BRIEF SUMMARY
Embodiments of the invention include a computer program product for processing communications between a target and an initiator in an input/output processing system. The computer program product includes a tangible storage medium readable by a processing circuit and storing instructions for execution by the processing circuit for performing a method. The method includes: sending a message between the initiator and the target, the message requesting suspension of input/output operations between the initiator and the target for a period of time, the period of time being defined by the message; and responsive to the message, suspending input/output operation messages for the period of time.
Additional embodiments include an apparatus for processing communications in an input/output processing system. The apparatus includes an initiator, and a target in communication with the initiator. The apparatus performs: sending a message between the initiator and the target, the message requesting suspension of input/output operations between the initiator and the target for a period of time, the period of time being defined by the message; and responsive to the message, suspending input/output operation messages for the period of time.
Further embodiments include a method of processing communications between an initiator and a target in an input/output processing system. The method includes: sending a message between the initiator and the target, the message requesting suspension of input/output operations between the initiator and the target for a period of time, the period of time being defined by the message; and responsive to the message, suspending input/output operation messages for the period of time.
Other apparatuses, methods, and/or computer program products according to embodiments will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon review of the following drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, and/or computer program products be included within this description, be within the scope of the present invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of an I/O processing system incorporating and using one or more aspects of the present invention;
FIG. 2A depicts one example of a prior art channel command word;
FIG. 2B depicts one example of a prior art channel command word channel program;
FIG. 3 depicts one embodiment of a prior art link protocol used in communicating between a channel and control unit to execute the channel command word channel program of FIG. 2B;
FIG. 4 depicts one embodiment of a transport control word channel program, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 5 depicts one embodiment of a link protocol used to communicate between a channel and control unit to execute the transport control word channel program of FIG. 4, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 6 depicts one embodiment of a prior art link protocol used to communicate between a channel and control unit in order to execute four read commands of a channel command word channel program;
FIG. 7 depicts one embodiment of a link protocol used to communicate between a channel and control unit to process the four read commands of a transport control word channel program, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 8 depicts one embodiment of a control unit and a channel, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention; and
FIG. 9 depicts one embodiment of a process for identifying a compatible control unit of an I/O processing system using data from the control unit;
FIG. 10 depicts one embodiment of a request message used to identify a compatible control unit of an I/O processing system;
FIG. 11 depicts one embodiment of an accept message used to identify a compatible control unit of an I/O processing system;
FIG. 12 depicts one embodiment of a process for suspending I/O operations between a channel and a control unit;
FIG. 13 depicts one embodiment of a request message used to suspend I/O operations between a channel and a control unit;
FIG. 14 depicts one embodiment of an accept message used to respond to the request message of FIG. 13; and
FIG. 15 depicts one embodiment of a computer program product incorporating one or more aspects of the present invention.
The detailed description explains the preferred embodiments of the invention, together with advantages and features, by way of example with reference to the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, input/output (I/O) processing is facilitated. For instance, I/O processing is facilitated by readily enabling processing of information between an initiator device and a target device. As described herein, a “target” is a device, such as a SCSI device, that receives commands or requests and directs such commands or requests to one or more logical units for execution. Also as described herein, an “initiator” is a device, such as a SCSI device, that originates commands or requests to be processed by the target. The initiator and the target may operate under any suitable I/O protocol.
1/0 processing is facilitated, in one example, by providing a system and method for determining whether the initiator and the target are compatible with the same protocol. Further, I/O processing is facilitated, in another example, by providing a system and method for communicating between an initiator and a target to suspend I/O operations.
In one example, the initiator and the target operate under a Fiber Channel Protocol (FCP). FCP and its phases are described further in “Information Technology—Fibre Channel Protocol for SCSI, Third Version (FCP-3),” T10 Project 1560-D, Revision 4, Sep. 13, 2005, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In this example, the target may include an FCP Port using the FCP to perform various target functions. Also in this example, the initiator may include an FCP Port using the FCP to perform various initiator functions.
In another example, an I/O processing system includes a channel and a control unit. In some embodiments, the channel functions as an initiator by sending one or more commands to the control unit, which functions as the target. In other embodiments, the control unit functions as the initiator and the channel functions as the target. I/O processing is facilitated, in this example, by providing a system and method for determining whether the channel and the control unit are compatible with the same protocol. Further, I/O processing is facilitated, in another example, by providing a system and method for communicating between a control unit and a channel to suspend I/O operations.
In one exemplary embodiment, when the control unit is identified as compatible with the protocol used by the channel, the channel may include one or more commands in a block, referred to herein as a transport command control block (TCCB), an address of which is specified in a transport control word (TCW). The TCW is sent from an operating system or other application to the I/O communications adapter, which in turn forwards the TCCB in a command message to the control unit for processing. The control unit processes each of the commands absent a tracking of status relative to those individual commands by the I/O communications adapter. The plurality of commands is also referred to as a channel program, which is parsed and executed on the control unit rather than the I/O communications adapter.
In an exemplary embodiment, the control unit generates a response message in response to executing the channel program. The control unit may also generate a response message without executing the channel program under a limited number of communication scenarios, e.g., to inform the I/O communications adapter that the channel program will not be executed. The control unit may include a number of elements to support communication between the I/O communications adapter and I/O devices, as well as in support of channel program execution. For example, the control unit can include control logic to parse and process messages, in addition to one or more queues, timers, and registers to facilitate communication and status monitoring. The I/O communications adapter parses the response message, extracting information, and performs further operations using the extracted information.
One example of an I/O processing system incorporating and using one or more aspects of the present invention is described with reference to FIG. 1. I/O processing system 100 includes a host system 101, which further includes for instance, a main memory 102, one or more central processing units (CPUs) 104, a storage control element 106, and a channel subsystem 108. The host system 101 may be a large scale computing system, such as a mainframe or server. The I/O processing system 100 also includes one or more control units 110 and one or more I/O devices 112, each of which is described below.
Main memory 102 stores data and programs, which can be input from I/O devices 112. For example, the main memory 102 may include one or more operating systems (OSs) 103 that are executed by one or more of the CPUs 104. For example, one CPU 104 can execute a Linux® operating system 103 and a z/OS® operating system 103 as different virtual machine instances. The main memory 102 is directly addressable and provides for high-speed processing of data by the CPUs 104 and the channel subsystem 108.
CPU 104 is the controlling center of the I/O processing system 100. It contains sequencing and processing facilities for instruction execution, interruption action, timing functions, initial program loading, and other machine-related functions. CPU 104 is coupled to the storage control element 106 via a connection 114, such as a bidirectional or unidirectional bus.
Storage control element 106 is coupled to the main memory 102 via a connection 116, such as a bus; to CPUs 104 via connection 114; and to channel subsystem 108 via a connection 118. Storage control element 106 controls, for example, queuing and execution of requests made by CPU 104 and channel subsystem 108.
In an exemplary embodiment, channel subsystem 108 provides a communication interface between host system 101 and control units 110. Channel subsystem 108 is coupled to storage control element 106, as described above, and to each of the control units 110 via a connection 120, such as a serial link. Connection 120 may be implemented as an optical link, employing single-mode or multi-mode waveguides in a Fibre Channel fabric. Channel subsystem 108 directs the flow of information between I/O devices 112 and main memory 102. It relieves the CPUs 104 of the task of communicating directly with the I/O devices 112 and permits data processing to proceed concurrently with I/O processing. The channel subsystem 108 uses one or more channel paths 122 as the communication links in managing the flow of information to or from I/O devices 112. As a part of the I/O processing, channel subsystem 108 also performs the path-management functions of testing for channel path availability, selecting an available channel path 122 and initiating execution of the operation with the I/O devices 112.
Each channel path 122 includes a channel 124 (channels 124 are located within the channel subsystem 108, in one example, as shown in FIG. 1), one or more control units 110 and one or more connections 120. In another example, it is also possible to have one or more dynamic switches (not depicted) as part of the channel path 122. A dynamic switch is coupled to a channel 124 and a control unit 110 and provides the capability of physically interconnecting any two links that are attached to the switch. In another example, it is also possible to have multiple systems, and therefore multiple channel subsystems (not depicted) attached to control unit 110.
Also located within channel subsystem 108 are subchannels (not shown). One subchannel is provided for and dedicated to each I/O device 112 accessible to a program through the channel subsystem 108. A subchannel (e.g., a data structure, such as a table) provides the logical appearance of a device to the program. Each subchannel provides information concerning the associated I/O device 112 and its attachment to channel subsystem 108. The subchannel also provides information concerning I/O operations and other functions involving the associated I/O device 112. The subchannel is the means by which channel subsystem 108 provides information about associated I/O devices 112 to CPUs 104, which obtain this information by executing I/O instructions.
Channel subsystem 108 is coupled to one or more control units 110. Each control unit 110 provides logic to operate and control one or more I/O devices 112 and adapts, through the use of common facilities, the characteristics of each I/O device 112 to the link interface provided by the channel 124. The common facilities provide for the execution of I/O operations, indications concerning the status of the I/O device 112 and control unit 110, control of the timing of data transfers over the channel path 122 and certain levels of I/O device 112 control.
Each control unit 110 is attached via a connection 126 (e.g., a bus) to one or more I/O devices 112. I/O devices 112 receive information or store information in main memory 102 and/or other memory. Examples of I/O devices 112 include card readers and punches, magnetic tape units, direct access storage devices, displays, keyboards, printers, pointing devices, teleprocessing devices, communication controllers and sensor based equipment, to name a few.
One or more of the above components of the I/O processing system 100 are further described in “IBM® z/Architecture Principles of Operation,” Publication No. SA22-7832-05, 6th Edition, April 2007; U.S. Pat. No. 5,461,721 entitled “System For Transferring Data Between I/O Devices And Main Or Expanded Storage Under Dynamic Control Of Independent Indirect Address Words (IDAWS),” Cormier et al., issued Oct. 24, 1995; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,526,484 entitled “Method And System For Pipelining The Processing Of Channel Command Words,” Casper et al., issued Jun. 11, 1996, each of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation, Armonk, N.Y., USA. Other names used herein may be registered trademarks, trademarks or product names of International Business Machines Corporation or other companies.
In one embodiment, to transfer data between I/O devices 112 and memory 102, channel command words (CCWs) are used. A CCW specifies the command to be executed, and includes other fields to control processing. One example of a CCW is described with reference to FIG. 2A. A CCW 200 includes, for instance, a command code 202 specifying the command to be executed (e.g., read, read backward, control, sense and write); a plurality of flags 204 used to control the I/O operation; for commands that specify the transfer of data, a count field 206 that specifies the number of bytes in the storage area designated by the CCW to be transferred; and a data address 208 that points to a location in main memory that includes data, when direct addressing is employed, or to a list (e.g., contiguous list) of modified indirect data address words (MIDAWs) to be processed, when modified indirect data addressing is employed. Modified indirect addressing is further described in U.S. application Ser. No. 11/464,613, entitled “Flexibly Controlling The Transfer Of Data Between Input/Output Devices And Memory,” Brice et al., filed Aug. 15, 2006, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
One or more CCWs arranged for sequential execution form a channel program, also referred to herein as a CCW channel program. The CCW channel program is set up by, for instance, an operating system, or other software. The software sets up the CCWs and obtains the addresses of memory assigned to the channel program. An example of a CCW channel program is described with reference to FIG. 2B. A CCW channel program 210 includes, for instance, a define extent CCW 212 that has a pointer 214 to a location in memory of define extent data 216 to be used with the define extent command. In this example, a transfer in channel (TIC) 218 follows the define extent command that refers the channel program to another area in memory (e.g., an application area) that includes one or more other CCWs, such as a locate record 217 that has a pointer 219 to locate record data 220, and one or more read CCWs 221. Each read CCW 220 has a pointer 222 to a data area 224. The data area includes an address to directly access the data or a list of data address words (e.g., MIDAWs or IDAWs) to indirectly access the data. Further, CCW channel program 210 includes a predetermined area in the channel subsystem defined by the device address called the subchannel for status 226 resulting from execution of the CCW channel program.
The processing of a CCW channel program is described with reference to FIG. 3, as well as with reference to FIG. 2B. In particular, FIG. 3 shows an example of the various exchanges and sequences that occur between a channel and a control unit when a CCW channel program is executing. The link protocol used for the communications is FICON (Fibre Connectivity), in this example. Information regarding FICON is described in “Fibre Channel Single Byte Command Code Sets-3 Mapping Protocol (FC-SB-3), T11/Project 1357-D/Rev. 1.6, INCITS (March 2003), which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Referring to FIG. 3, a channel 300 opens an exchange with a control unit 302 and sends a define extent command and data associated therewith 304 to control unit 302. The command is fetched from define extent CCW 212 (FIG. 2B) and the data is obtained from define extent data area 216. The channel 300 uses TIC 218 to locate the locate record CCW and the read CCW. It fetches the locate record command 305 (FIG. 3) from the locate record CCW 217 (FIG. 2B) and obtains the data from locate record data 220. The read command 306 (FIG. 3) is fetched from read CCW 221 (FIG. 2B). Each is sent to the control unit 302.
The control unit 302 opens an exchange 308 with the channel 300, in response to the open exchange of the channel 300. This can occur before or after locate command 305 and/or read command 306. Along with the open exchange, a response (CMR) is forwarded to the channel 300. The CMR provides an indication to the channel 300 that the control unit 302 is active and operating.
The control unit 302 sends the requested data 310 to the channel 300. Additionally, the control unit 302 provides the status to the channel 300 and closes the exchange 312. In response thereto, the channel 300 stores the data, examines the status and closes the exchange 314, which indicates to the control unit 302 that the status has been received.
The processing of the above CCW channel program to read 4 k of data requires two exchanges to be opened and closed and seven sequences. The total number of exchanges and sequences between the channel and control unit is reduced through collapsing multiple commands of the channel program into a TCCB. The channel, e.g., channel 124 of FIG. 1, uses a TCW to identify the location of the TCCB, as well as locations for accessing and storing status and data associated with executing the channel program. The TCW is interpreted by the channel and is not sent or seen by the control unit.
One example of a channel program to read 4 k of data, as in FIG. 2B, but includes a TCCB, instead of separate individual CCWs, is described with reference to FIG. 4. As shown, a channel program 400, referred to herein as a TCW channel program, includes a TCW 402 specifying a location in memory of a TCCB 404, as well as a location in memory of a data area 406 or a TIDAL 410 (i.e., a list of transfer mode indirect data address words (TIDAWs), similar to MIDAWs) that points to data area 406, and a status area 408. TCWs, TCCBs, and status are described in further detail below.
The processing of a TCW channel program is described with reference to FIG. 5. The link protocol used for these communications is, for instance, Fibre Channel Protocol (FCP). In particular, three phases of the FCP link protocol are used, allowing host bus adapters to be used that support FCP to perform data transfers controlled by CCWs.
Referring to FIG. 5, a channel 500 opens an exchange with a control unit 502 and sends TCCB 504 to the control unit 502. In one example, the TCCB 504 and sequence initiative are transferred to the control unit 502 in a FCP command, referred to as FCP_CMND information unit (IU) or a transport command IU. The control unit 502 executes the multiple commands of the TCCB 504 (e.g., define extent command, locate record command, read command as device control words (DCWs)) and forwards data 506 to the channel 500 via, for instance, a FCP_Data IU. It also provides status and closes the exchange 508. As one example, final status is sent in a FCP status frame that has a bit active in, for instance, byte 10 or 11 of the payload of a FCP_RSP IU, also referred to as a transport response IU. The FCP_RSP_IU payload may be used to transport FICON ending status along with additional status information, including parameters that support the calculation of extended measurement words and notify the channel 500 of the maximum number of open exchanges supported by the control unit 502.
In a further example, to write 4 k of customer data, the channel 500 uses the FCP link protocol phases, as follows:
1. Transfer a TCCB in the FCP_CMND IU.
2. Transfer the IU of data, and sequence initiative to the control unit 502. (FCP Transfer Ready Disabled)
3. Final status is sent in a FCP status frame that has a bit active in, for instance, byte 10 or 11 of the FCP_RSP IU Payload. The FCP_RSP_INFO field or sense field is used to transport FICON ending status along with additional status information, including parameters that support the calculation of extended measurement words and notify the channel 500 of the maximum number of open exchanges supported by the control unit 502.
By executing the TCW channel program of FIG. 4, there is only one exchange opened and closed (see also FIG. 5), instead of two exchanges for the CCW channel program of FIG. 2B (see also FIG. 3). Further, for the TCW channel program, there are three communication sequences (see FIGS. 4-5), as compared to seven sequences for the CCW channel program (see FIGS. 2B-3).
The number of exchanges and sequences remain the same for a TCW channel program, even if additional commands are added to the program. Compare, for example, the communications of the CCW channel program of FIG. 6 with the communications of the TCW channel program of FIG. 7. In the CCW channel program of FIG. 6, each of the commands (e.g., define extent command 600, locate record command 601, read command 602, read command 604, read command 606, locate record command 607 and read command 608) are sent in separate sequences from channel 610 to control unit 612. Further, each 4 k block of data (e.g., data 614-620) is sent in separate sequences from the control unit 612 to the channel 610. This CCW channel program requires two exchanges to be opened and closed (e.g., open exchanges 622, 624 and close exchanges 626, 628), and fourteen communications sequences. This is compared to the three sequences and one exchange for the TCW channel program of FIG. 7, which accomplishes the same task as the CCW channel program of FIG. 6.
As depicted in FIG. 7, a channel 700 opens an exchange with a control unit 702 and sends a TCCB 704 to the control unit 702. The TCCB 704 includes the define extent command, the two locate record commands, and the four read commands in DCWs, as described above. In response to receiving the TCCB 704, the control unit 702 executes the commands and sends, in a single sequence, the 16 k of data 706 to the channel 700. Additionally, the control unit 702 provides status to the channel 700 and closes the exchange 708. Thus, the TCW channel program requires much less communications to transfer the same amount of data as the CCW channel program of FIG. 6.
In an exemplary embodiment, the CCW channel program of FIG. 6 is implemented using a protocol that supports Command Control Words, for example, a Fibre Connectivity (FICON) protocol. Links operating under this protocol may be referred to as being in a “Command Mode”.
In an exemplary embodiment, the TCW channel program of FIG. 7 is implemented using a protocol to execute Transport Control Words, for example, the Transport Mode protocol.
Turning now to FIG. 8, one embodiment of the control unit 110 and the channel 124 of FIG. 1 that support TCW channel program execution are depicted in greater detail. The control unit 110 includes CU control logic 802 to parse and process command messages containing a TCCB, such as the TCCB 704 of FIG. 7, received from the channel 124 via the connection 120. The CU control logic 802 can extract DCWs and control data from the TCCB received at the control unit 110 to control a device, for instance, I/O device 112 via connection 126. The CU control logic 802 sends device commands and data to the I/O device 112, as well as receives status information and other feedback from the I/O device 112.
The CU control logic 802 can access and control other elements within the control unit 110, such as CU timers 806 and CU registers 808. The CU timers 806 may include multiple timer functions to establish wait or delay time periods, such as those time periods used in suspending I/O operations. The CU timers 806 may further include one or more countdown timers to monitor and abort I/O operations and commands that do not complete within a predetermined period. The CU registers 808 can include fixed values that provide configuration and status information, as well as dynamic status information that is updated as commands are executed by the CU control logic 802. The control unit 110 may further include other buffer or memory elements (not depicted) to store multiple messages or status information associated with communications between the channel 124 and the I/O device 112.
The channel 124 in the channel subsystem 108 includes multiple elements to support communication with the control unit 110. For example, the channel 124 may include CHN control logic 810 that interfaces with CHN subsystem timers 812 and CHN subsystem registers 814. In an exemplary embodiment, the CHN control logic 810 controls communication between the channel subsystem 108 and the control unit 110. The CHN control logic 810 may directly interface to the CU control logic 802 via the connection 120 to send commands and receive responses, such as transport command and response IUs. Alternatively, messaging interfaces and/or buffers (not depicted) can be placed between the CHN control logic 810 and the CU control logic 802. The CHN subsystem timers 812 may include multiple timer functions to, for example, establish wait or delay time periods. The CHN subsystem timers 812 may further include one or more countdown timers to monitor and abort command sequences that do not complete within a predetermined period. The CHN subsystem registers 814 can include fixed values that provide configuration and status information, as well as dynamic status information, updated as commands are transported and responses are received.
In some exemplary embodiments, the control unit 110 and the channel 124 of FIG. 1 may operate in different modes, i.e., use different protocols. For example, the channel 124 may operate in the Transport Mode and utilize the transport mode protocol, and the control unit 110 may operate in the Command Mode and utilize the FICON protocol. The control unit 110 and the channel 124 may each support the Command Mode and/or the Transport Mode.
The embodiments described herein are described in conjunction with the control unit 110 and the channel 124 supporting the Command Mode and/or the Transport Mode. However, the embodiments may be utilized in conjunction with any initiator or target device supporting any suitable protocol.
In order to successfully complete an I/O operation, a Transport Mode compatible channel 124, i.e., “Transport Mode channel”, should be able to determine whether a control unit 110 of interest is also Transport Mode compatible. This determination, and corresponding identification of Transport Mode control units 110, should be able to be performed without disrupting operations or causing problems in control units 110 that support other protocols or modes.
In one exemplary embodiment, there is provided a system and method to allow the channel 124 to identify a compatible control unit 110, i.e., a control unit that supports a mode in which the channel 124 operates. The channel 124 may use a message in a first mode, such as the Command Mode, in combination with at least another message, to determine whether the control unit supports a second mode, for example, the Transport Mode. In an exemplary embodiment, the message in the first mode is a Request Node Identification (RNID) message. A RNID message may be used by the channel 124 to request identification information from the control unit 110.
The channel may receive a response to the message, such as a RNID response, that includes data indicating whether the control unit supports a selected message protocol. In an exemplary embodiment, the selected message protocol is a Process Log-in (PRLI) and Process Log-out (PRLO) message protocol, which may be referred to as “PRLI/PRLO”. In an exemplary embodiment, an unused bit may be defined in a field in the RNID response, such as the Node Parameters field, that informs the channel if the control unit does or does not support PRLI/PRLO. PRLI messages may be used to establish service parameters between the channel 124 and the control unit 110, and PRLO messages may be used to invalidate existing service parameters so that new service parameters may be re-established.
RNID, PRLI and PRLO commands and responses are extended link service (ELS) messages. The Process Log-in and Process Log-out Extended Link service may be defined by Fibre Channel Framing and Signaling protocol (FC-FS), which is described further in “ANSI INCITS 433-2007, Information Technology Fibre Channel Link Services (FC-LS)”, July 2007, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The Request Node Identification Extended Link service may be defined by Fiber Channel single byte protocol, which is described in “Fibre Channel Single Byte Command Code Sets-3 Mapping Protocol (FC-SB-3), T11/Project 1357-D/Rev. 1.6, INCITS (March 2003), referenced above and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Once the channel 124 determines that the control unit 110 supports PRLI/PRLO, then a PRLI message is used by the channel 124 to determine if the control unit 110 supports the Transport Mode. If the control unit 110 does support the Transport Mode, the PRLI message is used to establish the required initial Transport Mode operating parameters.
In another exemplary embodiment, there is provided a system and method that allows one of the channel 124 or the control unit 110 (referred to as the “sender”) to inform the other (referred to as the “receiver”) that it will not accept new I/O operations for a selected period of time, and thereby instruct the receiver to suspend initiation of I/O operations for the period of time. The period of time may be specified by the sender. In one embodiment, this information is provided via a PRLO message, which specifies the period of time for suspension. In another embodiment, the period of time is subject to a maximum delay time specified by the channel 124 for suspension of I/O requests. In another embodiment, the period of time is subject to a limit presented by the channel 124 in a PRLI message.
Turning now to FIG. 9, a process 900 for identifying a compatible control unit 110 of an I/O processing system using data from the control unit 110 will now be described in accordance with exemplary embodiments, and in reference to the I/O processing system 100 of FIG. 1.
At block 902, the channel 124 sends a message to the control unit 110. In one exemplary embodiment, the message is a message that requests identification information, such as a RNID command.
At block 904, the control unit 110 may respond to the message, for example, in the form of a RNID Response. In one exemplary embodiment, a bit may be added in the RNID response. This bit informs the channel that the control unit 110 supports the selected message protocol.
In one example, the selected message protocol is a PRLI/PRLO protocol. The channel may identify a control unit that supports the PRLI/PRLO with a RNID command. A value for a bit in the RNID response may be set to indicate to the channel 124 that that control unit 110 supports PRLI/PRLO. For example, for a RNID response in the Fibre Channel single byte protocol, a bit may be used to identify compatibility, especially a bit that has been reserved in previous protocols.
For example, byte 1 (protocol byte), bit 3, (bits 3 to 7 have been reserved in previous protocols such as Command Mode protocols), of the Node Parameters field of the RNID response may be used to identify the control unit 110 as capable of supporting a Process Login with a Command Mode type code. The value of bits 0, 1 and 2 of this byte are not changed relative to previous protocols. By default, previous Command Mode control units will not turn this bit on in the Node Parameter field of the response to the RNID, thus informing the channel that the control unit does not support PRLI. This bit in the RNID response may be ignored by a non-Transport Mode capable channel 124.
At block 906, the channel 124 determines from the response (e.g., the RNID response) whether the control unit supports the selected message protocol (e.g., PRLI/PRLO).
At block 908, the channel 124 sends a message using the selected message protocol, such as a PRLI message, to determine whether the control unit 110 supports a selected mode, such as Transport Mode. In one exemplary embodiment, a data field is provided in which data may be included in a message in response to a command that indicates whether the mode supported by the channel is also supported by the control unit. The data may indicate to the channel 124 whether the control unit 110 can support the Transport Mode.
In an exemplary embodiment, the PRLI request is transmitted from the channel 124 to the control unit 110 to identify to the control unit 110 the capabilities that the channel 124 expects to use with the control unit 110 and to determine the capabilities of the control unit 110. In one exemplary embodiment, PRLI is used only to establish service parameters; it is not used to establish image pairs (e.g., logical representations of pairs of control units 110 and channels 124) and therefore all fields defined for establishing image pairs and process associaters are not used and are set to 0. Image pair establishment may be accomplished using an Establish Logical Path (ELP) function. The operating parameters negotiated during Process Login apply to all logical paths currently established or to be established between the channel 124 and the control unit 110.
In an exemplary embodiment, if the process login state is ever reset, the channel 124 will start with an RNID message to check for PRLI/PRLO support before resending PRLI to re-establish the service parameters. During link initialization, the Process Login function may be performed after N-Port Login and RNID but before establishment of logical paths. In some recovery scenarios, the PRLI can occur with logical paths already established. The state of the logical paths will not be affected when this occurs.
At block 910, the control unit 110 sends a response using the selected message protocol. For example, the control unit 110 may send a PRLI response to the channel 124. If the bit, i.e., the bit that indicated PRLI/PRLO support, is not set in the PRLI response then the channel 124 may not attempt any Transport Mode operations to the control unit 110 and the control unit 110 may not be marked as Transport Mode capable.
In an exemplary embodiment, in response to the PRLI request, the control unit 110 sends a “PRLI Accept” message to the channel 124 that reports the capabilities of the control unit 110 to the channel 124. An accept response code indicating other than REQUEST EXECUTED may be provided if a Transport Mode Service Parameter page of the PRLI message is incorrect. A Link Service Reject (LS_RJT) may be used to indicate that the PRLI request is not supported or is incorrectly formatted. PRLI accept response codes may be defined in the FC-FS protocol.
At block 912, if the data in the response from the control unit 110 (e.g., the bit set in the PRLI response message) indicates that the control unit supports the Transport Mode, the channel 124 may proceed to establish logical paths (if required), and initiate I/O operations in the Transport Mode.
Turning now to FIG. 10, an example of a PRLI Request message 1000 is depicted. The payload of the PRLI request 1000 may include a service parameter page which includes service parameters for one or all image pairs.
The service parameter page of the PRLI Request message 1000 may include multiple fields, such as type code 1002, type extension 1004, maximum initiation delay time 1006 and flags 1008. Each field in the page of the PRLI Request message 1000 is assigned to a particular byte address. Although one arrangement of fields within the page of the PRLI Request message 1000 is depicted in FIG. 10, it will be understood that the order of fields can be rearranged to alternate ordering within the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, fields in the page of the PRLI Request message 1000 can be omitted or combined within the scope of the invention.
The type code field 1002, located at word 0, byte 0, represents the protocol type code, such as the Fibre Channel Single Byte Protocol type code. For example, a value of hex “1B” in this byte indicates that this service parameter page 1000 is defined in the selected protocol (e.g. Fiber Channel single byte).
The maximum initiation delay time field 1004, located at word 3, byte 0, provides the maximum time (e.g. in seconds) that the channel 124 can allow in the Initiation Delay Time field in a process Logout (PRLO) from the control unit. Initiation delay time is further described below. Word 3, bytes 1 and 3 may be reserved and set to zero.
Flags 1008, in an exemplary embodiment, has the following definition:
Bit 0—Transport Mode/Command Mode. A value of this bit set to one (1) means that the sender supports both Command Mode (e.g. FICON) and Transport Mode. If the bit is set to zero (0), the sender only supports Command Mode. If the channel 124 sets this bit to a one, then the control unit 110 may respond with this bit set to one if it supports the Transport Mode.
Bits 1-6—Reserved.
Bit 7—First Transfer Ready for Data Disabled. If both the channel 124 and control unit 110 choose to disable the first write FCP_XFER_RDY IU, then all I/O operations performing writes between the channel and control unit shall operate without using the FCP_XFER_RDY IU before the first FCP_DATA IU. The FCP_XFER_RDY IU is transmitted to request each additional FCP_DATA IU, if any.
In one exemplary embodiment, the remaining fields in the page of the PRLI Request message 1000 may be reserved and/or set to zero (0). For example, bytes 2 and 3 of word 0, and words 1 and 2 are set to zero. Bytes 1 and 2 of word 3 may also be reserved.
Turning now to FIG. 11, an example of a PRLI Accept message 1100 is depicted. The payload of the PRLI Accept message 1100 may include a service parameter page.
The service parameter page of the PRLI Accept message 1100 may include multiple fields, such as type code 1102, type extension 1104, response code 1106, first burst size 1108 and flags 1110. Each field in the page of the PRLI Accept message 1100 is assigned to a particular byte address. Although one arrangement of fields within the page of the PRLI Accept message 1100 is depicted in FIG. 11, it will be understood that the order of fields can be rearranged to alternate ordering, or can be omitted or combined, within the scope of the disclosure.
The type code field 1102, located at word 0, byte 0, is the protocol type code, and is similar to the type code field 1002 of FIG. 10.
The response code field, located at word 0, byte 2, bits 4-7, and is defined by its corresponding protocol, such as the FC-FS protocol.
The First Burst Size field 1108, located at word 3, bytes 0-1, bits 0-15, provides the maximum amount of data (e.g., the maximum number of 4 k byte blocks of data) allowed in the first DATA IU that is sent immediately after the first transmission control IU (TC_IU), when the First Transfer Ready for Data Disabled flag bit (word 3, byte 3, bit 7) is set to one. A value of zero in this field indicates that there is no specified first burst size. Word 3 byte 2 is reserved.
Flags 1110 are similar to the flags 1008 of FIG. 10 described in conjunction with the PRLI Request. The control unit 110 sets values to these flags that correspond to the mode of operation it will run with the channel.
In one exemplary embodiment, the remaining fields in the page of the PRLI Accept message 1100 may be reserved and/or set to zero (0). For example, bits 1-3 of word 0, byte 2, and words 1 and 2 are set to zero. Byte 3 of word 0 is reserved and set to zero. Byte 2 of word 3 may also be reserved.
The following is an example of a procedure used by the channel 124 to identify the mode capability of a targeted control unit 110. In this example, the channel 124, operating in the Transport Mode, uses RNID and PRLI messages in a Log in procedure to identify mode capability. This procedure may occur before any I/O operations are attempted by the channel 124 to the control unit 110. The exemplary procedure is as follows:
1. Perform a Fabric Login.
2. Perform a N-Port Login.
3. Attempt a RNID. The channel 124 sends an RNID message to determine whether the control unit 110 supports PRLI/PRLO. If the RNID fails (e.g., the channel's RNID response timer times out or the channel 124 receives a fabric reject), I/O operations will not be driven to the control unit 110 by channel 124 until some new I/O operation attempted at channel 124 drives a RNID that is successful.
If the RNID is successful, i.e., the channel 124 receives a valid response, the channel 124 determines whether the control unit 110 supports PRLI/PRLO. A successful RNID is any valid response from the control unit 110, which may include, for example, a RNID response or a Link Service Reject. The channel 124 will assume PRLI/PRLO is not supported unless it receives a valid RNID response with the bit set explicitly indicating such support.
4. If PRLI is supported, then the channel 124 initiates a PRLI message. If PRLI is not supported, the channel 124 may drive I/O operations in the Command Mode (e.g., FICON). For example, the channel 124 may drive I/O operations after sending a successful Establish Logical Path (ELP) link control IU.
5. If the channel 124 receives a response from the control unit 110 indicating that transport mode is supported, the channel 124 may initiate I/O operations to the control unit 110 in either the Command Mode or the Transport Mode. In one embodiment, I/O operations are initiated after a successful ELP IU.
Turning now to FIG. 12, a process 1200 for suspending I/O operations between the channel 124 and the control unit 110 will now be described in accordance with exemplary embodiments, and in reference to the I/O processing system 100 of FIG. 1.
At block 1202, the channel 124 or the control unit 110, which has a need to hold off I/O operations for a period of time, may use a message such as a PRLO message to suspend operations. The channel 124 or control unit 110 that sends a PRLO message is referred to herein as the “sender”. The channel or control unit that receives (or is intended to receive) the PRLO message is referred to herein as the “receiver”.
At block 1204, the receiver receives the PRLO message and suspends all I/O operations for a period of time specified in the PRLO message. For example, if the control unit 110 receives the PRLO, it suspends I/O operations such as status messages. In another example, if a channel 124 receives the PRLO, it suspends I/O operations such as read or write commands. This allows the channel 124 or the control unit 110 to perform whatever internal functions are required without causing the loss of the logical paths or alerts such as interface control checks (IFCCs).
At block 1206, after the period of time specified in the PRLO, the channel 124 may re-initiate the login procedure between the channel 124 and the control unit 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the channel 124 executes a RNID and then a Process Log In.
At block 1208, after completion of the re-login procedure, the channel 124 and the control unit 110 may resume normal I/O operations
Turning now to FIG. 13, an example of a PRLO Request message 1300 is depicted. The payload of the PRLO Request 1300 may include a service parameter page, which includes service parameters for one or all image pairs.
The service parameter page of the PRLI Request 1300 may include multiple fields, such as type code 1302, type extension 1304, and initiation delay time 1306. Each field in the page 1300 is assigned to a particular byte address. Although one arrangement of fields within the page of the PRLI Request 1300 is depicted in FIG. 13, it will be understood that the order of fields can be rearranged to alternate ordering within the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, fields in the page of the PRLI Request 1300 can be omitted or combined within the scope of the invention.
The type code field 1302, located at word 0, byte 0, is the protocol type code, and is similar to the type code field 1002 of FIG. 10 described in the PRLI Request.
The initiation delay time field 1306, located at word 3, byte 0, indicates the amount of time that the receiver should wait before initiating any new I/O operations. If the PRLO is sent by the control unit 110, the delay time field 1306 indicates the wait time in seconds before the channel 124 may attempt PRLI to re-establish new operating parameters between the channel 124 and the control unit 110, or send a message such as a Test Initialization link control (TIN) message in response to a state change notification. If the PRLO is sent by the channel 124, the delay time field 1306 is set to a value that the channel 124 wants the control unit 110 to wait before sending I/O messages such as unsolicited status messages, or TIN messages in response to a state change notification. This time limit may be based on the channel's ability to delay sending I/O operation messages to the control unit 110 without causing higher levels of recovery to occur. During the time specified in the delay time field 1306, the channel 124 will not start any new Transport Mode or Command Mode I/O operations to the control unit. In one exemplary embodiment, the maximum value that can be set is specified by the Maximum Initiation Delay Time 1004 set by the channel 124 in the PRLI Request message 1000.
In one exemplary embodiment, the remaining fields in the page 1300 may be reserved and/or set to zero (0). For example, bytes 2 and 3 of word 0, and words 1 and 2 are set to zero. Bytes 1-3 of word 3 may also be reserved.
Turning now to FIG. 14, an example of a PRLO Accept message 1400 is depicted. The payload of the PRLO Accept message 1400 may include a service parameter page, which includes service parameters for one or all image pairs.
The service parameter page of the PRLO Accept message 1400 may include multiple fields, such as type code 1402, type extension 1404, and response code 1406. Each field in the page of the PRLO Accept 1400 is assigned to a particular byte address. Although one arrangement of fields within the page of the PRLO Accept 1400 is depicted in FIG. 14, it will be understood that the order of fields can be rearranged to alternate ordering, or can be omitted or combined, within the scope of the disclosure.
The type code field 1402, located at word 0, byte 0, is the protocol type code, and is similar to the type code field 1102 of the PRLI Accept.
The response code field 1406, located at word 0, byte 2, bits 4-7, is defined by its corresponding protocol, such as the FC-FS protocol.
In one exemplary embodiment, the remaining fields in the page of the PRLO Accept 1400 may be reserved and/or set to zero (0). For example, bits 1-3 of word 0, byte 2, and words 1 and 2 are set to zero. Byte 3 of word 0 is reserved and set to zero. Also, word 3 may be reserved.
The following is an example of a procedure used by the channel 124 to instruct or request suspension of I/O operations from the control unit 110. In this example, the channel 124 sends a PRLO message to the control unit 110 to suspend I/O operations. The procedure is as follows:
1. The channel 124 first stops driving all new Command Mode and Transport Mode operations.
2. The channel 124 may wait a selected amount of time, such as the amount of time specified in the Transport Mode protocol, to allow pending operations to complete.
3. The channel 124 sends a PRLO to the control unit with a period of time defined in the Initiation Delay Time field 1306.
4. The control unit 110 receives the PRLO, and in response performs one or more of the following:
4(a). Responding to all new Command Mode or Transport Mode commands from the channel 124 with busy messages. 4(b). Completing all active Command Mode operations and completing or terminating all active Transport Mode operations from the channel 124. The control unit 110 may then wait for a selected time period, such as 100 ms. 4(b). The control unit 110 then responds with the PRLO Accept message 1400 (“PRLO_ACC”).
During the time period specified in the initiation delay time field 1306, the control unit 110 will not attempt to present any unsolicited I/O operation messages, such as asynchronous status messages, to the channel 124 until after at least the channel 124 initiates new I/O operations (e.g., a new PRLI is sent from the channel 124) or until the Initiative Delay Time has passed. If or when the control unit 110 detects a state change, the control unit will not attempt to send a TIN until after the Initiative Delay Time period has passed.
5. After the channel 124 receives the PRLO_ACC, the channel may wait for another selected time period (e.g., 100 milliseconds) and then abort all active exchanges to the control unit 110. The channel 124 may then perform any functions needed that prompted the PRLO.
6. In an exemplary embodiment, the channel 124 may then re-initiate the login procedure with the control unit 110 by sending an RNID to the control unit 110. The channel 124 may not proceed until a successful response has been received for the RNID. After a certain number of unsuccessful attempts (e.g., four attempts), the channel 124 may remove all logical paths locally and drive a state change directly to the control unit 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the channel 124 will attempt to perform an End port to End port Registered State Change Notification (RSCN), or other function to indicate to the control unit that a state change has occurred.
7. The control unit 110 may respond to the RNID by indicating whether it supports PRLI/PRLO.
8. If the control unit 110 supports PRLI/PRLO, the channel 124 may send a PRLI to the control unit 110. The PRLI may include all the service parameters for Transport Mode operation. The channel 124 may not proceed until a successful response has been received for the PRLI. The control unit 110 responds with the PRI ACC response. If a state change event did occur, the control unit 110 may send the required TIN independent of the Initiation Delay Time period.
9. In an exemplary embodiment, if the control unit 110 does not support PRLI/PRLO, then all of the Transport Mode operations that the channel 124 may have queued up are returned to the OS 103 with a program check and a related alert, such as a Subchannel-Status Extension field reason code: “Transport Mode not supported by the CU”.
10. The channel 124 is now ready to drive new I/O operations to the control unit 110.
The following is an example of a procedure used by the control unit 110 to instruct or request suspension of I/O operations from the channel 124. In this example, the control unit 110 sends a PRLO message to the channel 124 to suspend I/O operations. The procedure is as follows:
1. First, the control unit 110 may return busy signals for any messages regarding new I/O operations, and may complete or terminate all pending Transport Mode and Command Mode operations.
2. The control unit 110 sends a PRLO to the channel 124 with a period of time defined in the Initiation Delay Time field 1306.
3. The channel 124 stops driving new Command Mode and Transport Mode operations and waits a selected time period (e.g., at least 100 ms) before responding with a PRLO ACC. The channel 124 may also complete or terminate all pending operations, and then abort any exchanges that are still active and generate an alert such as an interface control check (IFCC) interrupt for each exchange aborted.
4. The channel 124 waits the Initiative Delay Time period.
5. The channel 124 then sends the RNID message and does not proceed with Channel Mode or Transport Mode operations until a successful response from the control unit 110 has been received for the RNID. This process is similar to the process used when initiating the login procedure for the first time.
6. The control 110 unit may respond to the RNID by indicating whether it supports PRLI/PRLO.
7. If the control unit 110 supports PRLI/PRLO, the channel 124 sends a PRLI to the control unit 110. The PRLI may include all service parameters for Transport Mode operation. The channel 124 may not proceed until a successful response has been received for the PRLI. The control unit 110 may respond with the PRLI Accept response 1400.
8. In an exemplary embodiment, if a state change is received anytime between the PRLO and a successful PRLI, the channel 124 will drive a TIN. The channel 124 must also delay initiative to send the TIN until the time expires or an asynchronous status message is received from the control unit 110. If the TIN is unsuccessful, then the logical paths may be removed and re-established before new I/O operations are initiated.
9. In an exemplary embodiment, if the PRLI is not successful, or if the control unit does not support PRLI/PRLO, then all of the Transport Mode operations that the channel 124 may have queued up are returned to the OS 103 with a program check and a related alert, such as a Subchannel-Status Extension field reason code: “Transport Mode not supported by the CU”.
10. The channel 124 is now ready to drive new I/O operations to the control unit 110.
The following is an example of a procedure used by the control unit 110 to perform one or more system changes. Such changes may include, without limitation, at least one update such as a code update and/or reload, a computer program installation, a control unit recovery, and a change in operating parameters; and change operating parameters. The computer program installation may include installation of firmware by, for example, an adapter in the host system 101. For example, this procedure allows for control unit recovery to occur without interfering with pending I/O operations, or causing errors and/or alerts such as interface control checks (IFCCs). In one example, a change in operating parameters may include a mode change of the channel 124 and/or the control unit 110, such as a change between the Transport Mode and the Command Mode.
Although this exemplary procedure is described as being performed by the control unit 110, it may also be performed by the channel 124. This procedure may incorporate the use of the PRLO message. The PRLO, RNID and PRLI may be used by the control unit 110 to dynamically change the operating parameters and perform other system changes without interfering with ongoing system operations and without losing the logical paths that were previously established. The procedure is as follows:
1. To change the operating parameters the control unit 110 sends a Process Log out with a time period set in the Initiation Delay Time field 1306.
2. The control unit 110 may perform any required or desired changes in operating parameters or perform any updates needed or desired.
3. In response to the PRLO, the channel 124 suspends I/O operations for the period specified in the Delay Time field 1306, and thereafter initiates a new Process Log in to establish the new parameters.
For example, if a logical connection has been made between a Transport Mode capable channel 124 and the control unit 110, and the control unit 110 needs to perform an update, such as a Licensed Internal Code (LIC) back-off to a code load that does not support Transport Mode, or needs to perform a LIC code update that now supports Transport Mode, the control unit 110 first sends a Process Log out as in the example described above.
The control unit 110 may perform the code update after sending the PRLO.
The channel 124 suspends all new work to the control unit 110 and waits the amount of time specified in the PRLO message, before sending a RNID to the control unit 110. In an exemplary embodiment, only if the bit is set in the RNID response that indicates support for PRLI will the channel send a PRLI to the control unit 110 as part of re-establishing a link with the control unit 110. This allows a code reload to work independent of a level change, either forward or backward relative to supporting or not supporting Transport Mode.
If the control unit 110 no longer supports Transport Mode, the channel 124 will return all the Transport Mode I/O operations for the control unit 110 to the OS 103 with a program check and a related alert, such as a Subchannel-Status Extension field reason code: “Transport Mode not supported by the CU”. The Transport Mode I/O operations being returned to the OS 103 may inform the OS 103 that the control unit 110 no longer supports Transport Mode.
In an exemplary embodiment, if a control unit's code is updated from supporting only Command Mode to supporting Transport Mode, the control unit 110 will transmit a State Change command to the channel 124. This will cause a channel 124 that supports Transport Mode to send an RNID before the channel 124 sends the TIN message. The RNID accept from the control unit 110 informs the channel 124 that the control unit now supports PRLI/PRLO. This will cause the channel 124 to send the PRLI to the control unit 110 and discover that the control unit 110 supports Transport mode. This will now allow the channel 124 to accept Transport mode I/O operations for the control unit 110.
In an exemplary embodiment, the control unit 110 may also generate a summary status to the OS 103. This will result in the operating system reading node descriptor data from the control unit 110 that will inform the operating system that the control unit 110 now supports Transport Mode.
Technical effects of exemplary embodiments include the ability of the channel subsystem to identify control units as compatible (e.g., transport mode capable) without causing problems in an incompatible (e.g., command mode capable such as FICON) control unit that does not support the mode of the channel subsystem. Other technical effects include the ability of the channel subsystem or the control unit to direct the suspension of I/O operations for a period of time.
The systems and methods described herein provide numerous advantages, in that they provide an effective way for a channel to determine whether a control unit operates in a compatible mode. Additional advantages include provision of an effective way for the control unit to suspend commands without the use of busy messages or other responses that may cause errors in the I/O sequence. Further advantages include the ability to perform system changes, such as exchanging selected operating parameters between the control unit and the channel, without causing errors in I/O function and without causing loss of logical paths. Prior art methods do not provide an ability to perform such system changes without avoiding errors, especially errors in I/O operations initiated before or during such changes.
For example, there is no link protocol using CCWs (e.g., FICON) that includes protocols for exchanging operating parameters required by protocols using TCWs (e.g., transport mode protocol). Furthermore, there is no protocol that allows either the channel or the control unit to inform the other that it wants to stop receiving requests for new work for a selected period of time.
In prior art FICON protocols, for example, when the channel needs to suspend operations, it will stop driving new work, i.e., sending new commands for new I/O operations. When the control unit needs to suspend operations, it will respond to commands for new work with a “busy” message. However, this response may result in an error such as an interface timeout and an associated interface control check (IFCC), and/or result in the loss of the logical path established by, e.g., the “Establish Logical Path” (ELP) link control IU.
The systems and methods described herein overcome these disadvantages and provide the advantages described above.
As described above, embodiments can be embodied in the form of computer-implemented processes and apparatuses for practicing those processes. In exemplary embodiments, the invention is embodied in computer program code executed by one or more network elements. Embodiments include a computer program product 1500 as depicted in FIG. 15 on a computer usable medium 1502 with computer program code logic 1504 containing instructions embodied in tangible media as an article of manufacture. Exemplary articles of manufacture for computer usable medium 1502 may include floppy diskettes, CD-ROMs, hard drives, universal serial bus (USB) flash drives, or any other computer-readable storage medium, wherein, when the computer program code logic 1504 is loaded into and executed by a computer, the computer becomes an apparatus for practicing the invention. Embodiments include computer program code logic 1504, for example, whether stored in a storage medium, loaded into and/or executed by a computer, or transmitted over some transmission medium, such as over electrical wiring or cabling, through fiber optics, or via electromagnetic radiation, wherein, when the computer program code logic 1504 is loaded into and executed by a computer, the computer becomes an apparatus for practicing the invention. When implemented on a general-purpose microprocessor, the computer program code logic 1504 segments configure the microprocessor to create specific logic circuits.
While the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, the use of the terms first, second, etc. do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element from another. Furthermore, the use of the terms a, an, etc. do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.
1. A computer program product for processing communications between a target and an initiator in an input/output processing system, comprising a tangible storage medium readable by a processing circuit and storing instructions for execution by the processing circuit for performing a method comprising:
sending a message between the initiator and the target, the message requesting suspension of input/output operations between the initiator and the target for a period of time, the period of time being defined by the message; and responsive to the message, suspending input/output operation messages for the period of time.
2. The computer program product of claim 1, wherein one of the target and the initiator is a channel subsystem of a host computer system, and another of the target and the initiator is a control unit capable of commanding and determining a status of an I/O device.
3. The computer program product of claim 2, wherein the message is initiated from the control unit, and the period of time is subject to a maximum period specified in a Process Log-in (PRLI) message sent by the channel.
4. The computer program product of claim 1, wherein the message is a Process Log-out (PRLO) message.
5. The computer program product of claim 1, wherein the message comprises a data setting in a field of the message that defines the period of time.
6. The computer program product of claim 1, wherein suspending comprises at least one of: terminating input/output operations pending between the initiator and the target, completing input/output operations pending between the initiator and the target, and stopping input/output operation messages during the period of time.
7. The computer program product of claim 1, further comprising initiating new input/output operations after expiration of the period of time.
8. The computer program product of claim 2, wherein the message is initiated from the control unit, and the method further comprises initiating a login procedure between the channel and the control unit after expiration of the period of time.
9. The computer program product of claim 2, wherein the message is initiated from the channel subsystem, and the method further comprises sending unsolicited status messages to the channel subsystem after expiration of the period of time.
10. The computer program product of claim 1, wherein the message is initiated from the initiator, and the target initiates new input/output operations after at least one of: initiation of new input/output operations by the initiator, and expiration of the period of time.
11. An apparatus for processing communications in an input/output processing system, comprising:
an initiator, and a target in communication with the initiator, the apparatus performing: sending a message between the initiator and the target, the message requesting suspension of input/output operations between the initiator and the target for a period of time, the period of time being defined by the message; and responsive to the message, suspending input/output operation messages for the period of time.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein one of the target and the initiator is a channel subsystem of a host computer system, and another of the target and the initiator is a control unit capable of commanding and determining a status of an I/O device.
13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the message is initiated from the control unit, and the period of time is subject to a maximum period specified in a Process Log-in (PRLI) message sent by the channel.
14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the message is a Process Log-out (PRLO) message.
15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein suspending comprises at least one of: terminating input/output operations pending between the initiator and the target, completing input/output operations pending between the initiator and the target, and initiating new input/output operations after expiration of the period of time.
16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the message is initiated from the control unit, and the method further comprises initiating a login procedure between the channel and the control unit after expiration of the period of time.
17. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the message is initiated from the channel subsystem, and the method further comprises sending unsolicited status messages to the channel subsystem after expiration of the period of time.
18. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the message is initiated from the initiator, and the target initiates new input/output operations after at least one of: initiation of new input/output operations by the initiator, and expiration of the period of time.
19. A method of processing communications between an initiator and a target in an input/output processing system, the method comprising:
sending a message between the initiator and the target, the message requesting suspension of input/output operations between the initiator and the target for a period of time, the period of time being defined by the message; and responsive to the message, suspending input/output operation messages for the period of time.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein one of the target and the initiator is a channel subsystem of a host computer system, and another of the target and the initiator is a control unit capable of commanding and determining a status of an I/O device.
| 2008-07-29 | en | 2009-08-20 |
US-201113813067-A | Vegetable and fruit juice powder
ABSTRACT
A powder food product comprising one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combination thereof together with an amount of whey protein isolate effective to encapsulate the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combination thereof.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application claims priority from AU 2010903409 the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to vegetable powders and fruit juice powders and a process for making the powders.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Commercial Orange Juice Production Process and Production Forms
Freshly extracted orange juice is filtered through a finisher (screen) where the pulp and seeds are removed, and along with the peel, diverted to be used for by-products. At this stage, the juice is generally made into one of two product forms: bulk frozen concentrated orange juice (FCOJ) or not-from-concentrate (NFC).
(i) Bulk FCOJ
Juice made into bulk FCOJ is sent to an evaporator where vacuum and heat are used to remove excess water in order to obtain a base concentrate of 65° brix, which is a seven-to-one strength ratio to normal single-strength juice. The bulk FCOJ is then stored at 20° F. or lower until it is sold or packaged for sale. Bulk FCOJ is packaged by orange juice marketers into either frozen concentrated orange juice or chilled reconstituted (recon) ready-to-serve (RTS) orange juice. Packaged FCOJ is made by adding single-strength juice or water and flavour oils and essences to bulk FCOJ to reduce it from 65° brix to 42° brix, which is a four-to-one strength ratio to normal single-strength juice. To convert this FCOJ into ready-to-drink orange juice, consumers thaw it and then mix it with three parts water.
Reconstituted RTS juice is made by adding water and flavour oils and essences to bulk FCOJ to reduce it from 65° brix to 11.8° brix, pasteurizing it, packaging it in cardboard cartons or glass containers and selling it as chilled reconstituted orange juice.
(ii) NFC
Juice made into NFC is de-oiled to 0.02%-0.04% oil levels with a centrifuge, then either pasteurized, chilled and packaged or stored for future sale and/or packaging. NFC is usually stored as frozen as blocks, or pasteurized and chilled.
Powdered Food Products
Powdered food products are generally useful and advantageous compared to their liquid counter-parts as they have increased shelf life, decreased volume/weight, decreased packaging and are easier to handle and transport. Besides, this iysical state provides a stable, natural, easily dosable ingredient which generally finds usage in many foods and pharmaceutical products.
Spray drying is a common method of manufacture for dehydrated liquid foods where the moisture is quickly removed resulting in mostly amorphous solid or a powder.
The dehydration of fruit and vegetable juices however is particularly difficult. The chemical composition of fruit and vegetables is complex. Fruit juices and purees contain approximately 90% dry material comprising a mixture of hydrocarbons; monosaccharides, (glucose, fructose), and disaccharides (saccharose and polysaccharides). To these substances are added nitrogen containing substances, organic acids such as citric, malic, tartaric acid, etc, polyphenyl substances, and vitamins. The presence of acids presents yet another complication, and that is pH.
With a mixture of glucose and fructose, fruit juices and purees have low glass transition temperatures. While glucose has a glass transition temperature of about 31° C., fructose has a glass transition temperature of only about 5° C. The temperatures used during spray drying manufacturing processes are likely to be higher than the glass transition temperatures of the food product. This leads to problems during spray drying in controlling the drying time, adhesion to dryer wall, removal of the product from the dryer, caking and subsequently handling of the product. This in turn leads to reduced product stability, decreased yields and potentially spray-dryer operating problems.
Fruit juices and purees are also hygroscopic and tend to absorb moisture from surroundings. The absorption of water leads to the rise of particles sticking together and to the dryer wall during spray drying.
To address these problems drying aids having high Tg values are added to the food product. Drying aids reduce overall stickiness of products such as fruit juices by raising the Tg value. However, additives fundamentally change the nature of the products and increase the cost of the product. Currently, the most commonly used drying aids are high molecular weight carbohydrates such as maltodextrin, which are used at concentrations up to 65% of the final product.
Experiments described by Roustapour et al., [An Experimental Investigation of Lime Juice Drying in a Pilot Plant Spray Dryer Drying Technology, 24:181-188, 2006] with lime juice illustrate the difficulty of spray drying fruit juice. Roustapour disclose that one of the major problems with lime juice is that it consists of invert sugars and citric acid which have low glass transition temperatures. Due to this characteristic, the particles stick on the dry wall upon their collision method. As a result, drying of these materials is very difficult. In order to solve this problem various percentages of silicone dioxide and maltodextran based on total soluble solid content of lime juice have been used to reach a suitable drying condition. A cool chamber wall spray dried was used in order to decrease the probability of particle stickiness on the wall. Investigation revealed that an addition of 10% silicone dioxide and 20% maltodextran to lime juice is the optimum amount for a complete and successful drying of lime juice.
Other additives and complex manufacturing processes are described for example in U.S. Pat. No. 4,281,026. This US patent describes a process for producing a fruit preparation from a natural fruit juice, where the process comprises removing water from the juice by flowing the juice on a heated, reciprocable, inclinable surface to reduce the water content to 10 to 25% by volume. A crystalline modifying agent is then added to the product. The modifying agent and the product are then blended while heating them.
The heating and blending is continued until the water content of the product is in the range of 1 to 15% by volume.
Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In work leading to the present invention, the inventors investigated the encapsulation efficiency of proteins, hybrid additives including proteins and polysaccharide, and the surface activity of proteins and polysaccharide when used to encapsulate powdered vegetable and fruit food products.
Surprisingly the inventors found that whey protein isolates or hybrid additives including whey protein isolates and maltodextrin provide a superior encapsulating agent for a fruit and/or vegetable powder product. The inventors also found that quail egg white protein acts as a better encapsulating agent then why protein isolates. In particular the inventors investigated the use of these proteins using spray drying techniques.
The primary advantage of using these proteins as encapsulating agents was found to be their potential ability to dominate powder surfaces at low concentrations (in preferred embodiments, the concentration is from about 0.5 wt % to about 30 wt %). This is dramatically lower than the concentrations currently used with alternated encapsulating agents such as maltodextrin (˜60 wt %). This advantage presents further benefits, such as reduction in costs due to using smaller quantities of additives, as well as minimal alteration to the flavour and texture of food materials.
Disclosed herein is a powder food product comprising fruit, vegetable or combination thereof together with a whey protein isolate. Accordingly the product comprises a fruit and/or vegetable core together with, or encapsulated by, whey protein isolate. The whey protein isolate may encapsulate the fruit and/or vegetable core or the whey protein isolate may act as a carrier. The whey protein isolate can also be referred to as a coating, outer-layer, wall or film.
Accordingly, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a powder food product comprising one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combinations thereof together with an amount of whey protein isolate effective to encapsulate the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combinations thereof.
Said another way, the invention provides a food product comprising one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combinations thereof together with an amount of a whey protein isolate effective to encapsulate the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combinations thereof, wherein the food product is in powder form.
In one example the powder food product can be reconstituted, and accordingly the reconstituted form of the product is within the scope of the inventive product.
Accordingly, in a third aspect, the invention provides use of a powder food product according to the first aspect in the preparation of a reconstituted food product.
In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides use of a whey protein isolate in the preparation of a powder food product comprising one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combinations thereof. Preferably the whey protein isolate is used in an amount effective to encapsulate the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combinations thereof.
Also disclosed herein is a method of manufacturing a powder food product comprising a whey protein isolate and a fruit or vegetable or combination thereof.
Accordingly, in a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a method of manufacturing a powder food product comprising a whey protein isolate and one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combinations thereof, the method comprising preparing a solution of one or more fruit and/or vegetable juices and whey protein isolate and spray drying the solution to form the powder food product.
Throughout this specification the word “comprise”, or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.
It will be understood that the “one or more fruit components” are derived from one or more fruits and the “one or more vegetable components” are derived from one or more vegetables. The term “fruit components” includes components derived from any number of parts of the fruit including but not limited to the juice, pulp, husk, rind, skin, oils and any other component of the fruit. Similarly, the term “vegetable components” includes components derived from any number of parts of the vegetable including but not limited to the juice, pulp, husk, rind, skin, oils and any other component of the vegetable. In a preferred embodiment, the “fruit components” and “vegetable components” are derived from the juice, extracts, derivatives and/or distillates of the fruit and vegetable components.
The fruit can (for example) be selected from the group comprising citrus fruits (preferably clementine, lime, grapefruit, mandarin, tangerine, kumquat, minneola, tangelo, lemon, orange and pummelo, etc), apples, guavas, mangoes, berries (eg blueberries blackberries, mulberries, strawberries, cranberries and gooseberries), bananas, lychees, pineapples, tomatoes, melons, peaches, nectarines, grapes, zucchini, figs, pears, melons, dates, papaya, persimmons, plums and apricots. etc or any combination thereof. This group is not exhaustive. Citrus fruits, as indicated above, and apples are particularly preferred. More preferred examples of citrus fruits are oranges, lemons, mandarins, tangerines and grapefruit. Preferably the fruit is selected from oranges and/or apples. Mixtures of any fruits especially with oranges and/or apples are contemplated.
Low-acid foods (less acidic) have pH values higher than about 5 and up to about 6.9. Non-acidic or alkaline foods have pH values of 7.0 or greater. Fruits that are less acidic include for example figs, Asian pears, melons, bananas, dates, papaya, ripe pineapple and persimmons. In one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the one or more fruit components is derived from one or more fruits having a pH of higher than about 5.
Highly acidic foods have a pH of less than about 5. In one embodiment of the invention at least one of the one or more fruit components is derived from a fruit having a low pH of less than about 5. In one example the fruit has a pH as low as 2. Described herein are fruits having a pH of about 2.5-5, about pH 3-5, about 3.5-5, about 4-5. Fruits that are highly acidic include for example apples, apricots, blueberries, cranberries, gooseberries, plums and citrus fruits including oranges, grapefruit and lemons.
Preferably the powder food product described herein includes at least one fruit solid derived from a high acidic fruit, that is, a fruit having a low pH. Most preferably the fruit is apple or a citrus fruit having a low pH. In one example, the fruit is an orange. In another example, the fruit is apple. In another example it is two or more fruits at least one of which has a low pH. In one example the powder food product comprises orange components and at least one other fruit components.
The term “vegetable” is understood to refer to a plant cultivated for an edible part, such as the root of the beet, the leaf of spinach, or the flower buds of broccoli or cauliflower. All vegetables are included within the scope of the invention. This can include fungi such as mushrooms. Preferred vegetables are those that can be juiced, for example, celery, carrots, beetroot, ginger, spinach, zucchini or any combination thereof. This group is not exhaustive.
Almost all vegetables are either low acid or non-acidic.
Accordingly, in one embodiment of the first aspect of the invention there is provided a powder food product comprising vegetable components together with a whey protein isolate. For example the vegetable is selected from the group comprising celery, carrots, beetroot, ginger, spinach, or any combination thereof.
Powder Product
The powder food product of the invention is in powder form. The food product of the invention may be a fruit powder product, a vegetable powder product or a fruit and vegetable powder product.
In one embodiment, there is disclosed a powder food product comprising one or more fruit components together with one or more vegetable components. Any combination of fruit components and/or vegetable components is envisaged. In one example the fruit and vegetable components are derived from a fruit that has high acidity and a vegetable has low acidity or is non-acidic.
In one example the combination comprises orange components and one or more vegetable components. In another example, the combination comprises apple components and one or more vegetable components.
The fruit and vegetable powder products are preferably suitable for reconstitution. Preferably with water, but can be with other liquid. In various examples the fruit and vegetable powders can be used to make a fruit and/or vegetable drink, soft drinks, liquid stock or other liquid. In other examples the powders can be used in powder form as flavourings, powder stock, drug coatings, tableting, confectionary, cake mixes, biscuit mixes. The powder can also be pressed into tablet form.
Described herein are powder food products which preferably comprise ≧40% w/w and ≦99% fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof. Preferably the powder food products comprise ≧45% w/w fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof, preferably ≧50% w/w fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof, preferably ≧55% w/w fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof, more preferably ≧60% w/w fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof, more preferably ≧65% w/w fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof, more preferably ≧70% w/w, and ≦99% fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof. Most preferably the food product comprises ≧75% w/w fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof, preferably ≧80% w/w fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof, preferably ≧85% w/w fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof, preferably ≧90% w/w fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof, preferably ≧95% w/w, and ≦99% fruit components, vegetable components or mixtures thereof.
In one embodiment, the fruit and/or vegetable components are solids and/or oils.
Examples of the invention include a range of fruit components and vegetable components such as for example about 40% w/w, about 70% w/w, about 80% w/w, about 90% w/w, about 95% w/w, about 98% w/w and about 99% w/w fruit components, vegetable components or mixture thereof.
Whey protein isolate (which may be referred to hereinafter as “WPI”) refers to a mixture of globular proteins isolated from whey. Whey proteins are low molecular weight proteins isolated from dairy proteins. As described herein, the whey protein isolate may be used as a carrier or an encapsulating agent.
According to the first aspect of the invention, the powder food product described herein comprises an amount of whey protein isolate effective to encapsulate the one or more fruit components and/or vegetable components. Therefore, according to the first aspect of the invention, the whey protein isolate acts as an encapsulating agent by encapsulating the fruit components and/or vegetable components.
The food product described herein preferably comprises 50% or less whey protein isolate content. Preferably the lower limit of whey protein isolate is 0.01% w/w. For example the whey protein isolate content is ≦50% w/w, preferably ≦45% w/w, preferably ≦40% w/w, preferably ≦35% w/w, preferably ≦30% w/w, preferably ≦25% w/w, preferably ≦20% w/w, preferably ≦15% w/w, preferably ≦10% w/w, preferably ≦5% w/w, preferably ≦4% w/w, preferably ≦3% w/w, preferably ≦2% w/w, preferably ≦1% w/w, preferably ≦0.5% w/w, and ≧0.01% w/w.
The food product described herein comprises an amount of whey protein isolate that is more than 0% w/w, that is, there is at least some protein. Preferably the upper limit of whey protein isolate is 50% w/w. Preferably the amount of protein is ≧0.01% w/w, preferably ≧0.02% w/w, preferably ≧0.05% w/w, preferably ≧0.75% w/w, preferably ≧0.1% w/w, preferably ≧0.2% w/w, preferably ≧0.3% w/w, preferably ≧0.4% w/w, preferably ≧0.5% w/w, preferably ≧0.6% w/w, preferably ≧0.7% w/w preferably ≧0.8% w/w, preferably ≧0.9% w/w, preferably ≧1% w/w, wherein the amount is ≦50% w/w.
Most preferably the amount of whey protein isolate is about 0.01-50% w/w, preferably about 0.02-45% w/w, preferably about 0.05-40% w/w, preferably about 0.75-35% w/w, preferably about 0.1-30% w/w, preferably about 0.2-30% w/w, preferably about 0.3-30% w/w, preferably about 0.4-30% w/w, preferably about 0.5-30% w/w, preferably about 0.6-30% w/w, preferably about 0.7-30% w/w, preferably about 0.8-30% w/w, preferably about 0.9-30% w/w, preferably about 1.0-30% w/w, preferably about 0.1-25% w/w, preferably about 0.2-25% w/w, preferably about 0.3-25% w/w, preferably about 0.4-25% w/w, preferably about 0.5-25% w/w, preferably about 0.6-25% w/w, preferably about 0.7-25% w/w, preferably about 0.8-25% w/w, preferably about 0.9-25% w/w, preferably about 1.0-25% w/w, preferably about 0.1-20% w/w, preferably about 0.2-20% w/w, preferably about 0.3-20% w/w, preferably about 0.4-20% w/w, preferably about 0.5-20% w/w, preferably about 0.6-20% w/w, preferably about 0.7-20% w/w, preferably about 0.8-20% w/w, preferably about 0.9-20% w/w, preferably about 1.0-20% w/w.
In one embodiment, the whey protein isolate is the sole additive in the powder food product of the invention.
In preferred embodiments, the amount of whey protein isolate is about 0.5% w/w-10%% w/w, preferably 0.5-5% w/w, more preferably 0.5-2% w/w. In one example the whey protein isolate content is about 0.5% w/w. In another example the whey protein isolate content is about 1.0% w/w, in another example the whey protein isolate content is about 2.5% w/w, in another example the whey protein isolate content is 5.0% w/w, in another example the whey protein isolate content is 10% w/w. Preferably, the fruit components are derived from oranges, preferably orange juice.
In a preferred embodiment, the amount of whey protein isolate is about 20-50% w/w, preferably about 20-45% w/w, preferably, 20-40% w/w, preferably, 20-35% w/w, preferably 20-30% w/w, preferably 20-25% w/w, preferably about 20% w/w. Preferably, the fruit components are derived from apples, preferably apple juice. One or more other extraneous additives can be included in the powder food product of the present invention including but not limited to of maltodextrin, gum arabic or any preservative. In one preferred embodiment, maltodextrin can is included. The advantage of the present invention is that these additives are not required and can be avoided. That is, described herein are food powder products that most preferably exclude additives such as maltodextrin. The inventors have found however, that inclusion of whey protein isolate in combination with other additives, such as maltodextrin, can provide favourable yields of the powder food product to above 60%, which meets the industry requirements. In particular the inventors have found that relative small quantities of other additives, such as maltodextrin, are required when used in combination with whey protein isolate.
The powder food product of the invention may further comprises an amount of extraneous additive that is ≦about 50% w/w, preferably ≦about 45% w/w, preferably ≦about 40% w/w, preferably ≦about 35% w/w, preferably ≦about 30% w/w, preferably ≦about 25% w/w, preferably ≦about 20% w/w, preferably ≦about 15% w/w, preferably ≦about 10% w/w, preferably ≦about 5% w/w, preferably ≦about 4% w/w, preferably ≦about 3% w/w, preferably ≦about 2% w/w, preferably ≦about 1% w/w, most preferably ≦about 0.5% w/w, ≦about 0.1% w/w. Preferably the lower limit of the further extraneous additive is 0.01% w/w. In one embodiment it is present in non-detectable amounts.
Preferably, the food product comprises extraneous additive in an amount of about 0.01-20% w/w, preferably about 0.1-15% w/w, preferably about 0.2-10% w/w, preferably about 0.4-8% w/w, preferably about 0.5-5% w/w, preferably about 5% w/w, preferably about 2.5% w/w, more preferably about 1% w/w most preferably about 0.5% w/w. In one preferred embodiment the extraneous additive is maltodextrin,
Preferably, the powder food product comprises about 0.5 to 20% w/w maltodextrin and about 0.05 to 20% w/w whey protein isolate. Preferably, the juice components are derived from oranges or apples.
In one embodiment, the total amount of additive is about 1-10% w/w. Preferably, the additives include only whey protein isolate and maltodextrin. In one preferred embodiment, the powder food product comprises 0.5 to 5% w/w maltodextrin and 0.5 to 5% w/w whey protein isolate. In these embodiments, the juice components is preferably derived from oranges. The inventors have found that additives in amount of 1-10% w/w is effective in providing a powder food product containing orange components, that has favourable characteristics, such as lack of stickiness as determined by a high yield following spray drying.
In particularly preferred embodiments, there are provided powder food products containing orange components that comprise:
i) about 0.5% w/w maltodextrin and about 0.5% w/w whey protein isolate,
ii) about 1% w/w maltodextrin and about 1% w/w whey protein isolate,
iii) about 2.5% w/w maltodextrin and about 2.5% w/w whey protein isolate
iv) about 5% w/w maltodextrin and about 5% w/w whey protein isolate,
v) 0% w/w maltodextrin and about 1% w/w whey protein isolate.
In yet another embodiment of the invention, the powder food product comprises 1 to 20% w/w maltodextrin and 1 to 20% w/w whey protein isolate. In this embodiment, the juice component is preferably derived from apples. The inventors have found that additives in a total amount of about 20% w/w is effective in providing a powder food product containing apple components, that has favourable characteristics, such as lack of stickiness as determined by a high yield following spray drying. Preferably, the total amount of additive is about 20% w/w. Preferably, the additives include only whey protein isolate and maltodextrin.
In particularly preferred embodiments, there are provided powder food products containing apple components that comprises
i) about 19% w/w maltodextrin and about 1% w/w whey protein isolate,
ii) about 15% w/w maltodextrin and about 5% w/w whey protein isolate,
iii) about 10% w/w maltodextrin and about 10% w/w whey protein isolate,
iv) about 5% w/w maltodextrin and about 15% w/w whey protein isolate,
v) about 5% w/w maltodextrin and about 15% w/w whey protein isolate,
vi) about 1% w/w maltodextrin and about 19% w/w whey protein isolate or
v) 0% w/w maltodextrin and about 20% whey protein isolate.
In another embodiment of the invention the powder food product comprises about 50% w/w maltodextrin and about 10% whey protein isolate. In another example the product is produced comprising 20% maltodextrin and 10% whey protein isolate. In yet more examples a product is produced comprising 5.0%, 2.5%, 1.0, and 0.5% each of maltodextrin and 20, 15, 10% or less whey protein isolate.
It will be understood that an additive is not restricted to maltodextrin and can include other additives, such as for example, gum arabic or any preservative. Maltodextrin, if present at all, can be in a resistant form. This has added health benefits.
Moreover many other additives can be included in the final product for which the powder food product is intended. If for example the powder is to be pressed into a tablet then the person skilled in the art will recognise that suitable excipients will be required.
Methods of Manufacture
Methods of manufacture refer to methods of microencapsulation that are suitable for making food powders. Microencapsulation methods are selected from the group including spray drying, spray cooling and chilling, fluidized bed coating, extrusion, freeze drying and co-crystallization.
In one particular example the method for making the powder comprises spray drying.
According to the fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a food powder product comprising fruit components, vegetable components or combination thereof the method comprising preparing a solution of fruit and/or vegetable juice and whey protein isolate and spray drying the solution to form a powder.
In one example the solution is prepared by dissolving the whey protein isolate in water then mixing the solubilised protein with fruit or vegetable juice. Preferably the water is at room temperature (˜22 degrees C.-26 degrees C.).
In another example the whey protein isolate is not first dissolved in water. Preferably the solution is prepared by dissolving the whey protein isolate in juice. Preferably the juice is at room temperature (˜22 degrees C.-26 degrees C.).
In one example the method includes extracting the juice from the fruit or vegetable. In another example the method does not include extracting the juice from the fruit or vegetable. The juice per se can be obtained from a third party. The juice can be in concentrated form or in non-concentrated form.
In one example the juice is treated to remove pulp and other solids. In another example the juice is not treated to remove pulp and other solids. The total solids content of the juice can be measured by methods well known in the art. In one example the method comprises determining the total solids content of the juice.
In one example the solution of protein and fruit juice is fed into a spray drying machine with an inlet temperature of about 100-230 degrees C. Preferably the inlet temperature is about 130-220 degrees C., more preferably 160-190 degrees C. In one example the inlet temperature is about 130 degrees C.
In one example the outlet temperature is about 80-120 degrees C. Preferably the outlet temperature is about 100 degrees C.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
FIG. 1: Effect of the presence of different proteins on recovery compared with currently used maltodextrin (control: 40 wt % orange juice to 60 wt % maltodextrin) and pure orange juice. Vertical bars indicate the standard deviations.
FIG. 2: Comparison of different protein yield profiles with constant protein concentration of 10 wt % up to 80 wt % orange juice followed by 5, 2.5, 1 and 0.5 wt % for 90, 95, 98 and 99 wt % orange juice, respectively, with remainder maltodextrin. Vertical bars indicate standard deviation.
FIG. 3: Effect of orange juice concentration on yield in the presence of casein.
FIG. 4: Effect of orange juice concentration on yield in the presence of whey protein isolate.
FIG. 5: Effect of maltodextrin concentration and whey protein isolate presence on yield. Vertical bars indicate standard deviations.
FIG. 6: Effect of whey protein isolate concentration on yield. Vertical bars indicate standard deviations.
FIG. 7: Solubility of proteins in orange juice (batch 2, pH˜4).
FIG. 8: Suggested course during spray drying of sprayed droplets in A: in the absence of surface active material and fat; B: in the presence of surface active material, but no fat
FIG. 9: Average DSC thermograms of 100% orange juice, 100% whey protein isolate, and samples of 99% orange juice: 0.5% M: 0.5% whey protein isolate, and 99% orange juice: 1% whey protein isolate.
FIG. 10: The order of stickiness during spray drying (Bhandari and Howes, 1999; Liu et al., 2006; Huntington and Stein, 2001).
FIG. 11: Comparison of the yield profiles with different additives, including MD, WPI and the combinations of MD and WPI. (Vertical bars for 40 AJ:50 MD:10 WPI indicate the overall standard deviations)
FIG. 12: Effect of the concentration of total additives on the recover. (Vertical bars indicate the standard deviations from uncertainties discussion)
FIG. 13: Effect of different combinations of WPI and MD on the yield with a constant total concentration of WPI and MD. (Vertical bars indicate the standard deviations from uncertainties discussion).
FIG. 14: Mechanistic explanation for surface activity of different hybrid additives of WPI and MD.
FIG. 15: Effect of increasing maltodextrin concentration from 0 to 5% on spray-drying yield in the presence of WPI.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The invention described is a powder food product comprising a fruit, vegetable components or a combination thereof together with an effective amount of whey protein isolate. The inventors found surprisingly whey protein isolates are particularly effective microencapsulating agents for fruits (especially highly acidic fruits) and vegetables in methods of spray drying.
Fruits and Vegetables
In broad terms, a fruit is understood to mean a structure of a plant that contains seeds. The term can have different meanings depending on the context. In food preparation this normally means the fleshy seed-associated structures of certain plants that are sweet and edible in the raw state, such as for example apples, oranges, grapes, strawberries, berries and bananas, or the similar-looking structures in other plants, even if they are non-edible or non-sweet in the raw state, such as lemons and olives. Seed-associated structures that do not fit these informal criteria are usually called by other names, such as vegetables.
Citrus fruits are acidic fruits. Citrus fruits are a good source of vitamin C for a balanced diet and the immune system. They also contain organic acids (citric, malic, and lactic acids). Citrus fruit include for example clementine, lime, grapefruit, mandarin, tangerine, kumquat, minneola, tangelo, lemon, orange and pummelo etc.
In one example the composition comprises at least one citrus fruit. In one example the citrus fruit comprises an orange.
Citrus foods such as oranges and lemons are considered to be highly acidic or to have a low pH of less than pH 4.6. Oranges have a pH of about pH 3.3-4.2, lemons have a pH of about pH 3-3.7, and grapefruit have a pH of about pH 2.2-2.4.
The invention described is particularly useful for highly acidic fruits.
Other highly acidic fruits include for example apples (pH about 3.3-3.9), cranberries, and blackberries.
The pH of various fruits and vegetables are provided in Table 1. It will be appreciated that the pH's are only approximate and examples will exist outside of the ranges.
TABLE 1
Product
Approximate pH
Apples
2.9-3.9
Apricots
3.3-4.8
Apricots, canned
3.4-3.8
Apricots, nectar
3.8
Artichokes
5.5-6.0
Asparagus
6.0-6.7
Avocados
6.3-6.6
Bananas
4.5-5.2
Beans
5.6-6.5
Beets
5.3-6.6
Blackberries
3.9-4.5
Blueberries
3.1-3.4
Beets
4.9-5.5
Broccoli, cooked
5.3
Cabbage
5.2-5.4
Cactus
4.7
Capers
6.0
Carrots
5.9-6.3
Celery
5.7-6.0
Cherries
3.2-4.5
Coconut
5.5-7.8
Corn
5.9-7.3
Cranberry juice
2.3-2.5
Dates
6.5-8.5
Gooseberries
2.8-3.1
Grapefruit
3.0-3.7
Grapes
3.5-4.5
Leeks
5.5-6.2
Lemons
2.2-2.4
Limes
1.8-2.0
Mangos
5.8-6.0
Melons
6.0-6.7
Nectarines
3.9-4.2
Olives, green, fermented
3.6-3.6
Olives, black
6.0-7.0
Oranges
3.3-4.2
Peaches
3.4-4.1
Pears
3.6-4.0
Peas
5.8-6.4
Pickles, sour
3.0-3.4
Pickles, dill
3.2-3.6
Pimento
4.6-5.2
Plums
2.8-3.0
Potatoes
5.6-6.0
Pumpkin
4.8-5.2
Raspberries
3.2-3.6
Rhubarb
3.1-3.2
Sauerkraut
3.4-3.6
Spinach
5.5-6.8
Squash
5.0-5.4
Strawberries
3.0-3.9
Sweet potatoes
5.3-5.6
Tomatoes
4.3-4.9
Turnips
5.2-5.6
Vegetable juice
3.9-4.3
Watermelon
5.2-5.6
The “one or more fruit components” are derived from one or more fruits and the “one or more vegetable components” are derived from one or more vegetables. The term “fruit components” includes components derived from any number of parts of the fruit including but not limited to the juice, pulp, husk, rind, skin, oils and any other component of the fruit. Similarly, the term “vegetable components” includes components derived from any number of parts of the vegetable including but not limited to the juice, pulp, husk, rind, skin, oils and any other component of the vegetable. In a preferred embodiment, the “fruit components” and “vegetable components” are derived from the juice, extracts, derivatives and/or distillates of the fruit and vegetable components.
Accordingly, the fruit and vegetable powder products may be prepared from the primary juice product with or without pulp or other solids. It is not necessary to screen the product to remove solids. The juice to be prepared as a powder product can be an untreated or raw product or it can be a treated product, such as for example a fruit and/or vegetable juice concentrate, or reconstituted form of juice. Alternatively it may be a cooked product.
Whey Protein Isolate
Whey proteins are globular proteins that are isolated from whey. A mixture of betalactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin and serum albumin are usually present. The typical ranges of molecular weights are 18000 g/mol and less.
The preferred food product described here comprises an effective amount of whey protein isolate (WPI). The term “effective amount” refers to an amount that is effective to encapsulate the fruit and/or vegetable components which form the core. The preferred amounts of WPI have been hereinbefore defined.
Microencapsulation
Microencapsulation is a “packaging” technique by which liquid droplets or solid particles are packed. The structure formed by the microencapsulating agent around the microencapsulation material (the core) can be referred to as the wall system. The wall protects the core against deterioration, limits the evaporation (or losses) of volatile core materials, and releases the core under desired conditions. The wall can also be referred to as an outer layer, or surface layer, or coating or film.
A number of microencapsulation methods have been developed including spray drying, spray cooling and chilling, fluidized bed coating, extrusion, freeze drying and co-crystallization. Spray drying is the most commonly used encapsulation technique in the food industry. The process of spray drying is economical and flexible, uses equipment that is readily available, and produces powder particles of good quality.
Good microencapsulating agents should be a good film former, have low viscosity at high solids levels, exhibit low hygroscopicity, provide good flavour when reconstituted, be low in cost, bland in taste, stable in supply and afford good protection to the product to be encapsulated.
Described here is the use of whey protein isolate as a microencapsulating agent. The microencapsulating agent forms a film around a core, being the fruit and/or vegetable components.
Methods of Spray Drying
Spray drying involves atomization of a liquid feed into a drying medium, resulting in an extremely rapid evaporation of solvent (e.g. water). Drying proceeds until the desired level of water content in the product is achieved (generally between 3 and 1%). The process is controlled by means of the product feed and air flow (flow and temperature). The advantages of spray drying include the following: a) the powder specifications remain constant throughout the dryer when drying conditions are held constant; b) it is a continuous and easy drying operation that is adaptable to full automatic control; and c) a wide range of dryer designs are available to suit a variety of applications, especially for dehydration of heat-sensitive materials.
Atomization results from the dispersion of a liquid feed once pumped through either a nozzle at a very high pressure or through a rotary atomizer, which spins at a very high speed. The feed travels through the dryer according to the relative positions of the nozzle/atomizer and air inlet, and depending on this configuration the flow can be co-current, counter-current, or mixed. The versatility of the spray-drying operation is demonstrated, for example, by the different ways by which the bulk density of the final powder can be increased: a) increasing the feed rate; b) increasing the powder temperature; c) increasing the solids content of the feed; d) atomization through a rotary atomizer; and e) use of counter-current configuration.
Powder Product
The powder is a fine particle product with a particle size determined by the atomization nozzle. In one example, the particle size is between about 5 and 30 micrometers in diameter. In alternate examples the particle size is larger.
Most preferably the coated or encapsulated particles substantially lack stickiness. This is demonstrated by a high yield from spray drying. Preferably the powder appears to be dry visually, and preferably the powders appear to be adequately free flowing.
Preferably the product has crystalline characteristics such as sorption stability.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
Applications of Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) and Maltodextrin as Spray Drying Additive to Produce Orange Juice Powder
Background—Protein Solubility
Protein solubility is a function of many factors, such as native or denatured state and environmental factors (i.e. pH, temperature). The pH of the solution affects the nature and the distribution of the protein's net charge. Generally, proteins are more soluble in low (acids) or high (alkaline) pH values because of the excess charges of the same sign, producing repulse among the molecules and, consequently, contributing to its largest solubility. A protein usually has the least solubility at the isoelectric point (pI). Values of pH above and below the pI where a protein has a net negative charge contribute to greater solubility.
Accordingly the use of proteins as spray-drying aids poses some issues such as solubility, sensitivity of proteins to pH changes as well as heat. This is particularly relevant when the pH of the initial fruit juice is close to the pI of the protein. When this happens the protein will decrease in solubility and lose its encapsulating properties. Furthermore the thermal stability of proteins is also an important factor due to the high temperatures involved in spray drying, as well as its effect on protein solubility and functionality.
Denaturation of proteins are likely to occur when proteins are exposed to heat over time. This process occurs due to temperature effects on the secondary and tertiary structures through the stabilisation on non-covalent bonds. When these bonds are broken, the secondary and tertiary structures unfold, exposing hydrophobic groups, leading to aggregation, coagulation, and precipitation, which decrease protein solubility. The effects of pH and temperature on solubility significantly effect functionality.
In working leading to the present invention the inventors have explored the use of three proteins (i) casein and caseinates, (ii) whey proteins and (iii) soy proteins.
(1) Casein and Caseinates
The solubility of casein is at a minimum near its pI of 4.6. The solubility of casein is better at pH values less than 3.5. Casein and caseinates are highly heat stable, withstanding heating at 150 degrees C. for 1 hour, although other factors, such as pH and ionic strength can reduce heat stability.
(ii) Whey Proteins
The solubility of whey protein isolates is influenced by both pH and temperature. The solubility of whey proteins is minimum at its pI of 4.5. Whey protein isolates have varying solubilities across the pH range.
Unlike caseins, whey protein is susceptible to heat denaturation. Heating of whey protein stabilised emulsions at 90 degrees C. for 10 minutes results in denaturation and has undesirable effects on emulsion particle size. This susceptibility to heat denaturation makes an issue of their use as potential aids in spray drying, where increasing protein concentration accelerate the degree and rate of denaturation.
(iii) Soy Proteins
With an isoelectric point of 4.5 the minimum solubility of soy protein isolate, soy protein hydrolysates, and soy protein occurs between pH 4.0 and 5.0. Poor solubility of soy proteins is inherited from their main protein components, glycinin and β-conglycinin, which have pH and ionic strength dependent quaternary structures.
Furthermore, glycinin, a component of soy proteins, begins to denature at around 60-90° C. and β-conglycinin starts to denature at only 60-75° C. Although minimal experimental work exists on investigating soybean proteins as coating agents, they possess similar solubility to casein and temperature dependent properties to whey proteins, indicating similar functionality.
TABLE 2
Protein
Denaturation Conditions
Isoelectric Point (pI)
Caseins
Very heat stable,
4.6
not easily denatured
[Soluble pH <3.5
or pH >5.5]
Whey
Denature when heated over
4.5
Proteins
time, e.g. 90° C. for 10 min
[least soluble at pH
4.5 and pH 6.8]
Soy
Begins to denature
4.5
Proteins
around 60-90° C.
[Minimum solubility
between pH 4.0-5.0]
It can be seen that the pI values for each of the proteins are very similar, and hence it is expected that they can be applied to the same types of fruit juices. However, the effectiveness of these proteins as potential drying aids may vary due to changes in the solubility and hence functionality in spray drying of mildly acidic fruit juices.
Experimental Work
Materials
Fresh orange juice (Original Juice Co. Black Label Chilled Juice: Orange Pulp Free 1.5 L) was purchased from a local supermarket, in Sydney, Australia, with specified ingredients of orange juice 99.9%, vitamin C (300).
Maltodextrin (MDX-18) was obtained from Deltrex Chemical.
Proteins: Casein—VWR International Ltd., Poole, England
Whey Protein Isolate—Fitlife; and Soy protein acid hydrolysate—Sigma SL07192.
All water used was potable tap water from the Sydney mains.
All chemicals used in this study were of reagent grade.
Solution Preparation:
Measure solids content (% by weight) of fruit juice.
Beaker with 200 ml tap water at room temperature varied from 22° C. to 26° C.
Used 29.705 g±0.0001 g fruit juice solids (as a fruit juice solution, e.g. if the fruit juice has 10% solids by weight, use 297.05 g fruit juice) and 0.305 g±0.0001 g of WPI for 99% fruit juice: 1% WPI mixer measured with balance AB204-S
Powder was stirred in water until dissolved—approx 10-20 minutes.
Spray Dryer (Called Milo) Buchi-B290 Settings:
Chamber diameter 0.15 m; length 0.48 m
Inlet air temperature: 130° C. Aspirator rate: 100% (≈38 m3/h) Pump rate: 23% (4.5 ml/min) Nozzle cleaner: 9 pulses Nozzle air flow rate: (473 l/hr) A typical outlet temperature is around 100° C.
Summary of Method Steps:
Measured weight of empty product container with ANDGF6100
Measured relative humidity and the actual mixing ratio of the laboratory air
Assembled drying chamber, cyclone, product container, nozzle and separation flask
Connect pipes from the pump, the inlet air stream and the nozzle cleaner to nozzle before turning on the equipment (followed steps from the user manual)
Proved all connections to make air tight
Turned on aspirator (main air fan), turned on heater, set rotameter (followed steps from user manual)
Waited until inlet temperature and outlet temperature stable, proved connections again of tightness before turning on pump with just water
Waited until outlet temperature stable
Warm up took approximately 30 to 35 min
Changed water to sample solution
Solution was pumped through the spray dryer after approximately 24 min
Cleaned pipe with water and followed cleaning process of user manual before turning of the pump and the heater
Let equipment cool down until outlet temperature below 60° C.
Measured weight of full product container for calculating the yield
Stored product in small glass bottle
Turned off aspirator and started dissembling the drying chamber, cyclone, nuzzle and separation flask
Cleaned spray dryer parts
After 1 hour cooling turned off aspirator and switched off equipment
Detailed Description of Experimental Methodology
Spray-drying experiments were performed with at least two repeats where results were of interest. The spray dryer was situated in a laboratory with stable environmental conditions for performing all experiments. Before starting experiments, the wet bulb and dry bulb temperatures were measured. The ambient air temperature was measured to be about 20-25° C. and the relative humidity of the air in the room was recorded to be between 60-75% at room temperature.
The experimental control for spray drying orange juice was chosen to be solution containing 60 wt % maltodextrin to 40 wt % orange juice. Casein, whey protein isolate and SPAH, were investigated at a constant protein concentration of 10 wt % with variations in maltodextrin and orange juice concentrations as shown in Table 3.
Preliminary results indicated that whey protein isolate has the potential to perform better than casein and SPAH as an enhancer to spray drying fruit and vegetable juices. Experiments were then performed to investigate the optimum concentration of whey protein isolate as enhancer to spray drying of orange juice and this was achieved by spray drying solutions with protein concentrations of 5.0, 2.5, 1.0 and 0.5 wt % with equal amounts of maltodextrin to obtain orange juice concentrations up to 99 wt %. This is also shown in Table 3 below.
TABLE 3
Compositions of the solutions used
for the spray drying experiments
Protein type: Casein as C,
Whey Protein Isolate as
Orange
Malto-
WPI and SPAH as S
juice %
dextrin %
Protein %
C, WPI, S
40
50
10
C, WPI, S
70
20
10
WPI
90
5.0
5.0
WPI
95
2.5
2.5
WPI
98
1.0
1.0
WPI
99
0.5
0.5
Feed Solution Preparation
The orange juice was filtered through a fine tea strainer to remove pulp residue, so as to ensure the tubing and/or spray nozzle did not block during spray drying. The juice was stored in a refrigerator when not in use. The filtering step is not expected to be essential to a commercial set-up.
Feed solutions were prepared by adding protein in powder form and/or maltodextrin on a weight basis relative to the orange juice used, excluding the addition of water as a solvent, and stirred for at least 30 minutes before spray drying. Analyses of the orange juice were carried out to determine the pH and total soluble solid content.
Total Soluble Solid Content
A Petri dish of known weight (ANDGF-6100 model balance) containing a known amount of orange juice was placed in an oven (Thermoline Scientific Dehydrating Oven) at 100° C. for a period of 24 hours. The Petri dish was then re-weighed after cooling in a dessicator where the final weight indicated the total weight of soluble solids present, allowing the total soluble solid content to be determined per gram of orange juice.
Spray Drying
A Büchi Mini Spray Dryer (Model B-290, Büchi Laboratoriums-Technik, Flawil, Switzerland), in suction mode, was used for the spray-drying process.
Spray drying was carried out at an aspirator rate of 38 m3/h, pump rate of 9.2±0.4 ml/min, nozzle air flow of 473 L/h, and nozzle cleaner at 9 pulses for all experiments.
Yield Calculation
All spray-drying results were primarily reported as recovery or yield (%), as a measure of how successful a run was by the powder produced as a percentage of that expected. This was chosen as a means of comparison for indication of stickiness, i.e. reduced stickiness and hence decreased wall deposition within the drying chamber achieves higher yields. A good yield is considered to be in the range of 60 to 70% recovery of powdered product, as this is a minimum expectation in practice, where anything greater can be considered a significant improvement.
The absolute yield was used as a measure of comparison, allowing for the moisture content to be taken into account. This was determined as a percentage of expected powder collected to the dry product actually obtained from spray drying. First the total amount of solids in the feed solution was calculated by adding the mass of maltodextrin, protein, and the soluble solids per gram of orange juice multiplied by the amount of orange juice present in the feed solution. The expected amount of powder obtained was determined by dividing the total solution made up by the total solids within the feed solution, giving the expected amount of solids for that solution. Hence the amount of powder expected to be collected during spray drying was determined by the equation,
Where,
EP = expected powder product (g)
M = maltodextrin mass (g)
P = protein mass (g)
OJ = orange juice mass (g)
W = mass of water (g)
TSS = total soluble solid per
g orange juice (g/g)
The absolute yield was then calculated using the following relationship, where M0 refers to the dry basis moisture content as a weight fraction.
Moisture Content
Immediately after spray drying, a sample of approximately 0.5 g was placed in a pre-weighed (Mettler Toledo AB204-S balance) clean dry glass container and then placed in an oven (Thermoline Scientific Dehydrating Oven) set at 100° C. for 24 hours. The container was then removed and re-weighed after cooling in a dessicator to determine the amount of moisture lost. Moisture content was calculated on a dry matter basis,
Where,
MW = mass of wet sample, container and lid (g)
MD = mass of dry sample, container and lid (g)
MC = mass of container and lid (g)
Analysis of Powder Structure
Spray-dried powders were analysed for their powder structure. All samples from spray drying were either used immediately or stored in zip-lock bags at 4° C. in dark until the analysis stage. Modulated differential scanning calorimetry (MDSC) using a DSC Q1000 (TA Instruments) was performed to analyse the final powder product. At least four samples of approximately 3 mg (Mettler Toledo AB204-S balance) were placed into a hermetic dish and lid, where the final weight sample weight was recorded. The samples were then placed into the DSC, with modulation temperature amplitude of ±1° C., a modulation period of 60 seconds, a ramp rate of 5° C./min, over a temperature range of 0 to 300° C. The resulting sample thermograms were then analysed for evidence of amorphous and/or crystalline properties, and compared against the DSC thermograms of spray-dried whey protein isolate and pure orange juice to determine the contributing components of the properties observed in the samples.
Solubility of Proteins at Different pH
The solubility of each of the proteins in juice solutions at different pH was determined. The pH of the feed solution was measured by using a pH meter (Orion Research, digital pH/millivolt meter 611) before protein was added. The solubility of each protein is then measured by mixing 2.0 g of protein in 100 g of orange juice for 1 hour. The resulting mixture was then filtered through a fine tea strainer to remove any undissolved protein and then placed into an oven (Thermoline Scientific Dehydrating Oven) at 100° C. for 24 hours, allowed to cool in a dessicator and re-weighed. Solubility was then calculated as grams soluble protein per 100 g of protein in solution. This was done by subtracting the initial weight of the sample, Petri dish and total soluble solids present in the orange juice from the final weight of the sample and Petri dish after drying to find the amount of soluble protein, which was then taken as a percentage of the initial amount of protein added.
Results and Discussion—Preliminary Experiments
Preliminary experiments on spray drying orange juice involved comparing and determining the most promising protein to use as a spray-drying additive to reduce the current required maltodextrin concentration. Results were consistent in showing the addition of drying aids, such as maltodextrin and combinations of maltodextrin and protein, significantly improved yield in comparison to pure orange juice yields (p<<0.01), indicating that stickiness and hence wall deposition was successful reduced. These results are described in the table below and summarised in FIG. 1.
Controls of 40 wt % orange juice 60 wt % maltodextrin, with an average absolute yield of 62±7%, and pure orange juice with an average absolute yield of 26±1%, were found to reflect general industrial practice and literature values.
TABLE 4
Comparison of absolute yields (%) in the presence of protein.
Whey
Protein
Solution (wt %)
Repeat
Casein
Isolate
SPAH
40 OJ:50 M:10 P
Average
58
66
61
Standard
6
7
2
Deviation
70 OJ:20 M:10 P
Average
44.1
61
54
Standard
0.4
3
1
Deviation
Comparing absolute yield values, at 40% OJ all of the proteins all looked to provide reasonable product. However at 70% OJ a more surprising result was obtained—whey protein isolate looked to be the most promising protein for spray drying orange juice.
The addition of 60 wt % maltodextrin (control) or any other maltodextrin and protein combination improved the spray-drying yields of orange juice. However, casein had a significantly lower yield at the higher orange juice concentration than the two other proteins, in comparison with the 60 wt % maltodextrin control (p<0.01).
These initial experiments allowed the comparison of the currently used maltodextrin concentration and pure orange juice yields with those containing protein, and hence the identification of the most promising protein for spray drying orange juice.
The profiles of each protein with respect to increasing orange juice concentration were further investigated to obtain a clear image of each protein's drying-aid capabilities.
Expansion of Experiments to Increase Orange Juice Concentration
The proteins were further investigated with respect to increasing orange juice concentrations (FIG. 2). In comparison with both casein and SPAH, whey protein isolate showed the most significant results, particularly at higher orange juice concentrations.
The following sections further describe the individual profiles of each of the proteins and the links between these results to current literature and relevant proposed mechanisms.
Casein
Generally, increasing the orange juice concentration, whilst maintaining a 10 wt % casein concentration, led to a gradual decrease in both absolute yield supported by a R2 value of 0.80 (FIG. 5), and actual product yield where a poor average yield of 47.2±0.1% was observed for 70 wt % orange juice and 20 wt % maltodextrin. This poor result may be due to casein being observed to remain undissolved in the orange juice indicating poor solubility by observation, since large amounts of casein settled to the bottom and/or coagulated at the top of the solution, hence explaining the poorer yields due to the poorer observed solubilities. This was surprising since previous experimental work by the inventors showed casein was effective in improving lactose spray-drying yields and more so than whey protein isolate.
The experimental results shown in FIG. 3, however, are contrary to this where the yield decreased as the orange juice concentration was increased. This may be due to the fact that orange juice and lactose solutions have very different characteristics. Orange juice has a composition which is more complex (it is a complex mixture of fructose; glucose, sucrose, citric acid, asorbic acid, polyphenolic antioxidants and minerals and other parts) and lactose is a simple sugar. The pH of orange juice is low, while the pH of simple sugars is neutral.
The results observed in FIG. 3 are also different to previous success with sodium caseinate by other researchers. The use of casein instead of sodium caseinate may also explain the poor results obtained due to their differences in solubility as well as the bulk materials used.
Soy Protein Acid Hydrolysate
Results show that the presence of SPAH gives better absolute yields of spray-dried orange juice powder (FIGS. 1 and 2) in comparison to casein, although slightly decreasing with increasing orange juice concentration. SPAR was also observed to be more soluble in the orange juice, compared to casein, which once again indicating a potential link between protein surface coating ability and its solubility in the stock solution. Although, yields obtained were similar to those of whey protein isolate, the higher moisture content of these powders meant that a lower absolute yield was observed for SPAH.
Moreover, during the experiments it was observed that SPAH exhibited a distinct ‘meaty’ smell and brown colour, which modified the resulting orange juice powder product by changing its visual, fragrance and flavour quality. This would make it unappealing to potential consumers due to the loss of the juice's natural characteristics. Due to these unpleasant effects SPAR has on the spray dried juice powders, SPAH was found to be unsuitable to be used as an additive to spray drying juice powders and was not investigated further.
Whey Protein Isolate
In the preliminary experiments, solutions with whey protein isolate concentrations of 10 wt % were investigated with different concentrations of maltodextrin and orange juice to compare its effectiveness as spray drying additive to casein and SPAH. Both whey protein isolate and SPAR exhibited higher yields than casein. It was also observed that SPAR gave unpleasant characteristics to the spray dried juice powders. Thus further experiments were then conducted with whey protein isolate to explore the possibility of producing spray dried orange juice powders with less additives added. This was done by spray drying solutions with equal portions of whey protein isolate and maltodextrin, at 5, 2.5, 1.0 and 0.5 wt %, to give 90, 95, 98, 99 wt % orange juice concentrations, respectively.
These experiments gave rise to average yields as high as 84% for 95 wt % orange juice with 2.5 wt % maltodextrin and 2.5 wt % whey protein isolate. Similar to SPAH, whey protein isolate was also observed to readily dissolve in the orange juice.
Orange juice concentration seemed to have almost no effect on absolute yield (FIG. 4), supported by p>0.01 and an R2 value of 0.10, indicating that approximately 10% of the variation in absolute yield can be explained by the orange juice concentration where the remaining 90% can be explained by other variables or inherent variability.
The effect of maltodextrin concentration (FIG. 5) was investigated to find out if maltodextrin was required in the feed solution to act as a matrix for the protein to effectively coat the droplet surfaces. It was observed that lower maltodextrin concentrations generally gave no effect on yields. This was supported by the regression analysis which gave an R2 value of 0.06, indicating that maltodextrin concentration had no significant effect on absolute yield (p>0.01). That is, the presence of maltodextrin had no beneficial effect on absolute yield, reflected in experiments with no added maltodextrin (99% orange juice and 1% WPI) obtaining similar absolute yields to those with maltodextrin present (p>0.01).
Therefore, since no significant increase in absolute yield was observed with higher maltodextrin concentrations, the presence of a maltodextrin matrix may possibly hinder the surface coating ability of the whey protein isolate by reducing the difference between maltodextrin and whey protein isolate diffusion rates. Since a smaller difference in diffusion rates would lead to both the protein and maltodextrin migrating to the centre of the droplet at similar rates during drying, reducing the amount of protein left on the droplet surface.
On the other hand, whey protein isolate concentration was observed to play more of a role in absolute yield than orange juice and maltodextrin concentrations (FIG. 5), where a R2 value of 0.29 was obtained from regression analysis and a p-value of less than 0.01 from ANOVA. Lower concentrations, approaching 1 wt % whey protein isolate seemed to increase absolute yield, until a slight drop at 0.5 wt % was observed, indicating that further lowering the whey protein isolate concentration would probably reduce the absolute yield. However, all absolute yields containing whey protein isolate showed improvement over both the absolute yields of pure orange juice and standard mixture of 40% orange juice with 60% maltodextrin. See FIG. 6.
From the results discussed above whey protein isolate was found to act as a successful drying aid for spray drying orange juice at low concentrations. The significant results obtained are summarised in Table 5, which also includes yields for pure orange juice and 40% orange juice with 60% maltodextrin for comparison.
TABLE 5
Summary and comparison of significant
whey protein isolate results.
Composition (wt %)
Orange
Average
Juice
Maltodextrin
WPI
Yield (%)
Error*
100
—
—
32.4
2.5
40
60
—
65.3
7.1
98
1
1
83.4
3.8
99
1
—
24.7
—
0.5
0.5
77.3
1.8
—
1
82.2
1.9
*error reported as one standard deviation.
These results clearly met the project's aim of using proteins to improve the yield of spray drying fruit juices at concentrations lower than those currently used with maltodextrin. Table 5 shows that the yield of pure orange juice was approximately 32%, which is much lower than that required by the industry (>60%), hence spray drying cannot successfully convert pure orange juice droplets into amorphous powder under the operating conditions chosen for this work. 60 wt % of maltodextrin added was found to improve the yield considerably. These observations are supported by previous studies, where no powdered orange juice is produced from spray drying under similar drying conditions and that the addition of maltodextrin allows good yields to be obtained.
Our results consistently shows that a >60% yield of spray drying of orange juice can be obtained by using whey protein isolate at much lower concentration than that is required of maltodextrin. The mixture containing 1% whey protein isolate and 99% orange juice increased yield significantly to approximately 82%. Considering that a recovery of greater than 60% is considered to be a good criteria for successful spray drying, the addition of 1 wt % of whey protein isolate to the feed has improved the yield of spray drying orange juice more than that achieved by 60 wt % of maltodextrin.
Solubility
Protein solubility was investigated due to the proposed link between protein solubility and its effectiveness as a drying aid in spray drying orange juice. This was achieved through first predicting the solubility of each protein investigated in the actual orange juice used in this work and comparing this with the previously mentioned compatibility with fruit juices by measuring the pH of the feed solutions. The solubility was then determined for each protein within one of the orange juice batch samples used, where these values were then compared with literature values.
Solution pH
The pH of the feed solution was measured before the addition of protein to provide a clear indication of whether the protein would be soluble in it or not. This was done since the addition of protein would modify the pH of the feed solution. The pH values of each of the pure orange juice batches used and some of the initial feed solutions used are summarised in Table 6.
TABLE 6
Solution pH values before the addition of protein.
Average pH ± Standard
Solution (wt %)
Batch
Deviation
Variation*
100 OJ
1
3.66 ± 0.25
—
2
3.99 ± 0.01
—
3
4.19 ± 0.09
—
40 OJ:60 M
1
4.06 ± 0.04
+0.40
2
4.19 ± 0.09
+0.20
40 OJ:50 M
1
3.83 ± 0.21
+0.18
2
4.01 ± 0.15
+0.02
70 OJ:20 M
1
3.77 ± 0.02
+0.11
2
4.03 ± 0.08
+0.04
*variation from same pure orange juice batch due to addition of maltodextrin and water
The pH values obtained for each of the three batches on orange juice used are consistent with the approximate pH of 3.3-4.2 for orange juice. These results also showed that the addition of maltodextrin and water to orange juice to prepare the feed solutions increased the pH, clearly seen by the positive variation from the corresponding pure orange juice batch.
Solubility Tests
Solubility tests were performed using the second batch of pure orange juice, which had an average pH value of approximately 4.0.
From these results, it is observed that different proteins dissolved in orange juice to different extents, where both WPI and SPAH were able to be dissolved in orange juice easily, with solubilities greater than 80 g/100 g (FIG. 7). Casein was found to be the least soluble, with a solubility of approximately 35 g/100 g.
Possible Mechanistic Explanation
One hypothesis for the effectiveness of protein as a coating is that it precipitates on the surface of particles to form the coatings. (See FIG. 8A) If this were true, then less soluble proteins might be thought to be more effective than insoluble ones. The present experiments suggest that this is not the case. Instead the experiment suggests the mechanism for coating is the process of migration of proteins to the droplet surfaces as well as differences in diffusivity of the different components. (See FIG. 8B).
Therefore, the ability of WPI to increase spray-drying yields of orange juice to greater than 80% and to successfully transform it into a powder could be suggested to involve both its film forming and surface active properties to encapsulate juice components. Hence, the combination of surface active properties of proteins, that is their preferential migration to the air-water interface, along with their film forming properties upon drying, allows for the stickiness of the juice-protein solutions to be overcome through the formation of a protein-rich coating, raising the glass-transition temperature of the surface layer.
Powder Structure
Powders produced from spray drying a high concentration orange juice (99%) in the presence of whey protein isolate were observed to have crystalline characteristics, such as powder hardness and shine. MDSC was used to confirm these observations. Averaged thermograms of 100% orange juice (batch 3), 100% spray-dried whey protein isolate, and spray-dried samples of 99% orange juice with 0.5% maltodextrin and 0.5% whey protein isolate, and 99% orange juice to 1% whey protein isolate are summarised in FIG. 9, with peak and valley values detailed in Table 9.
The sample crystallinity peaks and degradation valleys observed in the powders seem to be primarily due to orange juice characteristics (FIG. 9), although the size of the peaks and valleys may possibly be dampened by the presence of whey protein isolate, reflected in the higher 1% whey protein isolate samples having slightly flattened peaks and valleys than those of the sample containing 0.5% whey protein isolate (Table 9). Degradation valleys for both powder samples were similar to that of pure orange juice, most likely explained by the high concentration of orange juice present in the powders.
TABLE 9
Summary of thermogram peak and valley
points obtained from MDSC.
Crystallisation Peak
Degradation Valley
Powder
Heat
Heat
Compositions
Temperature
Flow
Temperature
Flow
(wt %)
(° C.)
(W/g)
(° C.)
(W/g)
Pure Orange Juice
180
0.40
199
−2.98
Spray-Dried WPl
170
−0.02
237
−0.17
99 OJ:1 WPI
175
0.23
194
−0.42
99 OJ:0.5 M:0.5 WPl
174
0.37
190
−0.75
Sample crystallinity can be determined by quantifying the heat associated with melting (fusion) of the sample. This heat is reported as percent crystallinity by calculating the ratio of the heat of crystallization to the heat of fusion against the heat of fusion for a 100% crystalline sample of the same material, which in this case was assumed to be the pure orange juice since both samples are primarily composed of orange juice. Hence, of the two samples, the one containing whey protein isolate alone showed the least crystallinity (˜58%), while the sample containing both maltodextrin and whey protein isolate showed the greatest crystallinity (˜93%). The difference in crystallinity between the two samples may be due to the amount of whey protein isolate present since the spray-dried whey protein isolate showed the lowest degree of crystallinity compared with that of the pure orange juice. Otherwise, the difference could arise from the presence or absence of maltodextrin between the two samples. Furthermore, both 99% orange juice powders appeared to have similar Tg values to that of pure orange juice due to the presence of similar inflections points, while spray-dried whey protein isolate was shown to have a higher Tg by the inflection point being around 50° C. compared with 25° C. for the samples containing orange juice.
Therefore, the presence of more whey protein isolate (or the absence of maltodextrin) seemed to decrease the crystallinity of the spray-dried orange juice, whereas the addition of equal parts maltodextrin and whey protein isolate showed no change in crystallinity to that of pure orange juice. Increased crystallinity is a key factor to consider in powders, determining to what extent clumping and caking occurs as well as how well the powder handles and stores. Increased crystallinity is desired to maximise long-term storage stability, including minimizing clumping and caking.
Conclusion
In the examples it was observed that 1% whey protein isolate was effective to convert fruit juice into an amorphous powder form. The inventors expect 0.5% whey protein isolate will also be effective.
The yield of powder was increased, from 65±7% for currently-used maltodextrin concentrations of 60% and from 32±3% for pure orange juice, to greater than 80% in the presence of low protein concentrations.
Despite being temperature sensitive, the high solubility (83 g/100 g) and low pH sensitivity of whey protein isolate lead to a high product yield above 80% at orange juice concentrations greater than 90 wt %. On the other hand, the poor solubility (35 g/100 g) and high pH sensitivity of casein gave lower yields of 47.2±0.1% at high orange juice concentrations of only 70 wt %. This was not expected.
The results of this work show great promise for the food industry, since it opens a new area of interest involving the successful spray drying of materials, such as fruit juice, which were previously thought to be unsuited to spray drying. This would allow for the year-round demand of fruit juices to be met, along with the need for longer shelf-lives and easier storage, handling and transport. In addition, there is also the potential to reduce the associated costs of current methods, since smaller quantities of additives (0.5-5 wt %) could be used instead of the 50-65 wt % maltodextrin currently required to achieve successful spray drying of fruit juice. This lower additive concentration allows for a higher purity product to be obtained, ensuring the original and natural physicochemical properties of the product are retained, such as texture, flavour and fragrance.
Furthermore, the attributes of whey protein isolate make it an ideal drying aid for spray drying foodstuffs, such as fruit juices, due to its solubility and bland taste over a broad pH range without causing detectable changes in flavour and appearance in drinks prepared with up to 1% of whey protein isolate. This increases the product quality for personal and commercial use and hence makes it very marketable.
Example 2
Applications of Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) and Maltodextrin as Spray Drying Additives to Produce Apple Juice Powder
The present inventors have investigated the use of WPI and the additive maltodextrin as spray drying additives for producing apple juice powder in a yield that meets the industry requirement of 60%.
It has previously been reported that that 40% is the maximum orange juice concentration that can be dried in conjunction with a maltodextrin (60%) providing a yield of 78%. The present inventors have now found (as shown in Example 1) that 1% WPI gives a significant improvement to the yield for spray drying orange juice (83 wt % yield) compared with that achieved by using 60% maltodextrin. These two previous results were chosen as the experimental controls for Example 2 (Table 10).
TABLE 10
The typical composition of solution for spray-drying orange
juice. (Orange juice as OJ, Maltodextrin as MD, WPI as WPI)
Composition of solution (wt %)
Yield (wt %)
40 OJ:60 MD
78
99 OJ:1 WPI
82
WPI as a sole spray drying additive for apple juice was initially investigated followed by an investigation of WPI in combination with maltodextrin Optimization of WPI and a new combined additive, including maltodextrin and WPI, was investigated and the combination ratio was optimised to improve the yield further. XPS measurements were utilised to investigate the surface activity of maltodextrin and WPI in spray-dried powder.
Experimental Work
Materials
Fresh orange juice and apple juice were purchased from a local supermarket, Coles in Sydney, Australia, and were used for the production of powder from the spray dryer.
Fresh apple juice is Just Juice-Apple Juice (2 Litre) from Berri Limited, with specified ingredients of apple juice 99.9%, acidity regulator (330), vitamin C, flavour. Fresh orange juice is Just Juice-Orange Juice (2 Litre) from Berri Limited, with specified ingredients of orange juice 99.9%, vitamin C, flavour,
Maltodextrin (MDX-18) was obtained from Deltrex Chemical.
Whey Protein Isolate was obtained from Fitlife.
All water used was potable tap water from the Sydney mains.
All chemicals used in this study were of reagent grade.
Spray Dryer (Called Milo) Buchi-B290 Settings:
As for Example 1
Summary of Method Steps:
As for Example 1
Detailed Description of Experimental Methodology
The experimental control for spray drying apple juice was chosen to be a solution containing 60 wt % maltodextrin to 40 wt % orange juice and 1% WPI to 99% orange juice.
Initially experiments were performed to investigate the optimum concentration of whey protein isolate as an enhancer to the spray drying of apple juice and were carried out by spray drying solutions with WPI concentrations as indicated in Table 2. This was followed by investigating the effect of hybrid additives (WPI and MD) and establishing the threshold amount of WPI (alone) required to achieve successful spray drying of apple juice (with >60% yield). These results can be seen below.
Feed Solution Preparation
As for Example 1 but using apple juice in place of orange juice.
Total Soluble Solid Content
The total soluble solid content of fruit juice was evaluated for the calculation of final yields from spray drying. It was determined by taking a sample of approximately 20 g fruit juice in a dried and weighted (AND, GF-6100 model balance) Petri dish and placing the sample in an oven (Thermoline Scientific, Dehydrating Oven, Sydney) at 100° C. for a period of 24 hours. Then the Petri dish with the sample was cooled in a desiccator to room temperature and re-weighed. This final weight indicated the total weight of soluble solids present, allowing the total soluble solid content per gram fruit juice to be calculated.
Spray Drying
A Buchi Mini Spray Dryer (Model. B-290, Buchi Laboratoriums-Technik, Flawil, Switzerland), in suction mode, was used for all spray-drying experiments. Spray drying was carried out at an aspirator rate of 38 m3/h, a pump rate of 4.5 ml/min, a nozzle air flow of 473 L/h, nozzle cleaner at 9 pulses and inlet temperature of 130° C. for all spray-drying experiments. The dryer was run at this condition for about 30 mins before the feed solution was introduced. The spray dryer is located in a laboratory with stable ambient conditions for running all experiments. The condition of atmosphere surrounding was 22° C. dry bulb, 18° C. wet bulb and corresponding relative humidity of 72.7% and absolutely humidity of 0.012 kg/kg. The powder was collected in a pre-weighted glass collector connected at the end of cyclone. The mass of actual powder product was measured from the product in this collector for calculate the yield (collector recovery). The amounts of powder collected in cyclone (cyclone recovery) were also measured by recording the weight difference of cyclone before and after spray-drying process. Total recovery was calculated by adding collector recovery and cyclone recovery. The powders collected from collector after spray-drying process were immediately packed in Glad® resealable plastic bags and stored in a freezer. The experimental uncertainties discussion will be presented later.
Yield Calculation
Yield or recovery (%) was calculated in a similar way to Example 1.
The absolute yield was determined as percentage of expected powder produced in theory to the actually powder obtained from the collector in spray dryer. The amount of expected powder was expressed by the equation,
Where,
A = the total mass of additives (g)
EP = mass of expected powder product (g)
FJ = mass of fruit juice (g)
W = mass of water (g)
TSS = total soluble solid per g fruit juice (g/g)
The absolute yield was then calculated using the following relationship,
Where,
AP = actual powder product (g)
M0 = dry basis moisture content as a weight fraction
Moisture Content
The moisture content was calculated as for Example 1.
pH Measurement
The pH meter used in this experiment was pHTest 2 Model from Eutech Instruments and Oakton Instruments made in Malaysia. The accuracy of pHTest 2 is ±0.1 pH. The pH of apple juice and orange juice samples were tested in 6 groups with 2 repeats for each group.
XPS Measurements
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), which is also known as Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis (ESCA), is a well-established technique for the analysis of solid surfaces. The method using XPS to quantify the different component percentage coverage on the powder surface has been developed at the Institute for Surface Chemistry (Fäldt et al., 1993) and is known in the art. The percentage coverage of the different components on surface of powder can be determined using known methodology through a matrix formula (Fäldt et al., 1993) comparing the fraction of different elements on the surface of the powder to the fraction of elements in the components making up this powder. In XPS system, a soft x-ray beam was used to eject photoelectrons from the near-surface region for most solids surface of a specimen. Because of the restricted mean free path of the photoelectrons in the solids, XPS can provide valuable information on approximately the first 5 nm depth (Briggs and Seah, 1994). XPS was used to investigate the actual surface composition of particles instead of using indirect technique such as scanning electron microscopy. In this particular case, the atomic concentration of carbon, oxygen and nitrogen in the surface of the samples was analysed to determine the percentage coverage of the different components on the powder surface (Fäldt et al., 1993).
The XPS measurements were conducted with an XPS system, model XR 50 High Performance Twin Anode with Focus 500 Monochromator and PHOIBOS 150 MCD hemispherical analyser) produced by Specs® GmbH, in the School of Physics, University of Sydney. The machine used a monochromatic A1 Kx X-ray source. The pressure in the working chamber during the analysis was kept at less than 1×10−6 Pa. The take-off angle of the photoelectrons was perpendicular to the sample. The analyser operated with a pass energy of 80 eV. The step size was 0.1 eV. The spectrum acquisition time varied, depending on the peak area. The analysed area of the powder was a circle 2.0 mm in diameter on the top layer. The powders were spread on the surface of the graphitic tape without mounting when the ESCA analyses were carried out. After drying, the powders were stored in a freezer and warmed back to room temperature in a desiccator before the XPS test was conducted. Each analysis was repeated 4 times at least. Each representative peak of the principal elements was repeated at least 3 times. Spectra were analysed using the CasaXPS (Version 2.3.14dev38) to calculate the percentage of elements in the surfaces of the samples.
Surface Composition Calculation
From the XPS measurement results, the area for each peak indicated the amount of atoms for a particular element. This area for each element was calculated by the CasaXPS (Version 2.3.14dev38). Then the mole fractions of each element were calculated by dividing the amount of this element by the total amount of all elements in the surface of sample. Based on the mole frictions of each element in the surface of samples, the surface composition was estimated by two known methods. One was the surface content matrix formula (with O), another one was surface composition calculation without oxygen.
Results and Discussion
Preliminary Experiments
In Example 1, the inventors found that WPI significantly improved the yield of spray drying orange juice in comparison with 60 wt % addition of maltodextrin and pure orange juice yields. Preliminary experiments with spray drying apple juice involved comparing and determining whether WPI is an effective spray-drying additive for apple juice, in order to reduce the currently-required maltodextrin concentration of 60% or more.
The results in Table 11 and FIG. 13 show that the addition of WPI in an amount of 20 wt % is effective in improving the yield of spray drying of apple juice to 69%. This is not as good as the yield of spray drying orange juice, indicating that the stickiness of apple juice is much more difficult to overcome than that of orange juice. These results are summarised in Table 11.
TABLE 11
Comparison of pure juice and control experiments between
AJ and OJ (Apple juice as AJ, orange juice as OJ, Maltodextrin
as MD, Whey Protein Isolate as WPI.)
Standard
Composition of
Average Yield
Deviation
Solution (wt %)
(wt %)
(wt %)
Reference
100 AJ
2
1.7
Example 2
100 OJ
44
2.0
Example 2
40 AJ:60 MD
47
3.0
Example 2
40 OJ:60 MD
65
7.1
Example 1
99 AJ:1 WPI
0.1
—
Example 2
99 OJ:1 WPI
82
1.9
Example 1
90 AJ:10 WPI
7
—
Example 2
80 AJ:20 WPI
69
—
Example 2
80 AJ:5 MD:15 WPI
82
—
Example 2
In summary, for both pure juices and the two control experiments, apple juice had significantly lower yields than orange juice. The yield of pure apple juice was only 2%, which was far less than the 44% yield with pure orange juice. The addition of 60 wt % maltodextrin improved the spray-drying yields of orange juice to 65%, which is higher than the 60% yields required by industry. However, the same addition of maltodextrin improved the spray-drying yields of apple juice to 47%, which is still lower than the industry requirement of 60%. Furthermore, the addition of 1 wt % protein improved the yield of orange juice, but it made nearly no difference for apple juice compared with the yield from pure apple juice.
These initial experiments identified that WPI does not work well in small amounts on its own as an additive for spray drying apple juice. The addition of 60 wt % maltodextrin was able to improve the spray-drying yields of apple juice significantly. However, the absolute yield was still approximately 20% lower than that for orange juice. The inventors found that at least 20 wt % WPI alone is required to achieve a yield of >60%. Overall, it was found that apple juice is much more difficult to spray dry than orange juice.
To achieve a better yield, further experiments with more WPI addition and other additives were conducted. The reason for the low effectiveness of WPI for spray drying apple juice compared to orange juice has been investigated.
Investigation of WPI as Spray Drying Additives to Produce AJ Powders
In the preliminary experiments (Example 1), the addition of 1 wt % WPI did not improve the absolute yield from spray drying apple juice. However, many literature shows that WPI has the potential to improve this yield. It is believed that evaporation of water from the droplet surface causes concentration gradients. This concentration difference of protein between outmost layer and inside layer of particles provides a driving force of protein for coating the surface of particles. Therefore, by increasing the concentration of protein, the surface coating effectiveness value should increase as well.
In order to determine if WPI improves the yield from spray drying apple juice, another group of experiments, including 1 wt % and 10 wt % addition of WPI, were conducted. 100 wt % apple juice and 60 wt % addition of maltodextrin were used as control experiments.
These results showed that by increasing the concentration of WPI from 1 to 10 wt %, the yield increased significantly from around 1% to 7% as well. This proved that the WPI is also surface active for apple juice particles, but the yield is still too low for industry requirements (60%), and WPI does not work well enough for apple juice on its own.
The experimental work for orange juice (in Example 1) showed that WPI was effective in improving orange juice spray-drying yields. However, the results of experiments with WPI indicated that WPI was not as an effective additive for apple juice as it was for orange juice. This may be due to the fact that orange juice and apple juice have different characteristics, such as pH, solubility and composition, which can affect the effectiveness of additives in the spray-drying process. They have been investigated and discussed below. In particular, apple juice contains more fructose and malic acid, which will be discussed later. This was consistent with the evidence from the literature. Bhandari (2006) and Mari et al. (2001) suggested that fructose and malic acid were more sticky during spray drying than most other sugars and acids, respectively. The explanations for the different effects with WPI on spray drying orange juice and apple juice have been investigated further later.
Explanations of the Different Effect with WPI for Spray Drying OJ and AJ.
From the results above, it was found that WPI can improve the yield from spray drying orange juice significantly, but it does not work well for improving the yield from spray drying apple juice when used in the same amounts. The reasons have been analysed from the perspectives of solubility, pH and the differences in composition between apple juice and orange juice.
pH Effect
Since the solubility of additives was affected by the pH of the solution, Konkol (2009) has suggested that the pH of fruit juice may be one of important factors for the selection of additives, since pH may ensure that the protein is properly dissolved. Two sets of pH tests were conducted to determine the pH of apple juice and orange juice solution used in these experiments.
TABLE A1
pH test results of apple juice.
AJ
Sample 1
Sample 2
Sample 3
Run 1
3
2.9
2.9
Run 2
2.9
2.9
2.9
TABLE A2
pH test results of orange juice.
OJ
Sample 1
Sample 2
Sample 3
Run 1
2.7
2.7
2.7
Run 2
2.7
2.7
2.6
Based on the pH test results for apple juice and orange juice shown in Table A1 and Table A2, respectively, the pH of apple juice was 2.9 and orange juice was 2.7 in these experiments. Based on the relationship between pH and solubility, the pH difference of 0.2 is unlikely to be significant in affecting the solubility of WPI in apple juice and orange juice. Moreover, based on the observation and tests in preparing the spray-drying samples, WPI can dissolve well in both apple juice and orange juice. Thus, neither of pH and solubility can affect the spray-drying efficiency significantly.
Composition of AJ and OJ
The composition of apple juice and orange juice has been compared in Table 12.
TABLE 12
Comparisons of apple juice and orange juice composition and pH
Main
AJ (g/
OJ (g/
Tg
Density
Symbol
Composition
100 ml)
100 ml)
(° C.)
(g/cm3)
Reference
1
Sucrose
2.68
3.3
62
1.59
(Mattick,
1983; Bielig,
1982)
2
Glucose
2.07
2.8
31
1.54
(Mattick,
1983; Bielig,
1982)
3
Fructose
5.79
3
14
1.54
(Mattick,
1983)
4
Citric acid
0.02
0.94
6
1.67
(Gerin et al.,
1995; Bielig,
1982)
5
Malic acid
1
0.17
−21
1.609
(Briggs and
Seah, 1994)
These five components are the main sugars and acids in apple juice and orange juice, and the glass-transition temperatures of them decrease from sucrose at the top of table to malic acid at the bottom. This order also reflects the order of component stickiness during spray drying, which is shown in FIG. 10.
Many experiments in the literature show the order of components in FIG. 10 being from easy to difficult to dry (Bhandari and Howes, 1999; Liu et al., 2006; Huntington and Stein, 2001). Therefore, it is more difficult to spray dry apple juice than orange juice, because there is more fructose and malic acid in apple juice than in orange juice.
However, there is more citric acid in orange juice than apple juice, thus a calculation for the overall glass-transition temperature of apple juice and orange juice was conducted to determine what components make the main contributions to the stickiness of juice.
For three or more solute components, the Couchman-Karasz quation was used to predict the overall glass-transition temperature. Thus, the overall glass transition temperature of apple juice and orange juice could be estimated as shown below (Couchman and Karasz, 1978),
The following Equation 2 is derivation of Equation 1,
since constant
so Equation 2 can be written as follows.
Based on the Simba-Boyer rule and
(Liu et al., 2006),
Thus, the overall glass transition temperature of apple juice and orange juice could be calculated from the data in Table 13. Furthermore, each term of K1nwnTgn reflected the contribution of that component made to the overall glass-transition temperature. These results are shown in Table 13.
TABLE 13
The overall Tg and contribution from each components of apple juice and
orange juice.
Symbol
K11W1Tg1
K12W2Tg2
K13W3Tg3
K14W4Tg4
K15W5Tg5
Tg
K14w4Tg4
Tg
Components
Sucrose
Glucose
Fructose
Citric acid
Malic acid
Overall
Tg (° C.)
62
31
14
6
−21
K1n
1
1.14
1.21
1.14
1.31
Apple Juice,
14.4
6.3
8.4
0
−2.4
23.2
K1nwnTgn (° C.)
Contribution of
54
24
32
0
−9
Apple Juice (%)
Orange Juice
20
9.7
5.0
0.6
−0.5
31.2
K1nwnTgn (° C.)
Contribution of
58
28
14
2
−1
Orange Juice (%)
From the results, the overall glass-transition temperature for apple juice (23.2° C.) is estimated to be much lower than that for orange juice (31.3° C.). Since Bhandari, Datta et al (1997b) stated that the glass-transition temperature is an indicator of stickiness in the spray-drying process, apple juice is harder to spray-dry than orange juice. This is corresponding to the preliminary experimental results, which show that the yields of spray-dried apple juice are lower than those of orange juice under the same circumstance, respectively. Thus, the different components and overall Tgs of apple juice and orange juice may be the reason for the difference between orange juice and apple juice yields.
To be more specific, and withour being bound by theory, the inventors believe the contribution percentage of fructose and malic acid in apple juice are significantly more than those in orange juice. Moreover, the inventors have found that fructose and malic acid are more difficult to be spray-dried than other components. Therefore, the lower yield with spray drying apple juice compared with orange juice may be caused by the larger amount of fructose and malic acid in apple juice than in orange juice.
The Hybrid Additives of WPI and MD
As indicated hereinbefore (Table 11), the inventors have found that maltodextrin and WPI both have the ability to improve the yield of spray drying apple juice. The 60 wt % addition of maltodextrin and 10 wt % addition of WPI were able to achieve 47% and 7% yields, respectively. Therefore, it was suggested that 60 wt % MD and 10 wt % WPI both made contributions to improving the yield of spray drying apple juice. A solution with a composition of 40 wt % AJ:50 wt % MD:10 wt % WPI was designed to assess if the combination of MD and WPI was sufficient to give an industrially satisfactory yield. The results are shown in FIG. 13.
From FIG. 11, the yield of 40 AJ:50 MD:10 WPI was 68%, which was much higher than the yields of the control experiments. Moreover, this yield showed that the combination of MD and WPI functioned much better as an additive for spray drying apple juice than MD or WPI separately. This result was very important, because it showed that the combination of additives was effective for increasing the spray-drying yield significantly. Further experiments using different hybrids of MD and WPI were designed and investigated to improve the yield of spray drying apple juice.
Optimization of the Total Percentage of Combination Additives
To optimise the percentage of total additive, a new group of experiments were designed with increasing total additive from 12 wt %, 20 wt % to 60 wt %, whilst maintaining the ratio of WPI and MD constant at 3:1, with the remainder being apple juice. The results are shown in FIG. 14.
FIG. 12 shows that the yield was stable in the range 73-82% when the concentration of total additives ranged from 20 wt % to 60 wt %. This change from 73 to 82% is not significant in terms of the error bars and experimental uncertainties. However, the yield dropped sharply and significantly from 82% down to 59% while the concentration of total additives decreased from 20 wt % to 10 wt %.
Compared with the yields from the control experiments, the combination of WPI and MD is much more effective as an additive for spray drying apple juice than WPI and MD separately. The yield of spray drying apple juice dropped down to 59 wt % when the concentration of total additives decreased to 10 wt %. Therefore, 20 wt % of total additives may be regarded as the optimal concentration of additive to give good yields for spray drying apple juice, which is a relatively low weight percentage of additive (20%) and acceptable in industry. The reason for this may be that the apple juice droplets need enough amount of WPI to coat their surfaces. When the total weight percentage of hybrid additives is less than 20%, the weight percentage of MD is less than 5% and the weight percentage of WPI is less than 15% (WPI:MD=3:1 weight percentage ratio in FIG. 12). Therefore, for spray-drying apple juice, 5% for MD or 15% for WPI, is the limitation factor for the hybrid additive to be the most effective. Some further experiments were performed to prove that 5% for MD is the limited factor instead of 15% for WPI. For example, 15 WPI:5 MD:80 AJ has a yield of 80%, which is almost as good as the yield of 5 WPI:15 MD:80 AJ (82%) here. Hence, it is believed that at least 5% for MD is beneficial in helping WPI to overcome certain stickiness component in apple juice. This stickiness component may be fructose, which is difficult to be spray-dried by adding WPI only.
Optimisation of the Ratio of MD and WPI in Hybrid Additives
The combination of MD and WPI can improve the yield of spray-drying apple juice significantly, however, it is not clear to what extent MD or WPI make their individual contributions to the yield. This ratio between MD and WPI in hybrid additives is another important factor to optimize the additives for achieving a better yield of spray-drying apple juice.
From the last sets of experiments, 20% was the optimal weight percentage of total additives for spray-drying apple juice. Based on this fact, a new set of experiments including 80 AJ:1 WPI:19MD, 80 AJ:5 WPI:15 MD, 80 AJ:10 WPI:10 MD, 80 AJ:15 WPI:5 MD, 80AJ:19 MD:1 WPI and 80 AJ:20 WPI:0 MD was conducted to investigate the contribution of WPI and MD and the optimal ratio of the two additives. The results confirmed that both WPI and maltodextrin achieved the best yield and illustrated how they work together as a combination additive for spray-drying apple juice. 15 WPI:5 MD was found to be the most effective composition of hybrid additives, improving the yield of spray-drying apple juice yield to as high as 82%.
FIG. 13 shows the effect of different combinations of WPI and MD on the yield when spray-drying apple juice. It is easy to report and explain these results by dividing then in to three sections: Firstly, it is the increase of yield from 1 WPI:19 MD to 5WPI:15MD.
Secondly, it is the stable yield from 5 WPI:15MD to 15WPI:5MD. Thirdly, it is the decrease of yield from 15 WPI:5MD to 20WPI:0MD.
Results and Explanations from (a) 1 WPI:19 MD to (b) 5WPI:15MD
In FIG. 13, increasing the concentration of protein, whilst maintaining a 20 wt % total WPI and MD total concentration, led to a significant increase in the absolute yield from 59 wt % (1WPI:19 MD:80 AJ) to 81 wt % (5 WPI:15 MD:80 AJ), when the concentration of WPI increased from 1 wt % to 5 wt %. In FIG. 16 (a), since there are not enough WPI in the bulk concentration and the surface of apple juice droplets, the more WPI were added, the more surface of droplets were covered. This suggested that WPI at low concentrations (1˜5%) was more effective and made more contributions than maltodextrin to increasing the yield of spray-drying 80 wt % apple juice.
Preliminary experiments suggested that the concentration of orange juice has no effect on the absolute yield. If the yield of spray-drying apple juice was assumed to be not affected by the apple juice concentration, the fact may be confirmed again by comparing these two results with the 47% yield of the control experiment containing 40 AJ:60 MD as well. Taking 1WPI:19 MD and 40 AJ:60 MD as an example, only 1% WPI made a contribution that was more than 41% MD that has increased the absolute yield by approximate 12%.
Results and Explanations from (b) 5WPI:15MD to (c) 15WPI:5MD
In FIG. 13, though the concentration of protein increased further from 5 wt % to 15 wt %, the yields stayed almost constant at around 80% with a slightly low yield of 76% for 10 WPI:10 MD. However, considering the standard deviation of 2.5%, the yields from 5 to 15% concentration of WPI were steady at around 75˜82%.
Furthermore, the observation of the main contribution to improving yield by WPI is consistent with previous work. Kim (1996) and Young (1993) reported that WPI had a coating effectiveness value of 72.2% for orange juice and 37% for anhydrous milk fat. The inventors' previous work confirmed the surface-active and film-forming properties of WPI to encapsulate orange juice components by achieving a spray-drying yield to greater than 80% with only 1 wt % WPI.
Therefore, in these experiments shown in FIG. 13, 5 wt % of WPI (5 WPI:15 MD) may have coated the majority of the surface of apple juice powder to give a good yield (81%), which shown in FIG. 14 (b). Then, in FIG. 14 (c), while increasing the weight percentage of WPI further to 15 wt % (15WPI:5MD), the percentage coverage of WPI on the apple juice particle may be not able to increase much further. This situation was explained by Adhikari (2007). He stated that the coating ability of protein is affected by surface tension. He also found that the surface tension required to create the new surface decreases while the concentration of WPI increases from 1 wt % to 5 wt %, however, the surface tension required to create the new surface remains the same when the concentration of WPI increased from 5 wt % to 10 wt %. The reason may be that 5 wt % bulk concentration resulted in the coverage of the majority or the entire surface. Extra WPI may create isolated pockets or iceberg of pure WPI (Holmberg et al., 2003). This may explain with increasing the concentration of WPI, why the yield increased significantly at low concentration of WPI from 1 to 5%, while keeping constant from 5 to 15 wt % of WPI. To test this hypothesis, a group of XPS measurements were conducted. The results showed that the percentage coverage of WPI on apple juice powder was almost constant at 92% when the concentration of WPI increased from 5 wt % to 15 wt %, which supported the hypothesis.
Results and Explanations from (c) 15 WPI:5MD to (d) 20WPI:0MD
In FIG. 13, whilst still maintaining a 20 wt % WPI and MD total concentration, it was interesting to find that, when the concentration of WPI increased further from 15 wt % (15WPI:5 MD) to 20 wt % (20 WPI:0 MD), the yield dropped down steadily from 82% to 69%. These data confirmed last hypothesis that the concentration of WPI did not affect the spray-drying yield much at high concentrations of WPI (>5 wt %). It also showed that the yield decreased from 82% to 69% as the concentration of maltodextrin dropped from 5 wt % to 0. Therefore, there was a correlation between the concentration of maltodextrin and the yield based on the data from 15 WPI:5 MD, 19 WPI:1 MD and 20 WPI:0 MD, which is shown in FIG. 15. It showed that increasing concentration of maltodextrin from 0 to 5% in the presence of WPI had significant effect on absolute yield which means maltodextrin made contribution to achieve the best yield (82%) of spray-drying apple juice. The absolute yield of 20 WPI:0 MD was 69%, which was lower than the best yield (82%) of 15 WPI:5 MD, but still higher than industry requirement (60%) (Bhandari et al., 1997a). This result is promising in industry due to the fact that WPI is created as a by-product of cheese production and it is natural protein provide nutrition instead of maltodextrin. WPI is also has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. People and fruit juice companies prefer to have protein as the additives in fruit juices.
Possible Mechanism Explanation
The hybrid additives of WPI and maltodextrin for spray drying apple juice may be explained by the differences in solubility and surface activity.
For solubility, it proposes that the less soluble components precipitates faster and form a coating layer on the surface of droplets. However, this was rejected by the experiments using WPI and soy protein acid hydrolysate from earlier experiments.
For the surface activity, Sheu and Rosenberg (1995) found that combinations of WPI and high DE maltodextrins are effective wall systems for microencapsulation of volatiles. In these systems, WPI was regarded as emulsifying and film-forming agent and maltodextrins were filters and matrix-forming agents. Therefore, in this particular case, the maltodextrin may be a filter or matrix-forming agent that, helps WPI to create a coating layer on the surface of apple juice components.
This result is different from the effect of maltodextrin on spray-drying orange juice. The inventors have found that increasing the concentration of maltodextrin concentration from <1 wt % to 50 wt % in presence of WPI had no significant effect on absolute yield, which was supported by regression analysis that provided an R2 value of 0.06 (p>0.01). This provides a contrast with the effect of maltodextrin on spray-drying apple juice. From the earlier explanations of the different effect with WPI on spray-drying apple juice and orange juice, much more fructose and malic acid, especially fructose, in apple juice may cause lower yields with spray drying apple juice compared with orange juice. WPI is effective in concentrations of about 20% wt, below this it may not be very effective on its own to reduce the stickiness of fructose, and maltodextrin can help WPI to reduce or overcome the stickiness of fructose.
This hypothesis is supported by the finding of Adhikari et al. (2003). The surface of a maltodextrin drop formed a skin which grew rapidly in thickness and transformed to a glassy state giving a non-sticky drop surface. Adhikari et al. (2003) also found that the addition of maltodextrin to the fructose solution reduced the surface stickiness of a fructose drop significantly. Bhandari et al. (1997a) stated that at least 50 wt % of maltodextrin DE12 was required to spray dry fructose, which is more difficult to be spray dry than other sugars. Therefore, one of hypothesis is that maltodextrin may be a surface active agent for fructose. Another hypothesis is that the maltodextrin, with a higher glass-transition temperature, mixes with fructose and changes the physical property of fructose drops resulting in higher overall higher glass-transition temperatures (Fox Jr and Flory, 1950). Thus, experiments using XPS have been performed to test the possible surface activity of maltodextrin. The spray-drying product for 40 AJ:60 MD was analysed and it showed that 82.3% of the surface of apple juice drops was coated by maltodextrin. This fact confirmed that maltodextrin is surface active agent and the first hypothesis is more reasonable.
Therefore, when the bulk concentrations of maltodextrin and WPI are high enough, such as 5WPI:15MD:80 AJ and 15WPI:5MD:80 AJ, the surface activity of hybrid additives are explanted in FIGS. 14 (b) and (c). WPI behaved like a “non-sticky pouch” because it formed a thickening smooth non-sticky skin on the surface of apple juice droplets during drying (Adhikari et al., 2009). However, there were some materials that are difficult to be coated by WPI, may be fructose. At the same time, maltodextrin mixed with WPI coated most the rest surface of droplets and formed a skin which grew rapidly in thickness and transformed to a glassy state giving a non-sticky drop surface. The WPI-MD film on the surface of apple juice droplet is smooth and non-sticky, therefore the stickiness of apple juice was overcome resulting spray-drying yields of more than 80%.
Conclusions
The experiment aimed at using WPI at lower concentrations than those commonly used for maltodextrin as additives to spray dry apple juice with better yields. The results confirmed two more effective strategies with higher yields than 60% were developed as expected. The critical breakthrough was that the combination of 15% WPI and 5% MD was sufficient to increase the yield from 47±2.5% for currently-used 60% addition of maltodextrin 80±0.7%. Moreover, only adding WPI at a concentration of 20% can increase the yield of spray-drying apple juice to a greater value than 0%, which meets the industry requirement.
In spray-drying experiments, apple juice was quantitatively determined to be much more difficult spray dry than orange juice. It has previously been reported that WPI was an effective additive for spray-drying orange juice at low concentrations (1%) on its own. However, it was found here that WPI cannot improve the yield of spray-drying apple juice significantly on its own at low concentrations (≦10%) although it can improve the yields to some extent. This greater difficulty with apple juice results possibly from the existence of more fructose in apple juice than orange juice.
The integration of WPI and maltodextrin was very effective strategy for overcoming the stickiness of apple juice in spray drying. Two series experiments were performed to figure out the optimal hybrid additive the hybrid additive percentage (WPI+MD) to be 20% and the ratio between WPI and maltodextrin to be 3:1. It was also found that 15% WPI and 5% MD was the most effective additive with more than 80% yield, and 20% WPI was also an effective additive with more than 60% yield.
XPS techniques were used to investigate the surface properties of critical powder products from spray-drying experiments. Maltodextrin was found to overcome the stickiness of apple juice in spray-drying process by coating 82% the surface of juice droplets, even when its bulk concentration was 60%. This may due to maltodextrin having surface-active and film-forming properties or its relatively low diffusion coefficient. A “Surface composition calculation without oxygen” method was established, using surface-active WPI as an example, which was based on and improved Fäldt (1995)'s surface content matrix formula. It was also found that when maltodextrin and WPI worked as additives together, WPI had a stronger surface activity with a coating effectiveness of around 90% than maltodextrin, which means WPI made more contribution to improving the spray-drying yield of apple juice significantly than maltodextrin in hybrid additive.
Successful spray-drying of apple juice has been achieved than with a much higher yield than industry requirements. The hybrid additive of 15% WPI and 5% maltodextrin achieved more than 80% yield. The hybrid additive improved the productivity of apple juice powder significantly to meet the high demand for apple juice worldwide, as well as the need for longer shelf-lives and easier storage, handling and transport. A 20% addition of WPI alone increased the yield to greater than 60%, which is very promising as well. This is because WPI is a natural nutrient and is created as a by-product of cheese production. It is good for health and has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Therefore, addition of WPI in fruit juice may be beneficial.
Furthermore, there is also potential to reduce the current costs of processing, since the amount of additive was reduced significantly from 60% for maltodextrin to 20% for either of two additive suggestions above in this work. This lower additive concentration means a higher purity fruit juice, which can retain the original and natural physicochemical properties of fruit juice better, such as texture, nutrition, flavour and fragrance. The finding of maltodextrin surface activity on the apple juice droplet is new and it helps to understand and explain why and how maltodextrin to improves the yield of spray drying. The “Surface composition calculation without oxygen” method can be applied to the determination of surface species composition in XPS measurement, it may give a more accurate result than that from Fäldt (1995)'s surface content matrix formula.
It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the invention as shown in the specific embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as broadly described. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.
REFERENCES
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1. A powder food product comprising one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combination thereof together with an amount of whey protein isolate effective to encapsulate the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combination thereof.
2. A The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the one or more fruit components are derived from one or more fruits selected from the group consisting of citrus fruits (including clementine, lime, grapefruit, mandarin, tangerine, kumquat, minneola, tangelo, lemon, orange and pummelo), apples, guavas, mangoes, lychee, berries (including blueberries blackberries, mulberries, strawberries, cranberries and gooseberries), bananas, pineapples, tomatoes, melons, peaches, nectarines, grapes, zucchini, figs, pears, melons, dates, papaya, persimmons, plums and apricots.
3. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or mixtures thereof is one or more fruit components only.
4. The powder food product of claim 1 where in the one or more fruit components is derived from one or more fruits selected from of the group consisting of oranges and apples.
5. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or mixtures thereof is one or more vegetable components only.
6. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or mixtures thereof is a combination of one or more fruit components and one or more vegetable components.
7. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the one or more vegetable components is derived from one or vegetables selected from the group consisting of mushrooms, celery, carrots, beetroot, ginger, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower and zucchini.
8. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein at least one of the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components is derived from one or more fruits or vegetables having a pH of less than about 5.
9. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein at least one of the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components are derived from one or more fruits or vegetables having a pH of higher than about 5.
10. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or a mixture thereof is present in an amount of ≧40% w/w, preferably ≧45% w/w, preferably ≧50% w/w, preferably ≧55% w/w, more preferably ≧60% w/w, more preferably ≧65% w/w, more preferably ≧70% w/w, most preferably ≧75% w/w, preferably ≧80% w/w, preferably ≧85% w/w, preferably ≧90% w/w, preferably ≧95% w/w, and in an amount of ≦0.99% w/w.
11. The powder food product of claim 1, wherein the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or a mixture thereof is present in an amount of about 40% w/w, about 70% w/w, about 80% w/w, about 90% w/w, about 95% w/w, about 98% w/w or about 99% w/w.
12. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the whey protein isolate is present in an amount of ≦50% w/w, preferably ≦45% w/w, preferably ≦40% w/w, preferably ≦35% w/w, preferably ≦30% w/w, preferably ≦25% w/w, preferably ≦20% w/w, preferably ≦15% w/w, preferably ≦10% w/w, preferably ≦5% w/w, preferably ≦4% w/w, preferably ≦3% w/w, preferably ≦2% w/w, preferably ≦1% w/w, preferably ≦0.5% w/w, and in an amount of ≧0.01% w/w.
13. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the whey protein isolate is present in an amount of ≧0.01% w/w, preferably ≧0.02% w/w, preferably ≧0.05% w/w, preferably ≧0.75% w/w, preferably ≧0.1% w/w, preferably ≧0.2% w/w, preferably ≧0.3% w/w, preferably ≧0.4% w/w, preferably ≧0.5% w/w, preferably ≧0.6% w/w, preferably ≧0.7% w/w preferably ≧0.8% w/w, preferably ≧0.9% w/w, preferably ≧1% w/w, and in an amount of ≦50% w/w.
14. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the amount of whey protein isolate is present in an amount of about 0.01-50% w/w, preferably about 0.02-45% w/w, preferably about 0.05-40% w/w, preferably about 0.75-35% w/w, preferably about 0.1-30% w/w, preferably about 0.2-30% w/w, preferably about 0.3-30% w/w, preferably about 0.4-30% w/w, preferably about 0.5-30% w/w, preferably about 0.6-30% w/w, preferably about 0.7-30% w/w, preferably about 0.8-30% w/w, preferably about 0.9-30% w/w, preferably about 1.0-30% w/w, preferably about 0.1-25% w/w, preferably about 0.2-25% w/w, preferably about 0.3-25% w/w, preferably about 0.4-25% w/w, preferably about 0.5-25% w/w, preferably about 0.6-25% w/w, preferably about 0.7-25% w/w, preferably about 0.8-25% w/w, preferably about 0.9-25% w/w, preferably about 1.0-25% w/w, preferably about 0.1-20% w/w, preferably about 0.2-20% w/w, preferably about 0.3-20% w/w, preferably about 0.4-20% w/w, preferably about 0.5-20% w/w, preferably about 0.6-20% w/w, preferably about 0.7-20% w/w, preferably about 0.8-20% w/w, preferably about 0.9-20% w/w, preferably about 1.0-20% w/w.
15. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the whey protein isolate is the sole additive.
16. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the whey protein isolate is present in an amount of about 0.5% w/w-10%% w/w, preferably 0.5-5% w/w, preferably 0.5-2% w/w.
17. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the whey protein isolate is present in an amount of about 0.5% w/w, preferably about 1.0% w/w, preferably about 2.5% w/w, preferably about 5.0% w/w, preferably about 10% w/w.
18. The powder food product of claim 15 wherein fruit components are derived from orange, preferably orange juice.
19. The powder food product of claim 1 wherein the whey protein isolate is present in an amount of about 20-50% w/w, preferably about 20-45% w/w, preferably, 20-40% w/w, preferably, 20-35% w/w, preferably 20-30% w/w, preferably 20-25% w/w, preferably about 20% w/w.
20. The powder food product of claim 19 wherein the fruit components are derived from apple, preferably apple juice.
21. The powder food product of claim 1 further comprising one or more extraneous additives.
22. The powder food product of claim 21 wherein the one or more extraneous additives are selected from the group consisting of maltodextrin, gum arabic and preservatives.
23. The powder food product of claim 21 wherein the extraneous additives are present in an amount of ≦about 50% w/w, preferably ≦about 45% w/w, preferably ≦about 40% w/w, preferably ≦about 35% w/w, preferably ≦about 30% w/w, preferably ≦about 25% w/w, preferably ≦about 20% w/w, preferably ≦about 15% w/w, preferably ≦about 10% w/w, preferably ≦about 5% w/w, preferably ≦about 4% w/w, preferably ≦about 3% w/w, preferably ≦about 2% w/w, preferably ≦about 1% w/w, most preferably ≦about 0.5% w/w, ≦0.1% w/w, and in an amount of ≧0.01% w/w.
24. The powder food product of claim 21 wherein the extraneous additive is present in an amount of about 0.01-20% w/w, preferably about 0.1-15% w/w, preferably about 0.2-10% w/w, preferably about 0.4-8% w/w, preferably about 0.5-5% w/w, preferably about 5% w/w, preferably about 2.5% w/w, preferably about 1% w/w, preferably about 0.5% w/w.
25. The powder food product of claim 21 wherein the extraneous additive is maltodextrin.
26. The powder food product of claim 21 comprising about 0.5 to 20% w/w maltodextrin and about 0.05 to 20% whey protein isolate, preferably about 0.5 to 5.0% w/w maltodextrin and about 0.5 to 5% w/w whey protein isolate, preferably 1-20% w/w maltodextrin and 1-20% whey protein isolate.
27. The powder food product of claim 21 comprising 50% maltodextrin and 10% whey protein isolate, preferably about 20% w/w maltodextrin and about 10% w/w whey protein isolate.
28. The powder food product of claim 21 wherein the total amount of additive is about 20%.
29. The powder food product of claim 28 comprising about 19% w/w maltodextrin and about 1% w/w whey protein isolate, preferably about 15% w/w maltodextrin and about 5% w/w whey protein isolate, preferably about 10% w/w maltodextrin and about 10% w/w whey protein isolate, preferably about 5% w/w maltodextrin and about 15% w/w whey protein isolate, preferably about 5% w/w maltodextrin and about 15% w/w whey protein isolate, preferably about 1% w/w maltodextrin and about 19% w/w whey protein isolate, preferably about 20% whey protein isolate.
30. The powder food product of claim 21 wherein the total amount of additive is about 1-10%.
31. The powder food product of claim 30 comprising about 0.5% w/w maltodextrin and about 0.5% w/w whey protein isolate, preferably about 1% w/w maltodextrin and about 1% w/w whey protein isolate, preferably about 2.5% w/w maltodextrin and about 2.5% w/w whey protein isolate, preferably about 5% w/w maltodextrin and about 5% w/w whey protein isolate, preferably about 1% w/w whey protein isolate.
32. Use of a powder food product of claim 1 in the preparation of a reconstituted food product.
33. Use according to claim 32 wherein the powder food product is reconstituted with a liquid, preferably water or water based.
34. Use of a whey protein isolate in the preparation of a powder food product comprising one or more fruit components or vegetable components or combinations thereof.
35. A method of manufacturing a powder food product comprising a whey protein isolate and one or more fruit components or vegetable components or combinations thereof, the method comprising preparing a solution of one or more fruit and/or vegetable juices and whey protein isolate and spraying drying the solution to form the powder food product.
36. The method of claim 35 wherein the powder food product is as defined in claim 1 and wherein the one or more fruit components or one or more vegetable components or combinations thereof are derived from one or more fruit juices or one or more vegetable juices or combinations thereof.
37. The method of claim 35 wherein the solution is prepared by dissolving the whey protein isolate in water to form a solubilised protein, followed by mixing the solubilised protein with the one or more fruit juices or one or more vegetable juices or mixtures thereof.
38. The method of claim 37 wherein the water is at a temperature of about 22° C.-26° C.
39. The method of claim 35 wherein the whey protein isolate is first dissolved in the one or more fruit juices or one or more vegetable juices or combinations thereof, preferably at a temperature of about 22° C.-26° C.
40. The method of claim 35 wherein the juice is extracted from one or more fruits or one or more vegetables or mixtures thereof.
41. The method of claim 35 wherein the juice is in a concentrated or non-concentrated form.
42. The method of claim 35 wherein the fruit or vegetable juice is treated to remove pulp and other solids.
43. The method of claim 35 wherein the fruit or vegetable juice is not treated to remove pulp and other solids.
44. The method of claim 35 wherein a solution of whey protein isolate and fruit or vegetable juice or mixtures thereof is fed into a spray drying machine with an inlet temperature of about 100-230° C., preferably about 130-220° C., more preferably 160-190° C., preferably about 130° C.
45. The method of claim 44 wherein the spray drying machine has an outlet temperature of about 80-120° C., preferably about 100° C.
| 2011-07-29 | en | 2013-09-26 |
US-202017101025-A | Display device
ABSTRACT
A display device of the present inventive concept includes: a display panel include a first display area including a first pixel area in which first pixels are disposed and a transmissive area in which no pixel is disposed, and a second display area including a second pixel area in which second pixels are disposed; a panel driver configured to supply an analog data signal to the first and second pixels; and a camera configured to include at least one camera module for capturing an image and disposed to overlap the first display area of the display panel. The panel driver controls luminance of at least some of the first pixels in the first display area at a first time point at which the at least one camera module captures an image.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application claims priority to and benefits of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0036194 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on Mar. 25, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
(a) Field
The present inventive concept relates to a display device.
(b) Description of the Related Art
An electronic device (e.g., a mobile terminal, etc.) including a display device may include a display area that occupies most of a front surface (e.g., a surface on which an image is displayed) of a display device and a camera or the like that overlaps a portion of the display area.
In the meantime, in the case where a pixel disposed in a portion of the display area overlapping the camera emits light when the camera captures an image, interference between light emitted from the pixel and light reflected from a subject and incident on a light receiver of the camera may occur, thereby deteriorating the quality of an image captured by the camera. Particularly, when the sensitivity of the camera is increased during night shooting or when the pixel disposed in a portion of the display area overlapping the camera emit light with high luminance, interference of light may become stronger.
The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the background of the inventive concept, and therefore it may contain information that does not form the prior art that is already known in this country to a person of ordinary skill in the art.
SUMMARY
One object of the present inventive concept is to provide a display device that minimizes (or eliminates) an interference effect between light emitted from a pixel and light reflected from a subject and incident on a light receiver of a camera.
An exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept provides a display device including: a display panel which includes a first display area including a first pixel area in which first pixels are disposed and a transmissive area in which no pixel is disposed, and a second display area including a second pixel area in which second pixels are disposed; a panel driver configured to supply an analog data signal to the first and second pixels; and a camera configured to include at least one camera module for capturing an image and disposed to overlap the first display area of the display panel. The panel driver may control luminance of at least some of the first pixels in the first display area at a first time point at which the at least one camera module captures an image.
In an exemplary embodiment, the panel driver may reduce the luminance of the at least some of the first pixels or turns off the at least some of the first pixels at the first time point.
In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include: a camera driver configured to supply a camera driving signal including photographing time point information at the first time point to the camera ; and a host processor configured to supply a camera control signal to the camera driver and to supply a first data and a control signal to the panel driver. The camera driver may generate the camera driving signal in response to the camera control signal, and the at least one camera module may capture an image at the first time point based on the camera driving signal.
In an exemplary embodiment, the panel driver may include: a timing controller configured to convert the first data into second data; and a data driver configured to generate the analog data signal based on the second data.
In an exemplary embodiment, the timing controller may generate an offset control signal and a selection signal including the photographing time point information in response to the control signal. The data driver may include: an offset circuit configured to generate an offset applied to the second data based on the offset control signal; and a signal generator configured to generate the analog data signal corresponding to the at least some of the first pixels based on the second data, the offset, and the selection signal.
In an exemplary embodiment, the signal generator may include: a multiplexer (MUX) configured to select one of first sub-data in which the offset is applied to the second data and second sub-data in which no offset is applied to the second data; and a digital-analog converter configured to convert the first sub-data or the second sub-data selected from the MUX into the analog data signal.
In an exemplary embodiment, the signal generator may supply the analog data signal converted from the first sub-data to the at least some of the first pixels, and luminance of the at least some of the first pixels may be changed based on the analog data signal converted from the first sub-data at the first time point.
In an exemplary embodiment, the signal generator may include: a MUX configured to select one of a first offset signal including the offset and a second offset signal including no offset in response to the selection signal; and a digital-analog converter configured to convert first sub-data in which the first offset signal is applied to the second data or second sub-data in which the second offset signal is applied thereto to the analog data signal.
In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include: an illuminance sensor configured to sense illuminance of ambient light of the display panel and to supply illuminance data corresponding to the illuminance to the host processor. The offset may be determined based on the illuminance data included in the control signal.
In an exemplary embodiment, the first pixels may be disposed to have first density in an area of the first display area that overlaps the camera, and the second pixels may be disposed to have second density that is higher than the first density in the second display area.
In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include: a camera driver; and a host processor configured to supply first data and a control signal to the panel driver. The panel driver may generate a camera control signal in response to the control signal, and the camera driver may supply a camera driving signal including photographing time point information corresponding to the first time point to the camera in response to the camera control signal.
In an exemplary embodiment, the panel driver may include: a timing controller configured to convert the first data into second data; and a data driver configured to generate the analog data signal based on the second data.
In an exemplary embodiment, the timing controller may generate an offset control signal and a selection signal based on the control signal. The data driver may include: an offset circuit configured to generate an offset applied to the second data based on the offset control signal; and a signal generator configured to generate the analog data signal corresponding to the at least some of the first pixels based on the second data, the offset, and the selection signal.
In an exemplary embodiment, the data driver may generate sub-data to which the offset is applied to the second data based on the offset and the selection signal, and may convert the sub-data into the analog data signal to supply the analog data signal to the at least some of the first pixels. Luminance of the at least some of the first pixels may be changed based on the analog data signal converted from the sub-data.
In an exemplary embodiment, the panel driver may supply the camera control signal to the camera driver after supplying the analog data signal converted from the sub-data to the at least some of the first pixels. The camera driver may generate the camera driving signal in response to the camera control signal, and the at least one camera module may capture an image at the first time point in response to the camera driving signal.
In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include: a camera driver; and a host processor configured to supply a camera control signal to the camera driver and to supply first data to the panel driver.
In an exemplary embodiment, the camera driver may generate a command in response to the camera control signal. The panel driver may control luminance of at least some of the first pixels in response to the command.
In an exemplary embodiment, the panel driver may include: a timing controller configured to convert the first data into second data and to generate an offset control signal and a selection signal based on the command; and a data driver configured to generate the analog data signal based on the second data. The data driver may include: an offset circuit configured to generate an offset applied to the second data in response to the offset control signal; and a signal generator configured to generate the analog data signal corresponding to the at least some of the first pixels based on the second data, the offset, and the selection signal.
In an exemplary embodiment, the data driver may generate sub-data to which the offset is applied to the second data based on the offset and the selection signal, and may convert the sub-data into the analog data signal to supply the analog data signal to the at least some of the first pixels. Luminance of the at least some of the first pixels may be changed based on the analog data signal converted from the sub-data.
In an exemplary embodiment, the panel driver may supply a response signal to the camera driver after supplying the analog data signal converted from the sub-data to the at least some of the first pixels. The camera driver may supply a camera driving signal including photographing time point information corresponding to the first time point to the camera in response to the response signal, and the at least one camera module may capture an image at the first time point in response to the camera driving signal.
The display device according to the exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept may reduce the luminance of pixels disposed in the area overlapping the camera at a time at which the camera captures an image, based on the data signal to which the offset is applied. Accordingly, an interference effect between the light emitted from the pixel and the light reflected from the subject and incident on the light receiver of the camera is minimized (or removed), thereby improving the quality of the captured image.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept.
FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of section I-I′ of FIG. 1 showing an example of the display device of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3A illustrates an example of a display panel included in the display device of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3B illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of section II-II′ of FIG. 3A showing an example of some regions of a pixel area and a transmissive area included in a display area of the display panel of FIG. 3A.
FIG. 3C illustrates a schematic perspective view showing an example of an area EA included in the display area of the display panel of FIG. 3A.
FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram showing an example of the display device of FIG. 1.
FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a host processor, a panel driver, a camera driver, and a camera included in the display device of FIG. 4.
FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a data driver included in the panel driver of FIG. 5.
FIG. 7A illustrates an example of an operation of the data driver of FIG. 6.
FIG. 7B illustrates another example of the operation of the data driver of FIG. 6.
FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate examples of operations of the display device of FIG. 1.
FIG. 9 illustrates a block diagram showing another example of the display device of FIG. 1.
FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a host processor, a panel driver, a camera driver, and a camera included in the display device of FIG. 9.
FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram showing yet another example of the display device of FIG. 1.
FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a host processor, a panel driver, a camera driver, and a camera included in the display device of FIG. 11.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
Since the present inventive concept may be variously modified and have various forms, specific exemplary embodiments will be illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in this specification. However, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are not intended to limit the inventive concept to a specific disclosed form, and cover all modifications, equivalents, or alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the inventive concept.
Like reference numerals are used for like elements in describing each drawing. In the accompanying drawings, the dimensions of the structures are shown to be enlarged than the actual for clarity of the present inventive concept. Terms such as first, second, and the like will be used only to describe various components, and are not to be interpreted as limiting these components. The terms are only used to differentiate one component from other components. For example, a first constituent element may be referred to as a second constituent element, and the second constituent element may also be referred to as the first constituent element without departing from the scope of the present inventive concept. Singular forms are to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
It will be further understood that terms “comprises/includes” or “have” used in the present specification specify the presence of stated features, numerals, steps, operations, components, parts, or a combination thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numerals, steps, operations, components, parts, or a combination thereof. It will be understood that when an element such as a layer, film, region, or substrate is referred to as being “on” another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In addition, in the present specification, when it is said that a portion of a layer, film, region, plate, etc. is formed on another part, the formed direction is not limited to an upper direction, but includes a side or a lower direction. Conversely, it will be understood that when an element such as a layer, film, region, or substrate is referred to as being “below” another element, it can be directly below the other element or intervening elements may also be present.
Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept will be described in more detail with reference to accompanying drawings
FIG. 1 illustrates a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept, and FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of section I-I′ showing an example of the display device of FIG. 1.
Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the display device 1000 may include a display panel 100, a base 200, and a camera CM. In an exemplary embodiment, the display device 1000 may further include a touch sensor layer TSL and a window layer WDL.
The display device 1000 may be applied to various electronic devices such as a smart phone, a tablet, a smart pad, a TV, and a monitor.
The base 200 may support the display panel 100 and the camera CM. In an exemplary embodiment, the base 200 may be a bracket, a case, etc., and may include a plastic or metal material. The base 200 may constitute an external shape of a rear surface of the display device 1000 to protect constituent elements inside the electronic device from external stress.
In an exemplary embodiment, the display panel 100 may be a flat panel display panel or a flexible display panel. For example, the display panel 100 may include a rigid substrate formed of glass, plastic, or the like, or a flexible substrate such as a plastic film. The display panel 100 may display an image by using a pixel circuit (a plurality of transistors) disposed on a substrate and a light emitting element such as an organic light emitting diode. The light emitting element and the pixel circuit may be covered with a thin film encapsulation layer. The thin film encapsulation layer may prevent deterioration of properties by sealing the light emitting element from an external environment including moisture and oxygen. Herein, the light emitting element is not limited to an organic light emitting diode. For example, the light emitting element may be an inorganic light emitting element including an inorganic light emitting material or a light emitting element (quantum dot display element) that emits light by changing a wavelength of light emitted using quantum dots.
The display panel 100 may include a display area DA including a plurality of pixels and a non-display area NDA disposed at at least one side of the display area DA. An entire front surface of the display panel 100 may substantially correspond to the display area DA in order to minimize the non-display area NDA (e.g., a bezel)
Although it is illustrated that the non-display area NDA is provided at a portion of the front surface of the display panel 100, the present inventive concept is not limited thereto. For example, an edge display may be implemented by extending the display area DA to at least one side of the display panel 100, and in this case, the non-display area NDA may be partially provided on a side surface of the display panel 100.
The display area DA may include first and second display areas DA1 and DA2.
The first display area DA1 may have a portion overlapping the camera CM. The first display area DA1 may include a camera area CA overlapping the camera CM and a surrounding area SA adjacent to the camera area CA.
The first display area DA1 includes first pixels. The first pixels may be disposed to have a first pixel density in at least a portion of the first display area DA1.
For example, the first pixels may be disposed to have the first pixel density in the camera area CA overlapping the camera CM in the first display area DA1, and may be disposed to have a second pixel density in an area (e.g., the surrounding area SA) except for the camera area CA in the first display area DA1. Herein, the second pixel density may be greater than the first pixel density. As another example, the first pixels may be disposed to have the first pixel density in the entire first display area DA1 (i.e., the camera area CA and the surrounding area SA). However, the present inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the second pixels included in the second display area DA2 may also have the first pixel density in at least a portion of the second display area DA2.
The second display area DA2 may occupy most area of the display area DA. The second display area DA2 includes second pixels, and the second pixels may be disposed to have the second pixel density in the second display area DA2. However, the present inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the second pixels may be disposed to have a third pixel density, which is larger than the second pixel density, in the second display area DA2.
The pixel density is defined as a total area of a portion where actual pixels are disposed relative to a total area of the display area, or may be defined as a total area of pixels included in a predetermined unit area. Herein, an area where each of the pixels is disposed may be an area of emission surfaces of the light emitting elements included in the respective pixels. For example, when the pixel includes an organic light emitting element, an area of the pixel may be an area of an anode exposed between pixel defining layers or an area of an emission layer.
Accordingly, light transmittance of the first display area DA1 is higher than that of the second display area DA2, and taking photos may be performed by the camera CM disposed at a lower portion of the first display area DA1.
The camera CM may be disposed between the base 200 and the display panel 100. That is, the camera CM may be disposed below the rear surface of the display panel 100. The camera CM may overlap the first display area DA1. In FIG. 1, the first display area DA1 is formed to be wider than the camera CM, but a relationship between the first display area DA1 and the camera CM is not limited thereto. For example, the first display area DA1 and the camera CM may be formed to have substantially a same area, or the first display area DA1 may be formed to be smaller than the camera CM. In addition, in FIG. 1, the camera CM is illustrated to overlap an upper right area of the display area DA, but the present inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the camera CM may overlap an upper left area or a central upper area of the display area DA. In this case, the first display area DA1 may also be disposed in the upper left area or the upper center area.
The camera CM may include at least one camera module for capturing an image. The display device 1000 may photograph a subject by using the camera CM. The camera CM may take an image through a transmitting window disposed in the transmissive area.
However, this is an example, and the present inventive concept is not limited to such disposal of only the camera module for image capture in the camera CM. For example, the camera CM may be replaced with a biometric sensor.
The higher the aperture ratio (transmittance) of the first display area DA1 corresponding to the camera CM, the higher the quality of the image captured by the camera CM may be. Accordingly, at least the first pixels disposed in the camera area CA of the first display area DA1 may be disposed to have a lower pixel density than the second pixels disposed in the second display area DA2. For example, a number of pixels per unit area (PPI) of the first display area DA1 may be lower than that of pixels per unit area of the second display area DA2.
In an exemplary embodiment, the camera CM may further include a fixing member surrounding the camera module and a moving member connected to the camera module to move the camera module.
In an exemplary embodiment, a touch sensor layer TSL may be disposed on the display panel 100. The touch sensor layer TSL may be disposed to correspond to a front surface of the display area DA of the display panel 100, or may be formed to have a larger area than the display area DA while covering the display area DA. According to an exemplary embodiment, the touch sensor layer TSL may be driven by a capacitive method, a resistive film method, or the like.
The touch sensor layer TSL may be disposed on the display panel 100 through an adhesive member, or may be directly disposed on the display panel 100 through a continuous process such as patterning in a manufacturing process of the display panel 100. However, this is an example, and the touch sensor layer TSL may be disposed inside the display panel 100.
A window layer WDL may be disposed on the touch sensor layer TSL. The window layer WDL may be disposed at an outermost portion of a front surface (i.e., a display surface) of the display device 1000 to protect constituent elements inside the display device 1000 from external shocks, scratches, and the like. The window layer WDL may be formed by using a glass material or a polymer film. For example, the window layer WDL may include at least one of polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and other polymer materials. The window layer WDL may be made of a transparent material.
FIG. 3A illustrates an example of a display panel included in the display device of FIG. 1, FIG. 3B illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of section II-II′ showing an example of some regions of a pixel area and a transmissive area included in a display area of the display panel of FIG. 3A, and FIG. 3C illustrates a schematic perspective view showing an example of an area EA included in the display area of the display panel of FIG. 3A.
Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3A to 3C, the display panel 100 may include first and second display areas DA1 and DA2. As described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the first pixels PX1 are disposed to have the first pixel density in the camera area CA overlapping the camera CM in the first display areas DA1, or may be disposed to have the first pixel density in the entire first display area DA1, but hereinafter, as illustrated in FIG. 3A, it is assumed that the first pixels PX1 are disposed to have the first pixel density in the entire first display area DAL
In an exemplary embodiment, in the display area DA, a pixel row may be defined by pixels PX arranged in the first direction DR1, and a pixel column may be defined by pixels PX arranged in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1.
The first display area DA1 may have a portion (e.g., the camera area CA) overlapping the camera CM. In an exemplary embodiment, the first display area DA1 may have a first pixel area PA1 in which the first pixel PX1 is disposed and a transmissive area TA in which no pixel is disposed.
In an exemplary embodiment, light emitting elements and transistors constituting the pixels are not disposed in the transmissive area TA. That is, it may be understood that the meaning that no pixel is disposed is that the light emitting element and the transistors constituting the pixel circuit are not disposed (or formed).
In an exemplary embodiment, the first pixel area PA1 and the transmissive area TA included in the first display area DA1 may have a stacked structure in the third direction DR3 as illustrated in FIG. 3B. The camera CM disposed on the base 200 such as a case may overlap both the first pixel area PA1 and the transmissive area TA.
The display panel 100 may include a substrate SUB, a pixel circuit layer PCL, a light emitting element layer EML, and an encapsulation layer ECL.
The substrate SUB may be formed to include a single layer or a plurality of layers made of a transparent insulating material such as glass or transparent plastic (PI).
The pixel circuit layer PCL may be disposed in the first pixel area PA1 on the substrate SUB. The pixel circuit layer PCL includes at least one transistor, a capacitor, and a signal line connected to the light emitting element. The pixel circuit layer PCL may be formed by mutually stacking a semiconductor layer, a plurality of insulating layers, and a plurality of conductive layers. In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 3C, a plurality of signal lines CL1, CL2, and CL3 may be connected to the pixel circuit layer PCL. For example, the signal lines CL1, CL2, and CL3 may include a scan line for transferring a scan signal, a data line for transferring a data signal, a light emission control line for transferring a light emission control signal, a power line for transferring a power voltage, and the like.
In an exemplary embodiment, the pixel circuit layer PCL and the signal lines CL1, CL2, and CL3 may be disposed not to overlap the transmissive area TA. However, this is an example, and at least some of the signal lines CL1, CL2, and CL3 may be formed to pass through the transmissive area TA.
A light emitting element layer EML may be disposed on the pixel circuit layer PCL. The light emitting element layer EML may include a plurality of electrode layers and an emission layer. The light emitting element layer EML may also be disposed not to overlap the transmissive area TA.
For example, when the light emitting element layer EML is made of an organic light emitting element, the light emitting element layer EML may include a first electrode layer (e.g., anode electrode layer), a second electrode layer (e.g., cathode electrode layer), and an organic emission layer disposed between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer. However, the second electrode layer may be formed as a common electrode layer, or may be disposed to extend to the transmissive area TA as a transparent electrode.
In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3C, the first pixel PX1 included in the first pixel area PA1 may include a plurality of sub-pixels R, G, and B. Each of the sub-pixels R, G, and B may emit light of different colors. For example, each of the sub-pixels R, G, and B may emit red light, green light, or blue light.
A transparent insulating layer TIL may be disposed in the transmissive area TA on the substrate SUB. In an exemplary embodiment, the transparent insulating layer TIL may have a structure in which at least one inorganic insulating layer and at least one organic insulating layer are stacked. However, the present inventive concept is not limited thereto, and the transparent insulating layer TIL may be omitted and formed as another material (e.g., a transparent adhesive material) layer or an air layer, or the encapsulation layer ECL may be bonded to the substrate SUB.
As illustrated in FIG. 3C, the signal lines CL1, CL2, and CL3 may also be disposed not to overlap the transmissive area TA in order to improve an aperture ratio. However, this is an example, and at least some of the signal lines CL1, CL2, and CL3 may be disposed to overlap the transmissive area TA to pass through the transmissive area TA, and the signal lines CL1, CL2, and CL3 passing through the transmissive area TA may be formed of a transparent conductive material.
An encapsulation layer ECL may be disposed on the light emitting element layer EML and the transparent insulating layer TIL. The encapsulation layer ECL may be formed by alternating disposal of glass or at least one inorganic insulating layer and at least one organic insulating layer.
A touch sensor layer TSL and a window layer WDL may be sequentially disposed on the encapsulation layer ECL.
As described above, the transmissive area TA may be understood as an area in which the pixel (or the first pixel PX1) is removed in the display area DA (or the first display area DA1), and the camera CM may take an image through light reflected from the subject and incident on the light receiver of a camera module included in the camera CM through the transmissive area TA.
In an exemplary embodiment, the first display area DA1 may include a plurality of pixel rows. In each of the pixel rows of the first display area DA1, the transmissive areas TA may be positioned at a distance corresponding to a width of one first pixel area PAL In this case, one or more first pixels PX1 may be disposed in a first pixel row included in the first display area DA1, and may be disposed in a second pixel row of the first display area DA1 so as to be non-overlapped with the one or more first pixels PX1 disposed in an adjacent pixel column. However, the distance between the transmissive areas TA is not limited thereto, but the transmissive areas TA may be positioned at a distance corresponding to a width that is smaller than a width of one first pixel area PA1, or may be positioned at a distance corresponding to a width that is larger than the width of one first pixel area PAL
The first pixel areas PA1 and the transmissive areas TA may be alternately disposed along the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 to form a check pattern as illustrated in FIG. 3A to minimize image quality deterioration while securing transmittance of the first display area DA1. However, this is an example, and a position and disposal relationship between the first pixel areas PA1 and the transmissive areas TA of the first display area DA1 are not limited thereto.
The second display area DA2 may occupy most of an area of the display area DA. In an exemplary embodiment, the second display area DA2 may include a second pixel area PA2 in which the second pixel PX2 is disposed. The second display area DA2 may include no transmissive area TA.
As illustrated in FIG. 3A, first pixel density of the first display area DA1 may be about half (or less than half) of second pixel density of the second display area DA2. For example, the number of the first pixels PX1 included in one pixel row of the first display area DA1 may be half (or less than half) of that of the second pixels PX2 included in one pixel row of the second display area DA2. Herein, since the second pixels PX2 are similar to the first pixels PX1 described with reference to FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C, a detailed description will be omitted. In an exemplary embodiment, the second pixels PX2 may have a sub-pixel structure, a wire width, and the like that are different from those of the first pixels PX1.
FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram showing an example of the display device of FIG. 1, and FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a host processor, a panel driver, a camera driver, and a camera included in the display device of FIG. 4.
In FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, substantially the same or similar constituent elements described with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 3A will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and a repeated description thereof will be omitted. Meanwhile, in FIG. 5, only some of the constituent elements included in the panel driver 300 are illustrated.
Referring to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the display device 1000 may include a display panel 100, a host processor 500, a panel driver 300, a camera driver 400, a camera CM, and an illuminance sensor IS.
In an exemplary embodiment, the display device 1000 may further include a light emission driver configured to supply a light emission control signal to the pixels PX and a power supply configured to supply a first power VDD and a second power VSS to the pixels PX.
In an exemplary embodiment, the camera CM may be disposed at a lower side of the first display area DA1 of the display panel 100.
In an exemplary embodiment, the display panel 100 may include first and second display areas DA1 and DA2. Pixel density of the first and second display areas DA1 and DA2 may be different.
The first display area DA1 may include the first pixels PX1. The first display area DA1 may include first to pth pixel rows that are respectively connected to the first to pth scan lines SL1 to SLp (where p is a natural number greater than 1).
The second display area DA2 may include the second pixels PX2. The second display area DA2 may include first to pth pixel rows that are respectively connected to the first to pth scan lines SL1 to SLp, and (p+1)th to nth pixel rows that are respectively connected to the (p+1)th to nth scan lines SL(p+1) to SLn (where n is a natural number greater than p+1).
m second pixels PX2 may be connected to the (p+1)th to nth scan lines SL(p+1) to SLn (where m is a natural number greater than 1). Since the first display area DA1 is disposed to correspond to the first to pth scan lines SL1 to SLp, numbers of the first pixels PX1 and the second pixels PX2 connected to the first to pth scan lines SL1 to SLp may be smaller than m. For example, the number of second pixels PX2 connected to the nth scan line SLn may be greater than the numbers of the first pixels PX1 and the second pixels PX2 connected to the first scan line SL1. In addition, the second display area DA2 may include no transmissive area TA.
The pixels PX may include the first pixels PX1 disposed in the first display area DA1 and the second pixels PX2 disposed in the second display area DA2. The pixels PX may be connected to at least one of the first to nth scan lines SL1 to SLn and at least one of the first to mth data lines DL1 to DLm. The pixels PX may receive scan signals through the first to nth scan lines SL1 to SLn, and may receive data signals through the first to mth data lines DL1 to DLm. The pixels PX may emit light with gray levels corresponding to the data signals in response to the scan signals and the data signals.
The pixels PX may receive voltages of the first power VDD and the second power VSS from an external source (e.g., a power supply). Herein, the voltages of the first and second powers VDD and VSS are voltages required for operations of the pixels PX, and the first power VDD may have a voltage level that is higher than the voltage level of the second power VSS.
The illuminance sensor IS may detect the illuminance of ambient light of the display panel 100. The illuminance sensor IS may detect illuminance to generate illuminance data ISD. The illuminance sensor IS may supply the illuminance data ISD to the host processor 500.
In an exemplary embodiment, the illuminance sensor IS may be embedded in a system board outside the display device 1000, or may be embedded in the panel driver 300. Alternatively, the illuminance sensor IS may be configured in the display device 1000 as a separate circuit or chip.
The host processor 500 may control a general operation of the display device 1000. For example, the host processor 500 may be implemented as a system-on-chip, and may be an at least one application processor (AP) provided in a mobile device.
The host processor 500 may generate first data IDATA and a control signal CS to supply the first data IDATA and the control signal CS to the panel driver 300. Herein, the first data IDATA may be input image data.
The host processor 500 may generate a camera control signal CCS1 to supply the camera control signal CCS1 to the camera driver 400. Herein, the camera control signal CCS1, which is a signal for controlling the camera driver 400, may include information related to a time point (or first time point) at which at least one camera module included in the camera CM captures an image.
The panel driver 300 may supply data signals (or data voltages) to the first and second pixels PX1 and PX2. In an exemplary embodiment, the panel driver 300 may control luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 at the time point (or the first time point) at which at least one camera module included in the camera CM captures an image. For example, the panel driver 300 may compensate image data (first data IDATA) corresponding to at least some of the first pixels PX1 such that illuminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 is reduced (or turned-off) at a time point at which the camera module captures an image.
At the first time point, the panel driver 300 may control luminance of an area of the first display area DA1 overlapping the camera CM (e.g., the first pixels PX1 overlapping the camera area CA). However, the present inventive concept is not limited thereto, and for example, the panel driver 300 may control luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in an area (e.g., the camera area CA) overlapping the camera CM and an area adjacent thereto (e.g., the surrounding area SA of FIG. 1) at the first time point. As another example, the panel driver 300 may control luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the first display area DA1 and luminance of at least some of the second pixels PX2 connected to the same scan lines (e.g., the first to nth scan lines SL1 to SLn) as the first pixels PX1 at the first time point.
The panel driver 300 may include a timing controller 310, a scan driver 320, and a data driver 330.
The timing controller 310 may generate a scan control signal SCS and a data control signal DCS based on the control signal CS supplied from the host processor 500. Herein, the control signal CS may include a vertical synchronization signal, a horizontal synchronization signal, a main clock signal, a data enable signal, and the like. In an exemplary embodiment, the control signal CS may further include a signal for controlling luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1.
In an exemplary embodiment, the timing controller 310 may generate an offset control signal OCS and a selection signal SEL based on the control signal CS. The selection signal SEL may include information related to a time point at which the at least one camera module included in the camera CM captures an image (hereinafter, photographing time point information or the first time point information). Herein, the photographing time point information may be included in the control signal CS supplied from the host processor 500, and the timing controller 310 may generate the selection signal SEL including the photographing time point information based on the control signal CS. In addition, the offset control signal OCS and the selection signal SEL may correspond to signals for controlling luminance of at least some selected pixels among the first pixels PX1. When the camera CM does not capture an image, the timing controller 310 may generate the offset control signal OCS and the selection signal SEL as an OFF value. For example, when a user does not execute a camera application for image capture, the timing controller 310 may transfer the offset control signal OCS and the selection signal SEL as an off value, whereby each of the first pixels PX1 may emit light with a gray scale value corresponding to the first data IDATA (or input image data).
The timing controller 310 may generate second data DATA (or image data) by converting the first data IDATA supplied from the host processor 500.
The scan driver 320 may generate scan signals based on the scan control signal SCS supplied from the timing controller 310. Herein, the scan control signal SCS may include a scan start signal, a scan clock signal, and the like. The scan driver 320 may supply scan signals to the first to nth scan lines SL1 to SLn. In an exemplary embodiment, the scan driver 320 may simultaneously supply the scan signals (i.e., scan signals having a gate-on level) to all of the pixels PX, or may sequentially supply the scan signals to the first to nth scan lines SL1 to SLn in units of pixel rows.
The data driver 330 may generate data signals (or data voltages) based on the data control signals DCS and the second data DATA supplied from the timing controller 310. Herein, the data control signal DCS may include a source start pulse, a source shift clock, a source output enable signal, and the like. The data driver 330 may supply data signals (or data voltages) to the first to mth data lines DL1 to DLm. For example, the data driver 330 may convert the second data DATA in a digital format into a data signal in an analog format, and may supply the data signal to the pixels PX through the first to mth data lines DL1 to DLm. Herein, the second data DATA may include a gray scale value corresponding to each of the pixels PX.
In an exemplary embodiment, the data driver 330 may generate an offset signal including an offset applied to the second data DATA based on the offset control signal OCS, and may supply the data signal obtained by converting data (or sub-data) with the offset applied to the second data DATA to at least some of the first pixels PX1, based on the offset and the selection signal SEL including the photographing time point information. Herein, the offset may be determined based on the control signal CS including a predetermined value or illuminance data ISD generated by the illuminance sensor IS (i.e., illuminance of ambient light).
Luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 (e.g., the first pixels PX1 disposed in an area of the first display area DA1 that overlaps the camera CM) may be changed (e.g., reduced or turned-off) at a time point corresponding to the photographing time point (that is, a time point at which at least one camera module included in the camera CM takes a picture) based on the data signal to which the offset is applied. Accordingly, the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM is changed when the camera module captures an image, and thus interference between light emitted from the first pixels PX1 and light reflected from the subject and incident on the light receiver of the camera module may be reduced, and the quality of the image captured by the camera CM may be improved.
The camera driver 400 may generate a camera driving signal CDS based on the camera control signal CCS1 supplied from the host processor 500. Herein, the camera driving signal CDS may include photographing time point information. The camera driver 400 may supply the camera driving signal CDS to the camera CM.
The camera CM may include at least one camera module. The camera
CM may be controlled based on a camera driving signal CDS supplied from the camera driver 400. For example, the camera module included in the camera CM may capture an image at a time point corresponding to the photographing time point information (i.e., the first time point) based on the camera driving signal CDS supplied from the camera driver 400. The camera CM may generate photographing data SD based on the captured image to supply the photographing data SD to the host processor 500.
In FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the camera driver 400 and the camera CM are illustrated as separate components, but this is merely an example and the present inventive concept is not limited thereto, and for example, the camera driver 400 and the camera CM may be integrally formed.
FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a data driver included in the panel driver of FIG. 5.
Referring to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the data driver 330 may include a shift register 331, a latch 332, a signal generator 333, and a buffer 334.
The shift register 331 may sequentially generate m sampling signals in response to a source start pulse SSP and a source shift clock SSC supplied from the timing controller 310. For example, the shift register 331 may sequentially generate the m sampling signals while shifting the source start pulse SSP every cycle of the source shift clock SSC. The shift register 331 may include m shift registers 3311 to 331 m.
The latch 332 may sequentially store the second data DATA supplied from the timing controller 310 in response to the sampling signal supplied sequentially from the shift register 331. The latch 332 may latch the stored second data DATA in response to the source output enable signal SOE supplied from the timing controller 310, and may supply the latched second data DATA to the signal generator 333. The latch 332 may include m latches 3321 to 332 m.
The signal generator 333 may convert the second data DATA supplied from the latch 332 into an analog signal, and may supply the converted analog signal to the buffer 334 as a data signal. The signal generator 333 may include m sub-signal generators 3331 to 333 m. That is, the signal generator 333 generates m data signals by using the sub-signal generators 3331 to 333 m disposed for each channel, and may supply the m generated data signals to the buffer 334. Each of the sub-signal generators 3331 to 333 m may include a MUX and a digital-analog converter.
In an exemplary embodiment, the signal generator 333 may apply an offset to the second data DATA supplied from the latch 332 based on the offset control signal OCS and the selection signal SEL supplied from the timing controller 310, and may convert the second data DATA (or sub-data) to which the offset is applied to an analog signal to supply it to the buffer 334.
The buffer 334 may supply the m data signals supplied from the signal generator 333 to the m data lines DL1 to DLm. The buffer 334 may include m buffers 3341 to 334 m. For a detailed description of the data driver 330, FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B may be referenced.
FIG. 7A illustrates an example of an operation of the data driver of FIG. 6, and FIG. 7B illustrates another example of the operation of the data driver of FIG. 6.
In FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, only a connection structure in an ith channel is illustrated for convenience of description.
Referring to 5 to 7A, the data driver 330 may further include an offset circuit 610.
The offset circuit 610 may generate an offset signal OS1 including an offset based on the offset control signal OCS supplied from the timing controller 310. The offset may be applied to the second data DATA, and a digital value of the second data DATA may be compensated. For example, a negative offset may be added to the second data DATA, or an offset having a predetermined ratio value may be multiplied by the second data DATA.
In an exemplary embodiment, the offset may be a predetermined value. For example, the offset may be experimentally determined to minimize (or eliminate) an effect of interference between light emitted from the pixel and light reflected from the subject when the camera module included in the camera CM (see FIG. 4) captures an image. Herein, when the camera module captures an image, the greater the luminance of light emitted from the pixel, the greater the interference effect, so the larger the luminance corresponding to the first data IDATA, the larger the offset.
In an exemplary embodiment, the offset may be determined based on the illuminance of ambient light. For example, the host processor 500 (see FIG. 4) may generate the control signal CS (see FIG. 4) based on the illumination data ISD (see FIG. 4), and the timing controller 310 may generate an offset control signal OCS based on the control signal CS (see FIG. 4). The offset circuit 610 may generate an offset signal OS1 including an offset based on the illuminance of the ambient light according to the offset control signal OCS. Herein, the lower the illuminance of the ambient light, the higher the sensitivity of the light receiver of the camera module included in the camera CM, so the interference effect may be increased, and thus the lower the illuminance of the ambient light, the greater the offset for the same gray corresponding to the first data IDATA.
In FIG. 7A, the offset circuit 610 is illustrated as having a separate configuration from the sub-signal generator 333 i, but the present inventive concept is not limited thereto. For example, the offset circuit 610 may be integrally formed with the sub-signal generator 333 i. In this case, each of the sub-signal generators 3331 to 333 m may include an offset circuit.
The offset circuit 610 may provide the offset signal OS1 to the signal generator 333 (or sub-signal generator 333 i).
The latch 332 i may store data corresponding to an ith channel among the second data DATA supplied from the timing controller 310 in response to the sampling signal supplied from the shift register 331 i. The latch 332 i may latch the stored data in response to the source output enable signal SOE, and supply the latched data to the sub-signal generator 333 i.
The sub-signal generator 333 i may generate a data signal based on data supplied from the latch 332 i (i.e., second data DATA), the offset signal OS1, and the selection signal SEL.
In an exemplary embodiment, the sub-signal generator 333 i may include a MUX 620 i and a digital-analog converter (DAC) 630 i.
The MUX 620 i may receive first sub-data to which the offset included in the offset signal OS1 is applied to the second data DATA supplied from the latch 332 i and second sub-data in which no offset is applied to the second data DATA.
The MUX 620 i may selectively output any one of the first sub-data and the second sub-data in response to the selection signal SEL supplied from the timing controller 310. The selection signal SEL may include photographing time point information, and may have a logical value of 0 (or OFF value) or 1 (or ON value) according to the photographing time point information. For example, when the selection signal SEL having a logic value of 0 is supplied, the MUX 620 i may select and output the second sub-data to which the offset is not applied, and when the selection signal SEL having a logical value of 1 is supplied, the MUX 620 i may select and output the first sub-data to which the offset is applied.
The digital-analog converter 630 i may convert the first or second sub-data outputted from the MUX 620 i as a data signal. For example, the digital-analog converter 630 i may convert the first or second sub-data in a digital form outputted from the MUX 620 i into an analog signal, and output the converted analog signal to the buffer 334 i.
The buffer 334 i may supply the analog signal outputted from the digital-analog converter 630 i as a data signal to the data line DLi.
In an exemplary embodiment, when the MUX 620 i may receive the selection signal SEL having a logical value of 1 to output the first sub-data to which the offset is applied and the digital-analog converter 630 i and the buffer 334 i supply the data signal converted from the first sub-data to the data line DLi, the luminance of the pixel receiving the data signal through the data line DLi may be changed (e.g., reduced or turned-off).
For example, referring to FIG. 4 to FIG. 7A, the data driver 330 may supply a data signal converted from the first sub-data to which the offset is applied through a data line (e.g., the data line DLi in FIG. 7A) connected to the first pixels PX1 disposed in an area overlapping the camera CM in the first display area DA1. Accordingly, the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM in the first display area DA1 corresponding to the photographing time point (i.e., first time point) information is altered (e.g., reduced or off).
Unlikely, when the MUX 620 i receives the selection signal SEL having a logical value of 0 to output the second sub-data to which no offset is applied and the digital-analog converter 630 i and the buffer 334 i supply the data signal converted from the second sub-data to the data line DLi, the luminance of the pixel receiving the data signal through the data line DLi may not be altered.
In an embodiment, the sub-signal generator corresponding to the data line connected to the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area that does not overlap the camera CM in the first display area DA1 may not include the MUX 620 i. In this case, the sub-signal generator may convert the second data DATA supplied from the latch 332 into an analog signal by using the digital-analog converter to supply it to the buffer 334, and the buffer 334 may supply the converted analog signal as a data signal to a corresponding data line. Accordingly, regardless of whether or not the camera CM captures an image, the first pixels PX1 disposed in an area of the first display area DA1 which do not overlap the camera CM may emit light with luminance which is not altered. However, the present inventive concept is not limited thereto, and for example, the sub-signal generator corresponding to the data line connected to areas (e.g., the surrounding area SA of FIG. 1) that is adjacent to the area overlapping the camera CM in the first display area DA1 may include a MUX 620 i. As another example, each of the sub-signal generators 3331 to 333 m may include the MUX 620 i.
Components included in the sub-signal generator 333 i may vary.
In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7B, the MUX 620 i′ may receive the first offset signal OS1 and the second offset signal OS2 from the offset circuit 610′, and may select and output any one of the first and second offset signals OS1 and OS2 in response to the selection signal SEL. Sub-data in which the first or second offset signal OS1 or OS2 is applied to the data supplied from the latch 332 i, may be supplied to the digital-analog converter 630 i.
The offset circuit 610′ may generate the first offset signal OS1 including the offset and the second offset signal OS2 not including an offset (or including an offset of 0) based on the offset control signal OCS supplied from the timing controller 310. In an exemplary embodiment, the offset may be substantially the same as the offset described with reference to FIG. 7A.
The sub-signal generator 333 i′ may generate a data signal based on data (i.e., second data DATA) supplied from the latch 332 i, the first and second offset signals OS1 and OS2, and the selection signal SEL.
In an exemplary embodiment, the sub-signal generator 333 i′ may include a MUX 620 i′ and a digital-analog converter 630i.
The MUX 620 i′ may selectively output one of the first offset signal OS1 and the second offset signal OS2 according to the selection signal SEL supplied from the timing controller 310.
The digital-analog converter 630 i may convert the first sub-data in which the first offset signal OS1 outputted from the MUX 620 i′ is applied to the data supplied from the latch 332 i (that is, the first sub-data to which the offset is applied) or the second sub-data in which the second offset signal OS2 outputted from the MUX 620 i′ is applied to the data supplied from the latch 332 i (that is, the second sub-data to which the offset is not applied) to an analog signal, and may output the converted analog signal to the buffer 334 i.
In an exemplary embodiment, when the digital-analog converter 630 i receives the first sub-data to which the first offset signal OS1 is applied, the digital-analog converter 630 i and the buffer 334 i may supply the data signal converted from the first sub-data to the data line DLi. Therefore, the luminance of the pixel receiving the data signal through the data line DLi may be altered (e.g., reduced).
For example, referring to FIG. 4 to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7B, the data driver 330 may supply a data signal converted from the first sub-data to which the first offset signal OS1 is applied through a data line (e.g., the data line DLi in FIG. 7B) connected to the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM in the first display area DA1. Accordingly, the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM in the first display area DA1 corresponding to the photographing time point (i.e., first time point) information is altered (e.g., reduced or turned-off).
Unlikely, the digital-analog converter 630 i receives the second sub-data to which the second offset signal OS2 is applied, the digital-analog converter 630 i and the buffer 334 i may supply the data signal converted from the second sub-data to the data line DLi. In this case, the luminance of the pixel receiving the data signal through the data line DLi may not be altered.
As described with reference to FIG. 4 to FIG. 7B, the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM in the first display area DA1 may be reduced at a time point when at least one camera module included in the camera CM captures an image, based on the data signal to which the offset is applied. Accordingly, the interference effect between the light emitted from the pixel (i.e., the first pixel PX1) and the light reflected from the subject and incident on the light receiver of the camera module may be minimized (or removed), thereby improving the quality of the captured image.
FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate examples of operations of the display device of FIG. 1.
In FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B, substantially the same or similar constituent elements described with reference to FIG. 1 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and a repeated description thereof will be omitted.
Referring to FIG. 4 and FIG. 8A, the panel driver 300 may reduce the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM (that is, the camera area CA) in the first display areas DA1 as illustrated in FIG. 8A.
As described with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 3C, when an entire front surface of the display panel 100 is configured as the display area DA, a user may not recognize the position of the camera CM. In this case, the panel driver 300 may reduce the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the camera area CA to such an extent that the user can recognize a position of the camera CM, whereby the user may recognize the position of the camera CM according to the reduced luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the camera area CA. For example, the panel driver 300 may reduce the first pixels PX1 disposed in the camera area CA to have reduced luminance (or luminance that is darker than the display area adjacent thereto) or turn off the first pixels PX1.
In addition, referring to FIG. 4 and FIG. 8B, the panel driver 300 may reduce the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the surrounding area SA adjacent to the camera area CA in the first display area DA1 as illustrated in FIG. 8B to such a degree that the user can recognize the position of the camera CM.
As illustrated in FIG. 8B, even when the panel driver 300 reduces the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the surrounding area SA to such a degree that the user can recognize the position of the camera CM, the panel driver 300 may supply the data signal converted from the sub-data to which the offset is applied at a time point corresponding to the photographing time point information through the data line connected to the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM in order to minimize (or eliminate) the interference effect between the light emitted from the pixel and the light reflected from the subject and incident on the light receiver of the camera module.
FIG. 9 illustrates a block diagram showing another example of the display device of FIG. 1, and FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a host processor, a panel driver, a camera driver, and a camera included in the display device of FIG. 9.
In FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, substantially the same or similar constituent elements described with reference to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and a repeated description thereof will be omitted.
Referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, a display device 1000′ may include a display panel 100, a host processor 500′, a panel driver 300′, a camera driver 400′, a camera CM, and an illuminance sensor IS.
Referring to FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 9, and FIG. 10, the host processor 500′ of FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 is substantially the same or similar to the host processor 500 described with reference to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 except that the timing controller 310′ generates a camera control signal CCS2 and supplies it to the camera driver 400′ in response to the control signal CS′ supplied from the host processor 500′, and thus a repeated description thereof will be omitted.
The panel driver 300′ may supply data signals (or data voltages) to the first and second pixels PX1 and PX2. In an exemplary embodiment, the panel driver 300′ may control luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 at the time point at which at least one camera module included in the camera CM captures an image.
In an exemplary embodiment, the panel driver 300′ may reduce luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 from a predetermined time before at least one camera module included in the camera CM starts capturing an image to until the at least one camera module included in the camera CM finishes capturing the image. For example, the panel driver 300′ may start controlling (e.g., reducing) the luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 from the predetermined time before the camera module starts capturing an image (second time point) and until the camera module finishes capturing the image (first time point). Herein, the predetermined time may correspond to a time enough to reduce the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM before the camera module starts capturing the image.
In an exemplary embodiment, the panel driver 300′ may control the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area (e.g., the camera area CA) overlapping the camera CM in the first display area DA1 from the second time point to the first time point. However, the present inventive concept is not limited thereto, and for example, the panel driver 300′ may control luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in an area (e.g., the camera area CA) overlapping the camera CM and an area adjacent thereto (e.g., the surrounding area SA of FIG. 1) from the second time point to the first time point. As another example, the panel driver 300′ may control luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the first display area DA1 and luminance of at least some of the second pixels PX2 connected to the same scan lines (e.g., the first to nth scan lines SL1 to SLn) as the first pixels PX1 from the second time point to the first time point.
As such, the panel driver 300′ may control (e.g., reduce) the luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 in advance before at least one camera module included in the camera CM captures an image, and thus prevent from capturing the image before the luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 is changed which may occur due to a signal delay or the like, thereby solving the problem that an effect of the interference between the light emitted from the pixel and the light reflected from the subject is not minimized.
The panel driver 300′ may include a timing controller 310′, a scan driver 320, and a data driver 330.
The timing controller 310′ may generate an offset control signal OCS and a selection signal SEL based on the control signal CS′. In an exemplary embodiment, the timing controller 310′ may generate the offset control signal OCS and the selection signal SEL during a period from the second time point to the first time point. Accordingly, the data driver 330 may supply a data signal obtained by converting data (or sub-data) in which the offset is applied to the second data DATA to at least some of the first pixels PX1 during a period from the second time point to the first time point, and the luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 (e.g., the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM in the first display area DA1) is changed (e.g., reduced or turned-off) based on the data signal to which the offset is applied during the period from the second time point to the first time point. Accordingly, the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM is changed when the camera CM captures an image, and thus interference between light emitted from the first pixels PX1 and light reflected from the subject and incident on the light receiver of the camera CM may be reduced to improve the quality of the image captured by the camera CM.
The timing controller 310′ may generate a camera control signal CCS2 for driving the camera CM. In an exemplary embodiment, the timing controller 310′ may supply the camera control signal CCS2 to the camera driver 400′ after the time point (i.e., second time point) at which the data driver 330 supplies a data signal to which the offset is applied (i.e., a data signal obtained by converting sub-data in which the offset is applied to the second data DATA) to at least some of the first pixels PX1.
The camera driver 400′ may generate a camera driving signal CDS based on the camera control signal CCS2 supplied from the timing controller 310′. Herein, the camera driving signal CDS may include photographing time point information. The camera driver 400′ may supply the camera driving signal CDS to the camera CM.
The camera module included in the camera CM may capture an image at a time point corresponding to the photographing time point information, based on the camera driving signal CDS supplied from the camera driver 400′. The camera CM may generate photographing data SD based on the captured image to supply the photographing data SD to the host processor 500′.
As described with reference to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the panel driver 300′ may change the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area of the first display area DA1 that overlaps the camera CM at the time point at which the camera CM captures an image (i.e., first time point) based on the data signal to which the offset is applied, thereby minimizing (or eliminating) an interference effect to improve the quality of the captured image. In addition, the panel driver 300′ may change luminance of first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM in the first display area DA1 before the camera CM start capturing an image, and thus it can be prevented that the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM in the first display area DA1 may be changed after the time point at which the camera CM captures the image, without changing the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area overlapping the camera CM at the time point at which the camera CM captures an image due to a signal delay or the like, thereby solving the problem that an effect of the interference between the light emitted from the pixel and the light reflected from the subject is not minimized.
FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram showing yet another example of the display device of FIG. 1, and FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a host processor, a panel driver, a camera driver, and a camera included in the display device of FIG. 11.
In FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, substantially the same or similar constituent elements described with reference to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and a repeated description thereof will be omitted.
Referring to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, a display device 1000″ may include a display panel 100, a host processor 500″, a panel driver 300″, a camera driver 400″, a camera CM, and an illuminance sensor IS.
The host processor 500″ may supply a camera control signal CCS3 to the camera driver 400″.
Subsequently, the camera driver 400″ may transmit a first command CMD1 to the panel driver 300″ which indicates that the camera control signal CCS3 is received from the host processor 500″ in response to the camera control signal CCS3, and in response thereto, the panel driver 300″ may transfer a response signal RS (e.g., an acknowledgment (ACK) signal) to the camera driver 400″.
When the first command CMD1 is received from the camera driver 400″, the panel driver 300″ may control the luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1. In an exemplary embodiment, the first command CMD1 may include information for reducing the luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 or turning off at least some of the first pixels PX1 (e.g., information for the timing controller 310″ to generate the offset control signal OCS and the selection signal SEL).
In an exemplary embodiment, the panel driver 300″ may exchange at least one command CMD and response signal RS with the camera driver 400″ in order to control luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 from a predetermined time before at least one camera module included in the camera CM starts capturing an image to until the at least one camera module included in the camera CM finishes capturing the image.
For example, the panel driver 300″ may control (reduce or turned-off) the luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 from a predetermined time before the time point at which the camera module takes an image (or second time point) until the second command CMD2 is received from the camera driver 400″, based on the first command CMD1 supplied from the camera driver 400″. The panel driver 300″ may generate the response signal RS to supply it to the camera driver 400″ after controlling the luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1. The camera driver 400″ may generate the camera driving signal CDS in response to the response signal RS. In this case, the luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 may be maintained in a controlled (e.g., reduced or turned-off) state at the time point at which the camera captures an image in response to the camera driving signal CDS. Accordingly, the panel driver 300″ may maintain controlling of the luminance corresponding to the first pixels PX1 disposed in the area of the first display area DA1 that overlaps the camera CM (or the first pixels PX1 disposed in the surrounding area SA) until the time point at which the camera CM captures an image (i.e., first time point).
However, the present inventive concept is not limited thereto, and for example, the panel driver 300″ may maintain controlling of the luminance of the first pixels PX1 disposed in the first display area DA1 and luminance of at least some of the second pixels PX2 connected to the same scan lines (e.g., the first to nth scan lines SL1 to SLn) as the first pixels PX1 from the second time point until the time point at which the camera module captures the image (that is, first time point).
Subsequently, when the photographing data SD is received from the camera CM, the host processor 500″ may generate a camera control signal CCS3 including information related to photographing completion to supply it to the camera driver 400″. The camera driver 400″ may supply the second command CMD2 including information related to photographing completion to the panel driver 300″ (or a timing controller 310″) in response to the camera control signal CCS3. The panel driver 300″ may stop luminance control of at least some of the first pixels PX1 in response to the second command CMD2.
As such, the panel driver 300″ may control (e.g., reduce) the luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 by directly interfacing with the camera driver 400″ in advance before at least one camera module included in the camera CM captures an image, and thus prevent from capturing the image before the luminance of at least some of the first pixels PX1 is changed which may occur due to a signal delay or the like, thereby solving the problem that an effect of the interference between the light emitted from the pixel and the light reflected from the subject is not minimized.
The above detailed description is to illustrate and describe the present inventive concept. In addition, the foregoing is only to describe and describe preferred embodiments of the present inventive concept, and as described above, the present inventive concept can be used in various other combinations, modifications and environments, and changes or modifications are possible within the scope of the concept of the inventive concept disclosed herein, the scope equivalent to the disclosures described, and/or within the scope of the skill or knowledge in the art. Accordingly, the detailed description of the inventive concept is not intended to limit the inventive concept to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. In addition, the appended claims should be construed to include other exemplary embodiments.
What is claimed is:
1. A display device, comprising:
a display panel which includes a first display area including a first pixel area in which first pixels are disposed and a transmissive area in which no pixel is disposed, and a second display area including a second pixel area in which second pixels are disposed; a panel driver configured to supply an analog data signal to the first and second pixels; and a camera configured to include at least one camera module for capturing an image and disposed to overlap the first display area of the display panel, wherein the panel driver controls luminance of at least some of the first pixels in the first display area at a first time point at which the at least one camera module captures an image.
2. The display device of claim 1, wherein the panel driver reduces the luminance of the at least some of the first pixels or turns off the at least some of the first pixels at the first time point.
3. The display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a camera driver configured to supply a camera driving signal including photographing time point information at the first time point to the camera; and a host processor configured to supply a camera control signal to the camera driver and to supply a first data and a control signal to the panel driver, wherein the camera driver generates the camera driving signal in response to the camera control signal, and wherein the at least one camera module captures an image at the first time point based on the camera driving signal.
4. The display device of claim 3, wherein the panel driver includes:
a timing controller configured to convert the first data into second data; and a data driver configured to generate the analog data signal based on the second data.
5. The display device of claim 4, wherein the timing controller generates an offset control signal and a selection signal including the photographing time point information in response to the control signal, and
wherein the data driver includes: an offset circuit configured to generate an offset applied to the second data based on the offset control signal; and a signal generator configured to generate the analog data signal corresponding to the at least some of the first pixels based on the second data, the offset, and the selection signal.
6. The display device of claim 5, wherein the signal generator includes:
a MUX configured to select one of first sub-data in which the offset is applied to the second data and second sub-data in which no offset is applied to the second data; and a digital-analog converter configured to convert the first sub-data or the second sub-data selected from the MUX into the analog data signal.
7. The display device of claim 6, wherein the signal generator supplies the analog data signal converted from the first sub-data to the at least some of the first pixels, and
wherein the luminance of the at least some of the first pixels is changed based on the analog data signal converted from the first sub-data at the first time point.
8. The display device of claim 5, wherein the signal generator includes:
a MUX configured to select one of a first offset signal including the offset and a second offset signal including no offset in response to the selection signal; and a digital-analog converter configured to convert first sub-data in which the first offset signal is applied to the second data or second sub-data in which the second offset signal is applied thereto to the analog data signal.
9. The display device of claim 5, further comprising:
an illuminance sensor configured to sense illuminance of ambient light of the display panel and to supply illuminance data corresponding to the illuminance to the host processor, wherein the offset is determined based on the illuminance data included in the control signal.
10. The display device of claim 1, wherein the first pixels are disposed to have first density in an area of the first display area that overlaps the camera, and
wherein the second pixels are disposed to have second density that is higher than the first density in the second display area.
11. The display device of claim 1, further comprising
a camera driver; and a host processor configured to supply first data and a control signal to the panel driver, wherein the panel driver generates a camera control signal in response to the control signal, and wherein the camera driver configured to supply a camera driving signal including photographing time point information corresponding to the first time point to the camera in response to the camera control signal.
12. The display device of claim 11, wherein the panel driver includes:
a timing controller configured to convert the first data into second data; and a data driver configured to generate the analog data signal based on the second data.
13. The display device of claim 12, wherein the timing controller generates an offset control signal and a selection signal based on the control signal, and
wherein the data driver includes: an offset circuit configured to generate an offset applied to the second data based on the offset control signal; and a signal generator configured to generate the analog data signal corresponding to the at least some of the first pixels based on the second data, the offset, and the selection signal.
14. The display device of claim 13, wherein the data driver generates sub-data to which the offset is applied to the second data based on the offset and the selection signal, and converts the sub-data into the analog data signal to supply the analog data signal to the at least some of the first pixels, and
wherein the luminance of the at least some of the first pixels is changed based on the analog data signal converted from the sub-data.
15. The display device of claim 14, wherein the panel driver supplies the camera control signal to the camera driver after supplying the analog data signal converted from the sub-data to the at least some of the first pixels,
wherein the camera driver generates the camera driving signal in response to the camera control signal, and wherein the at least one camera module captures an image at the first time point in response to the camera driving signal.
16. The display device of claim 1, further comprising:
a camera driver; and a host processor configured to supply a camera control signal to the camera driver and to supply first data to the panel driver.
17. The display device of claim 16, wherein the camera driver generates a command in response to the camera control signal, and
wherein the panel driver controls the luminance of at least some of the first pixels in response to the command.
18. The display device of claim 17, wherein the panel driver includes:
a timing controller configured to convert the first data into second data and to generate an offset control signal and a selection signal based on the command; and a data driver configured to generate the analog data signal based on the second data, and wherein the data driver includes: an offset circuit configured to generate an offset applied to the second data in response to the offset control signal; and a signal generator configured to generate the analog data signal corresponding to the at least some of the first pixels based on the second data, the offset, and the selection signal.
19. The display device of claim 18, wherein the data driver generates sub-data to which the offset is applied to the second data based on the offset and the selection signal, and converts the sub-data into the analog data signal to supply the analog data signal to the at least some of the first pixels, and
wherein the luminance of the at least some of the first pixels is changed based on the analog data signal converted from the sub-data.
20. The display device of claim 19, wherein the panel driver supplies a response signal to the camera driver after supplying the analog data signal converted from the sub-data to the at least some of the first pixels,
wherein the camera driver configured to supply a camera driving signal including photographing time point information corresponding to the first time point to the camera in response to the response signal, and wherein the at least one camera module captures an image at the first time point in response to the camera driving signal.
| 2020-11-23 | en | 2021-09-30 |
US-79442606-A | Method of Separating and Purifying Nucleic Acid
ABSTRACT
A method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid comprising steps of: (1) adding a lysis solution to a biomaterial to prepare a sample solution containing a nucleic acid, and adding a water-soluble organic solvent or a solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent to the sample solution thereby preparing a sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent; (2) contacting the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent with a solid phase thereby adsorbing the nucleic acid on the solid phase; (3) contacting a washing solution with the solid phase thereby washing the solid phase in a state where the nucleic acid is adsorbed on the solid phase; and (4) contacting a recovering solution with the solid phase thereby desorbing the nucleic acid from the solid phase, wherein, in the step (1), the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent is added separately in at least two batches.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a method of separating and purifying nucleic acid, and more particularly to a method of separating and purifying nucleic acid from a mixture containing nucleic acid.
BACKGROUND ART
Nucleic acid is utilized in various forms in various fields. For example in the field of recombinant nucleic acid, it is required to use nucleic acid in the form of a probe, genome nucleic acid or plasmid nucleic acid.
Also in diagnostic field, nucleic acid is utilized in various forms for various purposes. For example a nucleic acid probe is commonly utilized for detection and diagnosis of human pathogens. Similarly nucleic acid is used for detecting a genetic lesion, and also for detecting a food contaminant. Furthermore, nucleic acid is widely utilized in positional confirmation, identification and isolation of a desired nucleic acid for various purposes ranging from a genetic mapping to cloning or recombinant expression.
In most cases, the nucleic acid is available only in an extremely small amount, and requires complex and time-consuming operations for separation and purification. Such complex and time-consuming operations often lead to a loss in the nucleic acid. Also a purification of nucleic acid from a sample obtained from serum, urine or a bacteria culture involves possibilities of resulting in a contamination or a false positive result.
A widely known separation-purification method is based on adsorbing nucleic acid on a solid phase such as silicon dioxide, a silica polymer or magnesium silicate, followed by operations of washing, desorption and the like (for example cf. JP-B-7-51065). This method provides a satisfactory separating ability but is insufficient in the simplicity, rapidity and adaptability to an automatic operation. Also equipment and apparatus employed in this method are unsuitable for an automation and a size reduction, and particularly an adsorbent member involves drawbacks of being difficult to mass produce industrially with a constant performance, inconvenient in handling and difficult to produce in various forms. Also since it requires a certain thickness for obtaining a mechanical strength because of the brittleness of the material itself, it is necessary, in selectively recovering RNA from a mixed sample of DNA and RNA, to utilize an expensive reagent such as DNase.
Also a known simple and efficient separation-purification of nucleic acid employs a solution for adsorbing nucleic acid on a solid phase and a solution for desorbing nucleic acid from the solid phase, and conducts separation-purification of nucleic acid by adsorbing nucleic acid on a solid phase formed by an organic polymer having a hydroxyl group on a surface and desorbing nucleic acid therefrom (JP-A-2003-128691 and JP-A-2004-49108).
Other known methods for separation-purification of nucleic acid include a centrifuging method, a method utilizing magnetic beads and a filteration method, and apparatuses for separation-purification of nucleic acid are proposed based on these methods. For example, as a nucleic acid-separating apparatus based on the filteration method, there is proposed a mechanism in which a plurality of filter tubes, each accommodating a filter, are set on a rack, then a sample solution containing nucleic acid is separately injected therein, then a periphery of the bottom part of the rack is tightly closed, with a sealant, in an air chamber, of which the interior is then reduced in pressure to simultaneously suck all the filter tubes from exit sides thereof to pass the sample solution through the filters and to adsorb nucleic acid on the filters, and a washing solution and a recovering solution are separately injected and similarly sucked under a reduced pressure to achieve washing and desorption of the nucleic acid (for example cf. Japanese Patent No. 2832586).
In case of adsorbing nucleic acid on a porous membrane formed for example of an organic polymer having a hydroxyl group on the surface, a solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent is usually added to a solution containing nucleic acid. The water-soluble organic solvent employed in such addition is usually an aqueous solution of ethanol. In a solution used for adsorbing nucleic acid on the solid phase, after such addition to the solution containing nucleic acid, a final ethanol concentration (end ethanol concentration) is generally preferred within a range of 20 to 60 mass %.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide, in the method of separating and purifying nucleic acid by adsorbing nucleic acid in a biomaterial on a surface of a solid phase and, after washing and the like, desorbing nucleic acid, a method capable of processing a larger amount of biomaterial without prolonging a time for obtaining a solution for nucleic acid adsorption on the solid phase.
The above-mentioned object can be attained by following constitutions of the present invention:
1. A method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid comprising steps of:
(1) adding a lysis solution to a biomaterial to prepare a sample solution containing a nucleic acid, and
adding a water-soluble organic solvent or a solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent to the sample solution thereby preparing a sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent;
(2) contacting the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent with a solid phase thereby adsorbing the nucleic acid on the solid phase;
(3) contacting a washing solution with the solid phase thereby washing the solid phase in a state where the nucleic acid is adsorbed on the solid phase; and
(4) contacting a recovering solution with the solid phase thereby desorbing the nucleic acid from the solid phase,
wherein, in the step (1), the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent is added separately in at least two batches.
2. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in item 1 above,
wherein the step (1) comprises:
after adding the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent at least once to the sample solution, agitating the sample solution by an operation including at least one of a shaking, an inverting and a rotating movement; and
further adding the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent at least once to a solution after the agitation.
3. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in item 1 or 2 above,
wherein the step (1) comprises:
after adding the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent at least once to the sample solution, agitating the sample solution by an operation including at least a suction and a discharge of the solution, and
further adding the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent at least once to a solution after the agitation.
4. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 1 to 3 above,
wherein, in the step (1), the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent has a concentration of the water-soluble organic solvent within a range of from 5 to 90 mass %.
5. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 1 to 3 above,
wherein, in the step (1), the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent has a concentration of the water-soluble organic solvent within a range of from 10 to 60 mass %.
6. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 1 to 3 above,
wherein, in the step (1), the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent has a concentration of the water-soluble organic solvent within a range of from 20 to 40 mass %.
7. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 1 to 6 above,
wherein the solid phase is a porous membrane comprising an organic polymer that adsorbs a nucleic acid by an interaction substantially not involving an ionic bonding.
8. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in item 7 above,
wherein the organic polymer has a hydroxyl group.
9. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in item 7 or 8 above,
wherein the porous membrane comprises an organic material obtained by saponification of a mixture of acetylcelluloses different in acetyl value.
10. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 7 to 9 above,
wherein the porous membrane has a front surface and a back surface asymmetrical with each other.
11. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 1 to 10 above,
wherein the lysis solution is a nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent.
12. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 1 to 11 above,
wherein the biomaterial is an animal tissue.
13. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in item 11 above,
wherein the nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of a chaotropic salt, a nucleic acid-stabilizing agent, a surfactant, a buffer and a defoaming agent.
14. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in item 13 above,
wherein the chaotropic salt comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of guanidine hydrochloride and guanidine thiocyanate.
15. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 1 to 14 above,
wherein the water-soluble organic solvent is at least one selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, propanol or an isomer thereof and butanol or an isomer thereof.
16. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 1 to 15 above,
wherein the washing solution comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, propanol or an isomer thereof and butanol or an isomer thereof, in an amount of from 20 to 50 mass %.
17. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 1 to 16 above,
wherein the washing solution is a solution comprising a chloride in an amount of from 10 mmol/L to 1 mol/L.
18. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 7 to 17 above,
wherein, in the steps (2), (3) and (4), passing of the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent, the washing solution or the recovering solution through the porous membrane is conducted by utilizing: a nucleic acid separating-purifying cartridge that receives the porous member which a solution can pass through in an inside of a container having at least two openings; and a pressure generating apparatus that is a pump detachably mountable on one of the at least two openings of the nucleic acid separating-purifying cartridge.
19. A kit comprising a nucleic acid separating-purifying cartridge and a reagent for conducting a method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 1 to 18 above.
20. An apparatus for automatically conducting a method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid as described in any of items 1 to 18 above.
In the present invention, in a step of preparing a solution for adsorbing nucleic acid on a solid phase (“sample solution containing water-soluble organic solvent” in the invention), the water-soluble organic solvent is reduced in an amount of addition and is not changed in an end concentration, thus being employed in a concentration higher than in the ordinary case. Therefore the solution for adsorbing nucleic acid on the solid phase can be reduced in the final amount, so that the lysis solution initially added to the biomaterial can be increased. In the present invention, the water-soluble organic solvent is separately added in plural portions (batches), and a mixing can be facilitated even with the water-soluble organic solvent of a higher concentration. It is thus rendered possible to process a larger amount of the biomaterial and to promptly recover nucleic acid. The solid phase to be employed is not particularly restricted but is preferably constituted of a porous membrane, and it is preferable, for attaining the effect of the present invention, to employ a nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating such porous membrane and to employ, as such porous membrane, a membrane capable of adsorbing nucleic acid by an interaction not involving an ionic bonding, and more preferable to employ a nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating (receiving) a porous membrane of an organic polymer in a container having two openings.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
The method for separating and purifying nucleic acid of the present invention at least includes:
(1) a step of adding a lysis solution to a biomaterial to prepare a sample solution, and
adding a water-soluble organic solvent or a solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent to the sample solution thereby preparing a sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent (hereinafter also called “step of preparing a sample solution containing water-soluble organic solvent”);
(2) a step of contacting the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent with a solid phase thereby causing nucleic acid to be adsorbed on the solid phase (hereinafter also called “adsorbing step”);
(3) a step of contacting a washing solution with the solid phase thereby washing the solid phase in a state where the nucleic acid is adsorbed thereon (hereinafter also called “washing step”); and
(4) a step of contacting a recovering solution with the solid phase thereby desorbing the nucleic acid from the solid phase (hereinafter also called “recovering step”).
The solid phase to be used is not particularly restricted, but is preferably a porous membrane which adsorbs nucleic acid by an interaction substantially not involving an ionic bonding (hereinafter also called “nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane”).
In the step (2), (3) or (4), the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent, the washing solution or the recovering solution is preferably passed through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane by a pressure generating apparatus, and, more preferably the step (2), (3) or (4) is conducted by injecting the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent, the washing solution or the recovering solution into one of the openings of a nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge having at least two openings and accommodating therein the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane, and pressurizing the interior of the cartridge by a pressure generating apparatus coupled with the above-mentioned one opening thereby causing the injected liquid to pass through the membrane and to be discharged from the other opening. By passing the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent, the washing solution or the recovering solution through the porous membrane under a pressurized state, the apparatus can be advantageously automated in compact manner. The pressurization with the pump is conducted within a range of 10 to 300 kPa, more preferably 40 to 200 kPa.
More preferably, nucleic acid is separated and purified with the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane, by following steps:
(a) a step of injecting a sample solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent into one of the openings of a nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge having at least two openings and accommodating therein a nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane through which a solution can pass;
(b) a step of pressurizing the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge by a pressure generating apparatus coupled with the above-mentioned one opening thereby causing the injected sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent to pass through the membrane and to be discharged from the other opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, thereby causing nucleic acid to be adsorbed in the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane;
(c) a step of injecting a washing solution into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge;
(d) a step of pressurizing the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge by the pressure generating apparatus coupled with the one opening thereby causing the injected washing solution to pass through the membrane and to be discharged from the other opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, thereby washing the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane in a state where nucleic acid is adsorbed therein;
(e) a step of injecting a recovering solution into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge; and
(f) a step of pressurizing the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge by the pressure generating apparatus coupled with the one opening thereby causing the injected recovering solution to pass through the membrane and to be discharged from the other opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, thereby desorbing nucleic acid from the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging it from the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge.
This process for separating and purifying nucleic acid, from the initial step of injecting the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent to the step of obtaining nucleic acid outside the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, can be completed substantially within 30 minutes, and within 2 minutes in a preferred situation.
Also this process for separating and purifying nucleic acid allows to recover nucleic acid with a purity, in a measured value (260 nm/280 nm) by an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer, of 1.6 to 2.0 in case of DNA and 1.8 to 2.2 in case of RNA, thus constantly providing nucleic acid of a high purity with a low contamination by impurities. It is further possible to recover nucleic acid with a purity, in a measured value (260 nm/280 nm) by an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer, of about 1.8 in case of DNA and about 2.0 in case of RNA.
Also in the above-described process, the pressure generating apparatus can be a syringe, a pipetter or a pump capable of pressurization such as a perista pump, or an apparatus capable of pressure reduction such as an evaporator. Among these, a syringe is suitable for a manual operation, and a pump is suitable for an automatic operation. Also a pipetter has an advantage of easily allowing a single-hand operation. The pressure generating apparatus is preferably detachably coupled with the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge.
The above-described process can also be advantageously conducted by reducing the pressure of the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge by a pressure generating apparatus coupled with the other opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge. It can also be advantageously conducted by applying a centrifugal force to the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge.
The biomaterial to be employed in the present invention is not particularly restricted as long as it contains nucleic acid, and includes cells, a tissue, blood and bacteria. For example in the diagnostic field, it can be a body liquid obtained as a biomaterial such as whole blood, blood plasma, serum, urine, faece, semen or saliva, a plant (or a part thereof), an animal (or a part thereof), bacteria, viruses or cultured cells, or a liquid such as a solution or a homogenate prepared from such biomaterial. The cultured cells include floating cells and adherent cells. The floating cells mean those grow and proliferate in a floating state in a culture medium without adhering to a wall of a culture cell, and representative strains include HL60, U937 and HeLaS3. The adherent cells mean those grow and proliferate in a state adhering to a culture cell wall in a culture medium, and representative strains include NIH3T3, HEK293, HeLa, COS and CHO. An animal (or a part thereof) to be employed as the biomaterial can be an animal tissue, and any tissue constituting an individual animal and collectible by anatomy or biopsy of the animal, such as a liver, a kidney, a spleen, a brain, a heart, a lung or a thymus. Hereinafter such biomaterial may also be called an analyte.
(1) A step of adding a lysis solution to a biomaterial to prepare a sample solution, and adding a water-soluble organic solvent or a solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent to the sample solution thereby preparing a sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent (“step of preparing a sample solution containing water-soluble organic solvent”):
At first a lysis solution is added to an analyte to obtain “sample solution containing nucleic acid”. The lysis solution is preferably an aqueous solution containing a reagent capable of dissolving nucleic acid (nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent) to conduct a process of dissolving a cell membrane and a nuclear envelope. Then a water-soluble organic solvent or a solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent is added to disperse nucleic acid in the aqueous solution, thereby obtaining “sample solution containing nucleic acid”.
The nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent can be a solution containing at least one of a chaotropic salt, a nucleic acid-stabilizing agent, a surfactant, a buffer and a defoaming agent.
The chaotropic salt in the nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent preferably has a concentration of 0.5 mol/L or higher, more preferably 0.5 to 8 mol/L and further preferably 1 to 6 mol/L. Any known chaotropic salt may be employed without particular restriction. The chaotropic salt can be a guanidine salt, sodium isocyanate, sodium iodide or potassium iodide, among which a guanidine salt is preferred. The guanidine salt can be guanidine hydrochloride, guanidine isocyanate, or guanidine thiocyanate, among which guanide hydrochloride is preferable. Such salt may be employed singly or in a combination of plural kinds.
The surfactant in the nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent can be, for example, a nonionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, an anionic surfactant or an amphoteric surfactant. In the invention, a nonionic surfactant is preferably employed. The nonionic surfactant can a surfactant of polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ether type, a surfactant of polyoxyethylene alkyl ether type, or a fatty acid alkanolamide, preferably a surfactant of polyoxyethylene alkyl ether type. More preferably the surfactant of polyoxyethylene alkyl ether type is selected from POE decyl ether, POE lauryl ether, POE tridecyl ether, POE alkylenedecyl ether, POE sorbitan monolaurate, POE sorbitan monooleate, POE sorbitan monostearate, polyoxyethylene sorbit tetraoleate, POE alkylamine, and POE acetylene glycol.
Also a cationic surfactant can be employed preferably. More preferably the cationic surfactant is selected from cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, dodecyltrimethyl ammonium chloride, tetradecyltrimethyl ammonium chloride and cetylpyridinium chloride. Such surfactant may be employed singly or in a combination of plural kinds. In the solution of the nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent, such surfactant preferably has a concentration of 0.1 to 20 mass %. (In this specification, mass % is equal to weight %.)
The nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent is preferably used in combination with a nucleic acid-stabilizing agent. The analyte may contain nuclease or the like which decomposes nucleic acid and which, upon homogenization of the analyte, acts on nucleic acid thereby reducing the yield thereof. In order to avoid such phenomenon, a stabilizing agent capable of deactiving nuclease may be added to the nucleic acid-solubilizing solution.
In this manner it is rendered possible to improve a recovered amount and a recovery efficiency of nucleic acid, thereby reducing the amount of the analyte and enabling a faster process.
As the deactivating agent for nuclease, generally a reducing agent is employed advantageously. The reducing agent can be a hydride such as hydrogen, hydrogen iodide, hydrogen sulfide, aluminum lithium hydride, or boron sodium hydride, an electrically strongly positive metal such as an alkali metal, magnesium, calcium, aluminum, zinc, or an amalgam thereof, or an organic oxide such as an aldehyde, a saccharide, formic acid or oxalic acid, but a mercapto compound is preferred. The mercapto compound can be N-acetyl cysteine, mercaptoethanol or an alkylmercaptane but is not particularly restricted. The mercapto compound may be employed, in the lysis solution, with a concentration of 0.1 to 20 mass %, preferably 0.5 to 15 mass %.
The buffer can be an ordinary pH buffer, preferably a pH buffer for biochemical use. Such buffer includes a buffer containing a citrate salt, a phosphate salt or an acetate salt, tris-HCl, TE (tris-HCl/EDTA), TBE (tris-borate/EDTA), TAE (tris-acetate/EDTA), or a Good's buffer. The Good's buffer can be, for example, MES (2-morpholinoethanesulfonic acid), Bis-Tris (bis(2-hydroxyethyl)iminotris(hydroxymethyl)methane), HEPES (2-[4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazinyl]ethanesulfonic acid), PIPES (piperazine-1,4-bis(2-ethanesulfonic acid)), ACES (N-(2-acetamino)-2-aminoethanesulfonic acid), CAPS(N-cyclohexyl-3-aminopropanesulfonic acid), or TES (N-tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl-2-aminoethanesulfonic acid).
Such buffer is employed in the nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent with a concentration preferably of 1 to 300 mmol/L.
The nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent may preferably contain a defoaming agent. The defoaming agent is preferably a silicone-type defoaming agent or an alcohol-type defoaming agent, and the alcohol-type defoaming agent is preferably an acetylene glycol surfactant.
Specific examples of the defoaming agent include a silicone-type defoaming agent (such as silicone oil, dimethylpolysiloxane, silicone emulsion, denatured polysiloxane, or silicone compound), an alcohol-type defoaming agent (such as acetylene glycol, heptanol, ethylhexanol, a higher alcohol or polyoxyalkylene glycol), an ether-type defoaming agent (such as heptyl cellosolve, or nonyl cellosolve-3-heptylsorbitol), an oil/fat-type defoaming agent (such as animal oil or vegetable oil), a fatty acid-type defoaming agent (such as stearic acid, oleic acid, or palmitic acid), a metal soap-type defoaming agent (such as aluminum palmitate, or calcium stearate), a fatty acid ester-type defoaming agent (such as a natural wax, or tributyl phosphate), a phosphate ester-type defoaming agent (such as sodium octylphosphate), an amine-type defoaming agent (such as diamylamine), an amide-type defoaming agent (such as stearylamide), and other defoaming agents (such as ferric sulfate or bauxite). Particularly preferably, a silicone-type defoaming agent and an alcohol-type defoaming agent may be used in combination as the defoaming agent. Also an acetylene glycol-type surfactant may be preferably employed as the alcohol-type defoaming agent.
Also the solution of the nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent may contain a water-soluble organic solvent. Such water-soluble organic solvent is used for increasing solubility of various reagents contained in the nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent, and can be acetone, chloroform or dimethylformamide, but is preferably an alcohol. Such alcohol can be a primary, secondary or tertiary alcohol.
More preferably, the alcohol can be methanol, ethanol, propanol or an isomer thereof, or a butanol or an isomer thereof. Such water-soluble organic solvent may be employed singly or in a combination of plural kinds. In the solution of the nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent, the water-soluble organic solvent preferably has a concentration of 1 to 20 mass %.
The solution of the nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent is preferably has a pH value of 3 to 8, more preferably 4 to 7 and further preferably 5 to 7.
The analyte is preferably subjected to a homogenization process, thereby improving an adaptability to an automated process. The homogenization can be achieved for example by an ultrasonic treatment, a process of utilizing sharp projections, a high-speed agitation or extrusion through a fine gap, or a process utilizing beads of glass, stainless steel or zirconia.
A method for mixing the homogenized analyte and the nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent nucleic acid is not particularly restricted. The mixing is preferably conducted by an agitating apparatus of 30 to 3,000 rpm, for a period of 1 second to 3 minutes. It is thus possible to increase an yield of the separated and purified nucleic acid. The mixing is also preferably achieved by conducting an inverting 5 to 30 times. The mixing can also be achieved by conducting a pipetting operation 10 to 50 times. In this case, the yield of the separated and purified nucleic acid can be increased by a simple operation.
The obtained sample solution containing nucleic acid is subjected to an addition of a water-soluble organic solvent or an aqueous solution of a water-soluble organic solvent, thereby obtaining a sample solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent. In the invention, the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent is added in separate manner in at least two portions. The water-soluble organic solvent to be added to the sample solution containing nucleic acid can preferably be an alcohol, which can be a primary, secondary or tertiary alcohol and which is preferably methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol or an isomer thereof. In the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent, the water-soluble organic solvent preferably has a final concentration of 5 to 90 mass %, more preferably 10 to 60 mass % and particularly preferably 20 to 40 mass %. The water-soluble organic solvent or the aqueous solution of the water-soluble organic solvent to be added has a concentration of 20 to 100 vol. %, preferably 50 to 100 vol. %. In the invention, the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent is added in separate manner in at least two portions. An amount of first addition is preferably 5 to 90 vol. % of a total addition amount, more preferably 25 to 70 vol. %.
It is also preferable, after adding the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent at least once to the sample solution, to conduct an agitation by an operation including at least one of a shaking, an inverting and a rotating movement, and to further add, to the solution after agitation, a water-soluble organic solvent or a solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent at least once. It is more preferable, after adding the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent at least once to the sample solution, to conduct an agitation by an operation including at least a suction and a discharge of the solution, and to further add, to the solution after agitation, a water-soluble organic solvent or a solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent at least once. In case of conducting both the operation including at least one of a shaking, an inverting and a rotating movement and the operation including at least a suction and a discharge of the solution, these operations may be conducted in an arbitrary order. The suction and discharge of the solution can be advantageously conducted for example with a pipette.
Also such agitation may be conducted after a second addition of the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent.
The obtained sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent preferably has a surface tension of 0.05 J/cm2 or less, a viscosity of 1 to 10,000 mPa, and a specific gravity of 0.8 to 1.2. Such physical properties facilitates removal of the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent after a contact thereof with a nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane.
(2) A step of contacting the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent with a solid phase thereby causing nucleic acid to be adsorbed on the solid phase (“adsorbing step”):
In the following a solid phase to be employed in the invention and the adsorbing step thereof will be explained.
A solid phase to be employed in the invention is preferably capable of adsorbing nucleic acid by an interaction substantially not involving an ionic bonding. This means that the solid phase is not “ionized” in a condition of use thereof, and the nucleic acid and the solid phase are assumed to attract each other by a change in the polarity of the environment. It is thus possible to separate and purity nucleic acid with an excellent separating ability and a satisfactory washing efficiency. The solid phase preferably has a hydrophilic group, whereby the nucleic acid and the solid phase are assumed to attract each other by a change in the polarity of the environment.
The hydrophilic group indicates a polar group (atomic group) capable of an interaction with water, and includes all the groups (atomic groups) involved in nucleic acid adsorption. The hydrophilic group is preferably a group having a medium interaction with water (cf. “group with a medium hydrophilicity” in “hydrophilic group”, Kagaku Dai-jiten (Encyclopaedia Chimica), published by Kyoritsu Shuppan Co.), and can be, for example, a hydroxyl group, a carboxyl group, a cyano group, or an oxyethylene group, and preferably a hydroxyl group.
In the invention, a solid phase having a hydrophilic group means a solid phase in which a material itself constituting the solid phase has a hydrophilic group, or a solid phase in which a hydrophilic group is introduced into a material constituting the solid phase by a treatment or a coating. The material constituting the solid phase may be an organic material or an inorganic material. For example there may be employed a solid phase of which a constituent material is an organic material having a hydrophilic group, a solid phase in which a hydrophilic group is introduced by treating a solid phase of an organic material without a hydrophilic group, a solid phase in which a hydrophilic group is introduced by coating a solid phase of an organic material without a hydrophilic group, with a material having a hydrophilic group, a solid phase of which a constituent material is an inorganic material having a hydrophilic group, a solid phase in which a hydrophilic group is introduced by treating a solid phase of an inorganic material without a hydrophilic group, or a solid phase in which a hydrophilic group is introduced by coating a solid phase of an inorganic material without a hydrophilic group, with a material having a hydrophilic group.
A solid phase of a material having a hydroxyl group can be a solid phase formed by polyhydroxyethylacrylic acid, polyhydroxyethylmethacrylic acid, polyvinylalcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, polyoxyethylene, acetylcellulose or a mixture of acetylcelluloses with difference acetyl values, and preferably a solid phase of an organic material having a hydroxyl group.
The solid phase of an organic material having a hydroxyl group is preferably of a material having a polysaccharide structure, and more preferably a solid phase of an organic polymer formed by a mixture of acetylcelluloses different in acetyl value. The mixture of acetylcelluloses different in acetyl value is preferably a mixture of triacetylcellulose and diacetylcellulose, a mixture of triacetylcellulose and monoacetylcellulose, a mixture of triacetylcellulose, diacetylcellulose and monoacetylcellulose, or a mixture of diacetylcellulose and monoacetylcellulose, particularly preferably a mixture of triacetylcellulose and diacetylcellulose. A mixing ratio of triacetylcellulose and diacetylcellulose is preferably 99:1 to 1:99, more preferably 90:10 to 50:50.
A more preferable organic material having a hydroxyl group is a saponified substance of acetylcellulose described in JP-A-2003-128691. A saponified substance of acetylcellulose is obtained by a saponification of a mixture of acetylcelluloses different in acetyl value, and is preferably a saponified substance of a mixture of triacetylcellulose and diacetylcellulose, a saponified substance of a mixture of triacetylcellulose and monoacetylcellulose, a saponified substance of a mixture of triacetylcellulose, diacetylcellulose and monoacetylcellulose, or a saponified substance of a mixture of diacetylcellulose and monoacetylcellulose, more preferably a saponified substance of a mixture of triacetylcellulose and diacetylcellulose. A mixing ratio (mass ratio) of triacetylcellulose and diacetylcellulose is preferably 99:1 to 1:99, more preferably 90:10 to 50:50. In this case, an amount (density) of hydroxyl groups on the solid phase surface can be controlled by a level of saponification process (saponification rate). A higher amount (density) of the hydroxyl groups is preferable for increasing the separating efficiency of nucleic acid. For example, in case of an acetylcellulose such as triacetylcellulose, the saponification rate (surface saponification rate) is preferably about 5% or higher, and more preferably 10% or higher. Also for increasing the surface area of the organic polymer having a hydroxyl group, it is preferable to saponify a solid phase of acetylcellulose.
A saponification indicates contacting acetylcellulose with a saponifying solution (for example an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide). Thus, in an ester derivative of cellulose contacted with the saponifying solution, an ester group is hydrolyzed and a hydroxyl group is introduced to regenerate cellulose. The regenerated cellulose thus prepared is different from the original cellulose in a crystalline state and the like. Also the saponification rate can be varied with a saponification process under changes in the concentration of sodium hydroxide and in the process time. The saponification rate can be easily measured for example by NMR, IR or XPS (for example by a decrease of a peak of the carbonyl group).
For introducing a hydrophilic group into the solid phase of an organic material without a hydrophilic group, a graft polymer chain having a hydrophilic group in a polymer chain or in a side chain may be bonded to the solid phase. For bonding a graft polymer chain to the solid phase of the organic material, two methods are available, namely a method of chemically bonding the solid phase with a graft polymer chain and a method of polymerizing a compound having a polymerizable double bond starting from the solid phase thereby forming a graft polymer chain.
In the method of chemically bonding the solid phase with a graft polymer chain, the grafting can be conducted by utilizing a polymer having a functional group, capable of reacting with the solid phase, in a terminal end of the polymer or in a side chain, and causing a chemical reaction of the functional group with a functional group of the solid phase. The functional group capable of reacting with the solid phase is not particularly restricted as long as it is capable of reacting with the functional group of the solid phase, and can be, for example, a silane coupling group such as an alkoxysilane, an isocyanate group, an amino group, a hydroxyl group, a carboxyl group, a sulfonic acid group, a phosphoric acid group, an epoxy group, an allyl group, a methacryloyl group, or an acryloyl group. As the polymer having a reactive functional group in a terminal end of the polymer or in a side chain, particularly useful is a polymer having a trialkoxysilyl group in a terminal end of the polymer, a polymer having an amino group in a terminal end of the polymer, a polymer having a carboxyl group in a terminal end of the polymer, a polymer having an epoxy group in a terminal end of the polymer, or a polymer having an isocyanate group in a terminal end of the polymer. The polymer to be employed in this case can be any polymer having a hydrophilic group involved in the adsorption of nucleic acid, but can be, for example, polyhydroxyethylacrylic acid, polyhydroxyethylmethacrylic acid or a salt thereof; polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid or a salt thereof; or polyoxyethylene.
The method of polymerizing a compound having a polymerizable double bond starting from the solid phase thereby forming a graft polymer chain is generally called a surface graft polymerization. The surface graft polymerization means a method of providing a surface of a base material with active species by a plasma irradiation, a light irradiation or a heating, and bonding a compound, having a polymerizable double bond and positioned so as to be contactable with the solid phase, with the solid phase by a polymerization. A compound useful for forming a graft polymer chain bonded to the base material is required to meet two characteristics of having a polymerizable double bond and having a hydrophilic group involved in the adsorption of nucleic acid. Such compound can be, as long as having a double bond within the molecule, a polymer, an oligomer, or a monomer having a hydrophilic group. A particularly useful compound is a monomer having a hydrophilic group. Specific examples of the particularly useful monomer having hydrophilic group include following monomers having a hydroxyl group, such as 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, and glycerol monomethacrylate. Also a carboxyl group-containing monomer such as acrylic acid or methacrylic acid, or an alkali metal salt or an amine salt thereof, can be employed advantageously.
As another method for introducing a hydrophilic group into a solid phase of an organic material not having a hydrophilic group, a material having a hydrophilic group may be coated. A material to be used for coating is not particularly restricted as long as it has a hydrophilic group involved in the adsorption of nucleic acid, but is preferably a polymer of an organic material, in consideration of ease of operation. Such polymer can be, for example, polyhydroxyethylacrylic acid, polyhydroxyethylmethacrylic acid or a salt thereof; polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid or a salt thereof; polyoxyethylene, acetylcellulose or a mixture of acetylcelluloses different in acetyl value, and is preferably a polymer having a polysaccharide structure.
It is also possible, after coating the solid phase of an organic material not having a hydrophilic group with acetylcellulose or a mixture of acetylcelluloses different in acetyl value, to conduct a saponification process on the acetylcellulose or the mixture of acetylcelluloses different in acetyl value thus coated. In such case, the saponification rate is preferably about 5% or higher, more preferably about 10% or higher.
The solid phase of an inorganic material having a hydroxyl group can be, for example, a solid phase formed by a silica compound or the like. In case of use in a membrane form, it can be a glass filter. It may also be a porous silica film as described in Japanese Patent No. 3058342. Such porous silica film can be prepared by developing, on a base plate, a developing solution of a cationic amphiphilic substance having a bimolecular film-forming ability, then removing a solvent from the liquid film on the base plate thereby preparing a multi-layered film of bimolecular films of the amphiphilic substance, then contacting the multi-layered film of bimolecular films with a solution containing a silica compound and extracting the multi-layered film of bimolecular films.
For introducing a hydrophilic group into the solid phase of an inorganic material without a hydrophilic group, two methods are available, namely a method of chemically bonding the solid phase with a graft polymer chain and a method of polymerizing a monomer, having a hydrophilic group and a polymerizable double bond within the molecule, starting from the solid phase thereby forming a graft polymer chain. In case of chemically bonding the solid phase with a graft polymer chain, a functional group capable reacting with a functional group at a terminal end of the graft polymer chain is introduced into an inorganic material, and a graft polymer is chemically bonded thereto. Also in case of polymerizing a monomer, having a hydrophilic group and a polymerizable double bond within the molecule, starting from the solid phase thereby forming a graft polymer chain, a functional group, serving as a starting point for the polymerization of the compound having the double bond, is introduced into the inorganic material.
The graft polymer having a hydrophilic group and the monomer having a hydrophilic group and a polymerizable double bond within the molecule can preferably be the graft polymer having the hydrophilic group and the monomer having the hydrophilic group and the polymerizable double bond within the molecule, described above in the method of chemically bonding the solid phase of an organic material without a hydrophilic group and a graft polymer chain.
As another method for introducing a hydrophilic group into a solid phase of an inorganic material not having a hydrophilic group, a material having a hydrophilic group may be coated. A material to be used for coating is not particularly restricted as long as it has a hydrophilic group involved in the adsorption of nucleic acid, but is preferably a polymer of an organic material, in consideration of ease of operation. Such polymer can be, for example, polyhydroxyethylacrylic acid, polyhydroxyethylmethacrylic acid or a salt thereof; polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid or a salt thereof; polyoxyethylene, acetylcellulose or a mixture of acetylcelluloses different in acetyl value.
It is also possible, after coating the solid phase of an inorganic material not having a hydrophilic group with acetylcellulose or a mixture of acetylcelluloses different in acetyl value, to conduct a saponification process on the acetylcellulose or the mixture of acetylcelluloses different in acetyl value thus coated. In such case, the saponification rate is preferably about 5% or higher, more preferably about 10% or higher.
The solid phase of an inorganic material not having a hydrophilic group may be prepared from a metal such as aluminum, glass, cement, ceramics such as porcelain, new ceramics, silicon or active charcoal.
A nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane advantageously employed as the solid phase in the invention is a material through which a solution can pass. A term “solution can pass through” means that, in case a pressure difference is generated between a space contacting a surface of the membrane and another space contacting the other surface of the membrane, a solution can pass through the interior of the membrane from the space of a higher pressure to the space of a lower pressure. Otherwise, it means that, when a centrifugal force is applied on the membrane, the solution can pass through the interior of the member in a direction of the centrifugal force.
The nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane preferably has a thickness of 10 to 500 μm, more preferably 50 to 250 μm. A smaller thickness is preferred in consideration of ease of washing.
The nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane may be symmetrical with respect to a front surface and a back surface thereof, but a porous membrane asymmetrical with respect to the front surface and the back surface can be preferably employed.
The nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane preferably has a minimum pore size of 0.22 μm or larger, more preferably 0.5 μm or larger. Also a preferred porous membrane has a ratio of a maximum pore size to a minimum pore size of 2 or larger, thereby providing a sufficient surface area for adsorbing nucleic acid and being not easily clogged. More preferably, the ratio of a maximum pore size to a minimum pore size is 5 or larger.
The nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane preferably has a void volume ratio of 50 to 95%, more preferably 65 to 80%, and preferably has a bubble point of 0.1 to 10 kgf/cm2, more preferably 0.2 to 4 kgf/cm2.
The nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane preferably has a pressure loss of 0.1 to 100 kPa, thereby providing a uniform pressure under an overpressure, more preferably 0.5 to 50 kPa. The pressure loss means a minimum pressure required for passing water per a membrane thickness of 100 μm.
The nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane preferably has a water permeation amount, when water is passed under a pressure of 1 kg/cm2 at 25° C., of 1 to 5000 mL/min per 1 cm2 of membrane, more preferably 5 to 1000 mL/min per 1 cm2 of membrane under the same conditions.
The nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane preferably has a nucleic acid adsorption amount of 0.1 μg or higher per 1 mg of the porous membrane, more preferably 0.9 μg or higher per 1 mg of the porous membrane.
The nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane is preferably constituted of a cellulose derivative which, when a square porous membrane having a side of 5 mm is immersed in 5 mL of trifluoroacetic acid, does not dissolve in 1 hour but dissolves within 48 hours. Also preferred is a cellulose derivative which dissolves within 1 hour when a square porous membrane having a side of 5 mm is immersed in 5 mL of trifluoroacetic acid, but does not dissolve within 24 hours when immersed in 5 mL of dichloromethane. Among these, more preferred is a cellulose derivative which dissolves within 1 hour when a square porous membrane having a side of 5 mm is immersed in 5 mL of trifluoroacetic acid, but does not dissolve within 24 hours when immersed in 5 mL of dichloromethane.
When the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent is passed through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane, the sample solution is preferably passed from a surface to the other surface thereof, in realizing a uniform contact of the solution with the membrane. When the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent is passed through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane, the sample solution is preferably passed from a side thereof having a larger pore size to a side having a smaller pore size, because the clogging does not easily take place.
When the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent is passed through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane, a flow rate is preferably 2 to 1500 μL/sec per 1 cm2 of the membrane, in order to obtain an appropriate contact time of the solution with the porous membrane. An excessively short contact time of the solution with the porous membrane cannot provide a sufficient separating and purifying effect, while an excessively long contact time is undesirable in consideration of the operation efficiency. The flow rate is more preferably 5 to 700 μL/sec per 1 cm2 of the membrane.
The nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane through which the used solution can pass, may be formed by a single membrane, but may also be formed by plural membranes. The plural nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membranes may be mutually same or different.
The plural nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membranes may be formed by a combination of a nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane of an inorganic material and a nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane of an organic material. For example, a combination of a glass filter and a regenerated cellulose porous membrane may be employed. Also the plural nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membranes may be formed by a combination of a nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane of an inorganic material and a nucleic acid non-adsorbing porous membrane of an organic material. For example, a combination of a glass filter and a nylon or polysulfone porous membrane may be employed.
A nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, accommodating the aforementioned nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane through which a solution can pass, within a container having at least two openings, can be employed advantageously. Also a nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, accommodating plural nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membranes through which a solution can pass, within a container having at least two openings, can be employed advantageously. In such case, the plural nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membranes, accommodated within the container having at least two openings, may be mutually same or different.
The nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge preferably does not contain, in the container having at least two openings, any member other than the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane through which a solution can pass. The container may be formed by a plastic material such as polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate or polyvinyl chloride. Also a biodegradable material can be employed advantageously. Also the container may be transparent or colored.
The nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge may be provided with means which identifies individual cartridge. Such means which identifies individual cartridge can be, for example, a bar code or a magnetic stripe.
Also the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge may have a structure in which the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane can be easily taken out from the container having at least two openings. (3) A step of contacting a washing solution with the solid phase thereby washing the solid phase in a state where the nucleic acid is adsorbed thereon (“washing step”):
The washing step will be explained in the following.
The washing solution employed in the invention is an aqueous solution preferably containing a water-soluble organic solvent at a concentration of 50 mass % or less, more preferably at a concentration of 1 to 50 mass %. The washing solution is required to have a function of washing off an impurity which is present in the sample solution and is adsorbed, together with nucleic acid, on the nucleic acid-adsorbing membrane. For this reason, it preferably has such a composition that does not desorb nucleic acid but desorbs the impurity from the nucleic acid-adsorbing membrane.
The water-soluble organic solvent contained in the washing solution can be an alcohol, such as methanol, ethanol, isopropanol or an isomer thereof, or a butanol or an isomer thereof. More preferably, at least one selected from such alcohols is contained by 20 to 50 mass %, among which ethanol is most preferable.
The washing solution of the invention preferably contains further a water-soluble salt. The water-soluble salt is preferably a halide salt, and most preferably a chloride. Also the water-soluble salt is preferably formed by a monovalent or divalent cation, particularly preferably an alkali metal salt or an alkali earth metal salt, among which a sodium salt or a potassium salt is preferred and a sodium salt is most preferred.
The water-soluble salt, in case contained in the washing solution, has a concentration which is preferably equal to or higher than 10 mmol/L, and of which an upper limit, though not particularly restricted as long as the solubility of the impurity is not impaired, is preferably 1 mol/L or less and more preferably 0.1 mol/L or less. More preferably the water-soluble salt is sodium chloride which is further preferably contained by 20 mmol/L or higher.
The washing solution is further featured in being free from a chaotropic substance. It is thus rendered possible to reduce a possibility of contamination by a chaotropic substance in a recovering step after the washing step. As a contamination by a chaotropic substance in the recovering step often hinders an enzyme reaction such as a PCR reaction, the washing solution is ideally free from a chaotropic substance in consideration of subsequent enzyme reactions. Also as the chaotropic substance is corrosive and toxic, a process capable of dispensing with the chaotropic substance is extremely advantageous for the safety of the operator in the experimental operations.
The chaotropic substance means, as described above, urea, guanidine isothiocyanate, guanidine thiocyanate, sodium isocyanate, sodium iodide or potassium iodide.
In a washing step in a prior method for separating and purifying nucleic acid, the washing solution has a high wetting property to a container such as a cartridge and often remains in the container, whereby the washing solution causes a contamination in a recovering step subsequent to the washing step, thereby leading to a lowered purity of nucleic acid or a lowered reactivity in a subsequent step. Therefore, in case of conducting adsorption and desorption of nucleic acid in a container such as a cartridge, it is important that liquids employed for adsorption and washing, particularly the washing solution, do not remain in the cartridge after the washing so as not to affect the subsequent step.
Therefore, in order to minimize the washing solution remaining in the cartridge in the washing step and to prevent the washing solution from contaminating the recovering solution in the next step, the washing solution preferably has a surface tension less than 0.035 J/m2. A lower surface tension improves the wetting property of the washing liquid on the cartridge, thereby reducing the remaining liquid amount.
An increased proportion of water may be employed for improving the washing efficiency, but elevates the surface tension of the washing solution, thereby increasing the remaining solution amount. In case the washing solution has a surface tension of 0.035 J/m2 or higher, the remaining liquid amount can be suppressed by elevating the water repellency of the cartridge. With an increased water repellency of the cartridge, the solution forms liquid drops and flows down, thereby reducing the remaining liquid amount. The water repellency can be improved by coating the cartridge surface with a water repellent material such as silicone or by blending a water repellent material such as silicone at the cartridge molding, but such methods are not restrictive.
Also the washing and recovering operations may be automated to conduct the operations in simple and prompt manner. The washing step may be conducted only once for a prompt process, but is preferably repeated plural times in case the purity is more important.
In the washing step, the washing solution is supplied by a tube, a pipette, an automatic injecting apparatus or supply means of an equivalent function to the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane. The supplied washing solution is supplied from one of the openings of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge (the opening through which the sample solution is injected), and is passed through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane by pressurizing the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge by a pressure generating apparatus (such as a squirt, a syringe, a pump or a power pipette) coupled with the aforementioned one opening, thereby being discharged from an opening different from the one opening. It is also possible to supply the washing solution from the one opening and discharge it from the same one opening. It is furthermore possible to supply and discharge the washing solution from an opening different from the opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge through which the sample solution is supplied. However a method of supplying the washing solution from the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, causing it to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging it from an opening different from the one opening, is preferred because of a superior washing efficiency. An amount of the washing solution in the washing step is preferably 2 μl/cm2 or higher. Though a large solution amount can improve the washing effect, the amount is preferably 200 μl/cm2 or less in order to maintain the efficiency of operation and to suppress a loss in the sample.
In the washing step, a flow rate of the washing solution in passing through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane is preferably 2 to 1500 μL/sec per a unit area (1 cm2) of the membrane, and more preferably 5 to 700 μL/sec. The washing operation can be conducted more sufficiently with a longer time under a lower flow rate, but the above-described range is selected because a prompter operation is also important in separation-purification of nucleic acid.
In the washing step, the washing solution preferably has a solution temperature of 4 to 70° C., and more preferably the room temperature. In the washing step, the washing operation may be conducted under an agitation by a mechanical vibration or an ultrasonic vibration applied to the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, or under a centrifugal force applied thereto.
In the invention, the washing step can be simplified by utilizing the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane, more specifically (1) the step being conducted by a single passing of the washing solution through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane, (2) the step being executable at the room temperature, (3) the recovering solution being injectable into the cartridge immediately after the washing, and (4) the process being realizable with either one of the features (1), (2) and (3) or two or more thereof. This is because the thin nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane of the invention allows to dispense with a drying step, which is often required in a prior process for promptly removing an organic solvent contained in the washing solution.
In a prior nucleic acid separation-purification process, a washing solution in a washing step is often scattered and deposited elsewhere thereby causing a contamination in the sample. Such contamination can be suppressed by suitably designing shapes of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating a nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane in a container having two openings and of a waste liquor container. (4) A step of contacting a recovering solution with the solid phase thereby desorbing the nucleic acid from the solid phase (“recovering step”):
In the following a step of desorbing and recovering the nucleic acid from the solid phase will be explained.
In the recovering step, the recovering solution is supplied by a tube, a pipette, an automatic injecting apparatus or supply means of an equivalent function to the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane. The recovering solution is supplied from one of the openings of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge (the opening through which the sample solution is injected), and is passed through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane by pressurizing the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge by a pressure generating apparatus (such as a squirt, a syringe, a pump or a power pipette) coupled with the aforementioned one opening, thereby being discharged from an opening different from the one opening. It is also possible to supply the recovering solution from the one opening and discharge it from the same one opening. It is furthermore possible to supply and discharge the recovering solution from an opening different from the opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge through which the sample solution is supplied. However a method of supplying the recovering solution from the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, causing it to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging it from an opening different from the one opening, is preferred because of a superior recovering efficiency.
The nucleic acid may be desorbed by regulating a volume of the recovering solution, with respect to the volume of the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent. An amount of the recovering solution, containing the recovered nucleic acid, depends on the amount of the involved analyte. An ordinary amount of the recovering solution is about several tens to several hundreds of microliters, but it may be changed within a range from 1 μl to several tends of milliliters in case of handling an extremely small amount of analyte or a separation-purification of a large amount of nucleic acid.
The recovering solution is preferably purified distilled water or a Tris/EDTA buffer. Also in case the recovered nucleic acid is used for a PCR (polymerase chain reaction), there may be employed a buffer to be used in the PCR reaction (for example aqueous solution with final concentrations of KCl: 50 mmol/L, Tris-HCl: 10 mmol/L and MgCl2: 1.5 mmol/L)
The recovering solution preferably has a pH value within a range of 2 to 11, more preferably 5 to 9. The ionic strength and the salt concentration have a particular effect on the dissolution of the adsorbed nucleic acid. Preferably the recovering solution has an ionic strength of 290 mmol/L or less and a salt concentration of 90 mmol/L or less. These ranges improves a recovering rate of nucleic acid, thereby allowing to recover a larger amount of nucleic acid.
A concentrated nucleic acid-containing recovering solution can be obtained by reducing the volume of the recovering solution, in comparison with the volume of the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent. A ratio (volume of recovering solution):(volume of sample solution containing water-soluble organic solvent) may be preferably selected within a range of 1:100 to 99:100, more preferably within a range of 1:10 to 9:10. In this manner, nucleic acid can be concentrated without a concentrating operation in a post-step of separation-purification of nucleic acid, and there can be provided a method of obtaining a nucleic acid solution in which nucleic acid is more concentrated than in the original analyte.
It is also possible, as another method, by desorbing nucleic acid utilizing the recovering solution in a volume larger than the volume of the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent, to obtain a recovering solution containing nucleic acid of a desired concentration, for example a recovering solution containing nucleic acid at a concentration suitable for a subsequent step (such as PCR). A ratio (volume of recovering solution):(volume of sample solution containing water-soluble organic solvent) may be preferably selected within a range of 1:1 to 50:1, more preferably within a range of 1:1 to 5:1. In this manner, a cumbersome regulation of concentration after the separation-purification of nucleic acid. It is also possible to increase the nucleic acid recovery rate from the porous membrane, by employing the recovering solution of a sufficient amount.
Also a simple recovery of nucleic acid can be achieved by varying the temperature of the recovering solution according to the purpose. For example a nucleic acid desorption from the porous membrane with a recovering solution of a temperature of 0 to 10° C. allows to suppress the function of nuclease thereby preventing decomposition of nucleic acid without any particular reagent or operation for avoiding an enzymatic decomposition, thus obtaining a nucleic acid solution in simple and efficient manner.
Also the recovering solution of a temperature of 10 to 35° C. allows to conduct the recovery of nucleic acid at the room temperature and to desorb and purify nucleic acid without complex steps.
Also as another method, the recovering solution of a higher temperature for example of 35 to 70° C. allows to conduct the desorption of nucleic acid from the porous membrane with a high recovery rate, in a simple process without involving complex operations.
The recovering solution is not particularly restricted in a number of injection and may be injected one or plural times. A simple and prompt separation-purification of nucleic acid is normally conducted with a single recovering operation, but the recovering solution may be injected plural times for example in case of recovering a large amount of nucleic acid.
In the recovering step, the recovering solution for nucleic acid may have a formulation usable in subsequent steps. The separated and purified nucleic acid is often amplified by a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) method. In such case, the solution of separated and purified nucleic acid has to be diluted with a buffer solution suitable for the PCR method. A buffer suitable the PCR method may be employed as the recovering solution in the recovering step of the invention, thereby enabling a simple and prompt transfer to the subsequent PCR step.
Also in the recovering step, the recovering solution for nucleic acid may further contain a stabilizing agent for preventing a decomposition of nucleic acid. Such stabilizing agent can be an antiseptic, an antimold agent or an inhibitor for the nuclease. An inhibitor for nuclease can be, for example, EDTA. In another embodiment, the stabilizing agent may be added in advance to a recovering container.
A recovering container to be used in the recovering step is not particularly restricted, and may be prepared with a material having no absorption at a wavelength of 260 nm. In such case, a concentration of the solution of recovered nucleic acid can be measured directly without requiring a transfer to another container. The material having no absorption at 260 nm can be, for example, a quartz glass, but such example is not restrictive.
Also a nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge to be employed in the above-described method of separating and purifying nucleic acid, and reagents to be used in the steps (1) to (4) may be provided as a kit.
The above-described steps of separating and purifying nucleic acid from the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent, utilizing a nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating a nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane in a container having at least two openings and a pressure generating apparatus, are preferably conducted by an automatic apparatus capable of automatically conducting the steps. Such method allows not only to conduct the operations in a simpler and faster manner but also to obtain nucleic acid of a constant level without relying on the skill of the operator.
In the following, there will be explained an example of the automatic apparatus for automatically conducting the steps of separating and purifying nucleic acid from the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent, utilizing a nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating a nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane in a container having at least two openings and a pressure generating apparatus, but the automatic apparatus is not limited to such example.
The automatic apparatus is a nucleic acid separation-purification apparatus for automatically conducting separation-purification operations by employing a nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating a nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane through which a solution can pass; injecting and pressurizing a sample solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent into the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing nucleic acid in the sample solution to be adsorbed in the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane; separately injecting and pressurizing a washing solution in the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby removing an impurity; and separately injecting a recovering solution in the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby desorbing nucleic acid adsorbed on the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and recovering the nucleic acid together with the recovering solution, the apparatus being characterized in including a nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge; a mounting mechanism for supporting a waste liquor container for containing a residue of the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent and a discharged washing solution, and a recovering container for containing the recovering solution containing nucleic acid; a pressurized air-supply mechanism for introducing pressurized air into the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge; and an injecting mechanism for separately injecting the washing solution and the recovering solution into the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge.
EXAMPLES
(1) Preparation of Nucleic Acid Separation-Purification Cartridge
A nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge is prepared with an internal diameter of 7 mm and a portion for accommodating a nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane.
(2) A Porous Membrane, Prepared by a Saponification Process on a Triacetylcellulose Porous Membrane, is Employed as the Nucleic Acid-Adsorbing Porous Membrane and is Accommodated in the Accommodating Portion of the Nucleic Acid Separation-Purification Cartridge Prepared in (1).
(3) Preparation of a Stock Solution of Nucleic Acid-Solubilizing Reagent, a Washing Solution, a Recovering Solution and a DNase Solution
A nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent, a washing solution, a recovering solution and a DNase solution are prepared with following formulations:
(Stock solution of nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent)
Guanidine hydrochloride
528.4
g
(manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Ind. Ltd.)
Olfin AK-02
5.59
g
(manufactured by Nisshin Chemical Co.)
Leodol TWS-120V (manufactured by Kao Corp)
32.95
g
Ethanol
64.8
g
(manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Ind. Ltd.)
Cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB)
22.3
g
(manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Ind. Ltd.)
Distilled water
575.3
g
(Washing solution)
Distilled water
466.8
g
1 mol/L trishydrochloric acid (pH: 7.5)
7.04
g
(manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Ind. Ltd.)
Sodium chloride
3.95
g
(manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Ind. Ltd.)
(Recovering solution)
Tris-HCl (pH: 6.5)
1
mmol/L
(DNase solution 1)
DNase (manufactured by Promega Inc.)
360
μl
DNase buffer
72
μl
(manufactured by Promega Inc., packed with DNase)
Distilled water
288
μl
(DNase solution 2)
DNase (manufactured by Qiagen Inc.)
11.25
μl
DNase buffer
315
μl
(manufactured by Qiagen Inc., packed with DNase)
Distilled water
33.75
μl
(4) Nucleic Acid Separation-Purification Operations
Example 1
Hela cells were cultured as adherent cells in an on-dish method to obtain a sample solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent of Example 1 in the following manner.
On a 6-hole cell culture plate, Hela cells were cultured in a culture solution (MEM—10% bovine fetus serum) at 37° C. in the presence of 5% CO2. A number of cells cultured at the same time was measured as 3.12×106 per hole. The culture solution was removed from a hole of the cell culture plate and the stock solution of nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent was added to obtain a cell solution. The cell solution was agitated by pipetting and recovered in another container.
516 μl of the stock solution of nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent were added with 4 μl of 2-mercaptoethanol to obtain a lysis solution, which was entirely added to the cell-containing container and agitated for 1 minute by a vortex mixer. Then 100 μl of 99.5 vol. % ethanol were added and agitated for 5 seconds with a vortex mixer. Then 180 μl of 99.5 vol. % ethanol were added to obtain a final ethanol concentration of 35 mass %, and the mixture was agitated for 5 seconds with a vortex mixer.
Thus obtained sample solution of Example 1, containing the water-soluble organic solvent, was injected in one of the openings of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane as prepared in (1) and (2), then the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and thereby contacting nucleic acid therewith, and to discharge the sample solution from the other opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge. Subsequently the pressure generating apparatus was detached, then 500 μl of the washing solution containing ethanol at a concentration of 30 vol. % were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected washing solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the washing solution from the other opening. These operations were repeated three times in a similar manner. Then the pressure generating apparatus was detached, 100 μl of the recovering solution were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening thereof to pressurize the interior thereof thereby causing the injected recovering solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the recovering solution from the other opening, and the solution was recovered.
Comparative Example 1
Hela cells were cultured as adherent cells in an on-dish method to obtain a sample solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent of Comparative Example 1 in the following manner.
On a 6-hole cell culture plate, Hela cells were cultured in a culture solution (MEM—10% bovine fetus serum) at 37° C. in the presence of 5% CO2. A number of cells cultured at the same time was measured as 3.12×106 per hole. The culture solution was removed from a hole of the cell culture plate and the stock solution of nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent was added to obtain a cell solution. The cell solution was agitated by pipetting and recovered in another container.
350 μl of the stock solution of nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent were added with 3.5 μl of 2-mercaptoethanol to obtain a lysis solution, which was entirely added to the cell-containing container and agitated for 1 minute by a vortex mixer. Then 350 μl of 70 vol. % ethanol were added and agitated for 5 seconds with a vortex mixer.
The obtained solutions after agitation, was injected in one of the openings of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane as prepared in (1) and (2), then the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected nucleic acid mixture solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and thereby contacting the mixture solution with the membrane, and to discharge the solution from the other opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge. Then the pressure generating apparatus was detached, 500 μl of the washing solution containing ethanol at a concentration of 30 vol. % were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior thereof thereby causing the injected washing solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the washing solution from the other opening. These operations were repeated three times in a similar manner. Then the pressure generating apparatus was detached, 100 μl of the recovering solution were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening thereof to pressurize the interior thereof thereby causing the injected recovering solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the recovering solution from the other opening, and the solution was recovered.
Example 2
A culture solution of human acute promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL60) was prepared. It was so regulated as to obtain a cell-count of 3×106 and the cells were washed with PBS free from Ca2+ and Mg2+. A centrifuging was conducted with a swinging rotor under conditions of 4° C., 300 G and 5 minutes, to pelletize the floating cells, then a supernatant solution was removed and the cells were re-suspended by a tapping. 516 μl of the stock solution of nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent were added with 4 μl of 2-mercaptoethanol to obtain a lysis solution, which was entirely added to the cell-containing container and agitated for 1 minute by a vortex mixer. Then 100 μl of 99.5 vol. % ethanol were added and agitated for 5 seconds with a vortex mixer. Then 180 μl of 99.5 vol. % ethanol were added to obtain a final ethanol concentration of 35 mass %, and the mixture was agitated for 5 seconds with a vortex mixer. A period from the start of cell washing with PBS to the end of agitation was 10 minutes.
Thus obtained sample solution of Example 2, containing the water-soluble organic-solvent, was injected in one of the openings of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane as prepared in (1) and (2), then the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and thereby contacting the sample solution therewith, and to discharge the sample solution from the other opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge. Subsequently the pressure generating apparatus was detached, then 500 μl of the washing solution containing ethanol at a concentration of 30 vol. % were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected washing solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the washing solution from the other opening. Subsequently the pressure generating apparatus was detached, then 40 μl of a DNase solution were placed on the membrane in the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge through the one opening thereof, then after a standing for 5 minutes, 500 μl of the washing solution containing ethanol at a concentration of 30 vol. % were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected washing solution to pass through the nucleic-acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the washing solution from the other opening. These operations were repeated once again in a similar manner. Subsequently, the pressure generating apparatus was detached, then 100 μl of the recovering solution were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening thereof to pressurize the interior thereof thereby causing the injected recovering solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the recovering solution from the other opening, and the solution was recovered. Example 2 was conducted four times with the DNase solution 1 as the DNase solution, and four times with the DNase solution 2 as the DNase solution.
Comparative Example 2
A culture solution of human acute promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL60) was prepared. It was so regulated as to obtain a cell count of 3×106 and the cells were washed with PBS free from Ca2+ and Mg2+. A centrifuging was conducted with a swinging rotor under conditions of 4° C., 300 G and 5 minutes, to pelletize the floating cells, then a supernatant solution was removed and the cells were re-suspended by a tapping. 350 μl of the stock solution of nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent were added with 3.5 μl of 2-mercaptoethanol to obtain a lysis solution, which was entirely added to the cell-containing container and agitated for 1 minute by a vortex mixer. Then 350 μl of 70 vol. % ethanol were added and agitated for 5 seconds with a vortex mixer. A period from the start of cell washing with PBS to the end of agitation was 10 minutes.
The obtained solution, after agitation, was injected in one of the openings of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane as prepared in (1) and (2), then the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected nucleic acid mixture solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and contacting the solution with the membrane, and to discharge the solution from the other opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge. Subsequently the pressure generating apparatus was detached, then 500 μl of the washing solution containing ethanol at a concentration of 30 vol. % were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected washing solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the washing solution from the other opening. Subsequently the pressure generating apparatus was detached, then 40 μl of a DNase solution were placed on the membrane in the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge through the one opening thereof, then after a standing for 5 minutes, 500 μl of the washing solution containing ethanol at a concentration of 30 vol. % were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected washing solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the washing solution from the other opening. These operations were repeated once again in a similar manner. Subsequently, the pressure generating apparatus was detached, then 100 μl of the recovering solution were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge to pressurize the interior thereof thereby causing the injected recovering solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the recovering solution from the other opening, and the solution was recovered. Comparative Example 2 was conducted four times with the DNase solution 1 as the DNase solution, and four times with the DNase solution 2 as the DNase solution.
Example 3
A culture solution of human acute promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL60) was prepared. It was so regulated as to obtain a cell count of 5×106 and the cells were washed with PBS free from Ca2+ and Mg2+. A centrifuging was conducted with a swinging rotor under conditions of 4° C., 300 G and 5 minutes, to pelletize the floating cells, then a supernatant solution was removed and the cells were re-suspended by a tapping. 516 μl of the stock solution of nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent were added with 4 μl of 2-mercaptoethanol to obtain a lysis solution, which was entirely added to the cell-containing container and agitated for 1 minute by a vortex mixer. Then 100 μl of 99.5 vol. % ethanol were added and agitated for 5 seconds with a vortex mixer. Then 180 μl of 99.5 vol. % ethanol were added to obtain a final ethanol concentration of 35 mass %, and the mixture was agitated for 5 seconds with a vortex mixer.
Thus obtained sample solution of Example 3, containing the water-soluble organic solvent, was injected in one of the openings of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane as prepared in (1) and (2), then the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and thereby contacting the sample solution therewith, and to discharge the sample solution from the other opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge. Subsequently the pressure generating apparatus was detached, then 500 μl of the washing solution containing ethanol at a concentration of 30 vol. % were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected washing solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the washing solution from the other opening. These operations were repeated three times in a similar manner. Subsequently, the pressure generating apparatus was detached, then 100 μl of the recovering solution were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening thereof to pressurize the interior thereof thereby causing the injected recovering solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the recovering solution from the other opening, and the solution was recovered.
Comparative Example 3
A culture solution of human acute promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL60) was prepared. It was so regulated as to obtain a cell count of 5×106 and the cells were washed with PBS free from Ca2+ and Mg2+. A centrifuging was conducted with a swinging rotor under conditions of 4° C., 300 G and 5 minutes, to pelletize the floating cells, then a supernatant solution was removed and the cells were re-suspended by a tapping. 516 μl of the stock solution of nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent were added with 4 μl of 2-mercaptoethanol to obtain a lysis solution, which was entirely added to the cell-containing container and agitated for 1 minute by a vortex mixer. Then 280 μl of 99.5 vol. % ethanol were added and agitated for 5 seconds with a vortex mixer. Then agitation was conducted for 5 seconds with a vortex mixer.
The obtained solution, after agitation, was injected in one of the openings of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge accommodating the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane as prepared in (1) and (2), then the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and thereby contacting the solution therewith, and to discharge the sample solution from the other opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge. Subsequently the pressure generating apparatus was detached, then 500 μl of the washing solution containing ethanol at a concentration of 30 vol. % were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening to pressurize the interior of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge thereby causing the injected washing solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the washing solution from the other opening. These operations were repeated three times in a similar manner. Subsequently, the pressure generating apparatus was detached, then 100 μl of the recovering solution were injected into the one opening of the nucleic acid separation-purification cartridge, and the pressure generating apparatus was coupled with the one opening thereof to pressurize the interior thereof thereby causing the injected recovering solution to pass through the nucleic acid-adsorbing porous membrane and discharging the recovering solution from the other opening, and the solution was recovered.
Table 1 summarizes amounts of the lysis solution, the dissolving stock solution (stock solution of nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent) and the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent, employed in each example.
TABLE 1
second
first ethanol
ethanol
lysis solution
solution
solution
dissolving
70
99.5
99.5
stock
2-mercapto-
vol. %
vol. %
vol. %
solution
ethanol
ethanol
ethanol
ethanol
Example 1
516 μl
4 μl
—
100 μl
180 μl
Comparative
350 μl
3.5 μl
350 μl
—
—
Example 1
Example 2
516 μl
4 μl
—
100 μl
180 μl
Comparative
350 μl
3.5 μl
350 μl
—
—
Example 2
Example 3
516 μl
4 μl
—
100 μl
180 μl
Comparative
516 μl
4 μl
—
280 μl
—
Example 3
(5) Membrane-Passing Time of Lysis Solution and Amount of Recovered Nucleic Acid
In each example, an amount of nucleic acid, in the recovering solution containing the obtained nucleic acid, was determined by an absorbance at 230 nm. Table 2 summarizes the concentration of nucleic acid in the obtained recovering solution, and a measured membrane-passing time required for the lysis solution.
TABLE 2
membrane passing/no passing of
recovered nucleic
lysis solution
acid
(average passing time)
Comparative
—
no passing in 2 trials
Example 1
Example 1
53.5
μg
2 passings in 2 trials (48.0 sec)
Comparative
28.1
μg
8 passings in 8 trials (61.5 sec)
Example 2
Example 2
34.9
μg
2 passings in 2 trials (58.9 sec)
Comparative
—
no passing in 2 trials
Example 3
Example 3
492.0
μg
2 passings in 2 trials (61.0 sec)
Comparisons of Example 1 and Comparative Example 1 and of Example 2 and Comparative Example 2 in Tables 1 and 2 indicate that the membrane-passing time of the lysis solution became shorter in case of employing the lysis solution of 520 μl, also adding ethanol with a concentration of 99.5 vol. % and an amount of 280 μl and adding it in two portions. These results indicate that the method of the present invention allows to process a larger amount of cells. Stated differently, a processible upper limit of the biomaterial can be elevated by employing ethanol of a higher concentration, increasing the amount of the lysis solution and adding ethanol in two portions. Also a comparison of Example 3 and Comparative Example 3 indicates that addition of ethanol of 99.5 vol. % in two portions increases the processible cell number in comparison with addition at a time.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
The present invention provides, in the method of separating and purifying nucleic acid by adsorbing nucleic acid in a biomaterial on a surface of a solid phase and, after washing and the like, desorbing nucleic acid, a method capable of processing a larger amount of biomaterial without prolonging a time for obtaining a solution for nucleic acid adsorption on the solid phase.
The present invention also allows to selectively recover nucleic acid from a biomaterial in more inexpensive and easier manner, utilizing a porous membrane showing an excellent separating efficiency and a satisfactory washing efficiency, enabling a simple and prompt use, being adapted for automation and compactification and mass producible with a substantially identical separating property.
The entire disclosure of each and every foreign patent application from which the benefit of foreign priority has been claimed in the present application is incorporated herein by reference, as if fully set forth.
1. A method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid comprising steps of:
(1) adding a lysis solution to a biomaterial to prepare a sample solution containing a nucleic acid, and adding a water-soluble organic solvent or a solution containing a water-soluble organic solvent to the sample solution thereby preparing a sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent; (2) contacting the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent with a solid phase thereby adsorbing the nucleic acid on the solid phase; (3) contacting a washing solution with the solid phase thereby washing the solid phase in a state where the nucleic acid is adsorbed on the solid phase; and (4) contacting a recovering solution with the solid phase thereby desorbing the nucleic acid from the solid phase, wherein, in the step (1), the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent is added separately in at least two batches.
2. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein the step (1) comprises:
after adding the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent at least once to the sample solution, agitating the sample solution by an operation including at least one of a shaking, an inverting and a rotating movement; and further adding the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent at least once to a solution after the agitation.
3. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein the step (1) comprises:
after adding the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent at least once to the sample solution, agitating the sample solution by an operation including at least a suction and a discharge of the solution, and further adding the water-soluble organic solvent or the solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent at least once to a solution after the agitation.
4. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein, in the step (1), the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent has a concentration of the water-soluble organic solvent within a range of from 5 to 90 mass %.
5. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein, in the step (1), the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent has a concentration of the water-soluble organic solvent within a range of from 10 to 60 mass %.
6. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein, in the step (1), the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent has a concentration of the water-soluble organic solvent within a range of from 20 to 40 mass %.
7. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein the solid phase is a porous membrane comprising an organic polymer that adsorbs a nucleic acid by an interaction substantially not involving an ionic bonding.
8. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 7, wherein the organic polymer has a hydroxyl group.
9. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 7, wherein the porous membrane comprises an organic material obtained by saponification of a mixture of acetylcelluloses different in acetyl value.
10. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 7,
wherein the porous membrane has a front surface and a back surface asymmetrical with each other.
11. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein the lysis solution is a nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent.
12. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein the biomaterial is an animal tissue.
13. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein the nucleic acid-solubilizing reagent comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of a chaotropic salt, a nucleic acid-stabilizing agent, a surfactant, a buffer and a defoaming agent.
14. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 13, wherein the chaotropic salt comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of guanidine hydrochloride and guanidine thiocyanate.
15. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein the water-soluble organic solvent is at least one selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, propanol or an isomer thereof and butanol or an isomer thereof.
16. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein the washing solution comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, propanol or an isomer thereof and butanol or an isomer thereof, in an amount of from 20 to 50 mass %.
17. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1, wherein the washing solution is a solution comprising a chloride in an amount of from 10 mmol/L to 1 mol/L.
18. The method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1,
wherein, in the steps (2), (3) and (4), passing of the sample solution containing the water-soluble organic solvent, the washing solution or the recovering solution through the porous membrane is conducted by utilizing: a nucleic acid separating-purifying cartridge that receives the porous member which a solution can pass through in an inside of a container having at least two openings; and a pressure generating apparatus that is a pump detachably mountable on one of the at least two openings of the nucleic acid separating-purifying cartridge.
19. A kit comprising a nucleic acid separating-purifying cartridge and a reagent for conducting a method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1.
20. An apparatus for automatically conducting a method for separating and purifying a nucleic acid according to claim 1.
| 2006-02-02 | en | 2008-05-15 |
US-201113164265-A | Effective Management Of Blocked-Tasks In Preemptible Read-Copy Update
ABSTRACT
A technique for managing read-copy update readers that have been preempted while executing in a read-copy update read-side critical section. A single blocked-tasks list is used to track preempted reader tasks that are blocking an asynchronous grace period, preempted reader tasks that are blocking an expedited grace period, and preempted reader tasks that require priority boosting. In example embodiments, a first pointer may be used to segregate the blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that are and are not blocking a current asynchronous grace period. A second pointer may be used to segregate the blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that are and are not blocking an expedited grace period. A third pointer may be used to segregate the blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that do and do not require priority boosting.
BACKGROUND
1. Field
The present disclosure relates to computer systems and methods in which data resources are shared among data consumers while preserving data integrity and consistency relative to each consumer. More particularly, the disclosure concerns an implementation of a mutual exclusion mechanism known as “read-copy update” in a computing environment wherein the data consumers are subject to being preempted while referencing shared data.
2. Description of the Prior Art
By way of background, read-copy update (also known as “RCU”) is a mutual exclusion technique that permits shared data to be accessed for reading without the use of locks, writes to shared memory, memory barriers, atomic instructions, or other computationally expensive synchronization mechanisms, while still permitting the data to be updated (modify, delete, insert, etc.) concurrently. The technique is well suited to both uniprocessor and multiprocessor computing environments wherein the number of read operations (readers) accessing a shared data set is large in comparison to the number of update operations (updaters), and wherein the overhead cost of employing other mutual exclusion techniques (such as locks) for each read operation would be high. By way of example, a network routing table that is updated at most once every few minutes but searched many thousands of times per second is a case where read-side lock acquisition would be quite burdensome.
The read-copy update technique implements data updates in two phases. In the first (initial update) phase, the actual data update is carried out in a manner that temporarily preserves two views of the data being updated. One view is the old (pre-update) data state that is maintained for the benefit of read operations that may have been referencing the data concurrently with the update. The other view is the new (post-update) data state that is seen by operations that access the data following the update. In the second (deferred update) phase, the old data state is removed following a “grace period” that is long enough to ensure that the first group of read operations will no longer maintain references to the pre-update data. The second-phase update operation typically comprises freeing a stale data element to reclaim its memory. In certain RCU implementations, the second-phase update operation may comprise something else, such as changing an operational state according to the first-phase update.
FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate the use of read-copy update to modify a data element B in a group of data elements A, B and C. The data elements A, B, and C are arranged in a singly-linked list that is traversed in acyclic fashion, with each element containing a pointer to a next element in the list (or a NULL pointer for the last element) in addition to storing some item of data. A global pointer (not shown) is assumed to point to data element A, the first member of the list. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that the data elements A, B and C can be implemented using any of a variety of conventional programming constructs, including but not limited to, data structures defined by C-language “struct” variables. Moreover, the list itself is a type of data structure.
It is assumed that the data element list of FIGS. 1A-1D is traversed (without locking) by multiple readers and occasionally updated by updaters that delete, insert or modify data elements in the list. In FIG. 1A, the data element B is being referenced by a reader r1, as shown by the vertical arrow below the data element. In FIG. 1B, an updater u1 wishes to update the linked list by modifying data element B. Instead of simply updating this data element without regard to the fact that r1 is referencing it (which might crash r1), u1 preserves B while generating an updated version thereof (shown in FIG. 1C as data element B′) and inserting it into the linked list. This is done by u1 acquiring an appropriate lock (to exclude other updaters), allocating new memory for B′, copying the contents of B to B′, modifying B′ as needed, updating the pointer from A to B so that it points to B′, and releasing the lock. In current versions of the Linux® kernel, pointer updates performed by updaters can be implemented using the rcu_assign_pointer( ) primitive. As an alternative to locking during the update operation, other techniques such as non-blocking synchronization or a designated update thread could be used to serialize data updates. All subsequent (post update) readers that traverse the linked list, such as the reader r2, will see the effect of the update operation by encountering B′ as they dereference B's pointer. On the other hand, the old reader r1 will be unaffected because the original version of B and its pointer to C are retained. Although r1 will now be reading stale data, there are many cases where this can be tolerated, such as when data elements track the state of components external to the computer system (e.g., network connectivity) and must tolerate old data because of communication delays. In current versions of the Linux® kernel, pointer dereferences performed by readers can be implemented using the rcu_dereference( ) primitive.
At some subsequent time following the update, r1 will have continued its traversal of the linked list and moved its reference off of B. In addition, there will be a time at which no other reader process is entitled to access B. It is at this point, representing an expiration of the grace period referred to above, that u1 can free B, as shown in FIG. 1D.
FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate the use of read-copy update to delete a data element B in a singly-linked list of data elements A, B and C. As shown in FIG. 2A, a reader r1 is assumed be currently referencing B and an updater u1 wishes to delete B. As shown in FIG. 2B, the updater u1 updates the pointer from A to B so that A now points to C. In this way, r1 is not disturbed but a subsequent reader r2 sees the effect of the deletion. As shown in FIG. 2C, r1 will subsequently move its reference off of B, allowing B to be freed following the expiration of a grace period.
In the context of the read-copy update mechanism, a grace period represents the point at which all running tasks (e.g., processes, threads or other work) having access to a data element guarded by read-copy update have passed through a “quiescent state” in which they can no longer maintain references to the data element, assert locks thereon, or make any assumptions about data element state. By convention, for operating system kernel code paths, a context switch, an idle loop, and user mode execution all represent quiescent states for any given CPU running non-preemptible code (as can other operations that will not be listed here). The reason for this is that a non-preemptible kernel will always complete a particular operation (e.g., servicing a system call while running in process context) prior to a context switch.
In FIG. 3, four tasks 0, 1, 2, and 3 running on four separate CPUs are shown to pass periodically through quiescent states (represented by the double vertical bars). The grace period (shown by the dotted vertical lines) encompasses the time frame in which all four tasks that began before the start of the grace period have passed through one quiescent state. If the four tasks 0, 1, 2, and 3 were reader tasks traversing the linked lists of FIGS. 1A-1D or FIGS. 2A-2C, none of these tasks having reference to the old data element B prior to the grace period could maintain a reference thereto following the grace period. All post grace period searches conducted by these tasks would bypass B by following the updated pointers created by the updater.
Grace periods may synchronous or asynchronous. According to the synchronous technique, an updater performs the first phase update operation, blocks (waits) until a grace period has completed, and then implements the second phase update operation, such as by removing stale data. According to the asynchronous technique, an updater performs the first phase update operation, specifies the second phase update operation as a callback, then resumes other processing with the knowledge that the callback will eventually be processed at the end of a grace period. Advantageously, callbacks requested by one or more updaters can be batched (e.g., on callback lists) and processed as a group at the end of an asynchronous grace period. This allows asynchronous grace period overhead to be amortized over plural deferred update operations. In some RCU implementations, asynchronous grace period processing is the norm but a synchronous expedited grace period, sometimes referred to as a “Big Hammer” grace period, is also available for updaters that need it. This expedited grace period forces a context switch (and thus a quiescent state) on each processor so that an updater can quickly perform its second-phase update operation. Existing callbacks associated with asynchronous grace periods are not affected. They must await the end of an asynchronous grace period before becoming ripe for processing.
It will be appreciated from the foregoing discussion that the fundamental operation of the RCU synchronization technique entails waiting for all readers associated with a particular grace period to complete. Multiprocessor implementations of RCU must observe or influence the actions performed by multiple processors, whereas uniprocessor implementations do not. In so-called “non-preemptible” variants of RCU, readers are never preempted and rescheduled within an RCU read-side critical section. Orderly grace period processing in such implementations may then be ensured by either forcing or waiting for each reader's processor to pass through a quiescent state.
The situation is different for so-called “preemptible” variants of RCU wherein readers are subject to preemption within RCU read-side critical sections. In that case, a context switch will occur but will not constitute a quiescent state as in the case of non-preemptible RCU. For example, in a preemptible operating system kernel, the servicing of a system call during process context could be interrupted by a higher priority task while the system call code is in the midst of an RCU read-side critical section. In this situation, other techniques are required to track quiescent states. The approach most often used is to treat all reader processing outside of an RCU read-side critical section as a quiescent state, and to provide some form of tracking methodology that allows readers to specify when they are performing RCU read-side critical section processing. A grace period will not end until all readers being tracked in this manner indicate that they have completed such processing. Throughout the present document, readers that are preempted within an RCU read-side critical section will also be referred to as “blocked” readers.
Unfortunately, separate tracking of preempted readers is typically required for asynchronous grace periods and synchronous expedited grace periods because there is not necessarily any direct relation between the two. They might overlap, be disjoint, or have one wholly contained within the other. This separate tracking complicates RCU grace period detection processing. Preemptible readers may also be tracked in order to determine which readers are tardy in completing their RCU read-side critical section processing and thus may be blocked by a higher priority process. Such preempted readers can be given a scheduling priority boost in RCU implementations that support such functionality. Without a priority boost, such readers could delay the end of a current grace period, potentially leading to problems such as an out-of-memory (OOM) condition caused by excessive callback accumulation. Unfortunately, tracking preemptible readers for possible priority boosting further complicates RCU grace period detection processing.
In conventional RCU implementations, the tracking of preemptible readers has been accomplished using a number of methods. According to one such technique, per-processor counters track the number of still-in-progress RCU read-side critical sections that began on the corresponding processors (see P. McKenney et al., “Extending RCU for Realtime and Embedded Workloads”, Aug. 11, 2006). According to a variant of this technique, per-processor counters track the difference between the number of RCU read-side critical sections that began on a given processor and the number of RCU read-side critical sections that ended on that same processor (see Id.; P. McKenney, “The Design of Preemptible Read-Copy Update”, Aug. 7, 2007). Both of the foregoing techniques have several shortcomings, to with: (1) expensive atomic operations and memory barriers are required in RCU read-side primitives; (2) there is no convenient way to determine which tasks block an expedited grace period, and (3) there is no convenient way to determine which tasks need priority boosting in order to permit the current grace period to end.
One existing RCU implementation augments the above counter-based techniques with a set of lists linking together tasks that blocked while in an RCU read-side critical section during a given time period. Tasks that block and then remain in the RCU read-side critical section for too long are priority boosted (see P. McKenney, “Priority-Boosting RCU Read-Side Critical Sections”, Apr. 16, 2007). This technique also has shortcomings, namely: (1) because there is no direct connection between grace periods and time periods, this approach can boost tasks that do not need to be boosted (unnecessarily delaying execution of real-time tasks), and also can unnecessarily delay boosting tasks that do need to be boosted, (2) there is no convenient way to determine which tasks block an expedited grace period, and (3) the array of lists consumes considerable memory, which can be a problem on embedded platforms.
According to a further existing RCU implementation, any task that is preempted while in an RCU read-side critical section is given an immediate priority boost (see S. Rostedt, “[RFC PATCH] RFC Preemption Priority Boosting”, Oct. 3, 2007). A disadvantage of this approach is that tasks may be priority boosted that do not need it, thereby unnecessarily delaying execution of real-time tasks.
A still further existing RCU implementation, known as hierarchical RCU, maintains an array [ ] of four blocked reader lists. The first list tracks readers that block neither the current synchronous nor the current asynchronous grace periods, the second list tracks readers that block the current synchronous grace period but not the current asynchronous grace period, the third list tracks readers that do not block the current synchronous grace period but do block the current asynchronous grace period, and the fourth list tracks readers that block both the current synchronous and the current asynchronous grace periods (see I. Molnar et al. “Linux/kernel/rcutree.h”, 2008, lines 120-124 (“struct list_head blocked_tasks[4]” field of “struct rcu_node” data structure). A disadvantage of this approach is that four separate lists must be managed. Also, there are no lists tracking boosted readers. However, commonly owned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0055183 discloses that two boost lists (respectively indexed to the current and previous asynchronous grace periods) may be used in conjunction with blocked reader tracking. However, combining boost list tracking with the four-list blocked reader tracking system of Hierarchical RCU, would double the existing four lists to a total of eight lists. This is because each of the existing four lists would have a boost list counterpart to identify blocked readers that have been boosted.
SUMMARY
A method, system and computer program product are provided for managing read-copy update readers that have been preempted while executing in a read-copy update read-side critical section. Advantageously, a single blocked-tasks list is used to track preempted reader tasks that are blocking an asynchronous grace period, preempted reader tasks that are blocking an expedited grace period, and preempted reader tasks that require priority boosting. In an example embodiment, a first pointer may be used to segregate the blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that are and are not blocking a current asynchronous grace period. A second pointer may be used to segregate the blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that are and are not blocking an expedited grace period. A third pointer may be used to segregate the blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that do and do not require priority boosting.
In an example embodiment, the blocked-tasks list may be ordered such that (1) the first pointer references a first preempted reader task on the blocked-tasks list that is a newest preempted reader task blocking a current asynchronous grace period, and all preempted reader tasks that follow the first preempted reader task are also blocking the current asynchronous grace period, (2) the second pointer references a second preempted reader task on the blocked-tasks list that is a newest preempted reader task blocking an expedited grace period, and all preempted reader tasks that follow the second preempted reader task are also blocking the expedited grace period, and (3) the third pointer references a third preempted reader task on the blocked-tasks list that is a newest preempted reader task that requires priority boosting, and all preempted reader tasks that follow the third preempted reader task also require priority boosting.
In an example embodiment, the first preempted reader task, the second preempted reader task, and the third preempted reader task may either be one and the same task or they may be different tasks. In the example embodiments, the blocked-tasks list may be further ordered such that all preempted reader tasks that are ahead of the first preempted reader task are blocking a subsequent asynchronous grace period that follows the current asynchronous grace period. In the example embodiments, the above-described technique may be used in either a uniprocessor computer system or a multiprocessor computer system. In a uniprocessor system, the blocked-tasks list can be ordered to maintain all preempted reader tasks in strict reverse time order. In a multiprocessor system, the blocked-tasks list can be ordered to maintain all preempted reader tasks starting from the first preempted reader task in strict reverse time order.
In an example embodiment, one or more data structures may be provided that each maintain an instance of the blocked-tasks list, the first pointer, the second pointer and the third pointer one behalf of at least one processor. Each data structure may further maintain a grace period number, a quiescent state indicator and a grace period completed indicator on behalf of the least one processor.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing and other features and advantages will be apparent from the following more particular description of example embodiments, as illustrated in the accompanying Drawings, in which:
FIGS. 1A-1D are diagrammatic representations of a linked list of data elements undergoing a data element replacement according to a conventional read-copy update mechanism;
FIGS. 2A-2C are diagrammatic representations of a linked list of data elements undergoing a data element deletion according to a conventional read-copy update mechanism;
FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a grace period in which four processes pass through a quiescent state;
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a uniprocessor computing system that may be implemented in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram showing a multiprocessor computing system that may be implemented in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing an RCU subsystem that may be provided in the computer systems of FIGS. 4 and 5;
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example RCU control block data structure that may be used to perform grace period processing in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example RCU preempt control block that may be used to perform grace period processing in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing example reader task structure fields that may be used to perform grace period processing in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIGS. 10-10P are block diagrams showing example information that may be tracked by the RCU preempt control block of FIG. 8;
FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing additional functional components of the RCU subsystem of FIG. 6;
FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram representing a reference map showing operational inter-relationships between the RCU subsystem functional components and data structures shown in FIGS. 6-9 and 11;
FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by an RCU reader registration component of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 14 is a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by an RCU reader unregistration component of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by a blocked reader handler of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 16 is a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by a record quiescent state/end grace period component of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 17 is a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by a start normal grace period component of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 18 is a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by a check callbacks component of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 19 is a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by a process callbacks component of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 20 is a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by a register callback component of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 21 is a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by an expedited grace period component of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 22 is a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by a boost reader component of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 23A is a first part of a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by a read-side helper of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 23B is a second part of a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by a read-side helper of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing a modified multiprocessor RCU preempt control block;
FIGS. 25A-25D are block diagrams showing the modified multiprocessor RCU preempt control block of FIG. 24 and information that may be tracked thereby;
FIG. 26A is a first part of a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by a multiprocessor blocked reader handler of the RCU subsystem;
FIG. 26B is a second part of a flow diagram illustrating operations that may be performed by a multiprocessor blocked reader handler of the RCU subsystem; and
FIG. 27 is a diagrammatic illustration showing example media that may be used to provide a computer program product in accordance with the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
Introduction
Applicant has invented an improvement in RCU grace period detection processing that supports exact determination of which RCU reader tasks that have been preempted during an RCU read-side critical section are (1) blocking a current asynchronous grace period, (2) blocking a current synchronous expedited grace period, or (3) in need of priority boosting. In example embodiments, the improvement utilizes a simple, small and fast data structure to track such blocked tasks, and provides routines that manipulate the fields of this blocked-task data structure as each grace period progresses to completion. The improvement has applicability to both uniprocessor and multiprocessor environments, with the uniprocessor environment utilizing one blocked-task data structure and the multiprocessor environment utilizing plural blocked-task data structures that are each assigned to a group of processors.
According to the example embodiments, the blocked-task data structure utilizes a single doubly linked list of tasks to optimally track blocked readers and their relationships to asynchronous grace periods, expedited grace periods, and priority boosting. Intelligent list insertion and pointers are used to segregate the blocked task list into (1) tasks that do/don't block the current asynchronous grace period, (2) tasks that do/don't block the current expedited grace period, and (3) tasks that do/don't require priority boosting. A priority boost routine performs incremental priority boosting given the potential large numbers of tasks that may be in need of boosting, thereby avoiding unnecessarily delay of real-time tasks.
Normal-case low-overhead read-side processing with occasional special-case blocked reader handling is also implemented using techniques evolved from commonly-owned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0055183 and the existing hierarchical RCU implementation mentioned in the “Background” section above.
Example Embodiments
Turning now to the figures, wherein like reference numerals represent like elements in all of the several views, FIGS. 4 and 5 respectively illustrate example uniprocessor and multiprocessor computing environments in which the grace period processing technique described herein may be implemented. In FIG. 4, a uniprocessor computing system 2 includes a single processor 4, a system bus 6 (or other interconnection pathway) and a program memory 8. A conventional cache memory 10 and a cache controller 12 are associated with the processor 4. A conventional memory controller 14 is associated with the memory 8. As shown, the memory controller 14 may reside separately from processor 4 (e.g., as part of a chipset). Alternatively, the memory controller 14 could be integrated with the processor 4 (as is known in the art). In FIG. 5, a multiprocessor computing system 2A includes multiple processors 4 1, 4 2 . . . 4 n, a system bus 6, and a program memory 8. There are also cache memories 10 1, 10 2 . . . 10 n and cache controllers 12 1, 12 2 . . . 12 n respectively associated with the processors 4 1, 4 2 . . . 4 n. A conventional memory controller 14 is again associated with the memory 8. As shown, the memory controller 14 may reside separately from processors 4 2 . . . 4 n (e.g., as part of a chipset). Alternatively, the memory controller 14 could be provided by plural memory controller instances respectively integrated with the processors 4 2 . . . 4 n (as is known in the art).
In each of FIGS. 4 and 5, the example computing systems 2 and 2A may represent any of several different types of computing apparatus. Such computing apparatus may include, but are not limited to, general purpose computers, special purpose computers, portable computing devices, communication and/or media player devices, set-top devices, embedded systems, to name but a few. In FIG. 4, the processor 4 may be implemented as a single-core CPU (Central Processing Unit) device. In FIG. 5, the processors 4 1, 4 2 . . . 4 n may each be a single-core CPU device. Alternatively, the processors 4 1, 4 2 . . . 4 n could represent individual cores within a multi-core CPU device. Each CPU device embodied by any given processor 4 of FIGS. 4 and 5 is operable to execute program instruction logic under the control of a software program stored in the memory 8 (or elsewhere). The memory 8 may comprise any type of tangible storage medium capable of storing data in computer readable form, including but not limited to, any of various types of random access memory (RAM), various flavors of programmable read-only memory (PROM) (such as flash memory), and other types of primary storage. In FIG. 4, the processors 4 and the memory 8 may be situated within a single computing device or node. In FIG. 5, the processors 4 1, 4 2 . . . 4 n may be situated within a single computing device or node (e.g., as part of a single-node SMP system) or they may be distributed over plural nodes (e.g., as part of a NUMA system, a cluster, a cloud, etc.).
An update operation (updater) 18 may periodically execute within a process, thread, or other execution context (hereinafter “task”) on any processor 4 of FIGS. 4 and 5. Each updater 18 runs from program instructions stored in the memory 8 (or elsewhere) in order to periodically perform updates on a set of shared data 16 that may be stored in the shared memory 8 (or elsewhere). FIG. 4 illustrates a single updater 18 executing on the lone processor 4. In FIG. 5, reference numerals 18 1, 18 2 . . . 18 n illustrate individual data updaters that may periodically execute on the several processors 4 1, 4 2 . . . 4 n. As described in the “Background” section above, the updates performed by an RCU updater can include modifying elements of a linked list, inserting new elements into the list, deleting elements from the list, and other types of operations. To facilitate such updates, the processors 4 of FIGS. 4 and 5 are programmed from instructions stored in the memory 8 (or elsewhere) to implement a read-copy update (RCU) subsystem 20 as part of their processor functions. FIG. 4 illustrates a single RCU subsystem executing on the lone processor 4. In FIG. 5, reference numbers 20 1, 20 2 . . . 20 n represent individual RCU instances that may periodically execute on the several processors 4 1, 4 2 . . . 4 n. Any given processor 4 in FIGS. 4 and 5 may also periodically execute a read operation (reader) 21. Each reader 21 runs from program instructions stored in the memory 8 (or elsewhere) in order to periodically perform read operations on the set of shared data 16 stored in the shared memory 8 (or elsewhere). FIG. 4 illustrates a single reader 21 executing on the lone processor 4. In FIG. 5, reference numerals 21 1, 21 2 . . . 21 n illustrate individual reader instances that may periodically execute on the several processors 4 1, 4 2 . . . 4 n. Such read operations will typically be performed far more often than updates, this being one of the premises underlying the use of read-copy update. Moreover, it is possible for several of the readers 21 to maintain simultaneous references to one of the shared data elements 16 while an updater 18 updates the same data element. The updaters 18 and the readers 21 are further assumed to be preemptible and the systems 2 and 2A may, for example, support real-time operations.
During run time, an updater 18 will occasionally perform an update to one of the shared data elements 16. In accordance the philosophy of RCU, a first-phase update is performed in a manner that temporarily preserves a pre-update view of the shared data element for the benefit of readers 21 that may be concurrently referencing the shared data element during the update operation. Following the first-phase update, the updater 18 may register a callback with the RCU subsystem 20 for the deferred destruction of the pre-update view following a grace period (second-phase update). As described in the “Background” section above, this is known as asynchronous grace period processing. In some cases, an updater 18 may perform an update, request an expedited grace period, and block until the expedited grace period has elapsed. As also mentioned in the “Background” section, an expedited grace period is a form of synchronous grace period processing.
The RCU subsystem 20 handles both asynchronous and synchronous grace periods. Each type of grace period processing entails starting new grace periods and detecting the end of old grace periods so that the RCU subsystem 20 knows when it is safe to free stale data (or take other actions). Asynchronous grace period processing further entails the management of callback lists that accumulate callbacks until they are ripe for batch processing at the end of a given grace period. An additional function of the RCU subsystem 20 is to identify and boost the priority of readers 21 that may be holding up the expiration of a grace period. All of the foregoing grace period processing operations may be performed by periodically running the RCU subsystem 20 on the lone processor 4 in FIG. 4 or on each of the several processors 4 1, 4 2 . . . 4 n in FIG. 5. As described in more detail below, different components of the RCU subsystem 20 may be variously invoked by an operating system scheduler, a scheduling clock interrupt handler, in process context, and in bottom half context.
Turning now to FIG. 6, example components of the RCU subsystem 20 are shown. These components include several RCU subsystem data structures 30, namely, an RCU control block 32, an RCU preempt control block 34, and several RCU-specific fields 36 in each reader's task structure (e.g., a task_struct data structure in the Linux® kernel). The components of the RCU subsystem 20 also include several RCU subsystem support functions 40, namely, an RCU reader API (Application Programming Interface) 42, an RCU updater API 44, an RCU grace period invocation API 46 and a set of grace period detection and callback processing functions 48.
FIG. 7 illustrates an example RCU control block 32. This data structure finds correspondence in conventional RCU implementations under the names “rcu_ctrlblk” (for non-hierarchical RCU) and “rcu_data” (for hierarchical RCU). Information that may be maintained by the RCU control block 32 includes an RCU callback list head pointer 32A, an RCU donetail pointer 32B, and an RCU curtail pointer 32C. These pointers are used for callback batch handling. They are sometimes referred to by different names in different RCU implementations. Moreover, some RCU implementations use additional callback list-related pointers that are not shown in FIG. 7. The RCU callback list head pointer 32A references the first callback 32D on a list (the “RCU callback list”) of all outstanding RCU callbacks 32D. Although FIG. 7 shows four callbacks 32D, this is for purposes of illustration only and not by way of limitation. As is conventionally known, each callback 32D may be implemented with a list_head pointer (->next) to the next callback on the RCU callback list, and a pointer (->func) to a callback processing function. In an example embodiment, each callback 32D may be coded in software as an rcu_head structure using the following C programming declaration:
struct rcu_head {
struct rcu_head *next;
void (*func)(struct rcu_head *head);
};
The RCU donetail pointer 32B references the ->next pointer of the last callback 32D on the RCU callback list whose asynchronous grace period has completed and is thus ready to be invoked. This portion of the RCU callback list may be referred to as the “donelist.” The donelist extends from the first callback referenced by the RCU callback list head pointer 32A to the callback whose ->next pointer is referenced by the RCU donetail pointer 32B. In the example illustration of FIG. 7, there are two callbacks 32D on the donelist, namely, a first callback referenced by the RCU callback list head pointer 32A and a second callback whose ->next pointer is referenced by the RCU donetail pointer 32B. During times when there are no callbacks on the donelist, the RCU donetail pointer 32B may be initialized to point to the RCU callback list head pointer 32A. The RCU curtail pointer 32C references the ->next pointer of the last call back 32D that is waiting for the current asynchronous grace period to end. This portion of the RCU callback list may be referred to as the “curlist.” The curlist extends from the first callback following the tail of the donelist pointer 32B to the callback whose ->next pointer is referenced by the RCU curtail pointer 32C. In the example illustration of FIG. 7, there is one callback 32D on the curlist, namely, the third callback whose ->next pointer is referenced by the RCU curtail pointer 32C. During times when there are no callbacks on the curlist, the RCU curtail pointer 32B may be initialized to point to the RCU callback list head pointer 32A. As further described in connection with FIG. 8, there is a third portion of the callback list that follows the curlist. This list portion may be referred to as the “nextlist,” and the ->next pointer of its tail callback is referenced by a pointer maintained in the RCU preempt control block 34. Alternatively, the ->next pointer could be maintained in the RCU control block 32, but would be wasteful of memory when compiling for non-preemptible, uniprocessor RCU (which does not need a nextlist). In an example embodiment, the RCU control block 32 may be coded in software using the following C programming language declaration:
struct rcu_ctrlblk {
struct rcu_head *rcucblist;
/* List of pending callbacks (CBs). */
struct rcu_head **donetail;
/* −>next pointer of last “done” CB. */
struct rcu_head **curtail;
/* −>next pointer of last CB. */
};
By segregating the RCU callback list into separate donetail, curtail and nexttail portions, each list portion can be processed in separate stages in conjunction with separate grace periods. This allows new callbacks to safely accumulate while other callbacks are being processed. For example, at the end of a given grace period, all callbacks on the donelist will be ready to be invoked. As discussed below, the callback handler that actually processes such callbacks could be (and usually is) executed in a deferred manner (such as in softirq context or kthread (kernel thread) context). It would not be appropriate to process additional callbacks that are registered after a processor quiescent state but before the commencement of deferred callback processing. Such callbacks could, for example, have been registered from within an interrupt handler that was invoked between the time that the quiescent state occurred and the deferred callback handler started executing. Meanwhile, there could be a reader 21 that entered an RCU read-side critical section and is now referencing the data associated with one or more of the new callbacks. By placing new callbacks on the curlist and waiting for a subsequent grace period to end, the reader can be protected. The additional nextlist is used to handle callbacks that are registered while there are blocked readers preventing the end of the grace period. Note that the grace period does not actually conclude until the blocked readers have resumed execution and completed their RCU read-side critical sections. During this time period, new callbacks are placed on the nextlist to await the next grace period. The management of callbacks on the donelist, curlist and nextlist is further discussed below, particularly in connection with FIG. 16, which describes an example of how callbacks may be advanced on the RCU callback list, and FIG. 19, which describes an example of how callbacks may be processed.
FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the RCU preempt control block 34 for the uniprocessor system 2 of FIG. 4. A multiprocessor embodiment of this data structure for use with the multiprocessor system 2A of FIG. 5 is described in more detail below in connection with FIG. 24. In the uniprocessor embodiment of the RCU preempt control block 34, all fields of the data structure are protected by disabling interrupts. In the multiprocessor embodiment of the RCU preempt control block 34, access to the data structure fields requires a lock. This lock is acquired only during grace period processing or when a reader 21 that was preempted during its current RCU read-side critical section exits that critical section. This means that readers need not acquire the lock in the common case, and lock contention should be low. On systems with large numbers of CPUs (hundreds), a hierarchical RCU scheme may be used to maintain a low level of lock contention.
The RCU preempt control block 34 is the data structure mentioned in the “Introduction” section above. It is used to track which readers 21 are (1) blocking a current asynchronous grace period, (2) blocking a current synchronous expedited grace period, or (3) in need of priority boosting. This data structure also tracks the beginning and end of asynchronous grace periods, and notes when processor quiescent states have occurred. Advantageously, there is no combinatorial explosion of lists required to track these three categories of readers. As previously stated, blocked reader tracking may be performed with a single easy-to-manage list.
In an example embodiment, the RCU preempt control block 34 may be implemented as a data structure comprising nine fields 34A-34I. The first field 34A, labeled “ctrlblk,” is a pointer to the RCU control block 32 discussed above. The second field 34B, labeled “nexttail,” is a pointer to the ->next pointer of the last callback 32D that must wait for an asynchronous grace period following the current asynchronous grace period, i.e., after the next grace period. The callback whose ->next pointer is pointed to by the RCU nexttail pointer 34B marks the end of the nextlist portion of the RCU callback list. This is where new callbacks are added by updaters 18. In the example illustration of FIG. 7, there is one callback 32D on the nextlist, namely, the fourth callback whose ->next pointer is referenced by the RCU nexttail pointer 34B. During times when there are no callbacks on the nextlist, the RCU nexttail pointer 34B may be initialized to point to the RCU callback list head pointer 32A.
The third field 34C, labeled “blkd_tasks,” is the head of a doubly-linked blocked-tasks list of all readers 21 that are currently blocked within an RCU read-side critical section. In an example embodiment, the blkd_tasks list header 34C may be implemented as a conventional list_head data structure. The fourth field 34D, labeled “gp_tasks,” is a pointer to the first element on the blocked-tasks list that is preventing the current asynchronous grace period from completing. The fifth field 34E, labeled “exp_tasks,” is a pointer to the first element on the blocked-tasks list that is preventing the current expedited grace period from completing. The sixth field 34F, labeled “boost_tasks,” is a pointer to the first element on the blocked-tasks list that needs to be priority boosted.
The seventh field 34G, labeled “gpnum,” indicates the number of the most recently started asynchronous grace period. The eighth field 34H, labeled “gpcpu,” indicates the number of the asynchronous grace period to which the processor 4 has most recently responded. It is effectively a quiescent state indicator that signifies to the RCU subsystem 20 whether a processor quiescent state has been reached in which a context switch occurred. The condition where gpcpu=gpnum signifies that the processor has passe through a quiescent state. Note that a processor quiescent state does not necessarily mean that a grace period has ended because one or more readers 21 may have been preempted within their RCU read-side critical sections. Instead, the processor quiescent state may be thought of as marking the beginning of the end of the current grace period. A multiprocessor alternative to the gpcpu field 34H is described in more detail below in connection with FIG. 24. The ninth field 34I, labeled “completed,” indicates the number of the asynchronous grace period that has most recently completed. The condition where completed=gpnum signifies that there is no grace period in progress.
In an example embodiment, the RCU preempt control block 34 may be coded in software using the following C programming language declaration:
struct
rcu_preempt_ctrlblk {
struct rcu_ctrlblk
/* curtail: −>next ptr of last CB for GP. */
rcb;
struct rcu_head
**nexttail;
/* Tasks blocked in a preemptible RCU */
/* read-side critical section while a */
/* preemptible-RCU grace period is in */
/* progress must wait for a later grace */
/* period. This pointer points to the */
/* −>next pointer of the last callback that */
/* must wait for a later grace period, or */
/* to &−>rcb.rcucblist if there is no */
/* such task. */
struct list_head
blkd_tasks;
/* Tasks blocked in RCU read-side critical */
/* section. Tasks are placed at the head */
/* of this list and age towards the tail. */
struct list_head
*gp_tasks;
/* Pointer to the first task blocking the */
/* current grace period, or NULL if there */
/* is no such task. */
struct list_head
*exp_tasks;
/* Pointer to first task blocking the */
/* current expedited grace period, or NULL */
/* if there is no such task. If there */
/* is no current expedited grace period, */
/* then there cannot be any such task. */
u8 gpnum;
/* Current grace period. */
u8 gpcpu;
/* Last grace period blocked by the CPU. */
u8 completed;
/* Last grace period completed. */
};
FIG. 9 illustrates the RCU-specific task structure fields 36 (collectively referred to hereinafter as the “task structure 36”). In the illustrated embodiment, there are three fields 36A-36C that may be added to the task structure 36 of each reader 21. In particular, the first field 36A, labeled “rcu_read_lock_nesting,” is a counter that is respectively incremented and decremented by readers as they enter and leave their RCU read-side critical sections. One advantage of using a counter for the rcu_read_lock_nesting field 36A is that it can track a reader nesting count when RCU read-side critical sections are nested. Other data types could also be used. This field indicates whether a reader 21 is inside an RCU read-side critical section or is outside of its outermost RCU read-side critical section and therefore in a quiescent state relative to the RCU subsystem 20. The second reader task structure field 36B, labeled “rcu_read_unlock_special,” is a flag field that is used to set any of the following three flags:
(1) RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED; (2) RCU_READ_UNLOCK_NEED_QS; (3) RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BOOSTED.
The RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED flag indicates to the RCU subsystem 21 that a reader 21 was preempted within its RCU read-side critical section. This flag may be defined to have any suitable value, such as “1.” The RCU_READ_UNLOCK_NEED_QS flag indicates to the RCU subsystem 20 that the reader 21 needs to pass through a quiescent state in order start the completion of an asynchronous grace period (so that callbacks may be processed). This flag may be defined to have any suitable value, such as “2.” The RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BOOSTED flag indicates to the RCU subsystem 20 that the reader 21 needs a priority boost. This flag may be defined to have any suitable value, such as “4.”
The third field 36C, labeled “rcu_node_entry,” may be implemented as a pointer to a conventional list_head structure. It is used to enqueue a blocked reader 21 on the blocked-tasks list.
In an example embodiment, the foregoing fields of the reader task structure 36 may be coded in software using the following C programming language declaration:
struct task struct {
. . .
int rcu_read_lock_nesting;
int rcu_read_unlock_special;
struct list_head *rcu_node_entry;
. . .
};
Turning now to FIGS. 10A-10C, an example will now be described to illustrate how the RCU preempt control block 34 may be used to track blocked readers 21 in a uniprocessor embodiment. The use of a single blocked-tasks list is made feasible by virtue of the fact that an expedited RCU grace period typically forces or simulates a context switch on the processor 4, forcing all in-flight RCU read-side critical sections to be preempted. Therefore, after an expedited RCU grace period has forced or simulated a context switch on the processor 4, any subsequent blocked readers cannot possibly be blocking the current expedited RCU grace period. The single blocked-tasks list contains all readers 21 that have blocked within their current RCU read-side critical sections, and this list can be maintained in strict reverse time order. This strict time order in turn means that if any reader 21 is blocking the current asynchronous grace period, all subsequent readers in the blocked-tasks list (which blocked earlier in time) are also blocking the same grace period. Similarly, if any reader 21 is blocking the current expedited grace period, all subsequent tasks in the blocked-tasks list are also blocking the same expedited grace period. Finally, if a given reader 21 needs to be boosted, so do all the readers that follow this reader in the blocked-tasks list. All required state can thus be maintained in the single blocked-tasks list with one pointer each for asynchronous grace period processing (the gp_tasks pointer 34D), expedited grace period processing (the exp_tasks pointer 34E), and boosting (the boost_tasks pointer 34F).
FIG. 10A shows the RCU preempt control block with an empty blocked-tasks list, as it would appear in a completely idle system. As readers 21 are preempted in their RCU read-side critical sections, they are added to the blocked-tasks list. After three such readers 21 have blocked, and assuming a grace period is not in progress, the situation will be as shown in FIG. 10B. The reader tasks are respectively labeled T1, T2 and T3, with the first task T1 being linked to the blkd_tasks list header 34C. If a grace period were to start at this point, the situation would be as shown in FIG. 10C. Here, the gpnum field 34G is set to 1, indicating the start of a new grace period. In addition, the gp_tasks pointer is set to reference the first task T1 in the blocked-tasks list. This is because all three tasks started their RCU read-side critical sections before the current grace period started and thus all of them block the current grace period. The gpcpu field 34H and the completed field 34I remain at 0, indicating that the processor 4 has not responded to the new grace period and the new grace period has not completed.
If task T2 exits its RCU read-side critical section, it removes itself from the blocked-tasks list, resulting in the situation shown in FIG. 10D. As shown in FIG. 10E, if a new task T4 blocks within an RCU read-side critical section at this point, it is added to the head of the blocked-tasks list and the gp_tasks pointer 34D is updated so as to point to the new task. This is due to fact that an end to the current grace period was not previously requested. Such a condition is indicated by the fact that the gpcpu field 34H is less than the gpnum field 34G. However, the addition of new task T4 while a grace period is in progress will trigger a request for an end to the current grace period (assuming no previous request has been made). This request will in turn result in the gpcpu field 34H being set equal to the gpnum field 34G to acknowledge that the processor has reached a quiescent state and that end-of-grace-period processing is underway. Any subsequent RCU read-side critical section will now be deemed to start subsequent to when the current grace period began. Readers 21 that block within such subsequent RCU read-side critical sections will not prevent the current grace period from ending. Such tasks will be added to the head of the blocked-reader list but the gp_tasks pointer 34D will not be adjusted. An example of this condition is shown in FIG. 10F. Here, task T3 has exited its RCU read-side critical section, and then a new task T5 blocks while in an RCU read-side critical section. Because the gpcpu field 34H is equal to the gpnum field 34G, the RCU subsystem 20 knows that T5's RCU read-side critical section started after the beginning of the current grace period. As such, there is no need to adjust the gp_tasks pointer 34D to point to task T5.
If tasks T4 and T1 remain blocked for too long, then RCU priority boosting might begin. The first action is to point the boost_tasks pointer 34F at the same task referenced by the gp_tasks pointer 34D, as shown in FIG. 10G. Then task T4 is priority boosted and the boost_tasks pointer 34D is advanced to task T1, as shown in FIG. 10H. Because the boost_tasks pointer 34D is moved from one task to the next on the blocked-tasks list, reader boosting can be carried out incrementally, thereby avoiding excessive scheduling latencies. In this particular case, it is not possible for a newly blocked task to block the current grace period (because the gpcpu field 34H is equal to the gpnum field 34G). However, if this were possible, the new task would be boosted immediately upon blocking. Alternatively, if the boosting process waits for all processors to pass through a quiescent state before boosting any blocked tasks, then it is never possible for a newly blocked task to block the current grace period once boosting has started, and thus there is never a need to immediately boost a new task upon blocking. Once task T1 is priority boosted, the data-structure layout returns to that shown in FIG. 10F, except that Tasks T4 and T1 are now at a high priority.
In FIG. 10I, task T4 has completed its RCU read-side critical section, removed itself from the blocked-tasks list, and advanced the gp_tasks pointer 34D to point to task T1. Once task T1 completes its RCU read-side critical section, it also removes itself from the blocked-tasks list. Because task T1 was at the tail of the blocked-tasks list, instead of advancing the gp_tasks pointer 34D, it sets the pointer to a NULL value. Because task T1 was the last task blocking the current grace period, the grace period ends and the completed field 34I is set equal to gpnum. This condition is shown in FIG. 10J.
In FIG. 10K, the blocked-tasks list comprises task T5, but then another task T6 enters an RCU read-side critical section. It is further assumed that an updater 18 starts an expedited grace period. This expedited RCU grace period forces a context switch, which places task T6 on the blkd-tasks list, and then sets the exp_tasks pointer 34E to reference T6. This means that both T5 and T6 must finish their current RCU read-side critical sections before the expedited grace period can be permitted to complete. As shown in FIG. 10L, if another task T7 enters an RCU read-side critical section and is preempted, it will be added to the head of the blocked-tasks list. If an asynchronous grace period begins at this point, the gp_tasks pointer 34D will be set to reference task T7 and the gpnum field 34G will be incremented to reflect the start of the new grace period. This condition is shown in FIG. 10M.
Supposing now that task T7 completes its RCU read-side critical section, it will removes itself from the blocked-tasks list. As shown in FIG. 10N, the gp_tasks pointer 34D will be advanced to the next task in the list, which happens to be task T6. Thus, both the gp_tasks pointer 34D and the exp_tasks pointer 34E will now reference task T6. If task T6 now completes its RCU read-side critical section, removing itself from the blocked-tasks list, both of the gp_tasks pointer 34D and the exp_tasks pointer 34E will be updated to reference the next task in the list, namely T5. The result is shown in FIG. 10O. When task T5 completes its RCU read-side critical section, it removes itself from the blocked-tasks list. Because there are no more blocked tasks in the list, the gp_tasks pointer 34D and exp_tasks pointer 34E are set to NULL. This means that both the asynchronous and expedited synchronous grace periods have completed. The gpcpu field 34H and the completed field 34I are set equal to the gpnum field 34G. The result is shown in FIG. 10P.
Turning now to FIG. 11, further details of the RCU subsystem support functions 40 (briefly introduced above in connection with FIG. 6) will now be described. These functions are common to both the uniprocessor embodiment of FIG. 4 and the multiprocessor embodiment of FIG. 5. The RCU reader API 42 comprises a reader registration component 42A and a reader unregistration component 42B. As described in more detail below, the reader registration component 42A and the reader unregistration component 42B are respectively invoked by readers 21 as they enter and leave their RCU read-side critical sections. These operations allow the RCU subsystem 20 to track reader quiescent states, with all processing performed outside of a set of bounded calls to the reader registration/unregistration components 42A/42B being treated as a quiescent state. The RCU updater API 44 comprises a register callback component 44A and an expedited grace period component 44B. The register callback component 44A is used by updaters 18 to register a callback following a first-phase update to a shared data element 16. A call to the register callback component 44A initiates processing that places the callback on the RCU callback list managed by the RCU control block 32 (see FIG. 7) and starts an asynchronous grace period so that the callback can be processed after the grace period has ended as part of second-phase update processing to remove stale data (or perform other actions). The expedited grace period component 44B is used by updaters 18 to request an expedited grace period following a first-phase update to a shared data element 16. The updater 18 blocks while the expedited grace period is in progress, then performs second-phase update processing to free stale data (or perform other actions). The RCU grace period API 46 comprises a check callbacks component 46A. This component may be run periodically (e.g., in response to a scheduler clock interrupt) in order to check for new callbacks, start a new grace period if one is needed, and request callback processing.
With continuing reference to FIG. 11, the grace period detection and callback processing functions 48 may include a blocked reader handler 48A, a start normal grace period component 48B, a record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C, a boost reader component 48D, a read-side helper component 48E, and a process callbacks component 48F. These functions are common to both the uniprocessor embodiment of FIG. 4 and the multiprocessor embodiment of FIG. 5. However, the multiprocessor embodiment does require certain modifications to the blocked reader handler 48A, as will be discussed in connection with FIGS. 26A-26B.
As described in more detail in the ensuing paragraphs, the blocked reader handler 48A performs responsive actions when a reader 21 is preempted while in its RCU read-side critical section. These actions include adding the preempted reader to the blocked-task list extending from the blkd_tasks list header 34C of the RCU preempt control block 34. The blocked reader handler 48A also manipulates the rcu_read_unlock_special field 36B in the reader's task structure 36. The start normal grace period component 48B is responsible for starting asynchronous grace periods and performing actions such as manipulating the gp_tasks field 34D and the gpnum field 34G of the RCU preempt control block 34. The record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C is responsible for recording quiescent states, ending asynchronous grace periods, and requesting callback processing. This component manipulates the gpnum field 34G and the completed field 34H of the RCU preempt control block 34, and also manipulates the rcu_read_unlock_special field 36B in the reader's task structure 36. The boost reader component 48D is responsible for boosting preempted readers 21 that are delaying the end of a grace period. This component manipulates the boost_tasks field 34F of the RCU preempt control block 34. It also manipulates the rcu_read_unlock_special field 36B in the reader's task structure. The read-side helper component 48E is responsible for removing readers 21 from the blocked-tasks list. The read-side helper also manipulates the gp_tasks pointer 34D, the exp_tasks pointer 34E and the boost_tasks pointer 34F of the RCU preempt control block 34. It also manipulates the rcu_read_unlock_special field 36B in the reader's task structure. The process callbacks component 48F causes callbacks to be processed at the end of a grace period. It may be run in softirq context, by kthread processing, or in any other suitable manner.
Turning now to FIG. 12, a reference map is shown to illustrate the operational inter-relationships between the various RCU subsystem data structures 30 and support functions 40. The details of FIG. 12 will be discussed in conjunction with the flow diagrams of FIGS. 13-21B, which respectively illustrate example operations of the RCU subsystem support functions 40. Unless otherwise noted, the operations of the various RCU support functions 40 are described in the context of uniprocessor operation. Specific modifications to the blocked reader handler 48A for supporting multiprocessor operation will be discussed in connection with FIGS. 26A-26B below.
The RCU reader registration component 42A is illustrated at the left of the top row of functional components shown in FIG. 12. It is called by readers 21 each time they enter an RCU read-side critical section. In an example embodiment, a function name such as “rcu_read_lock( )” may be used when coding the RCU reader registration component 42A in software. With additional reference now to FIG. 13, the sole operation of the RCU reader registration component 42A is to non-atomically increment the rcu_read_lock_nesting field 36A of the reader's task structure 36, as shown in block 50. It will be seen that there are no locks, atomic instructions, memory barriers or disabling of interrupts or preemption. At most, a compiler directive may be needed prior to block 50 to prevent a compiler from undertaking code-motion optimizations that would move any code following the call to the RCU reader registration component 42A outside of the RCU read-side critical section. The Linux® kernel barrier( ) directive is an example.
The RCU reader unregistration component 42B is illustrated next to the RCU reader registration component 42A in the top row of functional components shown in FIG. 12. It is called by readers 21 each time they leave an RCU read-side critical section. In an example embodiment, a function name such as “rcu_read_unlock( )” may be used when coding the RCU reader unregistration component 42B in software. With additional reference now to FIG. 14, the RCU reader unregistration component 42B implements block 52 in which it non-atomically decrements the rcu_read_lock_nesting field 36A of the reader's task structure 36 that was incremented in block 50 of FIG. 13. In block 54, a compound test is made to determine if the reader has exited its outermost critical section (i.e., the rcu_read_lock_nesting field 36A has decremented to zero) and if a flag has been set in the rcu_read_lock_special field 36B of the reader's task structure 36. This could be any one of the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED flag, the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_NEED_QS flag or the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BOOSTED flag. If the condition checked for in block 54 is present, the reader 21 requires special handling due to the reader having been preempted. Processing proceeds to block 56 and the read-side helper 48E is invoked. The operations of the read-side helper 48E are discussed in more detail below in connection with FIGS. 23A-23B. If it is determined in block 54 that the rcu_read_lock_nesting field 36A is not zero, or if a flag is not set in the rcu_read_lock_special field 36B, the RCU reader registration component 42B returns. A non-zero value of the rcu_read_lock_nesting field 36A means that the reader 21 is ending a nested RCU read-side operation and no further read-side action is required other than the decrement of block 52. The condition wherein no flag is set in the rcu_read_lock_special field 36B also means that no further read-side action is required. It will be seen that there are no locks, atomic instructions, memory barriers or disabling of interrupts or preemption. At most, a compiler directive may be needed prior to block 52 to prevent a compiler from undertaking code-motion optimizations that would move any code prior to the call to the RCU reader unregistration component 24 outside of the RCU read-side critical section.
The blocked reader handler 48A is illustrated on the left-hand side of FIG. 12, immediately below the RCU-specific task structure 36. In an example embodiment, a function name such as “rcu_preempt_note_context_switch( )” may be used when coding the blocked reader handler 48A in software. This component is called by the context switch code of the operating system scheduler early in the context switch process. With additional reference now to FIG. 15, the blocked reader handler 48A implements block 60 to disable interrupts and then block 62 to check the condition of the outgoing reader 21. In particular, the reader's task structure 36 is checked and a determination is made whether the rcu_read_lock_nesting field 36A is incremented (e.g., greater than zero), indicating that the reader is about to be blocked inside an RCU critical section. Block 62 also checks whether the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED flag in the rcu_read_unlock_special field 36B has not yet been set. If the rcu_read_lock_nesting field 36A is not incremented, or if the READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED flag is already set, the blocked reader handler 28A proceeds to block 72 and invokes the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C to record a quiescent state. On the other hand, if the conditions of block 62 are met, block 64 sets the reader's READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED flag to arrange for the read-side helper 48E to take action when the reader 21 ultimately completes its RCU read-side critical section. Block 66 adds the reader 21 to the beginning of the blocked-tasks list. In block 68, the RCU preempt control block 34 is checked and a determination is made whether the gpcpu field 34H equals the gpnum field 34G, indicating that the processor 4 has acknowledged the current grace period (and is therefore in a quiescent state). If it has, processing proceeds to block 72 and the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C is invoked in order to end the current grace period. If the processor 4 has not yet acknowledged the current grace period, block 70 is implemented and the gp_tasks pointer 34D in the RCU preempt control block 34 is set to reference the reader 21 on the blocked-tasks list. Processing then proceeds from block 70 to block 72 so that the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C can be invoked to record a quiescent state and end the current grace period. Finally, block 74 restores interrupts.
The record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C is illustrated on the lower left-hand side of FIG. 12. In an example embodiment, a function name such as “rcu_preempt_cpu_qs( )” may be used when coding the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C in software. As noted in the paragraph above, this component is called by the blocked reader handler 48A to record processor quiescent states and end grace periods. As described in more detail in subsequent paragraphs below, the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C is also called by the start normal grace period component 48B, the check callbacks component 46A, and the read-side helper 48E. It records a quiescent state for the processor 4 (and for the current reader), attempts to end the current grace period if it is possible to do so (i.e., if there are no blocked readers), and then initiates callback processing if there are any eligible callbacks.
With additional reference now to FIG. 16, the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C implements blocks 80 and 82 to record that both the processor 4 and the current reader 21 have acknowledged the current grace period (thereby indicating that they have reached a quiescent state). In block 80, the gpcpu field 34H is set equal to the gpnum field 34G in the RCU preempt control block 34 to show that the processor 4 has acknowledged the current grace period. In block 82, the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_NEED_QS flag is cleared in the reader's task structure 36 to show that the reader 21 has acknowledged the current grace period. Block 84 checks whether there are any tasks referenced by the gp_tasks pointer 34D in the RCU preempt control block 34. If there are, the current grace period cannot be ended and the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C returns without performing any further processing. If there are no tasks holding up the current grace period, block 86 marks the end of the grace period by setting the completed field 34I equal to the gpnum field 34G in the RCU preempt control block 34. Block 88 advances the pending callbacks (if any) for callback processing, setting the donetail pointer 32B equal to the curtail pointer 32C in the RCU control block 32, and the setting the curtail pointer 32C equal to the nexttail pointer 34B in the RCU preempt control block 34. In block 90, a check is made whether there are any further blocked readers in the blocked-tasks list or any running readers. If not, this means that the next grace period (the one following the current grace period) can also be ended, and any callbacks associated with that grace period may also be advanced for callback processing. Block 92 performs the callback advancement by setting the donetail pointer 32B equal to the RCU nexttail pointer 34B. Following block 92, or if block 90 determines that the next grace period cannot yet be ended, block 94 checks whether there are any callbacks on the donelist that need to be processed. If there are, callback processing is initiated in block 96 (e.g., by performing actions that invoke the process callbacks component 48F).
The start normal grace period component 48B is illustrated on the left-hand side of FIG. 12, immediately above the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C. In an example embodiment, a function name such as “rcu_preempt_start_gp( )” may be used when coding the start normal grace period component 48B in software. This component is called by the register callback component 44A when an updater 18 registers a new callback, and by the read-side helper 48E when a reader 21 is leaving its outermost RCU read-side critical section after having been preempted during the critical section. It is run with interrupts disabled and starts a new asynchronous grace period if one is warranted.
With additional reference now to FIG. 17, the start normal grace period component 48B implements block 100 to determine whether a new grace period should be started. A new grace period will be started only if there is no current grace period in progress and if a new grace period is needed (e.g., due to callbacks being present on the curlist). Otherwise, the start normal grace period component 48B returns. If a new grace period is needed, block 102 is implemented and the gpnum field 34G is advanced in the RCU preempt control block 34 to officially start the new grace period. In block 104, a check of the blocked-tasks list is made to determine if there are any blocked readers 21. If there are no blocked readers 21 on the blocked tasks list, processing moves to block 108. If there are blocked readers 21, block 106 sets the gp_tasks pointer 34D in the RCU preempt control block 34 to reference the first task on the list. In block 108, a check is made to determine if there are any readers 21 that are currently running within an RCU read-side critical section. This condition may arise if the start normal grace period component 48B is executed in interrupt context while there is a running reader (e.g., due to an interrupt handler executing the register callback component 44A). If there is a running reader 21, the start normal grace period component 48B returns. If there are no such readers, block 110 implements a call to the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C to record a quiescent state and end the current grace period.
The check callbacks component 46A is illustrated on the bottom left-hand side of FIG. 12, immediately below and to the right of the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C. In an example embodiment, a function name such as “rcu_preempt_check_callbacks( )” may be used when coding the check callbacks component 46A in software. This component is called by the scheduling clock interrupt handler of the operating system and is run with interrupts disabled. It checks for eligible callbacks and invokes callback processing if a grace period has ended. If a grace period is in progress and there is a current reader 21 running on the processor 4, it advises the reader that a quiescent state is needed.
With additional reference now to FIG. 18, the check callbacks component 46A implements block 120 to check whether the current grace period should end. The current grace period will end only if there a current grace period in progress and if no reader 21 is currently running within an RCU read-side critical section. If both conditions are satisfied, block 122 implements a call to the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C to record a quiescent state and end the current grace period. Moreover, as previously mentioned, the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C advances callbacks on the callback lists. Following block 122, or if the conditions for implementing block 122 were not satisfied, block 124 checks whether there are any callbacks from a previously completed grace period that are ripe for processing. This is determined by checking for callbacks on the donelist. If there are such callbacks, callback processing is initiated in block 126 (e.g., by performing actions that invoke the process callbacks component 48F). Following callback processing, or if block 124 determines that there are no callbacks on the donelist, block 128 checks if there is a grace period in progress and if the current task (i.e., the one that was interrupted by the scheduling clock interrupt that invoked the check callbacks component 46A) is a reader 21 currently running inside an RCU read-side critical section. If both conditions are satisfied, the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_NEED_QS flag is set in the rcu_read_unlock_special field 36B of the reader's task structure 36. As previously mentioned, this flag is set in order to advise the RCU subsystem 20 that the reader 21 needs it to pass through a quiescent state before the current grace period can end.
The process callbacks component 48F is illustrated at the bottom left-hand side of FIG. 12, immediately below the check callbacks component 46A. In an example embodiment, a function name such as “_rcu_process_callbacks( )” may be used when coding the process callbacks component 48F in software. As mentioned in the paragraph above, this component is invoked when the check callbacks component 46A detects that there are callbacks on the donelist that require processing. In an example embodiment, the process callbacks component 48F may be invoked in a deferred manner, such as in a bottom-half context of the operating system. One example would be to run the process callbacks component 48F as a softirq, a tasklet, etc. Processing within a kthread may also be used if such functionality is provided by the operating system (e.g., as is it in current versions of the Linux® kernel). This component runs with interrupts disabled. It identifies callbacks that are ripe for processing on the donelist and curlist portions of the RCU callback list, and manipulates the RCU callback list pointer 32A, the donetail pointer 32B and the curtail pointer 32C. An additional function, which may be named “rcu_preempt_remove_callbacks( )” may also be invoked if conditions warrant processing of the nextlist portion of the RCU callback list.
With additional reference now to FIG. 19, the process callbacks component 46A implements block 140 to check for callbacks on the donelist portion of the RCU callback list. If block 140 determines that there are such callbacks, block 142 disables interrupts and copies the RCU callback list head pointer 32A to a temporary local list pointer, effectively creating a local callback list. Block 144 cleaves the donelist portion of the RCU callback list from the remainder of the list (e.g., by pointing the RCU callback list head pointer 32A to the start of curlist). Block 144 also NULLs the pointer of the last callback on the donelist, such that the local callback list created in block 142 now represents a fully intact, isolated donelist that is in proper condition for callback processing. In block 146, a check is made for callbacks on the curlist. If there are none, block 148 initializes the RCU curtail pointer 32C. In block 150, a check is made for callbacks on the nextlist. If there are none, block 152 initializes the RCU nexttail pointer 34B. Block 154 initializes the RCU donetail pointer 32B. As previously discussed, the foregoing initializations may be performed by pointing the RCU curtail pointer 32C, the RCU nexttail pointer 34B and the RCU donetail pointer 32B to point to the RCU callback list head pointer 32A. Block 156 restores interrupts. Block 158 processes the callbacks one the local donelist using a conventional RCU callback processing technique.
The register callback component 44A is illustrated next to the reader unregistration component 42B in the top row of functional components shown in FIG. 12. In an example embodiment, a function name such as “call_rcu( )” may be used when coding the register callback 44A in software. This component is invoked by updaters 18. Its purpose is to register a callback for subsequent processing following a corresponding grace period by placing them on the RCU callback list. With additional reference now to FIG. 20, the register callback component 44A implements block 160 to initialize the callback (including its ->next pointer). Block 162 disables interrupts. Block 164 enqueues the new callback at the tail of the nextlist portion of the RCU callback list. This may be done by setting the ->next pointer of the existing callback at the end of nextlist to point to the new callback, and by setting the RCU nexttail pointer 34B in the RCU preempt control block 34 to point to the new callback's ->next pointer. Following callback registration, block 166 restores interrupts.
The expedited grace period component 44B is illustrated next to the reader register callback component 44A in the top row of functional components shown in FIG. 12. In an example embodiment, a function name such as “synchronize_rcu_expedited( )” may be used when coding the expedited grace period component 44B in software. This component is invoked by updaters 18. Its purpose is to force an expedited grace period following an update while the updater 18 blocks on a wait queue. With additional reference now to FIG. 21, the expedited grace period component 44B implements block 170 to execute a barrier instruction and then acquires a mutex lock that prevents other updaters 18 from running this component at the same time. Block 172 checks to see if an expedited grace period is already in progress, and exits if there is one. Block 174 disables interrupts and block 176 sets the exp_tasks pointer 34E in the RCU preempt control block 34 to point to the first task on the blocked-tasks list. If block 178 finds that there are no blocked tasks, the exp_task pointer 34E is set to NULL. If there blocked tasks, block 182 restores interrupts, block 184 waits for any blocked readers, if there are any, and block 186 implements a barrier and releases the mutex lock that was acquired in block 170.
The boost reader component 48D is illustrated near the middle right-hand side of FIG. 12, immediately above the RCU control block 32. In an example embodiment, a function name such as “start_boost( )” may be used when coding the boost reader component 48D in software. This component may be invoked by the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C, by the expedited grace period component 44B, or by some other component of the RCU subsystem 20 if it is determined that one or more readers 21 are blocked for too long. What constitutes a reader 21 blocking for “too long” may be judged by various criteria, such as the duration of the RCU read-side critical section, the number of callbacks waiting for the current grace period to complete, the amount of memory waiting for the current grace period to complete, a combination of the foregoing, or based on other criteria. The purpose of the boost reader component 48D is to boost the priority of such readers so that they can leave their RCU read-side critical section and allow a grace period to be completed.
With additional reference now to FIG. 22, the boost reader component 48D implements block 190 to disable interrupts and then block 192 to set the boost_tasks pointer 34F equal to the gp_tasks pointer 34D in the RCU preempt control block 34. This points the boost_tasks pointer 34F to the first blocked reader on the blocked-tasks list that is blocking the current grace period. Blocks 194-208 represent a loop in which one blocked reader is priority-boosted on each pass through the loop. Block 194 causes an exit if there is no blocked reader task. If there is a blocked reader, block 196 sets the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED flag in the readers rcu_read_unlock_special task structure field 36B. Block 198 boosts the reader's priority (using any suitable technique) to a desired increased priority level, the exact value of which is a matter of design choice. Block 200 restores interrupts and block 202 checks if the boosting was provoked by an emergency condition. An example of an emergency condition would be where the system's memory is danger of dropping too low to continue normal operation. The purpose of this check is to prevent large numbers of boosted readers from consuming all available processor time if there is no emergency. If an emergency condition is not detected, block 204 causes the boost reader component 48D to block for a short time period, for example, by waiting until all tasks that have been boosted to exit their RCU read-side critical sections (or by waiting for a fixed length of time). Following this blocking period, or if an emergency was detected in block 202, block 208 advances the boost_tasks pointer 34F to reference the next reader task on the blocked-tasks list. This completes the loop and processing returns to block 194. The foregoing loop is performed until the end of the blocked-tasks list is reached. At that point, the “No” path is taken out of block 194 and interrupts are restored in block 210.
If desired, the boost reader component 48D may be implemented in alternative ways. For example, instead of a loop, this function could rely on code in the scheduling-clock interrupt handler of the operating system to boost individual readers 21 that are preempted within an RCU read-side critical section. The function could also take the precaution of boosting itself to ensure that it is not preempted by the boosted tasks. The function could also boost all blocked tasks, not just the ones blocking the current grace period. The function could also record a priority indicator in the RCU preempt control block 34. This indicator could then be used to immediately boost subsequent readers 21 upon being preempted. The function could also continue boosting tasks until some criterion was met, for example, some amount of memory being freed by RCU callbacks. The function could also boost the priority of the callback processing code (e.g., a softirq thread), thus enabling the callbacks to execute despite a looping realtime thread.
The read-side helper 48E is illustrated at the upper portion of FIG. 12, below the reader unregistration component 42B. In an example embodiment, a function name such as “rcu_read_unlock_special( )” may be used when coding the read-side helper 48E in software. This component is invoked by the reader unregistration component 42B when a reader 21 is exiting its outermost RCU read-side critical section and detects that a flag has been set in its rcu_read_lock_special field 36B (see block 54 of FIG. 14).
With additional reference now to FIG. 23A, the read-side helper 48E implements block 220 and returns if it was called from within an NMI (Non-Maskable Interrupt) handler. NMI handler code is typically allowed to contain RCU read-side critical sections. However, NMI handlers cannot be interrupted and thus do not require the services of the read-side helper 48E, which deals with reader blocking. Being non-interruptible, NMI handlers should never block within an RCU read-side critical section. In block 222, the read-side helper component 48E disables interrupts, which prevents scheduling clock interrupt code from running (either due to an interrupt or due to preemption). Block 224 checks the rcu_read_unlock_special field 36B in the reader's task structure 36 and determines whether the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_NEED_QS flag is set. If so, block 226 invokes the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C to clear the flag and record a processor quiescent state. Following block 226, or if block 222 found that the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_NEED_QS flag is not, processing reaches block 228. Blocks 228 and 230 cause the read-side helper 28E to restore interrupts and return if it was called from within an interrupt handler. Interrupt handlers cannot block (see block 234, discussed below) so there is nothing more to do in that case. If the read-side helper 48E is not in an interrupt handler, block 232 checks the rcu_read_unlock_special field 36B in the reader's task structure 36 to determine if the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED flag is set. If it is, processing proceeds to block 234. If not, processing proceeds to block 250 of FIG. 23B.
Block 234 clears the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED flag, thus marking the reader 21 as no longer being blocked within an RCU read-sided critical section. Block 236 checks the RCU preempt control block 34 and records whether there are readers blocking an asynchronous grace period and/or an expedited grace period. Block 238 removes the reader 21 from the blocked-tasks list. Block 238 also checks whether the reader 21 was the first blocked task that was blocking the current asynchronous grace period, and/or was the first blocked task that was blocking the current expedited grace period, and/or was the first blocked task being boosted. If so, block 238 adjusts one or more of the gp_tasks pointer 34D, the exp_tasks pointer 34E and the boost_tasks pointer 34F to point to the next blocked task on the blocked-tasks list. If there are no further blocked tasks, the pointer(s) will be set to NULL. Block 238 also initializes the rcu_node_entry field 36C in the reader's task structure 36 to reflect the fact that the reader has been removed from the blocked-tasks list.
With further reference now to FIG. 23B, block 240 uses the information recorded in block 226 to determine if the current asynchronous (normal) grace period was previously blocked by a reader 21, but is no longer blocked. If this is the case, block 242 invokes the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C to record a quiescent state for the processor 4. Block 244 then invokes the start normal grace period component 48B to start a new grace period. Block 246 uses the information recorded in block 226 to determine if a current expedited grace period was previously blocked by a reader 21 but is no longer blocked. If this is the case, block 248 ends the expedited grace period. Processing advances to block 250 following block 248 or if block 246 determines there are still tasks blocking the current expedited grace period. Block 250 checks the rcu_read_unlock_special field 36B in the reader's task structure 36 to determine if the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BOOSTED flag is set. If it is, block 252 clears this flag and invokes a reader unboost component (not shown) to unboost the reader 21. Following block 252, or if the “No” path was taken from block 250, block 254 restores interrupts and the read-side helper 48E returns.
Having now described the operations of the various RCU subsystem support functions 40, the discussion returns to the RCU preempt control block 34 that was first mentioned in connection with FIG. 8. As previously stated, the RCU preempt control block 34 is intended for use in a uniprocessor implementation of preemptible RCU, such as the uniprocessor system 2 of FIG. 4. Multiprocessor implementations, such as the multiprocessor system 2A of FIG. 5, require consideration of how multiple processors can access and manipulate the various RCU preempt control block fields in a manner that is synchronized and preferably scalable. A proposed solution is to adopt the hierarchical RCU model used in current versions of the Linux® kernel, and which has been previously publicized by applicant (See P. McKenney, “Hierarchical RCU”, Nov. 4, 2008). In hierarchical RCU, a hierarchy of rcu_node structures, beginning from a root rcu_node structure and extending to plural leaf rcu_node structures, is used to track processor quiescent states and other information. This information includes the four-task list array [ ] described in the “Background” section above for tracking readers that do/don't block a current asynchronous grace period and do/don't block an expedited grace period. The present grace period detection technique could be implemented in a multiprocessor system running hierarchical RCU by modifying the rcu_node structures. In particular, the leaf rcu_node structures and the root rcu_node structure could be modified to remove the existing four-task list array [ ] and incorporate a modified RCU preempt control block 34-1, as shown in FIG. 24. The reason the root rcu_node structure may include the RCU preempt control block 34-1 is to handle tasklist migration in case all processors for a given rcu_node structure have gone offline. In that case, the blocked-tasks list of the rcu_node structure could be moved to the root rcu_node structure. It will be seen that the multiprocessor RCU preempt control block 34-1 is similar to its uniprocessor counterpart. Differences include the fact that the control block field 34A and the RCU nexttail pointer 34B may be removed (as shown by the use of cross-hatch shading). With respect to the control block field 34A, hierarchical RCU uses a per-processor data structure called “rcu_data” to maintain per-processor callback lists. The rcu_data structure for each processor includes a pointer that references the processor's designated leaf rcu_node structure. Thus, instead of the RCU preempt control block 34-1 maintaining a pointer to an rcu_data structure, the rcu_data structure would maintain a pointer to the rcu_node containing the RCU preempt control block 34-1. With respect to the nexttail pointer 34B, the rcu_data structure in hierarchical RCU maintains the processor's callback list head pointer and an array [ ] of tail pointers denoting various callback list portions. Thus, a separate nexttail pointer is not needed in the RCU preempt control block 34-1. A further difference is that the gpcpu field 34H is replaced by a qsmask field 34-1H. This field is already present in existing rcu_node structures. It is a bitmask that contains one bit for each processor and is use to indicate processor quiescent states. Whereas the gpcpu field 34H indicates whether a single processor has reached a quiescent state, the qsmask field 34-1H indicates whether each of the assigned processors has reached a quiescent state. In an example embodiment, the RCU preempt control block 34-1 may be synchronized by the same lock that is already used to protect each rcu_node structure (i.e., rcu_node->lock), as well as by disabling interrupts.
An additional multiprocessor complication arises because the processors (e.g., processors 4 2 . . . 4 n of FIG. 5) that correspond to a given rcu_node structure might become aware of a new grace period at different times. It is therefore possible that a reader 21 whose RCU read-side critical section began after the current asynchronous grace period might be enqueued onto the blocked-tasks list before some other reader whose RCU read-side critical section began before the current RCU grace period. This requires that modifications be made to the blocked reader handler 48A described above in connection with FIG. 15. For example, consider the situation shown in FIG. 25A. Here, task T1 has been queued by processor 0 on the blocked-tasks list. The act of queuing task T1 caused processor 0 to respond to the current grace period, as indicated by the low-order “1” bit in the qsmask field 34-1H, and to set the gp_tasks pointer 34-1D to reference task T1 because it is blocking the current grace period.
Now suppose that processor 1, which uses the same rcu_node structure as does processor 0, responds to the current grace period and later runs a task T2 that blocks within an RCU read-side critical section. Because processor 1 already responded to the current grace period, T2 is queued at the head of the blocked-tasks list, as shown in FIG. 25B. It will be seen that the ->qsmask field 34-1H now has its two least-significant bits set, one for processor 0 and the other for processor 1. As is appropriate, the gp_tasks pointer 34-1D has not been changed so that it continues to reference task T1. Suppose further that processor 3, which has not yet responded to the current grace period, has a task T3 that blocks within its RCU read-side critical section. As shown in FIG. 25C, processor 3 would place task T3 at the head of the blocked-tasks list, set its bit in the qsmask field 34-1H, and set the gp_tasks pointer 34-1D to reference task T3. However, this would incorrectly indicate that task T2 is blocking the current grace period. The correct operation would have been to insert task T3 before task T1 and point->gp_tasks at T3, resulting in the situation shown in FIG. 25D.
To accomplish this, a modified blocked reader handler 48A-1 as shown in FIGS. 26A-26B may be used for multiprocessor implementations in lieu of the original blocked reader handler 48A, which is for uniprocessor implementations. The multiprocessor blocked reader handler 48A-1 is similar in many respects to the uniprocessor blocked reader handler 48A, but includes additional logic for determining where to place a newly-preempted reader on the blocked-tasks list to avoid the misplacement scenario shown in FIG. 25C. In FIG. 26A-26B, operations of the multiprocessor blocked reader handler 48A-1 that are the same as those of the uniprocessor blocked reader handler 48A shown in FIG. 15 are indicated by the use of corresponding reference numbers appended with a “−1” modifier. Newly added operations are represented by blocks 65A-65E.
Turning now to FIG. 26A, the multiprocessor blocked reader handler 48A implements block 60-1 to disable interrupts and then block 62-1 to check the condition of the outgoing reader 21. In particular, the reader's task structure 36 is checked and a determination is made whether the rcu_read_lock_nesting field 36A is incremented (e.g., greater than zero), indicating that the reader is about to be blocked inside an RCU critical section, and whether the RCU_READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED flag in the rcu_read_unlock_special field 36B has not yet been set. If the rcu_read_lock_nesting field 36A is not incremented, or if the READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED flag is already set, the blocked reader handler 28A proceeds to block 72-1 and invokes the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C to record a quiescent state. On the other hand, if the conditions of block 62-1 are met, block 64-1 sets the reader's READ_UNLOCK_BLOCKED flag to arrange for the read-side helper 48E to take action when the reader 21 ultimately completes its RCU read-side critical section. Block 65A starts the new set of operations of the multiprocessor blocked reader handler 48A-1 that are not present in the uniprocessor blocked reader handler 48A. It checks the gp_tasks pointer 34-1D to see if there are already readers 21 blocking the current grace period, and also compares the gpnum field 34-1G to the qsmask field 34-1H to see if the current processor 4 has not yet acknowledged a quiescent state. If both conditions are present, block 65B inserts the current reader 21 on the blocked-tasks list immediately before the task referenced by the gp_tasks pointer 34-1D. Block 65C checks the boost_tasks pointer 34-1F to determine if boosting is in progress. If so, block 65D invokes priority boosting on behalf of the newly blocked reader 21 (using any suitable technique). This is the last of the new set of operations provided by the multiprocessor blocked reader handler 48A-1.
Turning now to FIG. 26B, processing now proceeds to block 66-1, which is reached by either the “No” path from block 65A, by the “No” path from block 65C, or from block 65D. Block 66-1 adds the reader 21 to the beginning of the blocked-tasks list. In block 68-1, the RCU preempt control block 34 is checked and a determination is made whether the qsmask field 34-1H equals the gpnum field 34-1G, indicating that the processor 4 has acknowledged the current grace period (and is therefore in a quiescent state). If it has, processing proceeds to block 72-1 and the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C is invoked in order to end the current grace period. If the processor 4 has not yet acknowledged the current grace period, block 70-1 is implemented and the gp_tasks pointer 34-1D in the RCU preempt control block 34-1 is set to reference the newly-added reader 21 on the blocked-tasks list. Processing then proceeds from block 70-1 to block 72-1 so that the record quiescent state/end grace period component 48C can be invoked to record a quiescent state and end the current grace period. Finally, block 74-1 restores interrupts.
Note that the multiprocessor implementation described above violates the uniprocessor implementation's strict reverse time ordering of the blocked-tasks list. This is acceptable for normal (asynchronous) grace periods because the blocked-tasks list is strictly segregated into tasks that do not block the current grace period at the head of the list and the tasks that are blocking the current grace period at the tail. Any temporal misordering is likely to be limited and will occur only in the head portion of the blocked-tasks list, in the vicinity of the task referenced by the gp_tasks pointer 34-1D. Strict reverse time order will be maintained with respect to all tasks extending from the gp_tasks pointer reference to the tail of the blocked-tasks list. The departure from strict reverse time ordering is likewise acceptable for expedited grace periods because all processors are forced into the operating system scheduler at the beginning of an expedited grace period. Thus, later readers cannot be blocking the expedited grace period even if they do block the current asynchronous grace period (which might happen if an expedited grace period executes concurrently with initialization for a new asynchronous grace period). The departure from strict reverse time ordering of the blocked-tasks list is also acceptable from the standpoint of boosting due to the fact that only those readers blocking the current grace period need boosting, and these are all maintained at the tail of the blocked-tasks list in strict reverse time order beginning with the task referenced by the gp_tasks pointer 34-1D. Any readers that block after boosting begins will be boosted immediately upon blocking due to the operation of blocks 65C and 65D of FIG. 26A. Therefore, the limited temporal misordering that occurs at the head of the block tasks list is acceptable for the multiprocessor case.
Accordingly, a technique for has been disclosed for effectively managing blocked tasks in preemptible RCU. It will be appreciated that the foregoing concepts may be variously embodied in any of a data processing system, a machine implemented method, and a computer program product in which programming logic is provided by one or more machine-useable storage media for use in controlling a data processing system to perform the required functions. Example embodiments of a data processing system and machine implemented method were previously described in connection with FIGS. 4-26B. With respect to a computer program product, digitally encoded program instructions may be stored on one or more computer-readable data storage media for use in controlling a computer or other digital machine or device to perform the required functions. The program instructions may be embodied as machine language code that is ready for loading and execution by the machine apparatus, or the program instructions may comprise a higher level language that can be assembled, compiled or interpreted into machine language. Example languages include, but are not limited to C, C++, assembly, to name but a few. When implemented on a machine comprising a processor, the program instructions combine with the processor to provide a particular machine that operates analogously to specific logic circuits, which themselves could be used to implement the disclosed subject matter.
Example data storage media for storing such program instructions are shown by reference numerals 8 (memory) and 10 (cache) of the uniprocessor system 2 of FIG. 4 and the multiprocessor system 2A of FIG. 5. The systems 2 and 2A may further include one or more secondary (or tertiary) storage devices (not shown) that could store the program instructions between system reboots. A further example of media that may be used to store the program instructions is shown by reference numeral 300 in FIG. 27. The media 300 are illustrated as being portable optical storage disks of the type that are conventionally used for commercial software sales, such as compact disk-read only memory (CD-ROM) disks, compact disk-read/write (CD-R/W) disks, and digital versatile disks (DVDs). Such media can store the program instructions either alone or in conjunction with an operating system or other software product that incorporates the required functionality. The data storage media could also be provided by portable magnetic storage media (such as floppy disks, flash memory sticks, etc.), or magnetic storage media combined with drive systems (e.g. disk drives). As is the case with the memory 8 and the cache 10 of FIGS. 4 and 5, the storage media may be incorporated in data processing platforms that have integrated random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM) or other semiconductor or solid state memory. More broadly, the storage media could comprise any electronic, magnetic, optical, infrared, semiconductor system or apparatus or device, or any other tangible entity representing a machine, manufacture or composition of matter that can contain, store, communicate, or transport the program instructions for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus or device, such as a computer. For all of the above forms of storage media, when the program instructions are loaded into and executed by an instruction execution system, apparatus or device, the resultant programmed system, apparatus or device becomes a particular machine for practicing embodiments of the method(s) and system(s) described herein.
Although various example embodiments have been shown and described, it should be apparent that many variations and alternative embodiments could be implemented in accordance with the disclosure. It is understood, therefore, that the invention is not to be in any way limited except in accordance with the spirit of the appended claims and their equivalents.
1-7. (canceled)
8. A system, comprising:
one or more processors; a memory coupled to said one or more processors, said memory including a computer useable medium tangibly embodying at least one program of instructions executable by said processor to perform operations for managing read-copy update readers that have been preempted while executing in a read-copy update read-side critical section, said operations comprising managing a single blocked-tasks list to track preempted reader tasks that are blocking an asynchronous grace period, preempted reader tasks that are blocking an expedited grace period, and preempted reader tasks that require priority boosting.
9. A system in accordance with claim 8, wherein:
a first pointer is used to segregate said blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that are and are not blocking a current asynchronous grace period; an second pointer is used to segregate said blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that are and are not blocking an expedited grace period; and a third pointer is used to segregate said blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that do and do not require priority boosting.
10. A system in accordance with claim 9, wherein said blocked-tasks list is ordered such that:
said first pointer references a first preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list that is a newest preempted reader task blocking a current asynchronous grace period, and all preempted reader tasks that follow said first preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list are also blocking said current asynchronous grace period; said second pointer references a second preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list that is a newest preempted reader task blocking an expedited grace period, and all preempted reader tasks that follow said second preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list are also blocking said expedited grace period; and said third pointer references a third preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list that is a newest preempted reader task that requires priority boosting, and all preempted reader tasks that follow said third preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list also require priority boosting.
11. A system in accordance with claim 10, wherein said first preempted reader task, said second preempted reader task and said third preempted reader task are either the same or different preempted reader tasks.
12. A system in accordance with claim 11, wherein said blocked-tasks list is further ordered such that all preempted reader tasks that are ahead of said first preempted reader task are blocking a subsequent asynchronous grace period that follows said current asynchronous grace period.
13. A system in accordance with claim 12, wherein said system is either (1) a uniprocessor system in which said blocked-tasks list maintains all preempted reader tasks in strict reverse time order, or (2) a multiprocessor system in which said blocked-tasks list maintains all preempted reader tasks starting from said first preempted reader task in strict reverse time order.
14. A system in accordance with claim 13, further including one or more data structures that each maintain an instance of said blocked-tasks list, said first pointer, said second pointer and said third pointer one behalf of at least one of said one or more processors, and wherein each of said data structures further maintains a grace period number, a quiescent state indicator and a grace period completed indicator on behalf of said at least one processor.
15. A computer program product, comprising:
one or more machine-useable storage media; program instructions provided by said one or more media for programming a data processing platform to perform operations for managing read-copy update readers that have been preempted while executing in a read-copy update read-side critical section, said operations comprising managing a single blocked-tasks list to track preempted reader tasks that are blocking an asynchronous grace period, preempted reader tasks that are blocking an expedited grace period, and preempted reader tasks that require priority boosting.
16. A computer program product in accordance with claim 15, wherein:
a first pointer is used to segregate said blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that are and are not blocking a current asynchronous grace period; an second pointer is used to segregate said blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that are and are not blocking an expedited grace period; and a third pointer is used to segregate said blocked-tasks list into preempted reader tasks that do and do not require priority boosting.
17. A computer program product in accordance with claim 16, wherein said blocked-tasks list is ordered such that:
said first pointer references a first preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list that is a newest preempted reader task blocking a current asynchronous grace period, and all preempted reader tasks that follow said first preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list are also blocking said current asynchronous grace period; said second pointer references a second preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list that is a newest preempted reader task blocking an expedited grace period, and all preempted reader tasks that follow said second preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list are also blocking said expedited grace period; and said third pointer references a third preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list that is a newest preempted reader task that requires priority boosting, and all preempted reader tasks that follow said third preempted reader task on said blocked-tasks list also require priority boosting.
18. A computer program product in accordance with claim 17, wherein said first preempted reader task, said second preempted reader task and said third preempted reader task are either the same or different preempted reader tasks.
19. A computer program product in accordance with claim 18, wherein said blocked-tasks list is further ordered such that all preempted reader tasks that are ahead of said first preempted reader task are blocking a subsequent asynchronous grace period that follows said current asynchronous grace period.
20. A computer program product in accordance with claim 19, wherein said system is either (1) a uniprocessor system in which said blocked-tasks list maintains all preempted reader tasks in strict reverse time order, or (2) a multiprocessor system in which said blocked-tasks list maintains all preempted reader tasks starting from said first preempted reader task in strict reverse time order.
21. A computer program product in accordance with claim 20, further including one or more data structures that each maintain an instance of said blocked-tasks list, said first pointer, said second pointer and said third pointer one behalf of at least one of said one or more processors, and wherein each of said data structures further maintains a grace period number, a quiescent state indicator and a grace period completed indicator on behalf of said at least one processor.
22-25. (canceled)
| 2011-06-20 | en | 2012-12-20 |
US-201113191299-A | Bone screw
ABSTRACT
A bone screw having a screw member possessing a threaded section and a head and a receiving part at the head end for receiving a rod to be connected to the bone screw is provided. The receiving part has on open first bore and a substantially U-shaped cross-section having two free legs provided with a thread. Furthermore, the receiving part has a second bore on the end opposite to the first bore whose diameter is greater than that of the threaded section and smaller than that of the head. On the bottom of the first bore a seat for the head is provided. In order that the screw member can be pivoted to at least one side by an enlarged angle, the edge bounding the free end of the second bore viewed relative to the axis of the first bore is of asymmetric construction.
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of Ser. No. 10/763,431, filed Jan. 22, 2004, which is a continuation of Ser. No. 10/037,698, filed Nov. 9, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,736,820, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a bone screw having a threaded section and a head and a receiving part at the head end for receiving a rod to be connected to the bone screw, the receiving part possessing an open first bore and a substantially U-shaped cross-section having two free legs provided with a thread and a second bore at the end opposite to the first bore, whose diameter is greater than that of the threaded section and smaller than that of the head and which forms the seat for the head, and a nut or screw working together with the thread.
Such a bone screw is disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,672,176. In the known bone screw the head is of spherical segment-shaped construction. The bottom of the first bore adjacent to the second bore is likewise of spherical segment-shaped construction so that the spherical head lies on this spherical section. The plane going through the bounding edge is oriented at right angles to the axis of the first bore and the mid-point of the second bore coincides with the axis of the first bore. By this means it is achieved that the threaded section possessing the head is pivotable in a predetermined angle of generally up to 25° about the axis of the first bore so that even after screwing the threaded section into a vertebral segment orientation of the receiving part receiving a rod is possible. At the same time, the size of the pivot angle is limited to the extent that the second bore as a function of the diameter of the head must not exceed d certain size so that the head still has an adequate hold in the receiving part.
The use of such bone screws is something of a problem in the region of cervical vertebrae. In this case, due to the small dimensions of the cervical vertebrae, it is necessary that the screws must always be pivoted to one side and upwards, a greater degree of pivoting being necessary than is the case in the larger thoracic vertebrae and lumbar vertebrae.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The aim of the invention is to provide a bone screw which permits a larger pivot angle. This task is solved by a bone screw having a screw member that possess a threaded section, a head and a receiving part at the head end for receiving a rod to be connected to the bone screw. The receiving part has an open first bore and a substantially U-shaped cross-section having two free legs provided with threads, a second bore at the end opposite the first bore having a diameter greater than the diameter of the threaded section and smaller than the diameter of the head, and a seat for the head and a nut or screw acting together with the thread. When viewed relative to the axis of the first bore, the edge bounding the free end of the second bore is asymmetrical.
Refinements of the invention are identified in the more detailed embodiments described below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further features and practical advantages of the invention emerge from the description of exemplified embodiments with reference to the figures.
FIG. 1 depicts a side elevation of a first embodiment of the invention, partly in sectional representation.
FIG. 2 shows an enlarged detail of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 depicts a side elevation, partly in sectional representation, of a second embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4 depicts a corresponding representation of a further embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The bone screw includes a screw member proper 1 having a threaded section 2 and a head 3. The head is formed in the shape of a segment of a sphere in the region adjoining the threaded section. Coaxial with the thread axis and on the end opposite to the threaded section 2 the head possesses a recess 4 for engagement with a socket screw key.
The bone screw further comprises a cylindrically constructed receiving part 5. At one end this has a first bore 6 of axially symmetrical construction. On the opposite end a second bore 7 is provided whose diameter is greater than that of the threaded section 2 and smaller than that of the head 3. On the end opposite to the second bore the first bore is open and its diameter is of such a size that that the screw member 1 can be guided through the open end by its threaded section 2 going through this bore and by the head going as far as the bottom of the first bore. The bottom of the first bore is constructed as a spherically shaped region towards the open end, the radius being substantially equal to the radius of the spherical segment-shaped section of the head 3. Furthermore, the receiving part 5 has a U-shaped recess 8 arranged symmetrically relative to the center of the part whose bottom is directed towards the second bore 7 and whose two side legs 13, 14 extend to the open end directed towards the first bore 6. At the free end of the legs 13, 14 a thread for engagement with a screw member constructed as a nut or screw is provided. The nut or screw serves to fix a rod to be inserted into the U-shaped recess 8, it being possible for the nut or screw to act on the rod directly or via a pressure member.
In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, in the direction of the arrow 9, whose direction lies in a plane going through the axis of symmetry of the first bore and which is inclined to the axis of symmetry by a predetermined angle, a circular countersink 10 is made in the edge between the opening plane 11 of the second bore and the edge 12-of the first bore.
In this manner, as can be seen in the figures, it is achieved that the angle between the axis of the screw member 1 and the axis of symmetry of the first bore is substantially enlarged by comparison with the angle otherwise attainable. At the same time the seat of the screw member 1 in the receiving part is retained.
In the second embodiment shown in FIG. 3 the interior of the receiving part 5 is constructed as in the first embodiment. The opening plane 11, which bounds the second bore 7, in this embodiment is inclined at a predetermined angle α to the plane bounded by the second bore 7 so that the normal to this plane 11 and the axis of symmetry of the first bore 15 enclose the angle of inclination. In the case shown this angle α is 15° as an exemplified embodiment. In this version it is also achieved that the screw member 1 is pivotable in the direction shown by an angle to the axis of symmetry of the-first-bore which is substantially greater than the angle which is achievable in the usual mode of construction.
Both in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 the countersink or chamfer is selected in such a way that in each case a small peripheral section still remains which still belongs to the spherical seat.
In a fourth embodiment which is not shown the mid-point of the second bore is constructed offset to the side to a small extent, for example by 0.5 mm, relative to the axis of symmetry of the first bore. This lateral offsetting in turn produces the result that the head is held in the mounting formed by the spherically constructed bottom but a greater pivot width is achieved in a side direction.
In the exemplified embodiments described above four different approaches to a solution are presented. It is also possible to combine the individual approaches with one another; that is, for example, to combine the solution according to the first and second exemplified embodiments or one of the two with the third and/or fourth exemplified embodiment, or even all four exemplified embodiments in order to achieve, in this way, a still greater possibility for pivoting in at least one direction.
In the exemplified embodiments described above the spherical bottom of the first bore 6 is constructed in each case as an integral component of the receiving part 5. In a modified embodiment, however, the spherical bottom can also be provided either in a mounting part introduced through the first bore 6 or in a mounting part introduced through the second bore 7. The invention is then used in a corresponding manner to the end that the receiving part together with the insert piece is regarded as one member and the measures described above are taken on this piece assembled in this way.
The members forming the bone screw are preferably made of titanium.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 the edge bounding the free end of the second bore viewed relative to the axis of the first bore is of symmetrical construction. The asymmetry is achieved in that the screw 1 has a recess or countersink 16 on its neck engaging on the sphere or the spherical segment so that in the manner shown in FIG. 4 as in the exemplified embodiments previously described the enlarged pivot angle can be achieved.
1. A bone fixation assembly comprising:
a coupling element having a single inner surface defining both a first bore coaxial with a first longitudinal axis and a second bore coaxial with a second longitudinal axis, wherein said first and second longitudinal axes intersect and the first and second bores are in communication with one another; and an anchoring element assembled with said coupling element, said anchoring element having a first end for insertion into bone.
2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein said coupling element has an upper end and a lower end, said first bore extending from said upper end toward said lower end and said second bore extending from said lower end toward said upper end.
3. (canceled)
4. The assembly of claim 2, wherein said upper end of said coupling element defines a first plane and said lower end of said coupling element defines a second plane, and wherein said first and second planes intersect one another.
5. The assembly of claim 2, wherein said anchoring element projects from said lower end of said coupling element.
6. The assembly of claim 1, wherein said anchoring element is a separate member assembled with said coupling element so that said coupling element and said anchoring element are movable relative to one another.
7. The assembly of claim 2, wherein said second bore includes a seat adjacent said lower end of said coupling element, and wherein said seat is adapted to engage said anchoring element.
8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein said anchoring element has a head having a substantially spherical underside adapted to engage said seat.
9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein said seat has a substantially concave surface adapted to engage the spherical underside of said head.
10. The assembly of claim 8, further comprising a locking element engageable with said coupling element for locking the position of said coupling element with respect to said anchoring element.
11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein said locking element urges a stabilizing rod toward said lower end of said coupling element which in turn forces said head of said anchoring element against said seat for locking said coupling element and said anchoring element from further movement relative to one another.
12. The assembly of claim 11, wherein said seat is defined by an interior wall of said coupling element.
13. The assembly of claim 1, wherein said coupling element has an exterior surface, an upper end and a lower end, and wherein said coupling element comprises cuts between said exterior surface and said rod-receiving openings extending from said upper end toward said lower end for minimizing the width of said coupling element.
14. The assembly of claim 1, wherein said anchoring element is a screw fastener having screw threads extending from said first end toward a second end thereof.
15. The assembly of claim 3, wherein said anchoring element has a head with a substantially spherical shape and said coupling element has a seat adjacent said lower end thereof, and wherein said spherical head is adapted to engage said seat.
16. A bone fixation assembly comprising:
a coupling element for coupling a rod to the bone fixation assembly, the coupling element having a single inner surface defining a first bore coaxial with a first longitudinal axis and a second bore communicating with the first bore; and an anchoring element having a first end for insertion into bone and a second end positionable within the second bore, the anchoring element being movable relative to the coupling element in at least a first direction at a first angle relative to the first longitudinal axis and in at least a second direction at a second angle relative to the first longitudinal axis, the second angle being greater than the first angle.
17. The bone fixation assembly of claim 16, further comprising a counterbore formed on the opening plane of the second bore.
18. The bone fixation assembly of claim 16, wherein an upper end of the coupling element comprises opposed spaced apart flanges defining an aperture configured to receive a rod.
19. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the first end of the anchoring element is threaded to engage with the bone upon insertion.
20. The bone fixation assembly of claim 16, wherein the first end of the anchoring element is threaded to engage with the bone upon insertion.
| 2011-07-26 | en | 2012-04-26 |
US-202016885959-A | Building system with string mapping based on a statistical model
ABSTRACT
A building system including one or more memory devices configured to store instructions thereon that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive training data including acronym strings and tag strings, train a statistical model based on the training data, receive an acronym string for labeling, the acronym string comprising a particular plurality of acronyms, and generate a tag string for the acronym string with the statistical model, wherein the statistical model outputs a tag of the tag string for one acronym of the particular plurality of acronyms based on the one acronym and contextual information of the acronym string, wherein the contextual information includes other acronyms of the particular plurality of acronyms, wherein the statistical model implements a many to many mapping between the particular plurality of acronyms and a plurality of target tags.
BACKGROUND
The present disclosure relates generally to building systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to mapping points of a building included within a string.
Buildings may include points such as sensors, actuators, controllers, or other devices and systems that handle various building sensing and/or control operations for environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, air quality, and/or sound. In some cases, these points are named subjectively by an operator using acronyms. In some cases, to deploy systems or equipment (e.g., Internet of Things (IoT) devices), it may be necessary to translate the user created acronyms into standard names, e.g., tags. Various systems that facilitate energy optimization, device localization, visualization (which may rely on indicators device interconnectivity) may rely on the standard names.
Some methods for performing the mapping of building points perform poorly. For example, a dictionary based mapping method may fail as there exists many to many mapping relationship between acronyms and tags. A many to many relationship between acronyms and tags, i.e., one acronym mapping to multiple tags, may not be properly handled by a dictionary based mapping method.
SUMMARY
Sequence to Sequence Neural Network String Mapping
One implementation of the present disclosure is a building system including one or more memory devices configured to store instructions thereon that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive training data including acronym strings each including acronyms and tag strings each including tags. Each string of the tag strings is a translation of one acronym string of the acronym strings, wherein the acronyms represent entities of a building. The instructions cause the one or more processors to train a sequence to sequence neural network based on the training data, receive an acronym string for labeling, the acronym string including a particular acronyms, and generate a tag string for the acronym string with the sequence to sequence neural network, wherein the sequence to sequence neural network outputs each tag of the tag string for one acronym of the particular acronyms based on the one acronym and contextual information of the acronym string, wherein the contextual information includes other acronyms of the acronyms.
In some embodiments, the sequence to sequence neural network is a long-short term memory (LSTM) sequence to sequence neural network.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to determine a number of strings of the acronym strings, compare the number of strings to a threshold level, and select the sequence to sequence neural network for translating the tag string from a group of available translation models in response to a determination that the number of strings is greater than the threshold level.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive the training data from a training database, wherein the training data is based on data of one or more buildings and the tag string is associated with the building.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to remove at least one of spaces or special characters from the acronym strings, apply a segmentation model to the acronym strings to identify the particular acronyms, generate an acronym vocabulary by removing redundant acronyms from the particular acronyms, and train the sequence to sequence neural network based on the training data and the acronym vocabulary.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive a selection of a training function for training the sequence to sequence neural network from a user device, wherein the training function is at least one of a fully automatic training function wherein the sequence to sequence neural network is trained based on a training data set and inference with the sequence to sequence neural network is performed on a separate inference data set or a semi-automatic training function wherein the sequence to sequence neural network is trained on a portion of the inference data set and inference with the sequence to sequence neural network is performed with a remaining portion of the inference data set.
In some embodiments, the semi-automatic training function is at least one of a manual selection function or a clustering function, wherein the manual selection function includes receiving a selection of the portion of the inference data set from a user device, wherein the clustering function includes identifying the portion of the inference data set by clustering the inference data set.
In some embodiments, the sequence to sequence neural network includes an encoder that encodes the acronym string, a decoder that decodes hidden states of the sequence to sequence neural network into the tag string, and an attention function that generates an attention vector that weights an output of the decoder.
In some embodiments, the attention function is based on one hidden state of the decoder and hidden states of the encoder, each of the hidden states associated with at least one of the particular acronyms. In some embodiments, the attention vector weights the one hidden state of the decoder across target tags.
In some embodiments, the sequence to sequence neural network implements a many to many mapping between the particular acronyms and target tags.
In some embodiments, the many to many mapping maps the one acronym of the particular acronyms to a first target tag when the contextual information is first contextual information and to a second target tag when the contextual information is second contextual information and a different acronym of the particular acronyms to the first target tag based on other contextual information associated with the different acronym, wherein the one acronym and the different acronym include different characters.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive a set of acronym strings for the building for translation, select the acronym strings from the set of acronym strings, receive the tag strings from a user device, each of the tag strings being the translation of one of the acronym strings, train the sequence to sequence neural network based on the training data, and translate remaining acronym strings of the set of acronym strings with the sequence to sequence neural network.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive a manual selection of the acronym strings from the user device.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive the plurality of tag strings from the user device via user input provided by a user via the user device, the user input indicating tag translations of particular acronyms of the plurality of acronym strings.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to select the acronym strings from the set of acronym strings by determining a similarity metric between acronym strings of the set of acronym strings, generate clusters by grouping the acronym strings based on the similarity metric between the acronym strings of the set of acronym strings, and select the acronym strings from the set of acronym strings by selecting one or more acronym strings from each of the clusters.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to cause the user device to display the plurality of acronym strings to the user for manual translation.
Another implementation of the present disclosure is a method including receiving, by one or more processing circuits, training data including acronym strings each including acronyms and tag strings each including tags, wherein each string of the tag strings is a translation of one acronym string of the acronym strings, wherein the acronyms represent entities of a building. The method further includes training, by the one or more processing circuits, a sequence to sequence neural network based on the training data, receiving, by the one or more processing circuits, an acronym string for labeling, the acronym string including acronyms, and generating, by the one or more processing circuits, a tag string for the acronym string with the sequence to sequence neural network, wherein the sequence to sequence neural network outputs each tag of the tag string for one acronym of the particular acronyms based on the one acronym and contextual information of the acronym string, wherein the contextual information includes other acronyms of the particular acronyms.
In some embodiments, the sequence to sequence neural network is a long-short term memory (LSTM) sequence to sequence neural network.
In some embodiments, the method includes determining, by the one or more processing circuits, a number of strings of the acronym strings, comparing, by the one or more processing circuits, the number of strings to a threshold level, and selecting, by the one or more processing circuits, the sequence to sequence neural network for translating the tag string from a group of available translation models in response to a determination that the number of strings is greater than the threshold level.
In some embodiments, the sequence to sequence neural network includes an encoder that encodes the acronym string, a decoder that decodes hidden states of the sequence to sequence neural network into the tag string, and an attention function that generates an attention vector that weights an output of the decoder.
In some embodiments, the attention function is based on one hidden state of the decoder and hidden states of the encoder, each of the hidden states associated with at least one of the particular acronyms. In some embodiments, the attention vector weights the one hidden state of the decoder across target tags.
In some embodiments, the sequence to sequence neural network implements a many to many mapping between the acronyms and target tags.
In some embodiments, the many to many mapping maps the one acronym of the particular acronyms to a first target tag when the contextual information is first contextual information and to a second target tag when the contextual information is second contextual information and a different acronym of the particular acronyms to the first target tag based on other contextual information associated with the different acronym, wherein the one acronym and the different acronym include different characters.
Another implementation of the present disclosure is one or more storage medium configured to store instructions thereon, that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive training data including acronym strings each including acronyms and tag strings each including tags, wherein each string of the tag strings is a translation of one acronym string of the acronym strings, train a sequence to sequence neural network based on the training data, receive an acronym string for labeling, the acronym string including a particular acronyms, and generate a tag string for the acronym string with the sequence to sequence neural network, wherein the sequence to sequence neural network outputs each tag of the tag string for one acronym of the particular acronyms based on the one acronym and contextual information of the acronym string, wherein the contextual information includes other acronyms of the particular acronyms.
Statistical Model Based String Mapping
One implementation of the present disclosure is a building system including one or more memory devices configured to store instructions thereon that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive training data including acronym strings each including acronyms and tag strings each including tags, wherein each string of the tag strings is a translation of one acronym string of the acronym strings, wherein the acronyms represent entities of a building, train a statistical model based on the training data, receive an acronym string for labeling, the acronym string including a particular acronyms, and generate a tag string for the acronym string with the statistical model, wherein the statistical model outputs each tag of the tag string for one acronym of the particular acronyms based on the one acronym and contextual information of the acronym string, wherein the contextual information includes other acronyms of the particular acronyms, wherein the statistical model implements a many to many mapping between the particular acronyms and target tags.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to determine a number of strings of the acronym strings, compare the number of strings to a threshold level, and select the statistical model for translating the tag string from a group of available translation models including the statistical model and a neural network model in response to a determination that the number of strings is less than the threshold level.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive the training data from a training database, wherein the training data is based on data of one or more buildings and the tag string is associated with the building.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive a selection of a training function for training the statistical model from a user device, wherein the training function is at least one of a fully automatic training function wherein the statistical model is trained based on a training data set and inference with the statistical model is performed on a separate inference data set or a semi-automatic training function wherein the statistical model is trained on a portion of the inference data set and inference with the statistical model is performed with a remaining portion of the inference data set.
In some embodiments, the semi-automatic training function is at least one of a manual selection function or a clustering function, wherein the manual selection function includes receiving a selection of the portion of the inference data set from a user device, wherein the clustering function includes identifying the portion of the inference data set by clustering the inference data set.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to, remove at least one of spaces or special characters from the acronym strings, apply a segmentation model to the acronym strings to identify the particular acronyms, generate an acronym vocabulary by removing redundant acronyms from the particular acronyms, and train the statistical model based on the training data and the acronym vocabulary.
In some embodiments, the many to many mapping maps the one acronym of the particular acronyms to a first target tag when the contextual information is first contextual information and to a second target tag when the contextual information is second contextual information and a different acronym of the particular acronyms to the first target tag based on other contextual information associated with the different acronym, wherein the one acronym and the different acronym include different characters.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive a set of acronym strings for the building for translation, select the acronym strings from the set of acronym strings, receive the tag strings from a user device, each of the tag strings being the translation of one of the acronym strings, train the statistical model based on the training data, and translate remaining acronym strings of the set of acronym strings with the statistical model.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive a manual selection of the acronym strings from the user device.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive the plurality of tag strings from the user device via user input provided by a user via the user device, the user input indicating tag translations of particular acronyms of the plurality of acronym strings.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to select the acronym strings from the set of acronym strings by determining a similarity metric between the strings of the set of acronym strings, generate clusters by grouping the strings based on the similarity metric between the strings of the set of acronym strings, and select the acronym strings from the set of acronym strings by selecting one or more strings from each of the clusters.
In some embodiments, the instructions cause the one or more processors to cause the user device to display the plurality of acronym strings to the user for manual translation.
In some embodiments, the statistical model is a conditional random field (CRF) model.
In some embodiments, the CRF model is a graph including nodes and edges between the nodes, the edges indicating conditional probabilities between the nodes, wherein each of the nodes represent a random variable. In some embodiments, the nodes include input nodes, each input node of the input nodes associated with a particular acronym of the acronyms. In some embodiments, the nodes include output nodes, each output node of the output nodes associated with tags of the tag string.
In some embodiments, each of the output nodes is connected by a first edge of the edges to one input node and one or more second edges of the edges to one or more neighboring output nodes of the output nodes.
Another implementation of the present disclosure is a method including receiving, by one or more processing circuits, training data including acronym strings each including acronyms and tag strings each including tags, wherein each string of the tag strings is a translation of one acronym string of the acronym strings, wherein the acronyms represent entities of a building, training, by the one or more processing circuits, a statistical model based on the training data, receiving, by the one or more processing circuits, an acronym string for labeling, the acronym string including particular acronyms, and generating, by the one or more processing circuits, a tag string for the acronym string with the statistical model, wherein the statistical model outputs each tag of the tag string for one acronym of the particular acronyms based on the one acronym and contextual information of the acronym string, wherein the contextual information includes other acronyms of the particular acronyms, wherein the statistical model implements a many to many mapping between the particular acronyms and target tags.
In some embodiments, the many to many mapping maps the one acronym of the particular acronyms to a first target tag when the contextual information is first contextual information and to a second target tag when the contextual information is second contextual information and a different acronym of the particular acronyms to the first target tag based on other contextual information associated with the different acronym, wherein the one acronym and the different acronym include different characters.
In some embodiments, the method further includes determining, by the one or more processing circuits, a number of strings of the acronym strings, comparing, by the one or more processing circuits, the number of strings to a threshold level, and selecting, by the one or more processing circuits, the statistical model for translating the tag string from a group of available translation models including the statistical model and a neural network model in response to a determination that the number of strings is less than the threshold level.
In some embodiments, the method includes receiving, by the one or more processing circuits, a set of acronym strings for the building for translation, selecting, by the one or more processing circuits, the acronym strings from the set of acronym strings, receiving, by the one or more processing circuits, the tag strings from a user device, each of the tag strings being the translation of one of the plurality of acronym strings, training, by the one or more processing circuits, the statistical model based on the training data, and translating, by the one or more processing circuits, remaining acronym strings of the set of acronym strings with the statistical model.
In some embodiments, selecting, by the one or more processing circuits, the acronym strings from the set of acronym strings includes determining a similarity metric between the strings of the set of acronym strings, generate clusters by grouping the strings based on the similarity metric between the strings of the set of acronym strings, and select the acronym strings from the set of acronym strings by selecting one or more strings from each of the clusters.
In some embodiments, the statistical model is a conditional random field (CRF) model.
In some embodiments, the CRF model is a graph including nodes and edges between the nodes, the edges indicating conditional probabilities between the nodes, wherein each of the nodes represent a random variable. In some embodiments, the nodes include input nodes, each input node of the input nodes associated with a particular acronym of the acronyms. In some embodiments, the nodes include output nodes, each output node of the output nodes associated with tags of the tag string.
In some embodiments, each of the output nodes is connected by a first edge of the edges to one input node and one or more second edges of the edges to one or more neighboring output nodes of the output nodes.
Another implementation of the present disclosure is one or more storage medium configured to store instructions thereon that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive training data including acronym strings each including acronyms and tag strings each including tags, wherein each string of the tag strings is a translation of one acronym string of the acronym strings, wherein the acronyms represent entities of a building, train a statistical model based on the training data, receive an acronym string for labeling, the acronym string including particular acronyms, and generate a tag string for the acronym string with the statistical model, wherein the statistical model outputs each tag of the tag string for one acronym of the particular acronyms based on the one acronym and contextual information of the acronym string, wherein the contextual information includes other acronyms of the particular acronyms, wherein the statistical model implements a many to many mapping between the particular acronyms and target tags.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Various objects, aspects, features, and advantages of the disclosure will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements.
FIG. 1 is a drawing of a building equipped with a HVAC system, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a building automation system (BAS) that may be used to monitor and/or control the building of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a string including multiple acronyms mapped to a string of multiple tags, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating many to many mappings between acronyms and tags, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a conditional random field (CRF) model, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a CRF model mapping acronyms of a string to corresponding tags, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a neuron of a neural network, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a long-short term memory sequence to sequence (LSTM S2S) neural network, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of layers of a recurrent neural network (RNN), according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a block diagram of layers of a LSTM neural network, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an LSTM S2S neural network mapping acronyms representing building entities to tags, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an LSTM S2S neural network with a context vector mapping acronyms representing building points to tags, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a building data labeler configured to perform fully automatic training of an LSTM model or a CRF model and map acronyms representing building points to tags based on the trained LSTM model or the trained CRF model, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a block diagram of the building data labeler of FIG. 13 configured to perform semi-automatic training of the LSTM model or the CRF model and map acronyms representing building points to tags based on the trained LSTM model or the trained CRF model, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a flow diagram of a process of training a CRF model or a sequence to sequence neural network model and translating acronyms of a string to tags that can be performed by the building data labeler of FIGS. 13 and 14, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a flow diagram of a process of performing semi-automatic training of a CRF model or a sequence to sequence neural network model and translating acronyms of a string to tags that can be performed by the building data labeler of FIG. 14, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of a process of forming an acronym vocabulary, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 18 is a chart illustrating word-by-word and line-by-line accuracy for large training data sets for the CRF model and the LSTM model, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 19 is a chart illustrating word-by-word and line-by-line accuracy for small training data sets for the CRF model and the LSTM model, according to an exemplary embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Overview
Referring generally to the FIGURES, systems and methods for string mapping are shown, according to various exemplary embodiments. In some embodiments, a building system can be configured to map points of a building represented as acronyms of a string into tags. The tags can be standard names of the various points. In some embodiments, the building system is configured to utilize models that use string sentence context to translate an acronym into a tag instead of relying only on characters of the acronym.
In some cases, a many to many relationship may exist between acronyms and the tags. For example, one acronym may map to different tags, e.g., “TRM” could map to “Thermostat” or “Temperature Measurement.” Likewise, multiple acronyms could map to the same tag, e.g., “BL” or “BLD” could both map to “Building.” This may be due to the fact that the acronyms may be generated manually by a user instead of defined according to a standard acronym set. To handle the many to many mapping, the sentence context provided by the models discussed herein allows the models to handle the many to many mapping by considering the placement of an acronym within a string (e.g., where in the string the acronym is located, towards the beginning or towards the end), other acronyms within the string (e.g., neighboring acronyms), length of the string, etc.
In some embodiments, the building system is configured to utilize statistical modelling methods such a Conditional Random Field (CRF) and/or deep learning methods such as Long-Short Term Memory Units (LSTMs) to learn context for an acronym. Some models may translate acronym strings with varying accuracy based on the amount of available training data. In some embodiments, the building system is configured to select between various models (e.g., a CRF model and/or a LSTM model) based on training data quantity available.
Mapping with the CRF and/or LSTM model can allow for the translation of operator defined acronym strings into meaningful expansions. The expansions can form a standardized naming conventions for legacy buildings. Based on the standardized naming convention, various analytic or control engines can be built that can execute to generate outputs and/or operate building equipment. For example, applications such as building energy optimization applications, device localization applications, device interconnectivity relationship establishment applications, visualization applications, etc.
In some embodiments, the building system is configured to selecting training data for training one or more models by clustering data (e.g., particular acronyms, strings, string sub-portions, etc.) based on similarly level for user annotation. The selection can result in a small training dataset that accurately represents all data that is to be mapped. By clustering similar strings together, a user can provide annotations for one or more representative strings of the various clusters. This can reduce manual efforts in ground truth generation. In some embodiments, the building system is configured to group points with similar metadata features together first. Once the points are grouped, the building system is configured to merge clusters that are similar to each other.
In some embodiments, the tags are defined according to a BRICK schema. Translating the strings into the BRICK tags can be used by the building system to generate BRICK data. The modeling techniques can be used in the schema mapping systems and methods described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/663,623 filed Oct. 25, 2019, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. Furthermore, details regarding BRICK can be found in the Publication “Brick: Towards a Unified Metadata Schema For Buildings” to Balaji et al., which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
Building Management System and HVAC System
Referring now to FIG. 1, an exemplary building management system (BMS) and HVAC system in which the systems and methods of the present invention can be implemented are shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Referring particularly to FIG. 1, a perspective view of a building 10 is shown. Building 10 is served by a BMS. A BMS is, in general, a system of devices configured to control, monitor, and manage equipment in or around a building or building area. A BMS can include, for example, a HVAC system, a security system, a lighting system, a fire alerting system, and/or any other system that is capable of managing building functions or devices, or any combination thereof.
The BMS that serves building 10 includes an HVAC system 100. HVAC system 100 can include a plurality of HVAC devices (e.g., heaters, chillers, air handling units, pumps, fans, thermal energy storage, etc.) configured to provide heating, cooling, ventilation, or other services for building 10. For example, HVAC system 100 is shown to include a waterside system 120 and an airside system 130. Waterside system 120 can provide a heated or chilled fluid to an air handling unit of airside system 130. Airside system 130 can use the heated or chilled fluid to heat or cool an airflow provided to building 10. An exemplary waterside system and airside system which can be used in HVAC system 100 are described in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 2-3.
HVAC system 100 is shown to include a chiller 102, a boiler 104, and a rooftop air handling unit (AHU) 106. Waterside system 120 can use boiler 104 and chiller 102 to heat or cool a working fluid (e.g., water, glycol, etc.) and can circulate the working fluid to AHU 106. In various embodiments, the HVAC devices of waterside system 120 can be located in or around building 10 (as shown in FIG. 1) or at an offsite location such as a central plant (e.g., a chiller plant, a steam plant, a heat plant, etc.). The working fluid can be heated in boiler 104 or cooled in chiller 102, depending on whether heating or cooling is required in building 10. Boiler 104 can add heat to the circulated fluid, for example, by burning a combustible material (e.g., natural gas) or using an electric heating element. Chiller 102 can place the circulated fluid in a heat exchange relationship with another fluid (e.g., a refrigerant) in a heat exchanger (e.g., an evaporator) to absorb heat from the circulated fluid. The working fluid from chiller 102 and/or boiler 104 can be transported to AHU 106 via piping 108.
AHU 106 can place the working fluid in a heat exchange relationship with an airflow passing through AHU 106 (e.g., via one or more stages of cooling coils and/or heating coils). The airflow can be, for example, outside air, return air from within building 10, or a combination of both. AHU 106 can transfer heat between the airflow and the working fluid to provide heating or cooling for the airflow. For example, AHU 106 can include one or more fans or blowers configured to pass the airflow over or through a heat exchanger containing the working fluid. The working fluid can then return to chiller 102 or boiler 104 via piping 110.
Airside system 130 can deliver the airflow supplied by AHU 106 (i.e., the supply airflow) to building 10 via air supply ducts 112 and can provide return air from building 10 to AHU 106 via air return ducts 114. In some embodiments, airside system 130 includes multiple variable air volume (VAV) units 116. For example, airside system 130 is shown to include a separate VAV unit 116 on each floor or zone of building 10. VAV units 116 can include dampers or other flow control elements that can be operated to control an amount of the supply airflow provided to individual zones of building 10. In other embodiments, airside system 130 delivers the supply airflow into one or more zones of building 10 (e.g., via supply ducts 112) without using intermediate VAV units 116 or other flow control elements. AHU 106 can include various sensors (e.g., temperature sensors, pressure sensors, etc.) configured to measure attributes of the supply airflow. AHU 106 can receive input from sensors located within AHU 106 and/or within the building zone and can adjust the flow rate, temperature, or other attributes of the supply airflow through AHU 106 to achieve setpoint conditions for the building zone.
Referring now to FIG. 2, a block diagram of a building automation system (BAS) 200 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. BAS 200 can be implemented in building 10 to automatically monitor and control various building functions. BAS 200 is shown to include BAS controller 202 and a plurality of building subsystems 228. Building subsystems 228 are shown to include a building electrical subsystem 234, an information communication technology (ICT) subsystem 236, a security subsystem 238, a HVAC subsystem 240, a lighting subsystem 242, a lift/escalators subsystem 232, and a fire safety subsystem 230. In various embodiments, building subsystems 228 can include fewer, additional, or alternative subsystems. For example, building subsystems 228 can also or alternatively include a refrigeration subsystem, an advertising or signage subsystem, a cooking subsystem, a vending subsystem, a printer or copy service subsystem, or any other type of building subsystem that uses controllable equipment and/or sensors to monitor or control building 10. In some embodiments, building subsystems 228 include a waterside system and/or an airside system. A waterside system and an airside system are described with further reference to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/631,830 filed Jun. 23, 2017, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.
Each of building subsystems 228 can include any number of devices, controllers, and connections for completing its individual functions and control activities. HVAC subsystem 240 can include many of the same components as HVAC system 100, as described with reference to FIG. 1. For example, HVAC subsystem 240 can include a chiller, a boiler, any number of air handling units, economizers, field controllers, supervisory controllers, actuators, temperature sensors, and other devices for controlling the temperature, humidity, airflow, or other variable conditions within building 10. Lighting subsystem 242 can include any number of light fixtures, ballasts, lighting sensors, dimmers, or other devices configured to controllably adjust the amount of light provided to a building space. Security subsystem 238 can include occupancy sensors, video surveillance cameras, digital video recorders, video processing servers, intrusion detection devices, access control devices and servers, or other security-related devices.
Still referring to FIG. 2, BAS controller 266 is shown to include a communications interface 207 and a BAS interface 209. Interface 207 can facilitate communications between BAS controller 202 and external applications (e.g., monitoring and reporting applications 222, enterprise control applications 226, remote systems and applications 244, applications residing on client devices 248, etc.) for allowing user control, monitoring, and adjustment to BAS controller 266 and/or subsystems 228. Interface 207 can also facilitate communications between BAS controller 202 and client devices 248. BAS interface 209 can facilitate communications between BAS controller 202 and building subsystems 228 (e.g., HVAC, lighting security, lifts, power distribution, business, etc.).
Interfaces 207, 209 can be or include wired or wireless communications interfaces (e.g., jacks, antennas, transmitters, receivers, transceivers, wire terminals, etc.) for conducting data communications with building subsystems 228 or other external systems or devices. In various embodiments, communications via interfaces 207, 209 can be direct (e.g., local wired or wireless communications) or via a communications network 246 (e.g., a WAN, the Internet, a cellular network, etc.). For example, interfaces 207, 209 can include an Ethernet card and port for sending and receiving data via an Ethernet-based communications link or network. In another example, interfaces 207, 209 can include a Wi-Fi transceiver for communicating via a wireless communications network. In another example, one or both of interfaces 207, 209 can include cellular or mobile phone communications transceivers. In one embodiment, communications interface 207 is a power line communications interface and BAS interface 209 is an Ethernet interface. In other embodiments, both communications interface 207 and BAS interface 209 are Ethernet interfaces or are the same Ethernet interface.
Still referring to FIG. 2, BAS controller 202 is shown to include a processing circuit 204 including a processor 206 and memory 208. Processing circuit 204 can be communicably connected to BAS interface 209 and/or communications interface 207 such that processing circuit 204 and the various components thereof can send and receive data via interfaces 207, 209. Processor 206 can be implemented as a general purpose processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a group of processing components, or other suitable electronic processing components.
Memory 208 (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device, etc.) can include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard disk storage, etc.) for storing data and/or computer code for completing or facilitating the various processes, layers and modules described in the present application. Memory 208 can be or include volatile memory or non-volatile memory. Memory 208 can include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present application. According to an exemplary embodiment, memory 208 is communicably connected to processor 206 via processing circuit 204 and includes computer code for executing (e.g., by processing circuit 204 and/or processor 206) one or more processes described herein.
In some embodiments, BAS controller 202 is implemented within a single computer (e.g., one server, one housing, etc.). In various other embodiments BAS controller 202 can be distributed across multiple servers or computers (e.g., that can exist in distributed locations). Further, while FIG. 2 shows applications 222 and 226 as existing outside of BAS controller 202, in some embodiments, applications 222 and 226 can be hosted within BAS controller 202 (e.g., within memory 208).
Still referring to FIG. 2, memory 208 is shown to include an enterprise integration layer 210, an automated measurement and validation (AM&V) layer 212, a demand response (DR) layer 214, a fault detection and diagnostics (FDD) layer 216, an integrated control layer 218, and a building subsystem integration layer 220. Layers 210-220 is configured to receive inputs from building subsystems 228 and other data sources, determine optimal control actions for building subsystems 228 based on the inputs, generate control signals based on the optimal control actions, and provide the generated control signals to building subsystems 228 in some embodiments. The following paragraphs describe some of the general functions performed by each of layers 210-220 in BAS 200.
Enterprise integration layer 210 can be configured to serve clients or local applications with information and services to support a variety of enterprise-level applications. For example, enterprise control applications 226 can be configured to provide subsystem-spanning control to a graphical user interface (GUI) or to any number of enterprise-level business applications (e.g., accounting systems, user identification systems, etc.). Enterprise control applications 226 can also or alternatively be configured to provide configuration GUIs for configuring BAS controller 202. In yet other embodiments, enterprise control applications 226 can work with layers 210-220 to optimize building performance (e.g., efficiency, energy use, comfort, or safety) based on inputs received at interface 207 and/or BAS interface 209.
Building subsystem integration layer 220 can be configured to manage communications between BAS controller 202 and building subsystems 228. For example, building subsystem integration layer 220 can receive sensor data and input signals from building subsystems 228 and provide output data and control signals to building subsystems 228. Building subsystem integration layer 220 can also be configured to manage communications between building subsystems 228. Building subsystem integration layer 220 translate communications (e.g., sensor data, input signals, output signals, etc.) across a plurality of multi-vendor/multi-protocol systems.
Demand response layer 214 can be configured to optimize resource usage (e.g., electricity use, natural gas use, water use, etc.) and/or the monetary cost of such resource usage in response to satisfy the demand of building 10. The optimization can be based on time-of-use prices, curtailment signals, energy availability, or other data received from utility providers, distributed energy generation systems 224, from energy storage 227, or from other sources. Demand response layer 214 can receive inputs from other layers of BAS controller 202 (e.g., building subsystem integration layer 220, integrated control layer 218, etc.). The inputs received from other layers can include environmental or sensor inputs such as temperature, carbon dioxide levels, relative humidity levels, air quality sensor outputs, occupancy sensor outputs, room schedules, and the like. The inputs can also include inputs such as electrical use (e.g., expressed in kWh), thermal load measurements, pricing information, projected pricing, smoothed pricing, curtailment signals from utilities, and the like.
According to an exemplary embodiment, demand response layer 214 includes control logic for responding to the data and signals it receives. These responses can include communicating with the control algorithms in integrated control layer 218, changing control strategies, changing setpoints, or activating/deactivating building equipment or subsystems in a controlled manner. Demand response layer 214 can also include control logic configured to determine when to utilize stored energy. For example, demand response layer 214 can determine to begin using energy from energy storage 227 just prior to the beginning of a peak use hour.
In some embodiments, demand response layer 214 includes a control module configured to actively initiate control actions (e.g., automatically changing setpoints) which minimize energy costs based on one or more inputs representative of or based on demand (e.g., price, a curtailment signal, a demand level, etc.). In some embodiments, demand response layer 214 uses equipment models to determine an optimal set of control actions. The equipment models can include, for example, thermodynamic models describing the inputs, outputs, and/or functions performed by various sets of building equipment. Equipment models can represent collections of building equipment (e.g., subplants, chiller arrays, etc.) or individual devices (e.g., individual chillers, heaters, pumps, etc.).
Demand response layer 214 can further include or draw upon one or more demand response policy definitions (e.g., databases, XML files, etc.). The policy definitions can be edited or adjusted by a user (e.g., via a graphical user interface) so that the control actions initiated in response to demand inputs can be tailored for the user's application, desired comfort level, particular building equipment, or based on other concerns. For example, the demand response policy definitions can specify which equipment can be turned on or off in response to particular demand inputs, how long a system or piece of equipment should be turned off, what setpoints can be changed, what the allowable set point adjustment range is, how long to hold a high demand setpoint before returning to a normally scheduled setpoint, how close to approach capacity limits, which equipment modes to utilize, the energy transfer rates (e.g., the maximum rate, an alarm rate, other rate boundary information, etc.) into and out of energy storage devices (e.g., thermal storage tanks, battery banks, etc.), and when to dispatch on-site generation of energy (e.g., via fuel cells, a motor generator set, etc.).
Integrated control layer 218 can be configured to use the data input or output of building subsystem integration layer 220 and/or demand response layer 214 to make control decisions. Due to the subsystem integration provided by building subsystem integration layer 220, integrated control layer 218 can integrate control activities of the subsystems 228 such that the subsystems 228 behave as a single integrated supersystem. In an exemplary embodiment, integrated control layer 218 includes control logic that uses inputs and outputs from a plurality of building subsystems to provide greater comfort and energy savings relative to the comfort and energy savings that separate subsystems could provide alone. For example, integrated control layer 218 can be configured to use an input from a first subsystem to make an energy-saving control decision for a second subsystem. Results of these decisions can be communicated back to building subsystem integration layer 220.
Integrated control layer 218 is shown to be logically below demand response layer 214. Integrated control layer 218 can be configured to enhance the effectiveness of demand response layer 214 by enabling building subsystems 228 and their respective control loops to be controlled in coordination with demand response layer 214. This configuration can reduce disruptive demand response behavior relative to conventional systems. For example, integrated control layer 218 can be configured to assure that a demand response-driven upward adjustment to the setpoint for chilled water temperature (or another component that directly or indirectly affects temperature) does not result in an increase in fan energy (or other energy used to cool a space) that would result in greater total building energy use than was saved at the chiller.
Integrated control layer 218 can be configured to provide feedback to demand response layer 214 so that demand response layer 214 checks that constraints (e.g., temperature, lighting levels, etc.) are properly maintained even while demanded load shedding is in progress. The constraints can also include setpoint or sensed boundaries relating to safety, equipment operating limits and performance, comfort, fire codes, electrical codes, energy codes, and the like. Integrated control layer 218 is also logically below fault detection and diagnostics layer 216 and automated measurement and validation layer 212. Integrated control layer 218 can be configured to provide calculated inputs (e.g., aggregations) to these higher levels based on outputs from more than one building subsystem.
Automated measurement and validation (AM&V) layer 212 can be configured to verify that control strategies commanded by integrated control layer 218 or demand response layer 214 are working properly (e.g., using data aggregated by AM&V layer 212, integrated control layer 218, building subsystem integration layer 220, FDD layer 216, or otherwise). The calculations made by AM&V layer 212 can be based on building system energy models and/or equipment models for individual BAS devices or subsystems. For example, AM&V layer 212 can compare a model-predicted output with an actual output from building subsystems 228 to determine an accuracy of the model.
Fault detection and diagnostics (FDD) layer 216 can be configured to provide on-going fault detection for building subsystems 228, building subsystem devices (i.e., building equipment), and control algorithms used by demand response layer 214 and integrated control layer 218. FDD layer 216 can receive data inputs from integrated control layer 218, directly from one or more building subsystems or devices, or from another data source. FDD layer 216 can automatically diagnose and respond to detected faults. The responses to detected or diagnosed faults can include providing an alarm message to a user, a maintenance scheduling system, or a control algorithm configured to attempt to repair the fault or to work-around the fault.
FDD layer 216 can be configured to output a specific identification of the faulty component or cause of the fault (e.g., loose damper linkage) using detailed subsystem inputs available at building subsystem integration layer 220. In other exemplary embodiments, FDD layer 216 is configured to provide “fault” events to integrated control layer 218 which executes control strategies and policies in response to the received fault events. According to an exemplary embodiment, FDD layer 216 (or a policy executed by an integrated control engine or business rules engine) can shut-down systems or direct control activities around faulty devices or systems to reduce energy waste, extend equipment life, or assure proper control response.
FDD layer 216 can be configured to store or access a variety of different system data stores (or data points for live data). FDD layer 216 can use some content of the data stores to identify faults at the equipment level (e.g., specific chiller, specific AHU, specific terminal unit, etc.) and other content to identify faults at component or subsystem levels. For example, building subsystems 228 can generate temporal (i.e., time-series) data indicating the performance of BAS 200 and the various components thereof. The data generated by building subsystems 228 can include measured or calculated values that exhibit statistical characteristics and provide information about how the corresponding system or process (e.g., a temperature control process, a flow control process, etc.) is performing in terms of error from its setpoint. These processes can be examined by FDD layer 216 to expose when the system begins to degrade in performance and alarm a user to repair the fault before it becomes more severe.
String Mapping
Referring now to FIG. 3, a block diagram of a string 300 including multiple acronyms mapped to a string 302 of multiple tags is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The models discussed herein can be utilized to translate strings of acronyms representing points similar to the string 300 into a set of tags, for example, the string 302. In some embodiments, the string 300 is a string of acronyms based on METASYS, BACnet, or BIM. The expansion of the string 300 into the tags can be the tags or tag-sets of BRICK.
In some embodiments, small devices such as sensors, sprinklers, low cost motors to and/or large devices such as HVAC devices, shading equipment, power generators, etc. are building entities represented in a string such as the string 300. In some embodiments, the entities are further spaces, e.g., rooms, floors, zones, buildings, etc. In some embodiments, the entities are users, operators, tenants, building managers, etc. In some cases, the acronyms used for representing the entities do not follow any standard guideline or naming convention. Instead, human operators may name device points or other entities subjectively by assigning the device points with an identifier (ID), a name, a type of the device, a location of the device, etc.
For example, for a string “2701FCU101 1-13N7E OFFICE DA-T,” it can be noted that “27” is a site name, “01” is a building number, “FCU101” is a device or a system name, “1-13N7E” is a device location, “OFFICE” is a space type, and “DA-T” is a discharge air temperature. The subjective naming of the string may make it difficult for some systems to map a string into tags. However, the systems and methods herein can utilize models that understand contextual information of the strings.
Referring now to FIG. 4, a block diagram illustrating many to many mappings between acronyms and tags is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Mappings between three acronyms 400, 404, and 410, i.e., “CO,” “CC,” and “Hz” are shown. The acronym 400 is mapped directly to a string 402, “building convention center,” for a particular building, building A. The acronym 404 is mapped to two separate strings for a building B, i.e., string 406, “building convention center” and string 408, “cooling_coil.” An acronym 410, “Hz,” can map to two separate strings for two separate buildings. For building A, the acronym 410 can map to the string 412, i.e., “frequency.” For building B, the acronym 410 can map to the string 414, i.e., “hazards.” Although the mappings are shown for different buildings, in some cases the mappings of FIG. 4 are for a single building.
As can be seen, building A and building B may use different acronyms for a string “building convention center.” For the building B, an acronym “CC” can map to two separate strings, the strings 406 and 408. Furthermore, for building A and building B, the acronym 410 may map to separate strings 412 and 414 respectively. This acronym to string mapping of FIG. 4 represents a many to many relationship. Contextual acronym string data can be used by the models described herein to appropriately map acronyms to strings even when a many to many relationship exists. The models described herein can understand the context of a string of multiple acronyms that form a “sentence.” Context may be neighboring acronyms, position of an acronym within a sentence, etc.
Some systems can utilize look-up tables and/or association tables, however, such mappings may not be able to handle many to many relationships. Some systems can utilize spelling correction software to translate acronyms into strings. However, acronyms such as ‘CO’ cannot be converted to “Building Convention Centre” as the acronym and tag do not have close association by spelling/characters. Furthermore, substring manipulation methods such as Fuzzy or Approximate string matching between an acronym and a predicted expansion using an edit distance is not accurate.
Therefore, in order to properly handle a many to many relationship, the systems described herein can be configured to utilize models that can map acronyms into tags based on contextual information of a string, e.g., based on other characters or acronyms within the strings. In some embodiments, the models can be probabilistic models. Probabilistic models may include CRF models. In some embodiments, the models can be deep learning models. Deep learning models may include LSTM sequence to sequence models.
Referring now to FIG. 5, a conditional random field (CRF) model 500 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The CRF model 500 can translate acronyms representing building points to tags. The CRF model 500 illustrates a model framework for building probabilistic models to segment and label sequence data. The CRF model 500 calculates a conditional probability distribution over a label sequence given an observation sequence rather than making any independence assumptions required by a Hidden Markov Model (HMM).
The CRF model 500 is an undirected graphical model whose nodes can be divided into two disjoint sets, X and Y, which are jointly distributed. The set of nodes X are represented as nodes 510-516 while the set of nodes Y are represented as the nodes 502-508. The CRF model 500 includes various edges between the nodes 502-516 representing the relationships between the various nodes 502-516. There can be any number, i, nodes of the sets X and Y. The set X is a random variable over data sequences to be labeled and Y is a random variable over corresponding label sequences. The CRF model 500, which is a discriminative framework, constructs a conditional model p(Y|X) from paired observation and label sequences, and do not explicitly model the marginal p(X).
The CRF model 500 can be mathematically defined as follows: letting G=(V,E) be a graph such that Y=(Yv)v∈V, so that Y is indexed by the vertices of G, then (X,Y) is a conditional random field, when conditioned on X, the random variables Yv obey the Markov property with respect to the graph: p(Yv|X,Yw,w≠v)=p(Yv|X,Yw,w˜v), where w and v are neighbors in G. In the context of point mapping, X is acronyms and Y is the corresponding expansions to be known. Greater details regarding probabilistic modeling and CRF modeling are described in Conditional Random Fields: Probabilistic Models for Segmenting and Labeling Sequence Data published on Jun. 28, 2001 to Lafferty et. al.
Referring now to FIG. 6, a block diagram of a CRF model 600 mapping acronyms of a string to corresponding tags, according to an exemplary embodiment. The CRF model 600 may be the same as, or similar to the CRF model 500. The CRF model 600 receives a string of acronyms as an input. Acronyms of the string can be divided up as acronyms 602-608 and applied as inputs to the nodes 510-516. The outputs 610-616 can be tags output via the nodes 502-508.
B-I-O (Beginning-Inside-Outside) encoding can be used for dividing up the string for input to the CRF model 600. The B-I-O encoding can identify and separate out unique acronyms from characters of a string. Some models can learn and/or identify the Beginning, the Inside, and the Outside of a text segments. For example, “ADS” is assigned as “A” to “B-server”, to “I-server” and “S” to “I-server.” Special characters such as the punctuations ‘,’ and ‘-’ if present can be assigned to “0” token. The CRF model 600 can make an assumption that the tag of a character only depends on its neighboring characters. The CRF 600 model for the character j: the jth character itself, (j−1)th character, (j−2)th character, (j+1)th character. In some embodiments, the acronyms that are applied as inputs to the CRF model 600 are based on an acronym vocabulary. Generating an acronym vocabulary is described in greater in detail with reference to FIG. 17.
Referring now to FIG. 7, a neuron 700 that can be used in a neural network is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. In a neural network, many neurons 700 can be used to generate an output from an input. The neuron 700 can be configured to include one or more input signals 702 and a neuron body 704. In some embodiments, the input signals 702 are provided by a particular data source. In other embodiments, the input signals 702 are provided by a previous neural network layer having one or more neurons 700. The neuron body 704 includes a series of weights assigned to each of the input signals 702 by which each input signal is multiplied in the neural network. The neuron body 704 also includes a summation operation which takes the product all input signals 702 and their associated weights and add them together. Furthermore, a single bias value, b, is assigned to each neuron 700 and added to the sum of all weighted input signals 702. The weights and bias values can vary between the neurons 700 used in a neural network. In some embodiments, the summation operation is defined as follows:
n=b+Σ x=1 R(p x ×w x)
The output of the summation operation and bias value is denoted as n in FIG. 7. The output, n, may then be provided as input to an activation function 706. The activation function 706 is a function applied to n for each neuron 700 in order to adjust the neuron activation level into some that range of values. In some embodiments, the activation function 706 is applied to the output, n, to transform the output into some real number between zero and one. In some embodiments, the activation function 706 is configured as a sigmoid function having the following form:
In another embodiment, the activation function 706 could be configured as a rectified linear unit function (ReLU) having the following form:
a=max(0,x)
In other embodiments, the activation function 706 could be some other linear or nonlinear function. The activation function 706 can be configured to create an activation level, a, within the desired range of real numbers. In some embodiments, the activation level of each neuron 700 is then provided as an input signal 702 to the neurons 700 of the next layer of the neural network. In some embodiments, the activation function 706 can be a tanh activation.
Referring now to FIG. 8, a LSTM S2S neural network 800 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. An LSTM is a type of RNN while S2S is an architectural form of neural network. The LSTM S2S neural network 800 is made of two main components, an encoder 802 and a decoder 804. The encoder 802 can receive an input sequence, i.e., sequence 810. The decoder 404 can generate the output sequence 808. Furthermore, the decoder can receive feedback of the output sequence 812 into the decoder 804 where the sequence 812 is at least a portion of the sequence 808.
The encoder 802 can be configured to transform a sequence into a vector which is passed to the decoder 804. More specifically, the encoder 802 can be configured to generate the vector based on the sequence 810. The decoder 804 can be configured to generate a sequence based on the vector of the encoder 802 (as well as other inputs). Both the encoder 802 and the decoder 804 can include multiple layers, i.e., layers 814-828. Each of the layers 814-828 can be LSTM layers and/or deep LSTM layers. Exemplary types of RNN layers are described with reference to FIGS. 9-10. Other types of layers may be GRU neural network layers.
As illustrated by FIG. 8, the input to layer 824 is the value “X” of the sequence 812 which is the output of the layer 822. Similarly, the output of the layer 824, “Y,” is the input to the layer 826. Furthermore, the output of the layer 826, “Z,” is the input of the layer 828. The data point can be a control point, an ambient condition data point (e.g., outdoor air temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.), energy usage of a campus or building, etc.
Referring now to FIG. 9, layers of a RNN 900 are shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The RNN 900 includes layers 902-906. The architecture of each of the layers 902-906 may be the same. The architecture is illustrated by the layer 904. Each of the layers 902-906 may receive an input, i.e., inputs 914-918 while each of the layers 902-906 can also generate an output 908-912. Each of the layers 902-906 may be chained together such that the output of each layer is fed into the next layer. In layer 904, the output of the layer 902 (the output 908) is fed into the layer 904 and is concatenated with the input 916. The result of the concatenation is passed through a tanh activation 920 which is subsequently passed out of the layer 904 to the layer 906, i.e., the output 910.
The architecture of the layers 902-906 allow for the RNN 900 to have memory, i.e., have persistence of outputs. However, while the RNN 900 may include memory, the memory may not be long term, i.e., the RNN 900 suffers from the vanishing gradient problem and encounters difficulty in learning long term. To address the effects of long term memory, an LSTM can be utilized.
Referring now to FIG. 10, a LSTM neural network 1000 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The LSTM neural network 1000 includes layers 1002-1006. The architecture of each of the layers 1002-1006 may be the same. The architecture is illustrated by the layer 1004. Each of the layers 1002-1006 may receive an input, i.e., inputs 1014-1018 while each of the layers 1002-1006 can also generate an output 1008-1012. Each of the layers 1002-1006 may be chained together such that the outputs of each layer is fed into the next layer. The layer 1004 can include neural network layers 1024, 1026, 1028, and 1034 which are shown as tanh and sigmoid activations respectively. Furthermore, the layer 1004 includes pointwise operations 1020, 1022, 1030, 1032, and 1036 which represent multiplication, addition, and tanh variously. Where multiple lines between layers come together in the layer 1004 represents concatenation. Greater details on RNN and LSTM networks and layer construction can be found in the publication “Understanding LSTM Networks” by Christopher Olah published on Aug. 27, 2015, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.
Referring now to FIG. 11, a block diagram of an LSTM S2S neural network 1100 mapping acronyms representing building entities to tags is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The LSM S2S neural network 1100 can be similar to the LSTM S2S neural networks described with reference to FIG. 8 and FIG. 10. The encoder 1101 can be configured to encode the acronyms 1142-1148 and pass the encoded acronyms to the decoder 1103. The decoder 1103 can decode the encoded acronyms into the tags 1150-1156. At least a portion of the output tags 1150-1156 (i.e., the tags 1150-1154) can be fed as input back into the decoder 1103. The decoder 1103 can operate based on the feedback to output the tags 1150-1156.
The encoder 1101 includes multiple layers 1102-1116. Furthermore, the decoder 1103 includes layers 1118-1140. The layers 1102-1140 can each be the same as, or similar to, the LSTM layers described in FIG. 10. However, in some embodiments, the layers 1102-1140 can be the same as or similar to the tanh layer as described in FIG. 9. In some embodiments, the layers 1102-1116 can be any type of neural network RNN layer.
A user can understand a word of a sentence based on their understanding of previous words in the sentence. This type of context learning has benefits such as associating nearby words. The LSTM S2S neural network 1100 can be configured to utilize context, i.e., other acronyms in a string, to classify a particular acronym. For example, for a string “AHU 01,” by associating “01” with “AHU,” the LSTM S2S neural network 1100 can predict “01” as “leftidentifier.” The memory cells of the LSTM S2S neural network 1100 can store information and each cell can transmits the information that it knows already to the successive cells. This provides the LSTM S2S neural network 1100 with contextual information for translating the acronyms to strings.
Referring now to FIG. 12, a block diagram of an LSTM S2S neural network 1200 is shown with an attention function 1213 mapping the acronyms 1142-1148 representing building points to tags 1150-1156, according to an exemplary embodiment. In FIG. 12, the encoder 1101 includes the attention function 1213. The attention function 1213 represents variable length acronyms in a fixed length vector, a context vector 1210.
In some cases, the LSTM S2S neural network 1100 performs with low accuracy, for example, if an acronym sentence input into the LSTM S2S neural network 1100 is long (e.g., includes more than a predefined amount of acronyms). This is due to the fact that the encoder 1102 compresses the acronym sentence (e.g., the acronyms 1142-1148) heavily during encoding causing errors at the end of the expansion sentence (e.g., the tags 1150-1156) while decoding by the decoder 1103. However, the errors resulting from compression can be resolved with an attention function 1213. The attention function 1213 utilizes a weighting mechanism for context learning that allows for long acronym sentences to be expanded into tags.
For a long acronym sentence, a part of the sentence can have semantic and syntactic context for the current expansion word that the LSTM S2S neural network 1200 is predicting (e.g., the tag 1150) for the prediction to be correct. Therefore, the attention function 1213 can be configured to provide importance to such subsequence context while the LSTM S2S neural network 1200 is making predictions by assigning higher weights to nearby acronyms and gradually lowering the weights as the LSTM S2S neural network 1200 moves outward of the acronym sentence. For example, in FIG. 12, an attention weight 1202 is an exemplary value of 0.5 while the attention weights 1204-1208 gradually decrease, i.e., are exemplary values 0.3, 0.1, and 0.1. The LSTM S2S 1200 including the attention function 1213 can improve expansion prediction effect as compared to the LSTM S2S 1100.
The attention function 1213 can be configured to compare the current target hidden state ht (the output of the layer 1126), with all the source states hs (the outputs of the layers 1110-1116) to derive attention scores. The attention scores can be determined as:
The attention function 1213 can be configured to apply a softmax function on the attention scores and compute the attention weights 1202-1208, one for each encoder layer (the layers 1110-1116). The attention weights 1202-1208 can be determines as:
The attention function 1213 can be configured to compute the context vector 1210 with the attention weights 1202-1208 as the weighted average of the source states (the outputs of the layers 1110-1116). The context vector 1210 can be determined as:
The attention function 1213 can be configured to combine the context vector with the current target hidden state (the output of the layer 1226) to yield the attention vector 1211. The attention function 1213 is configured to project the attention vector 1211 on a target vocabulary to weight the target vocabulary, i.e., the possible tags that the layer 1134 can output. The attention vector 1211 can be determined as:
αt =f(c t ,h t)=tanh(W c[c t ;h t])
Referring now to FIG. 13, a block diagram of a system 1300 including a building data labeler 1302 is shown, the building data labeler 1302 configured to perform fully automatic training of an LSTM model or a CRF model and map acronyms representing building points to tags based on the trained LSTM model or the trained CRF model, according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 is configured to train models for acronym to expansion translation either fully automatically or semi-automatically. The fully automatic training is described in FIG. 13 while the semi-automatic training is described in FIG. 14.
The fully automatic training may require a significant amount of training data but the translation for a new building is fully automatic, i.e., none of the data of a particular building, e.g., the building data site data 1330, needs to be manually labeled for training the model. The building data labeler 1302 can be configured to train the model with ground truth of acronyms and expansion pairs, e.g., the acronym strings 1326 and corresponding expanded strings 1328. The acronym strings 1326 may be the same as or similar to the string 300 while the expanded strings 1328 may be the same as or similar to the string 302. In some embodiments, the building training data 1324 automatically receive the acronym strings 1326 from various buildings while the expanded strings 1328 are manually labelled data by a user.
The system 1300 includes a user device 1334, the building data labeler 1302, building training data 1324, building site data 1330, and expanded strings 1322. The building data labeler 1302 can receive a selectin to perform fully automatic training from a user via the user device 1334. Based on the user selection, the building data labeler 1302 can train a translation model based on the building training data. With the trained model, the building data labeler 1302 can be configured to translate acronym strings 1332 of the building site data 1330 into the expanded strings 1322. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 can be similar to the BAS controller 202. In some embodiments, the BAS controller 202 can be configured to perform the operations of the building data labeler 1302.
The building data labeler 1302 includes a processing circuit 1304. The processing circuit 1304 includes a processor 1306 and a memory 1308. The processor 1306 can be implemented as a general purpose processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a group of processing components, or other suitable electronic processing components.
The memory 1308 (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device, etc.) can include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard disk storage, etc.) for storing data and/or computer code for completing or facilitating the various processes, layers and modules described in the present application. The memory 1308 can be or include volatile memory or non-volatile memory. The memory 1308 can include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present application. According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory 1308 is communicably connected to the processor 1306 via the processing circuit 1304 and includes computer code for executing (e.g., by the processing circuit 1304 and/or the processor 1306) one or more processes described herein.
The memory 1308 includes a training selector 1310, a fully automatic trainer 1312, a model selector 1314, and model(s) 1316. The training selector 1310 is configured to receive a selection from the user device 1334 to train the models 1316 to generate the trained models 1316 with a fully automatic or semi-automatic training method. The fully automatic trainer 1312 is configured to perform fully automatic training, in some embodiments. The semi-automatic training method is described with greater reference to FIG. 14. The user device 1334 may be similar to, or the same as, the client devices 248 described with reference to FIG. 2.
In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 can utilize the Google Neural Machine Translation engine to perform training on the LSTM S2S model 1318 and/or generate inferences with the LSTM S2S model 1318. The Google Neural Machine Translation engine, in some cases, utilizes python programming. In some embodiments, the Google Neural Machine Translation engine utilizes Keras as a front-end and Tensorflow as a backend for implementing the LSTM S2S model 1318.
The fully automatic trainer 1312 is configured to receive the building training data 1324, i.e., the acronym stings 1326 and the expanded string 1328. Each of the acronym strings 1326 may be linked to one of the expanded strings 1328. The expanded stings 1328 may represent a translation of one of the acronym strings 1326. The acronym strings 1326 an be received from various building systems while the expanded strings 1328 can be generated by a user based on each of the acronym strings 1326. The expanded strings 1328 can be generated by a user and provided by the user device 1334.
The fully automatic trainer 1312 can be configured to train at least one of the models 1316 based on the building training data 1324. The fully automatic trainer 1312 can train the LSTM S2S model 1318 and/or the CRF model 1320. The LSTM S2S model 1318 may be the same as or similar to the LSTM S2S model 1100 or the LSTM S2S model 1200. The CRF model 1320 can be the same as or similar to the CRF models 500 or 600 as described with reference to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 respectively.
For training the LSTM S2S model 1318, the fully automatic trainer 1312 can be configured to perform one or multiple different training algorithms, e.g., one-dimensional optimization, multidimensional optimization (e.g., gradient descent, Newton's method, conjugate gradient, quasi Newton, Levenberg Marquardt, etc.), and/or any other optimization algorithm. For training the CRF model 1320, the fully automatic trainer 1312 can be configured to perform gradient descent, the quasi-Newton method, and/or any other training algorithm.
The model selector 1314 can be configured to select between the LSTM S2S model 1318 and the CRF model 1320. Based on the selection, the fully automatic trainer 1312 can train the selected model and generate the expanded strings 1322 from the acronym strings 1332 based on the selected model. In some embodiments, the model selector 1314 can be configured to select between the LSTM S2S model 1318 and the CRF model 1320 based on a size of the building training data 1324. The size may be a number of the acronym strings 1326, a number of acronyms in the acronym strings 1326, a number of characters in the acronym strings 1326, etc.
Some models may perform better for larger or small data sets. For example, for a large data set, a size greater than a predefined amount, the model selector 1314 can select the LSTM S2S model 1318. For a small data set, a data set with a size less than the predefined amount, the model selector 1314 can select the CRF model 1320. Examples of the performance of LSTM and CRF models for various data set sizes are shown in FIGS. 18 and 19.
Referring now to FIG. 14, is a block diagram of a system 1400 including the building data labeler 1302 of FIG. 13 is shown, the building data labeler 1302 is configured to perform semi-automatic training of the LSTM S2S model 1318 or the CRF model 1320 and map acronyms representing building entities to tags based on the trained LSTM S2S model 1318 or the trained CRF model 1320, according to an exemplary embodiment.
The memory 1308 includes a semi-automatic trainer 1400. The semi-automatic trainer 1400 can be configured to train the models 1316 when no prior training data is available, i.e., the building data labeler 1302 is being deployed for a site and has not yet been trained. In some embodiments, the semi-automatic trainer 1400 can train the models 1316 with minimal training data from a new building, e.g., the building site data 1330.
The semi-automatic trainer 1400 can be configured to receive acronym strings 1332 of the building site data 1330 and divide the acronym strings 1332 into the training data 1406 and the classification data 1408. The training data 1406 can be used by the semi-automatic trainer 1400 to train the models 1316 while the classification data 1408 can be expanded into the expanded strings 1322 expansions based on the model(s) 1316 generated using the training data 1406.
The amount of the acronym strings 1332 for training the model(s) 1316 may be one percent of total acronyms of the acronym strings 1332. In some embodiments, the semi-automatic trainer 1400 includes a manual selector 1402 and a hierarchical clustering module 1404. The manual selector 1402 can be configured to receive a selection of strings of the acronym strings 1332 as the training data 1406 and an expanded string for each of the strings from a user via the user device 1334. In this regard, a domain expert can review the acronym strings 1332 via the user device 1334 and generate the selection of the training data 1406 based on user input provided by the user device 1334.
The hierarchical clustering module 1404 can be configured to perform automatic selection of the strings of the acronym strings 1332 for use as the training data 1406. A user, via the user device 1334 can provide expanded strings for each of the strings that the hierarchical clustering module 1404 selects for the training data 1406. In some embodiments, the hierarchical clustering module 1404 can be configured to cluster the acronym strings 1332 based on similarity and select representative strings from the clusters for the training data 1406. In some embodiments, the strings that are not selected for the training data 1406 are used as the classification data 1408 that the models 1316 classify into the expanded strings 1322.
The hierarchical clustering module 1404 can be configured to automatically select the minimal amount of data from the building site data 1330. The hierarchical clustering module 1404 can be configured to group similar sentences using intrinsic similarities in sensor metadata. The hierarchical clustering module 1404 can be configured to extract features from the acronym strings 1332 can group the strings according to the features. The features can indicate the same or similar acronyms and/or acronym patterns within the strings. The features can be based on operator given name, description, unit, and/or type.
In some embodiments, for a particular feature set, the hierarchical clustering model 1404 can generate a bag of words representation for each of the acronym strings 1332. The hierarchical clustering module 1404 can be configured to generate a similarity metric (e.g., a Manhattan distance) between sets of the acronym strings 1332 and cluster the acronyms based on least distance basis. The similarity metric can be a Manhattan distance, a cosine similarity, a Euclidean distance, etc.
Based on the clusters, the hierarchical clustering module 1404 can be configured to pseudo-randomly select one or a number of strings from each cluster. In some embodiments, the minimum number of selected acronym strings selected from each cluster is one. In some embodiments, therefore, if the hierarchical clustering module 1404 generates n number of clusters, a minimum set of the training data 1406 may be n strings. In some embodiments, the number of strings selected from each cluster is based on a total number of strings in each cluster, i.e., a proportion of strings are selected from each cluster.
In some embodiments, the hierarchical clustering module 1404 can be configured to determine a similarity distance for acronyms within each cluster as compared to each other. The hierarchical clustering module 1404 can be configured to select one of more sets of the acronym strings that are associated with a greatest similarity distance, i.e., are the most dissimilar. In some embodiments, the semi-automatic trainer 1400 trains the models 1316 with the same, or similar training algorithms with the training data 1406 as used by the fully automatic trainer 1312.
Referring now to FIG. 15, a flow diagram of a process 1500 of training a CRF model or a sequence to sequence neural network model and translating acronyms of a string to tags that can be performed by the building data labeler of FIGS. 13 and 14 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The process 1500 can be performed by the building data labeler 1302, the user device 1334, and/or the BAS controller 202. In some embodiments, any computing system or device as described herein can be configured to perform the process 1500. For exemplary purposes, the process 1500 is described with reference to the building data labeler 1302.
In step 1502, the building data labeler 1302 receives training data including acronyms of building entities and a label for each of the acronyms. In some embodiments, the training data is the building training data 1324 including the acronym strings 1326 and the expanded strings 1328. The acronym strings 1326 can include a sentence of acronyms and/or symbols. The expanded strings 1328 can indicate a sentence of tags that the sentence of acronyms and/or symbols expands into.
In step 1504, the building data labeler 1302 trains at least one of a CRF model or a LSTM S2S neural network model based on the training data received in the step 1502. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 trains the LSTM S2S model 1318 with the training data. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 can train and utilize a sequence to sequence neural network. For example, the neural network can be a recurrent neural network (RNN). For example, a long-short term memory (LSTM) sequence to sequence (S2S) neural network (a type of RNN) and/or any other type of RNN (e.g., a gated recurrent unit (GRU) neural network). In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 trains the CRF model 1320. In some embodiments, building data labeler 1302 can train any type of probabilistic model, e.g., be a Bayesian network, a hidden Markov Model (HMM), a maximum entropy Markov model (MEMM), etc.
In step 1506, the building data labeler 1302 receives acronym strings of a building describing entities of the building. For example, the acronym strings may describe points of the building, equipment of the building, spaces of the building, users of the building, etc. In step 1508, the building data labeler 1302 can receive acronym strings for a particular building for which translation into expanded tag strings is desired. In step 1508, the building data labeler 1302 labels acronyms and/or characters of the acronym strings received in the step 1506 by applying the acronym strings to at least one of the CRF model 1320 or the LSTM S2S neural network 1318 trained in the step 1504.
Referring now to FIG. 16, a flow diagram of a process 1600 is shown of performing semi-automatic training of a CRF model or a LSTM S2S neural network model and translating acronyms of a string to tags that can be performed by the building data labeler of FIG. 14, according to an exemplary embodiment. The process 1600 can be performed by the building data labeler 1302, the user device 1334, and/or the BAS controller 202. In some embodiments, any computing system or device as described herein can be configured to perform the process 1600. For exemplary purposes, the process 1500 is described with reference to the building data labeler 1302.
In step 1602, the building data labeler 1302 receives acronym strings of a building describing entities of the building. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 receives the building site data 1330 including the acronym strings 1332. In step 1604, the building data labeler 1302 receives an indication to select training data manually or automatically from a user. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 receives the indication from the user device 1334 via the training selector 1310.
In step 1606, the building data labeler 1302 determines whether to perform manual training or automatic training based on the indication received in the step 1604. In response to determining to perform the manual training, the building data labeler 1302 performs the steps 1608-1614. In response to determining to perform the automatic training, the building data labeler 1302 preforms the steps 1616-1622.
In step 1608, the building data labeler 1302 receives a selection from the user of training strings from the acronym strings of the building received in the step 1602. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 receives the selection of the strings from the user device 1334. The selection of the strings may be the training data 1406, i.e., the user may manually select what strings the user wants to use as the training data in the step 1608.
In step 1610, the building data labeler 1302 receives labels for the acronyms of the training strings from the user. For example, the labels may be expanded tag strings of the acronyms where the tags of the tag strings correspond to acronyms, characters, and/or character sets within the acronym strings. The training strings and the corresponding expanded tag strings can together form the training data 1406.
In step 1612, the building data labeler 1302 trains at least one of a CRF model or a LSTM S2S neural network model based on the labels for the acronyms of the training strings received in the step 1610. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 trains the LSTM S2S model 1318 with the training data 1406. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 can train and utilize a sequence to sequence neural network. For example, a sequence to sequence recurrent neural network (RNN), a long-short term memory (LSTM) sequence to sequence (S2S) neural network (a type of RNN), and/or any other type of RNN (e.g., a gated recurrent unit (GRU) neural network). In some embodiments, building data labeler 1302 can train any type of probabilistic model, e.g., be a Bayesian network, a hidden Markov Model (HMM), a maximum entropy Markov model (MEMM), etc.
In step 1614, the building data labeler 1302 can determine labels for the acronym strings of the building based on the CRF model or the LSTM S2S neural network model. The building data labeler 1302 can apply the acronym strings received in the step 1602 as the input to the CRF model and/or the S2S neural network. The acronym strings input to the CRF model and/or the LSTM S2S neural network model may be the remaining strings not selected for use in training. In some embodiments, the acronym strings for classification are the classification data 1408.
In step 1616, the building data labeler 1302 can generate one or more groupings of similar strings of the acronym strings of the building received in the step 1602. The building data labeler 1302 can generate the groupings by calculating a similarity metric between the acronym strings and group the strings that have a similarity metric greater than a predefined level. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 calculates a Manhattan distance between the acronym strings and groups strings together that have a Manhattan distance between each other less than a predefined amount.
In step 1618, the building data labeler 1302 receives labels for acronyms of representative strings for each of the one or more groups generated in the step 1616. The user may provide the labels for the acronyms of the representative strings, e.g., via the user device 1344. The representative strings may be selected from the groups generated in the step 1616 by the user via the user device 1344. In some embodiments, the representative strings are selected pseudo-randomly by the building data labeler 1302. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 selects strings from the groups that have a lowest similarity to other strings, for example, a greatest Manhattan distance.
In steps 1620, the building data labeler 1302 trains at least one of the CRF model or the LSTM S2S model based on the labels for the acronyms of the representative strings. In step 1622, the building data labeler 1302 determines labels for the acronym strings received in the step 1602 based on the trained CRF model or the trained LSTM S2S neural network model. The steps 1620-1622 may be similar to the steps 1612 and 1614.
Referring now to FIG. 17, a flow diagram of a process 1700 of forming an acronym vocabulary is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The process 1700 can be performed by the building data labeler 1302, the user device 1334, and/or the BAS controller 202. In some embodiments, any computing system or device as described herein can be configured to perform the process 1700. For exemplary purposes, the process 1700 is described with reference to the building data labeler 1302. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 is configured to generate a vocabulary.
In step 1702, the building data labeler 1302 receives acronym strings representing entities of a building. The entities can be equipment points, pieces of equipment, spaces of a building, users, etc. In step 1704, the building data labeler 1302 preprocesses the acronyms by removing any space in front of an acronym and/or by removing any special character such as dots, commas, etc.
In step 1706, the building data labeler 1302 can apply a segmentation model to the acronym strings to extract the acronyms from the acronym strings. For example, the segmentation model could be a neural network based model that outputs segments of the acronym strings, i.e., the acronyms of the acronym strings. In some embodiments, the building data labeler 1302 applies the subword-nmt package and utilizes the acronym output of the subword-nmt package and ignores the frequency term output of the subword-nmt package.
In step 1708, the building data labeler 1302 removes redundant acronyms from the acronyms and generates and acronym vocabulary. In step 1710, the building data labeler 1302 can repeat the steps 1704-1708 to expand the acronym vocabulary, i.e., by processing the acronyms through the segmentation model a second time to identify expansions of the acronyms.
In step 1712, the building data labeler 1302 can train models and/or infer tags from the acronym strings with the models based on the acronym vocabulary and/or the expanded acronym vocabulary. The building data labeler 1302 can use the acronym vocabulary to embed the acronym strings and use the embedded acronym strings to train the models (e.g., the LSTM S2S model 1318 and/or the CRF model 1320) and/or infer the expanded strings from embedded acronym strings with the trained models. In some embodiments, the training data for training the models is used to generate the acronym vocabulary, this avoids requiring any additional ground truth data.
Referring generally to FIGS. 18-19, the performance of the LSTM S2S model 1318 and the CRF model 1320 are compared for large training data sets and small training data sets. The charts 1800 and 1900 of FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate the analysis of data from three different sites. Table 1 illustrates the number of acronym sentences for reach of the sites. The acronym strings of the sites in table 1 can be used to evaluate the methods described herein at various training data volume and selected minimal ground truth.
TABLE 1
Public Data Set
Site Name
Number of Sentences
Site 1
2551
Site 2
1586
Site 2
1865
In some embodiments, a line-by-line accuracy metric and a word-by-word accuracy metric can be utilized as accuracy evaluation metrics to compare the performance of the LSTM S2S model 1318 and the CRF model 1320. The word-by-word accuracy metric is a global accuracy measure while the line-by-line accuracy metric accounts for accuracy even a single error while translating. The word-by-word accuracy metric is determined as:
The line-by-line accuracy metric is determined as:
where,
In some embodiments, the CRF model 1320 and the LSTM S2S model 1318 for point mapping can utilize a vocabulary of acronyms and expansions. The LSTM S2S model 1318 can utilize the vocabulary of acronyms for word embedding based on the frequency of vocabulary entries appearing in the training data. Generating a vocabulary is described in greater detail with reference to FIG. 17.
FIG. 18 includes a chart 1800 illustrating word-by-word and line-by-line accuracy for large training data sets for the CRF model and the LSTM model and FIG. 19 includes a chart 1900 illustrating word-by-word and line-by-line accuracy for small training data sets for the CRF model and the LSTM model is shown. To generate the test results of FIGS. 18-19, the building data labeler 1302 can divide the datasets of Table 1 into training, evaluation, and testing sets.
Each sentence of the datasets of Table 1 can be identified by a unique identifier. The building data labeler 1302 selected from 80 to 20 percent of the data sets as the training data by pseudo-randomly shuffling the unique identifier. The building data labeler 1302 can pseudo-randomly select the evaluation and testing sets at a fixed 10 percent.
In FIG. 18, if a large amount of data is available for model training, it can be seen from the chart 1800 that the LSTM model perform better than the CRF model. In chart 1800, it can be seen that LSTM word-by-word accuracy as well as line-by-line accuracy is higher than the word-by-word and line-by-line accuracies of the CRF model. The word-by-word accuracy of the LSTM ranges from 98% to 99% percent whereas the line-by-line accuracy of the LSTM ranges from 93% to 98% percent.
In some buildings, there is not a significant amount of ground truth data for use as a training set. In some cases, the building data labeler 1302 relies on small amount of training data for model generation. As described with reference to FIG. 14, the hierarchical clustering module 1404 of the building data labeler 1302 can perform a hierarchical clustering method to select the key minimal data as training set and generate the ground truth for that data set.
When applied to the data of Table 1, the hierarchical clustering module 1404 identified 407 clusters. The clustering is based on raw acronyms only, in some embodiments. The clusters can be sorted by the hierarchical clustering module 1404 based on the numbers of samples in each cluster in a descending order.
In some embodiments, one training sample is randomly selected from each cluster by the hierarchical clustering module 1404 accounting to maximum of 407 training data strings. This results in about 6.8% of total data of the dataset of the Table 1. A user, e.g., via the user device 1334, can manually label the training data strings for expansions to create ground truth for training.
Chart 1900 of FIG. 19 illustrates the accuracy results for several CRF and LSTM models. The training data of FIG. 19 may be one acronym string selected from a top twenty clusters ordered in descending order based on size. The testing data can be the remaining acronyms apart from the training data. As shown in chart 1900, there is a 97.08% word-by-word accuracy when 120 data points, i.e., 2% of total data, is used for training a CRF model. This shows the tremendous potential of automatically choosing a small amount of training data for training. Chart 1900 indicates that CRF outperforms LSTMs when the amount of training data is very small (e.g., less than a predefined amount). The CRF achieved 97.08% to 98.63% in word-by-word accuracy and 86.38% to 91.73% in line-by-line accuracy for the training data size of 7% to 2%.
As discussed above, there may be two methods for point mapping, a fully automatic method as can be performed by the fully automatic trainer 1312 and/or a semi-automatic method as can be performed by semi-automatic trainer 1400. In the fully automatic method, a large volume of history building data and their ground truth may be available for model generation. These models can be used to translate any new building acronyms to their expansions automatically. The LSTM neural network 1200 including the attention function 1213 can perform better in this circumstance. The LSTM neural network 1200 achieves a word-by-word accuracy of 98% to 99% whereas the line-by-line accuracy ranges from 93% to 98%.
In the semi-automatic method, a set of raw data is selected from a new building for human labeling to generate ground truth. This selection may result in a small volume of training data that can be used to generate machine learning models which in turn can translate all the remaining acronyms of the new building to expansions. The CRF can be a better method for semi-automatic point mapping. The CRF can achieve 97.08% to 98.63% in word-by-word accuracy and 86.38% to 91.73% in line-by-line accuracy for the smaller training dataset size of 2% to 7% of total building points. Table 2 summarizes the performance of the CRF and LSTM models for various data set sizes, i.e., the large data set illustrated in FIG. 18 and the small data set illustrated in FIG. 19.
TABLE 2
Model Performance
Training Data
Set Size
Model
Evaluation Results
Large
LSTM encoder
word-by-word
98.00%-99.00%
and decoder
accuracy
with attention
line by line
93.00%-98.00%
accuracy
Small
CRF
word-by-word
97.08%-98.63%
accuracy
line-by-line
86.38%-91.73%
accuracy
Configuration of Exemplary Embodiments
The construction and arrangement of the systems and methods as shown in the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, the position of elements can be reversed or otherwise varied and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions can be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method steps can be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions can be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems and program products on any machine-readable media for accomplishing various operations. The embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented using existing computer processors, or by a special purpose computer processor for an appropriate system, incorporated for this or another purpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products comprising machine-readable media for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing machines to perform a certain function or group of functions.
Although the figures show a specific order of method steps, the order of the steps may differ from what is depicted. Also two or more steps can be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variation will depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps and decision steps.
What is claimed is:
1. A building system comprising one or more memory devices configured to store instructions thereon that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:
receive training data comprising a plurality of acronym strings and a plurality of tag strings, the plurality of acronym strings including a plurality of acronyms and the plurality of tag strings including a plurality of tags, wherein a string of the plurality of tag strings is a translation of one acronym string of the plurality of acronym strings, wherein the plurality of acronyms represent a plurality of entities of a building; train a statistical model based on the training data; receive an acronym string for labeling, the acronym string comprising a particular plurality of acronyms; and generate a tag string for the acronym string with the statistical model, wherein the statistical model outputs a tag of the tag string for one acronym of the particular plurality of acronyms based on the one acronym and contextual information of the acronym string, wherein the contextual information includes other acronyms of the particular plurality of acronyms, wherein the statistical model implements a many to many mapping between the particular plurality of acronyms and a plurality of target tags.
2. The building system of claim 1, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to:
determine a number of strings of the plurality of acronym strings; compare the number of strings to a threshold level; and select the statistical model for translating the tag string from a group of available translation models including the statistical model and a neural network model in response to a determination that the number of strings is less than the threshold level.
3. The building system of claim 1, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive the training data from a training database, wherein the training data is based on data of one or more buildings and the tag string is associated with the building.
4. The building system of claim 1, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive a selection of a training function for training the statistical model from a user device, wherein the training function is at least one of:
a fully automatic training function wherein the statistical model is trained based on a training data set and inference with the statistical model is performed on a separate inference data set; or a semi-automatic training function wherein the statistical model is trained on a portion of the inference data set and inference with the statistical model is performed with a remaining portion of the inference data set.
5. The building system of claim 1, wherein the semi-automatic training function is at least one of a manual selection function or a clustering function, wherein the manual selection function includes receiving a selection of the portion of the inference data set from a user device, wherein the clustering function includes identifying the portion of the inference data set by clustering the inference data set.
6. The building system of claim 1, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to:
remove at least one of spaces or special characters from the plurality of acronym strings; apply a segmentation model to the plurality of acronym strings to identify the particular plurality of acronyms; generate an acronym vocabulary by removing redundant acronyms from the particular plurality of acronyms; and train the statistical model based on the training data and the acronym vocabulary.
7. The building system of claim 6, wherein the many to many mapping maps:
the one acronym of the particular plurality of acronyms to a first target tag when the contextual information is first contextual information and to a second target tag when the contextual information is second contextual information; and a different acronym of the particular plurality of acronyms to the first target tag based on other contextual information associated with the different acronym, wherein the one acronym and the different acronym include different characters.
8. The building system of claim 1, wherein the statistical model is a conditional random field (CRF) model.
9. The building system of claim 8, wherein the CRF model is a graph including a plurality of nodes and a plurality of edges between the plurality of nodes, the plurality of edges indicating conditional probabilities between the plurality of nodes, wherein each of the plurality of nodes represent a random variable;
wherein the plurality of nodes include a plurality of input nodes, each input node of the plurality of input nodes associated with a particular acronym of the plurality of acronyms; wherein the plurality of nodes include a plurality of output nodes, each output node of the plurality of output nodes associated with tags of the tag string.
10. The building system of claim 9, wherein each of the plurality of output nodes is connected by a first edge of the plurality of edges to one input node and one or more second edges of the plurality of edges to one or more neighboring output nodes of the plurality of output nodes.
11. The building system of claim 1, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to:
receive a set of acronym strings for the building for translation; select the plurality of acronym strings from the set of acronym strings; receive the plurality of tag strings from a user device, each of the plurality of tag strings being the translation of one of the plurality of acronym strings; train the statistical model based on the training data; and translate remaining acronym strings of the set of acronym strings with the statistical model.
12. The building system of claim 11, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive a manual selection of the plurality of acronym strings from the user device.
13. The building system of claim 11, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive the plurality of tag strings from the user device via user input provided by a user via the user device, the user input indicating tag translations of particular acronyms of the plurality of acronym strings.
14. The building system of claim 13, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to select the plurality of acronym strings from the set of acronym strings by:
determining a similarity metric between the strings of the set of acronym strings; generate a plurality of clusters by grouping the strings based on the similarity metric between the strings of the set of acronym strings; and select the plurality of acronym strings from the set of acronym strings by selecting one or more strings from each of the plurality of clusters.
15. The building system of claim 14, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to cause the user device to display the plurality of acronym strings to the user for manual translation.
16. A method comprising:
receiving, by one or more processing circuits, training data comprising a plurality of acronym strings and a plurality of tag strings, the plurality of acronym strings including a plurality of acronyms and the plurality of tag strings including a plurality of tags, wherein a string of the plurality of tag strings is a translation of one acronym string of the plurality of acronym strings, wherein the plurality of acronyms represent a plurality of entities of a building; training, by the one or more processing circuits, a statistical model based on the training data; receiving, by the one or more processing circuits, an acronym string for labeling, the acronym string comprising a particular plurality of acronyms; and generating, by the one or more processing circuits, a tag string for the acronym string with the statistical model, wherein the statistical model outputs a tag of the tag string for one acronym of the particular plurality of acronyms based on the one acronym and contextual information of the acronym string, wherein the contextual information includes other acronyms of the particular plurality of acronyms, wherein the statistical model implements a many to many mapping between the particular plurality of acronyms and a plurality of target tags.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the many to many mapping maps:
the one acronym of the particular plurality of acronyms to a first target tag when the contextual information is first contextual information and to a second target tag when the contextual information is second contextual information; and a different acronym of the particular plurality of acronyms to the first target tag based on other contextual information associated with the different acronym, wherein the one acronym and the different acronym include different characters.
18. The method of claim 16, further comprising
determining, by the one or more processing circuits, a number of strings of the plurality of acronym strings; comparing, by the one or more processing circuits, the number of strings to a threshold level; and selecting, by the one or more processing circuits, the statistical model for translating the tag string from a group of available translation models including the statistical model and a neural network model in response to a determination that the number of strings is less than the threshold level.
19. The method of claim 16, further comprising:
receiving, by the one or more processing circuits, a set of acronym strings for the building for translation; selecting, by the one or more processing circuits, the plurality of acronym strings from the set of acronym strings; receiving, by the one or more processing circuits, the plurality of tag strings from a user device, each of the plurality of tag strings being the translation of one of the plurality of acronym strings; training, by the one or more processing circuits, the statistical model based on the training data; and translating, by the one or more processing circuits, remaining acronym strings of the set of acronym strings with the statistical model.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein selecting, by the one or more processing circuits, the plurality of acronym strings from the set of acronym strings comprises:
determining a similarity metric between the strings of the set of acronym strings; generate a plurality of clusters by grouping the strings based on the similarity metric between the strings of the set of acronym strings; and select the plurality of acronym strings from the set of acronym strings by selecting one or more strings from each of the plurality of clusters.
21. The method of claim 16, wherein the statistical model is a conditional random field (CRF) model;
wherein the CRF model is a graph including a plurality of nodes and a plurality of edges between the plurality of nodes, the plurality of edges indicating conditional probabilities between the plurality of nodes, wherein each of the plurality of nodes represent a random variable; wherein the plurality of nodes include a plurality of input nodes, each input node of the plurality of input nodes associated with a particular acronym of the plurality of acronyms; wherein the plurality of nodes include a plurality of output nodes, each output node of the plurality of output nodes associated with tags of the tag string; wherein each of the plurality of output nodes is connected by a first edge of the plurality of edges to one input node and one or more second edges of the plurality of edges to one or more neighboring output nodes of the plurality of output nodes.
22. One or more storage medium configured to store instructions thereon that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:
receive training data comprising a plurality of acronym strings and a plurality of tag strings, the plurality of acronym strings include a plurality of acronyms and the plurality of tag strings include a plurality of tags, wherein a string of the plurality of tag strings is a translation of one acronym string of the plurality of acronym strings, wherein the plurality of acronyms represent a plurality of entities of a building; train a statistical model based on the training data; receive an acronym string for labeling, the acronym string comprising a particular plurality of acronyms; and generate a tag string for the acronym string with the statistical model, wherein the statistical model outputs a tag of the tag string for one acronym of the particular plurality of acronyms based on the one acronym and contextual information of the acronym string, wherein the contextual information includes other acronyms of the particular plurality of acronyms, wherein the statistical model implements a many to many mapping between the particular plurality of acronyms and a plurality of target tags.
| 2020-05-28 | en | 2021-12-02 |
US-201816173207-A | Highly isoselective catalyst for alkene hydroformylation
ABSTRACT
Ligands for use with catalyst compositions used in hydroformylation reactions are described herein. The ligands are used with various octofluorotoluene or hydrocarbon solvents and achieve an increase in isoselectivity with an increase in temperature, an increase in TON with an increase in temperature, and/or will show isoselectivity that is surprisingly high in comparison to the hydroformylation reactions using common solvents.
PARTIES TO JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT
Inventions disclosed or claimed herein were made pursuant to a Joint Research Agreement between Eastman Chemical Company and the University Court of the University of St. Andrews, a charitable body registered in Scotland.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
The hydroformylation reaction, also known as the oxo reaction, is used extensively in commercial processes for the preparation of aldehydes by the reaction of one mole of an olefin with one mole each of hydrogen and carbon monoxide. A particularly important use of the reaction is in the preparation of normal (n-) and butyraldehyde(iso-) from propylene. Both products are key building blocks for the synthesis of many chemical intermediates like alcohols, carboxylic acids, esters, plasticizers, glycols, essential amino acids, flavorings, fragrances, polymers, insecticides, hydraulic fluids, and lubricants.
At present, high n-selectivity is more easily achieved whereas achievement of high iso-selectivity remains challenging. Different approaches have been attempted throughout the years to tackle this problem, including the use of various ligands (Phillips, Devon, Puckette, Stavinoha, Vanderbilt, (Eastman Kodak Company), U.S. Pat. No. 4,760,194) and carrying out reactions under aqueous conditions (Riisager, Eriksen, Hjorkjaer, Fehrmann, J. Mol. Catal. A: Chem. 2003, 193, 259). The results have generally not been satisfactory, with either unimpressive iso-selectivity and/or because the reaction needs to be run at an undesirable temperature. The highest iso-selectivity reported was 63% in a reaction carried out at 19° C. (Norman, Reek, Besset, (Eastman Chemical Company), U.S. Pat. No. 8,710,275). However, in some instances this is not desirable because hydroformylation reactions conducted at lower temperatures may result in lower reaction rates, so carrying out the reaction at a higher temperature is generally preferred in industry. In this case, the iso-selectivity was reduced to 38% when the reaction was carried out at 80° C. Thus, there remains a need for catalysts with high iso-selectivity at temperatures above 19° C.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
According to an embodiment, the disclosure teaches a process for preparing at least one aldehyde under hydroformylation temperature and pressure conditions. The process includes contacting at least one olefin, which in some embodiments may be propylene, with hydrogen and carbon monoxide in the presence of at least one solvent and a transition metal-based catalyst composition, which in some embodiments may be rhodium based, that includes a phospholane phosphite ligand. The ligand is represented by the following general formula:
Wherein:
R1 and R2 are independently selected from substituted and unsubstituted, aryl, alkyl, aryloxy or cycloalkyl groups containing from 1 to 40 carbon atoms;
R3 and R4 are independently selected from substituted and unsubstituted, aryl, alkyl, alkoxy, trialkylsilyl, triarylsilyl, aryldialkylsilyl diarylalkylsilyl and cycloalkyl groups containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, wherein the silicon atom of the alkylsilyl is in the alpha position of the substituent; and
R5 is independently selected from H, or alkyl group.
In an alternative embodiment, the ligand is represented by the following general formula:
In alternative embodiments the process may be completed with phospholane phosphite ligands derived from achiral biphenol diol components. Representative examples include and are selected from the following ligands, (A) through (D), represented by their general formulas:
Regardless of ligand used, the process uses either fluorinated solvents which can be octofluorotoluene, or perfluorophenyl octyl ether or a hydrocarbon solvent which can be n-nonane, n-decane, n-undecane, or n-dodecane. The aldehyde product of the process comprising an iso-selectivity in some embodiments of about 55% to about 80%, about 55% to about 77%, about 58 to about 73%, about 60 to about 70%, or about 55% or greater.
In addition, the process operates in a pressure range in some embodiments of about 2 atm to about 80 atm, about 5 to about 70 atm, about 8 atm to about 20 atm, about 8 atm, or about 20 atm. The process also operates in a temperature range in some embodiments of about 40 to about 150 degrees Celsius, about 40 about 120 degrees Celsius, about 40 to about 100 degrees Celsius, about 50 about 90 degrees Celsius, about 50 degrees Celsius, about 75 degrees Celsius, or about 90 degrees Celsius.
The disclosure also provides transition metal-based catalyst composition which includes a phospholane phosphite ligand represented by the following general formula:
Wherein:
R1 and R2 are independently selected from substituted and unsubstituted, aryl, alkyl, aryloxy or cycloalkyl groups containing from 1 to 40 carbon atoms;
R3 and R4 are independently selected from substituted and unsubstituted, aryl, alkyl, alkoxy, trialkylsilyl, triarylsilyl, aryldialkylsilyl diarylalkylsilyl and cycloalkyl groups containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, wherein the silicon atom of the alkylsilyl is in the alpha position of the substituent; and
R5 is independently selected from H, or alkyl group.
In an alternative embodiment, the transition metal based catalyst composition which includes a phospholane phosphite ligand represented by the following general formula:
In yet another embodiment, transition metal-based catalyst composition which includes phospholane phosphite ligands derived from achiral biphenol diol components selected from the following ligands, (A) through (D), represented by their general formulas:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates the ligand compositions described herein.
FIG. 2 illustrates the synthesis of various ligands and chemical structures described herein
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
This disclosure provides for a hydroformylation process for preparing at least one aldehyde, which includes contacting at least one olefin with hydrogen and carbon monoxide in the presence of at least one solvent and a transition metal-based catalyst composition comprising a phospholane phosphite ligand. Representative phospholane phosphite may be prochiral or achiral compositions and are represented the following general formula:
Wherein:
R1 and R2 are independently selected from substituted and unsubstituted, aryl, alkyl, aryloxy or cycloalkyl groups containing from 1 to 40 carbon atoms; and
R3 and R4 are independently selected from substituted and unsubstituted, aryl, alkyl, alkoxy, trialkylsilyl, triarylsilyl, aryldialkylsilyl diarylalkylsilyl and cycloalkyl groups containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, wherein the silicon atom of the alkylsilyl is in the alpha position of the substituent
R5 is independently selected from H, or alkyl group.
Beginning with R1 and R2, in some embodiments, one or both of R1 and R2 are independently selected from substituted or unsubstituted aryl groups. In some embodiments, the aryl group substituent on R1, R2 or both is a substituted or unsubstituted naphthyl or phenyl group. In some embodiments, the aryl group substituent on R1, R2 or both is a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl group. In some embodiments, the aryl group on R1 and R2 or both is a substituted phenyl group, in which the substituent is independently selected. In some embodiments, the aryl group on R1 and R2 or both is a substituted phenyl group, in which the substituent is independently selected from trifluoromethyl, trichloromethyl, cyano, sulfonic acid ester groups, carboxylic acid groups, carboxylic acid ester groups, salts of carboxylic acids, salts of sulfonic acids, quaternary ammonium groups, halogen atoms and nitro groups. In some embodiments, the substituents on the R1 and R2 are the same. In some embodiments, the substituents on both R1 and R2 are trifluoromethyl. In some embodiments, the substitution on the phenyl group is in a meta position with respect to the phosphorus atom to which the phenyl group is bound.
In some embodiments the R3 and R4 groups are independently selected from alkyl and trialkysilyl groups having one to four carbons. In some embodiments, all of the R3 and R4 groups are methyl. In some embodiments, all of the R3 and R4 groups are tert-butyl or trimethylsilyl. In some embodiments, all of the R3 and R4 groups are tert-butyl. In some embodiments, both of the R3 groups are tert-butyl or trimethylsilyl and both of the R4 groups are methyl. In some embodiments, both of the R3 groups are tert-butyl both of the R4 groups are methyl.
Specific formulations are represented by numbers (1) through (3) throughout herein and include the following ligands:
Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as molecular weight, reaction conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present invention. At the very least, each numerical parameter should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Further, the ranges stated in this disclosure and the claims are intended to include the entire range specifically and not just the endpoint(s). For example, a range stated to be 0 to 10 is intended to disclose all whole numbers between 0 and 10 such as, for example 1, 2, 3, 4, etc., all fractional numbers between 0 and 10, for example 1.5, 2.3, 4.57, 6.1113, etc., and the endpoints 0 and 10.
Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are intended to be reported precisely in view of methods of measurement. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.
It is to be understood that the mention of one or more process steps does not preclude the presence of additional process steps before or after the combined recited steps or intervening process steps between those steps expressly identified. Moreover, the denomination of process steps, ingredients, or other aspects of the information disclosed or claimed in the application with letters, numbers, or the like is a convenient means for identifying discrete activities or ingredients and the recited lettering can be arranged in any sequence, unless otherwise indicated.
As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to a Cn alcohol equivalent is intended to include multiple types of Cn alcohol equivalents. Thus, even use of language such as “at least one” or “at least some” in one location is not intended to imply that other uses of “a”, “an”, and “the” excludes plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Similarly, use of the language such as “at least some” in one location is not intended to imply that the absence of such language in other places implies that “all” is intended, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
As used herein the term “and/or”, when used in a list of two or more items, means that any one of the listed items can be employed by itself, or any combination of two or more of the listed items can be employed. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B, and/or C, the composition can contain A alone; B alone; C alone; A and B in combination; A and C in combination; B and C in combination; or A, B, and C in combination.
The process described herein requires that an olefin is contacted with hydrogen and carbon monoxide in the presence of a transition metal catalyst and ligand. In an embodiment, the olefin is propylene. It also contemplated that additional olefins, such as, for example, butene, pentene, hexene, heptene, and octene could work in the process.
The resultant catalyst composition of the process contains a transition metal as well a ligand described herein. In some embodiments, the transition metal catalyst contains rhodium.
Acceptable forms of rhodium include rhodium (II) or rhodium (III) salts of carboxylic acids, rhodium carbonyl species, and rhodium organophosphine complexes. Some examples of rhodium (II) or rhodium (III) salts of carboxylic acids include di-rhodium tetraacetate dihydrate, rhodium(II) acetate, rhodium(II) isobutyrate, rhodium(II) 2-ethylhexanoate, rhodium(II) benzoate and rhodium(II) octanoate. Some examples of rhodium carbonyl species include [Rh(acac)(CO)2], Rh4(CO)12, and Rh6(CO)16. An example of rhodium organophosphine complexes is tris(triphenylphosphine) rhodium carbonyl hydride may be used.
The absolute concentration of the transition metal in the reaction mixture or solution may vary from about 1 mg/liter up to about 5000 mg/liter; in some embodiments, it is higher than about 5000 mg/liter. In some embodiments of this invention, the concentration of transition metal in the reaction solution is in the range of from about 20 to about 300 mg/liter. Ratio of moles ligand to moles of transition metal can vary over a wide range, e.g., moles of ligand:moles of transition metal ratio of from about 0.1:1 to about 500:1 or from about 0.5:1 to about 500:1. For rhodium-containing catalyst systems, the moles of ligand:moles of rhodium ratio in some embodiments is in the range of from about 0.1:1 to about 200:1 with ratios in some embodiments in the range of from about 1:1 to about 100:1, or from about 1:1 to about 10:1.
In some embodiments, catalyst is formed in situ from a transition metal compound such as [Rh(acac)(CO)2] and a ligand. It is appreciated by those skilled in the art that a wide variety of Rh species will form the same active catalyst when contacted with ligand, hydrogen and carbon monoxide, and thus there is no limitation on the choice of Rh pre-catalyst.
In additional embodiments, the process is carried out in the presence of at least one solvent. Suitable solvents include fluorinated solvents such as octofluorotoluene, or perfluorophenyl octyl ether or hydrocarbon solvents such as, for example, n-nonane, n-decane, n-undecane, and n-dodecane. It is also contemplated that other solvents may be used in combination with these solvents.
The disclosure further provides methods for the synthesis methods as generally described here and specifically described in the Examples below.
As for formulating the catalyst systems, no special or unusual techniques are required for preparing the catalyst systems and solutions of the present invention, although in some embodiments higher activity may be observed if all manipulations of the rhodium and ligand components are carried out under an inert atmosphere, e.g., nitrogen, argon and the like. Furthermore, in some embodiments it may be advantageous to dissolve the ligand and the transition metal together in a solvent to allow complexation of the ligand and transition metal followed by crystallization of the metal ligand complex as described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,308,527 which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Appropriate reaction conditions for effective hydroformylation conditions can be used as detailed in this paragraph. In some embodiments, the process is carried out at temperatures in the range of from about 40 to about 150 degrees Celsius, about 40 to about 120 degrees Celsius, about 40 to about 100 degrees Celsius, about 50 to about 90 degrees Celsius, about 50 degrees Celsius, about 75 degrees Celsius, or about 90 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the total reaction pressure may range from about 2 atm to about 80 atm, about 5 to about 70 atm, about 8 atm to about 20 atm, be about 8 atm, or be about 20 atm.
In some embodiments, the hydrogen:carbon monoxide mole ratio in the reactor may vary considerably ranging from about 10:1 to about 1:10 and the sum of the absolute partial pressures of hydrogen and carbon monoxide may range from about 0.3 to about 36 atm. In some embodiments, the partial pressure of hydrogen and carbon monoxide in the reactor is maintained within the range of from about 1 to about 14 atm for each gas. In some embodiments, the partial pressure of carbon monoxide in the reactor is maintained within the range of from about 1 to about 14 atm and is varied independently of the hydrogen partial pressure. The molar ratio of hydrogen to carbon monoxide can be varied widely within these partial pressure ranges for the hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The ratios of the hydrogen to carbon monoxide and the partial pressure of each in the synthesis gas (syngas-carbon monoxide and hydrogen) can be readily changed by the addition of either hydrogen or carbon monoxide to the syngas stream.
The amount of olefin present in the reaction mixture also is not critical. In some embodiments of the hydroformylation of propylene, the partial pressures in the vapor space in the reactor are in the range of from about 0.07 to about 35 atm. In some embodiments involving the hydroformylation of propylene, the partial pressure of propylene is greater than about 1.4 atm, e.g., from about 1.4 to about 10 atm. In some embodiments of propylene hydroformylation, the partial pressure of propylene in the reactor is greater than about 0.14 atm.
Any effective hydroformylation reactor designs or configurations may be used in carrying out the process provided by the present invention. Thus, a gas-sparged, liquid overflow reactor or vapor take-off reactor design as disclosed in the examples set forth herein may be used. In some embodiments of this mode of operation, the catalyst which is dissolved in a high boiling organic solvent under pressure does not leave the reaction zone with the aldehyde product taken overhead by the unreacted gases. The overhead gases then are chilled in a vapor/liquid separator to condense the aldehyde product and the gases can be recycled to the reactor. The liquid product is let down to atmospheric pressure for separation and purification by conventional technique. The process also may be practiced in a batchwise manner by contacting propylene, hydrogen and carbon monoxide with the present catalyst in an autoclave.
A reactor design where catalyst and feedstock are pumped into a reactor and allowed to overflow with product aldehyde, i.e. liquid overflow reactor design, is also suitable. In some embodiments, the aldehyde product may be separated from the catalyst by conventional means such as by distillation or extraction and the catalyst then recycled back to the reactor. Water soluble aldehyde products can be separated from the catalyst by extraction techniques. A trickle-bed reactor design also is suitable for this process. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other reactor schemes may be used with this invention.
For continuously operating reactors, it may be desirable to add supplementary amounts of the ligand (compound) over time to replace those materials lost by oxidation or other processes. This can be done by dissolving the ligand into a solvent and pumping it into the reactor as needed. The solvents that may be used include compounds that are found in the process such as olefin, the product aldehydes, condensation products derived from the aldehydes, and other esters and alcohols that can be readily formed from the product aldehydes. Example solvents include butyraldehyde, isobutyraldehyde, propionaldehyde, 2-ethylhexanal, 2-ethylhexanol, n-butanol, isobutanol, isobutyl isobutyrate, isobutyl acetate, butyl butyrate, butyl acetate, 2,2,4-trimethylpentane-1,3-diol diisobutyrate, n-butyl 2-ethylhexanoate, octofluorotoluene, perfluorophenyl octyl ether, n-nonane, n-decane, n-undecane, and n-dodecane. Ketones such as cyclohexanone, methyl isobutyl ketone, methyl ethyl ketone, diisopropylketone, and 2-octanone may also be used as well as trimeric aldehyde ester-alcohols such as Texanol™ ester alcohol (2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol mono(2-methylpropanoate)).
In some embodiments, the reagents employed for the invention hydroformylation process are substantially free of materials which may reduce catalyst activity or completely deactivate the catalyst. In some embodiments, materials such as conjugated dienes, acetylenes, mercaptans, mineral acids, halogenated organic compounds, and free oxygen are excluded from the reaction.
This invention can be further illustrated by the following examples of embodiments thereof, although it will be understood that these examples are included merely for purposes of illustration and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention unless otherwise specifically indicated.
EXAMPLES
Studies on rhodium-catalyzed propylene hydroformylation using (atropos,R,R,R)-1 ligand with different solvents and at different temperatures and pressures are reported in Table 1 (Comparative Examples), Table 2, Table 3 and Table 4. Both the iso- and n-aldehyde products were calibrated against an internal standard of 1-methylnaphthalene with gas chromatography (GC). The amount of both products from a reaction can be calculated to give the iso- to n-ratio and the productivity of the catalyst can be quantified using the turn over number (TON). TON refers to the relationship between the catalyst loading and the amount of product formed using the equation; TON=(iso-+n-aldehyde) (mmol)/[Rh(acac)(CO)2] (mmol). The relative reactivities of catalysts between reactions can then be compared. For a reaction carried out at 90° C., a single charge of gas (10% propylene, 45% CO, 45% H2) at a pressure of 20 bar, in the equipment used, the maximum TON, corresponding to 100% conversion, is ˜1450. Reactions described here at different pressure and temperature will have different maximum theoretical turnover numbers. Moderate iso-selectivities were achieved (<60%) when the reactions were carried out in common solvents such as toluene, as shown in Table 1. An increase in iso-selectivity was observed when a lower pressure was applied. An increase in reaction temperature also lead to a decrease in iso-selectivity.
TABLE 1
Propylene hydroformylation using (atropos,R,R,R)-1
in common solvents
Temp
Pressure
Time
%
Ex.
Solvent
(° C.)
(atm)
(hr)
TON
iso
1
Toluene
50
8
16
784
57.2
2
Toluene
50
20
16
1348
54.5
3
Toluene
75
8
1
512
56.4
4
Toluene
75
20
1
1131
53.3
5
Toluene
90
8
1
500
56.0
6
Toluene
90
20
1
782
48.9
7
n-Pentanal
50
8
16
122
54.1
8
Chlorobenzene
50
8
16
755
56.5
9
Texanol
50
8
16
692
48.3
L:Rh = 1.25:1
In Table 1, propylene hydroformylation using (atropos,R,R,R)-1 ligand/Rh showed higher iso-selectivity when the reaction was carried out at lower temperature and lower pressure as predicted in conventional solvents. These conditions were not favorable for industry as industry prefers to operate reactions at higher temperatures and achieve either higher TON or higher isoselectivity. Hence, alternative solvents were required to accommodate industrially relevant conditions. Additionally, the common solvents utilized do not demonstrate isoselectivity above 57%.
In contrast, Tables 2, 3 and 4 below will show, in some cases, an increase in isoselectivity with an increase in temperature, an increase in TON with an increase in temperature, and/or will show isoselectivity that is surprisingly high in comparison to the propylene hydroformylation results in Table 1 using (atropos,R,R,R)-1 ligand in common solvents.
TABLE 2
Propylene hydroformylation using octofluorotoluene
solvent using (atropos,R,R,R)-1 ligand
Temp
Pressure
Time
%
Ex.
Solvent
(° C.)
(atm)
(hr)
TON
iso
10
Octafluorotoluene
50
8
16
788
76.7
11
Octafluorotoluene
75
8
1
490
73.4
12
Octafluorotoluene
75
20
1
1020
58.8
13
Octafluorotoluene
90
8
1
550
64.7
14
Octafluorotoluene
90
20
1
1447
55.1
L:Rh = 1.25:1
TABLE 3
Propylene hydroformylation using perfluorophenyl
octyl ether solvent using (atropos,R,R,R)-1 ligand
Temp
Pressure
Time
%
Ex.
Solvent
(° C.)
(atm)
(hr)
TON
iso
15
Perfluorophenyl
90
20
1
1257
66.7
octyl ether
16
Perfluorophenyl
75
20
1
674
70.3
octyl ether
17
Perfluorophenyl
50
8
16
608
73.6
octyl ether
L:Rh 1.25:1
TABLE 4
Propylene hydroformylation using hydrocarbon
solvents using (atropos,R,R,R)-1 ligand
Temp
Pressure
Time
%
Ex.
Solvent
(° C.)
(atm)
(hr)
TON
iso
18
n-nonane
50
8
16
624
70.4
19
n-nonane
90
20
1
1150
61.7
20
n-decane
50
8
16
641
70.8
21
n-decane
90
20
1
1335
54.2
22
n-undecane
50
8
16
640
70.8
23
n-undecane
75
8
1
442
66.4
24
n-undecane
75
20
1
680
68.3
25
n-undecane
82
20
1
887
66.7
26
n-undecane
90
8
1
508
61.2
27
n-undecane
90
20
1
1276
62.7
28
n-dodecane
50
8
16
675
70.3
29
n-dodecane
90
20
1
1497
60.1
L:Rh = 1.25:1
(atropos,R,R,R)-1 Ligand 1 is enantiomerically pure and therefore requires a lengthy synthesis and separation of enantiomers since it was designed for the hydroformylation of prochiral alkenes. For achiral propene, a ligand that is not enantiomerically pure would be economically attractive. Ligand 1 derivatives with reduced chirality elements were designed to reduce the synthetic cost.
Ligands 2 and 3 are derived from a diol, which rather than using a single enantiomer with axial chirality, described as atropos (tropos is Greek to turn; atropos—not to turn) as in ligand 1, make use of a tropos diol that that is not configurationally stable. Since resolution of enantiomer is not necessary, this type of diol is obtainable at significantly lower cost and more readily available. Tropos, trans-2 and tropos, trans-3 not only contain the phosphite unit derived from the achiral diol, but feature a phospholane ring that is a single trans diastereoisomer, but racemic (i.e. (R,R)/(S,S)), further reducing cost and increasing synthetic accessibility. Different isomers of these ligands (ligands 2 and 3) were tested and the results are shown in Tables 5 and 6.
Ligands that are not enantiomerically pure (Ligands 2 and 3) when used in octofluorotoluene or perfluorophenyl ether or a hydrocarbon as a solvent also give high iso-selectivity and in Tables 5 and 6 below either demonstrate an increase in isoselectivity with an increase in temperature or an increase in TON with an increase in temperature.
TABLE 5
Propylene hydroformylation using ligands 2 and 3 using L:Rh of 1.25:1
Pres-
Temp
sure
Time
%
Ex.
Ligand
Solvent
(° C.)
(atm)
(hr)
TON
iso
30
(tropos,R,R)-2
Octafluorotoluene
50
8
16
591
69.5
31
(tropos,R,R)-2
Octafluorotoluene
75
8
1
446
59.9
32
(tropos,R,R)-2
n-Undecane
75
20
1
905
64.9
33
(tropos,R,R)-2
n-Undecane
90
20
1
1364
58.8
34
(tropos,trans)-2
Octafluorotoluene
50
8
16
573
71.9
35
(tropos,trans)-2
n-Undecane
75
20
1
1399
52.4
36
(tropos,trans)-2
n-Undecane
90
20
1
1438
54.5
37
(tropos,meso)-2
Octafluorotoluene
50
8
16
712
50.3
38
(tropos,meso)-2
n-Undecane
75
20
1
985
49.3
39
(tropos,R,R)-3
Octafluorotoluene
50
8
16
666
73.4
40
(tropos,R,R)-3
n-Undecane
75
20
1
1341
53.1
41
(tropos,R,R)-3
n-Undecane
90
20
1
1405
57.2
42
(tropos,trans)-3
Octafluorotoluene
50
8
16
670
53.8
43
(tropos,trans)-3
n-Undecane
75
20
1
1465
53.5
44
tropos,trans)-3
n-Undecane
90
20
1
1506
54.7
45
(tropos,meso)-3
Octafluorotoluene
50
8
16
487
51.9
46
(tropos,meso)-3
n-Undecane
75
20
1
1081
48.5
L:Rh = 1.25:1
TABLE 6
Propylene hydroformylation using ligands 2 and 3 using L:Rh of 2:1
Pres-
Temp
sure
Time
%
Ex.
Ligand
Solvent
(° C.)
(atm)
(hr)
TON
iso
47
(tropos,R,R)-2
n-Undecane
75
20
1
877
67.9
48
(tropos,R,R)-2
Perfluorophenyl
75
20
1
748
67.8
octyl ether
49
(tropos,trans)-3
Octafluorotoluene
50
8
16
922
74.2
50
(tropos,trans)-3
n-Undecane
75
20
1
935
66.8
51
(tropos,trans)-3
n-Undecane
90
20
1
1241
64.3
52
(tropos,trans)-3
Perfluorophenyl
75
20
1
898
60.7
octyl ether
A diasteromerically pure but racemic mixture ligand ((atropos,R,R,R)-1/(atropos,S,S,S)-1) when used in a hydrocarbon as a solvent also give high iso-selectivity as shown in Table 7.
TABLE 7
Propylene hydroformylation using ((atropos,R,R,R)-1/
(atropos,S,S,S)-1) ligand
Temp
Pressure
Time
%
Ex.
Solvent
(° C.)
(atm)
(hr)
TON
iso
53
n-Undecane
90
20
1
1322
64.6
54
n-Undecane
75
20
1
818
67.9
L:Rh = 1.25:1
Examples of hydroformylation reactions utilizing the ligands disclosed herein are further described below as well as the synthesis of various ligands and chemical structures described herein.
All manipulations were carried out under an inert atmosphere of nitrogen or argon using standard Schlenk techniques. Dry and degassed solvents were obtained from a solvent still or SPS solvent purification system. Triethylamine and CDCl3 were dried and degassed before use. n-pentanal, chlorobenzene, toluene, octofluorotoluene, perfluorophenyl octyl ether, n-nonane, n-decane, n-undecane, n-dodecane, 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol monoisobutyrate, were degassed only before use. All chemicals, unless specified, were purchased commercially and used as received. CO/H2 (1:1) and propylene/CO/H2 (10:45:45) were obtained pre-mixed from BOC.
NMR spectra were recorded on a Bruker Advance 300, 400 or 500 MHz instrument. Proton chemical shifts are referenced to internal residual solvent protons. Carbon chemical shifts are referenced to the carbon signal of the deuterated solvent. Signal multiplicities are given as s (singlet), d (doublet), t (triplet), q (quartet), m (multiplet), br.s (broad singlet) or a combination of the above. Where appropriate coupling constants (J) are quoted in Hz and are reported to the nearest 0.1 Hz. All spectra were recorded at room temperature and the solvent for a spectrum is given in parentheses. NMR of compounds containing phosphorus were recorded under an inert atmosphere in dry and degassed solvent.
Mass spectrometry was performed on a Micromass GCT spectrometer, Micromass LCT spectrometer, Waters ZQ4000, Thermofisher LTQ Orbitrap XL or Finnigan MAT 900 XLT instruments.
Gas chromatography was performed on an Agilent Technologies 7820A machine.
Flash column chromatography was performed using dry and degassed solvents under an inert atmosphere using either Merck Geduran Si 60 (40-63 μm) silica gel or Sigma Aldrich activated neutral Brockmann I alumina.
Thin layer chromatographic (TLC) analyses were carried out using POLYGRAM SIL G/UV254 or POLYGRAM ALOX N/UV254 plastic plates. TLC plates were visualized using a UV visualizer or stained using potassium permanganate dip followed by gentle heating. Preparative TLC was performed on aluminum oxide glass plates with fluorescent indicator 254 nm.
General Procedure for Hydroformylations:
Hydroformylation reactions were carried out in Parr 4590 Micro Bench Top Reactors, having a volume capacity of 0.1 L, an overhead stirrer with gas entrainment head (set to 1200 RPM), temperature controls, pressure gauge and the ability to be connected to a gas cylinder.
The following general procedures were followed in each experiment.
[Rh(acac)(CO)2] stock solution was prepared by dissolving 10.0 mg of [Rh(acac)(CO)2] in 5.0 mL of toluene.
In a Schlenk flask under N2 (or Argon) an appropriate ligand (6.40 μmo1 or 10.24 μmo1), along with 0.65 mL of rhodium catalyst solution containing 5.12 μmol of [Rh(acac)(CO)2] from the above stock solution and internal standard (1-methylnaphthalene) (0.1 mL) were dissolved in 19.35 mL of appropriate solvent to result in a molar ratio of Rh:ligand of 1:1.25 or Rh:ligand of 2.
An empty autoclave was sealed and flushed 3 times with 5-10 atm syngas (CO/H2 1:1), which was released to 1 atm each time. Then 20 mL of the solution from the Schlenk flask was added via the injection port. The resulting catalyst solution was activated by stirring at reaction temperatures and pressures specified in Tables 1-7 using syngas for one hour. The autoclave pressure was released and re-pressurized with propylene/CO/Hz (10:45:45) gas mix. The reaction was left stirring at reaction temperature for a length of time specified in the tables. After completion of the reaction the reactor was cooled to room temperature and the reactor pressure was released. The sample was then analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) with both isomers calibrated against 1-methylnaphthalene as an internal standard. GC results were used to determine the TOF (or TON when reaction time was longer than one hour) and iso-selectivity, which is the percentage of isobutyraldehyde to total butyraldehydes products.
Ligands Synthesis:
(atropos,R,R,R)-1 ligand was synthesized following literature procedures (Noonan, Fuentes, Cobley, Clarke, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2012, 51, 2477) herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Synthesis of 3,3′-di-tert-butyl-5,5′-dimethoxy-1,1′-biphenyl-2,2′-diol 5
The commercially available 2-(tert-butyl)-4-methoxyphenol 4 (2.00 g, 11.10 mmol) was dissolved in methanol (60 mL). To this was added a solution of potassium hydroxide (1.25 g, 22.19 mmol) and potassium ferricyanide (3.65 g, 11.10 mmol) in water (60 mL) slowly, over a period of 1 hour. Upon addition, the reaction was stirred at room temperature for 1 hour. The reaction mixture was partitioned between ethyl acetate (100 mL) and water (40 mL). The organic products were collected and the aqueous layer was washed with ethyl acetate (2×50 mL). The organic products in ethyl acetate/methanol were combined, washed with brine, dried using magnesium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo. The resultant solid was washed with hexane to afford compound 5 as a white solid (1.31 g, 3.65 mmol, 66%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 400 MHz) δ 6.99 (d, J=3.1 Hz, 2H, 2×Ar-H), 6.66 (d, J=3.1 Hz, 2H, 2×Ar-H), 5.07 (s, 2H, 2×OH), 3.80 (s, 6H, 2×O—CH3), 1.46 (s, 18H, 2×C(CH3)3). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 101 MHz) δ 153.20 (s, 2C, 2×ArC—OCH3), 145.90 (s, 2C, 2×ArC—OH), 138.94 (s, 2C, 2×ArC—C(CH3)3), 123.21 (s, 2C, 2×ArC—ArC), 115.28 (s, 2C, 2×ArCH), 111.75 (s, 2C, 2×ArCH), 55.75 (s, 2C, 2×O—CH3), 35.19 (s, 2C, 2×C(CH3)3), 29.51 (s, 6C, 2×C(CH3)3). HRMS (ES+) C22H30O4— [M+Na]+ m/z: 381.2028 found, 381.2042 required.
(trans-Rac)-6 and (R,R)-6 were synthesized following literature procedures (Noonan, Fuentes, Cobley, Clarke, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2012, 51, 2477).
Synthesis of borane-protected-((meso)-2,5-diphenylphospholane 10, (meso)-10
Compound (meso)-10 was synthesized following literature procedures (L. Hintermann, M. Schmitz, O. V. Maltsev, P. Naumov, Synthesis, 2013, 45, 308-325) herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Unless stated otherwise, the procedure was carried out under Ar. Compound (meso)-9 (0.66 g, 2.43 mmol) was suspended in toluene (10 mL) and phenylsilane (0.52 g, 4.86 mmol) was added and the mixture was heated to reflux for 16 hours. The reaction was allowed to cool to room temperature and borane dimethyl sulfide complex (0.23 mL, 2.43 mmol) was added and the reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 24 hours. The reaction mixture was filtered through a short pad of silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm), eluted with toluene. The filtrate was concentrated in vacuo to afford a crude solid. The crude product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm) using 0-5% diethyl ether in hexane as eluent to afford compound (meso)-10 as a white solid (0.31 g, 1.20 mmol, 49%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 500 MHz) δ 9.71 (s, 1H, POOH), 7.26-7.08 (m, 10H, Ar—H), 3.33-3.02 (m, 2H, 2×P—CH—Ar), 2.45-2.18 (m, 4H, 2×CH—CH2). 13C NMR (101 MHz, CDCl3) δ 135.90 (s, 2C, ArC), 128.36 (s, 2C, ArCH), 128.35 (s, 2C, ArCH), 128.14 (s, 2C, ArCH), 128.09 (s, 2C, ArCH), 126.57 (s, ArCH), 126.55 (s, ArCH), 43.18 (d, J=86.0 Hz, 2C, CH—P), 27.95 (s, CH—CH2), 27.80 (s, CH—CH2). 31P{1H} NMR (CDCl3, 126 MHz) δ8.0.
Synthesis of borane-protected-((meso)-2,5-diphenylphospholan-1-yl)methanol 6, (meso)-6
Compound (meso)-6 was synthesized following literature procedures (L. Hintermann, M. Schmitz, O. V. Maltsev, P. Naumov, Synthesis, 2013, 45, 308-325).
Compound (meso)-10 (0.31 g, 1.20 mmol) and paraformaldehyde (0.43, 14.43 mmol) were suspended in methanol (15 mL). A solution of potassium hydroxide (0.24 g, 4.21 mmol) in methanol (15 mL) was added slowly. The reaction mixture was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was partitioned between ethyl acetate (100 mL) and water (100 mL). The organic products were collected and the aqueous layer was washed with ethyl acetate (2×50 mL). The organic products in ethyl acetate/methanol were combined, washed with brine, dried using magnesium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo. The crude product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm) using 20% hexane in dichloromethane as eluent to afford compound (meso)-6 as a white solid (0.25 g, 0.89 mmol, 89%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 400 MHz) δ 7.52-7.26 (m, 10H, Ar—H), 3.84 (q, J=7.8, 7.0 Hz, 2H, O—CH2—P), 3.38 (s, 2H), 2.87-2.66 (m, 2H, 2×P—CH—Ar), 2.51 (m, 2.7 Hz, 2H, 2×Ar—CH—CH2), 0.64 (s, 3H, BH3). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 101 MHz) δ 136.11 (s, ArC), 136.06 (s, ArC), 129.02 (m, 4C, ArCH), 127.39 (m, 6C, ArCH), 56.21 (d, J=28.3 Hz, O—CH2—P), 44.13 (d, J=26.8 Hz, 2C, CH—P), 31.37 (s, 2C, CH—CH2). 31p{1H} NMR (CDCl3, 126 MHz) δ 49.2 (d, J=61.9 Hz).
Synthesis of 4,8-di-tert-butyl-6-(((meso)-2,5-diphenylphospholan-1-yl)methoxy)-2,10-dimethoxydibenzo[d,f][1,3,2]dioxaphosphepine 2, (tropos,meso)-2
Unless stated otherwise, the procedure was carried out under Ar. Diphenol 5 (0.20 g, 0.56 mmol) was suspended in toluene (7 mL) and triethylamine (0.19 mL, 1.35 mmol) was added. The solution was then cooled to 0° C., before a solution of phosphorus tribromide (0.06 mL, 0.68 mmol) in toluene (4 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. Insoluble salts were filtered out via cannula and the filtrate was concentrated in vacuo. The resultant solid was dissolved in toluene (5 mL) and added to a solution of compound (meso)-6 (0.16 g, 0.56 mmol) in toluene (5 mL). 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (0.32 g, 2.82 mmol) in toluene (5 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was filtered through a short pad of silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm), eluted with toluene. The filtrate was concentrated in vacuo to afford a crude solid. The crude product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm, pretreated with a solution of 95:5 toluene:triethylamine) using 0-10% diethyl ether in hexane as eluent under N2, followed by preparative TLC with alumina on glass plates (neutral) using 15% diethyl ether in hexane as eluent to afford compound (tropos,meso)-2 as a white solid (0.12 g, 0.19 mmol, 33%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 500 MHz) δ 7.27-7.20 (m, 8H, Ar—H), 7.19-7.11 (m, 2H, Ar—H), 6.87 (d, J=3.1 Hz, 2H, Ar—H), 6.61 (d, J=3.1 Hz, 2H, Ar—H), 3.86 (s, 6H, 2×O—CH3), 3.75 (m, 2H, 2×O—CH2—P), 3.62 (d, J=5.7 Hz, 2H, 2×Ar—CH—CH2), 2.34 (m, 4H, 2×Ar—CH—CH2), 1.34 (s, 18H, 6×CH3). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 101 MHz) δ 155.17 (s, 2C, ArC—OCH3), 142.22 (m, 2C, ArC—O—P), 141.93 (s, 2C, ArC—CCH3), 138.98 (s, 2C, ArC), 133.12 (m, 2C, ArC—CH—P), 128.48 (s, 4C, ArCH), 127.39 (s, 2C, ArCH), 127.35 (s, 2C, ArCH), 125.96 (s, 2C, ArCH), 114.41 (s, 2C, ArCH), 112.49 (s, 2C, ArCH), 58.84 (d, J=19.8 Hz, O—CH2—P), 55.53 (s, 2C, OCH3), 46.04 (d, J=16.9 Hz, 2C, CH—P), 35.23 (s, 2C, ArC—C(CH3)3), 31.87 (m, 2C, CH—CH2), 30.77 (s, 6C, ArC—C(CH3)3). 31P{1H} NMR (CDCl3, 126 MHz) δ 133.1 (s); 6.1 (s). HRMS (ES+) C39H46O5P2— [M+H]+ m/z: 657.2886 found, 657.2899 required.
Synthesis of 4,8-di-tert-butyl-6-(((trans)-2,5-diphenylphospholan-1-yl)methoxy)-2,10-dimethoxydibenzo[d,f][1,3,2]dioxaphosphepine 2, (tropos, trans)-2
Unless stated otherwise, the procedure was carried out under Ar. Biphenol 5 (0.33 g, 0.91 mmol) was suspended in toluene (5 mL) and triethylamine (0.38 mL, 2.74 mmol) was added. The solution was then cooled to 0° C., before a solution of phosphorus tribromide (0.10 mL, 1.10 mmol) in toluene (5 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. Insoluble salts were filtered out via cannula and the filtrate was concentrated in vacuo. The resultant solid was dissolved in toluene (5 mL) and added to a solution of compound (trans-Rac)-6 (0.28 g, 0.99 mmol) in toluene (5 mL). 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (0.56 g, 4.95 mmol) in toluene (5 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was filtered through a short pad of silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm), eluted with toluene. The filtrate was concentrated in vacuo to afford a crude solid. The crude product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm, pretreated with a solution of 95:5 toluene:triethylamine) using 0-20% diethyl ether in hexane as eluent under N2, followed by preparative TLC with alumina on glass plates (neutral) using 20% diethyl ether in hexane as eluent to afford compound (tropos,trans)-2 as a white solid (0.10 g, 0.16 mmol, 17%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 500 MHz) δ 7.36-7.17 (m, 10H, Ar—H), 6.98 (dd, J=10.8, 3.1 Hz, 2H, Ar—H), 6.73 (dd, J=10.8, 3.1 Hz, 2H, Ar—H), 3.92-3.80 (m, 8H, 2×O—CH3, P—CH2—O), 3.69-3.60 (m, 2H, 2×P—CH—Ar), 2.64-2.55 (m, 1H, Ar—CH—CH2), 2.37-2.29 (m, 2H, Ar—CH—CH2), 2.00-1.84 (m, 1H, Ar—CH—CH2), 1.42 (s, 9H, 3×CH3), 1.38 (s, 9H, 3×CH3). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 126 MHz) δ 155.57 (s, ArC—OCH3), 155.47 (s, ArC—OCH3), 144.15 (s, ArC—CCH3), 144.01 (s, ArC—CCH3), 142.14 (m, 2C, ArC—O—P), 138.04 (m, 2C, ArC—CH—P), 133.49 (m, ArC), 133.34 (m, ArC), 128.48 (m, 4C, ArCH), 127.94 (s, ArCH), 127.87 (s, ArCH), 127.42 (s, ArCH), 127.39 (s, ArCH), 125.88 (m, 2C, ArCH), 114.55 (s, ArCH), 114.37 (s, ArCH), 112.74 (s, ArCH), 112.54 (s, ArCH), 62.31 (d, J=29.0 Hz, O—CH2—P), 55.59 (s, 2C, OCH3), 46.10 (d, J=13.6 Hz, CH—P), 45.78 (d, J=15.5 Hz, CH—P), 36.74 (s, CH—CH2), 35.32 (s, 2C, ArC—CCH3), 32.80 (s, CH—CH2), 30.84 (s, 6C, ArC—CCH3). 31P{1H} NMR (CDCl3, 126 MHz) δ 136.6 (s); 9.7 (s). HRMS (ES+) C39H46O5P2— [M+H]+ m/z: 657.2888 found, 657.2899 required.
Synthesis of 4,8-di-tert-butyl-6-(((2R,5R)-2,5-diphenylphospholan-1-yl)methoxy)-2,10-dimethoxydibenzo[d,f][1,3,2]dioxaphosphepine 2, (tropos,R,R)-2
Unless stated otherwise, the procedure was carried out under Ar. Biphenol 5 (0.75 g, 2.10 mmol) was suspended in toluene (10 mL) and triethylamine (0.97 mL, 6.93 mmol) was added. The solution was then cooled to 0° C., before a solution of phosphorus tribromide (0.30 mL, 3.15 mmol) in toluene (5 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. Insoluble salts were filtered out via cannula and the filtrate was concentrated in vacuo. The resultant solid was dissolved in toluene (5 mL) and added to a solution of compound (R,R)-6 (0.42 g, 1.47 mmol) in toluene (5 mL). 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (0.82 g, 7.35 mmol) in toluene (5 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was filtered through a short pad of silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm), eluted with toluene. The filtrate was concentrated in vacuo to afford a crude solid. The crude product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm, pretreated with a solution of 95:5 toluene:triethylamine) using 0-20% diethyl ether in hexane as eluent under N2, followed by preparative TLC with alumina on glass plates (neutral) using 10% diethyl ether in hexane as eluent to afford compound (tropos,R,R)-2 as a white solid (0.20 g, 0.31 mmol, 21%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 500 MHz) δ 7.37-7.17 (m, 10H, Ar—H), 6.98 (dd, J=8.8, 3.1 Hz, 2H, Ar—H), 6.74 (dd, J=8.8, 3.1 Hz, 2H, Ar—H), 3.93-3.80 (m, 8H, 2×O—CH3, P—CH2—O), 3.71-3.59 (m, 2H, 2×P—CH—Ar), 2.66-2.54 (m, 1H, Ar—CH—CH2), 2.38-2.29 (m, 2H, Ar—CH—CH2), 2.01-1.87 (m, 1H, Ar—CH—CH2), 1.42 (s, 9H, 3×CH3), 1.38 (s, 9H, 3×CH3). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 101 MHz) δ 155.54 (s, ArC—OCH3), 155.45 (s, ArC—OCH3), 144.15 (s, ArC—CCH3), 143.98 (s, ArC—CCH3), 142.13 (m, 2C, ArC—O—P), 138.03 (m, 2C, ArC—CH—P), 133.48 (s, ArC), 133.34 (s, ArC), 128.46 (m, 4C, ArCH), 127.93 (s, ArCH), 127.85 (s, ArCH), 127.41 (s, ArCH), 127.37 (s, ArCH), 125.86 (m, 2C, ArCH), 114.53 (s, ArCH), 114.35 (s, ArCH), 112.74 (s, ArCH), 112.53 (s, ArCH), 62.28 (d, J=29.1 Hz, O—CH2—P), 55.60 (s, 2C, OCH3), 46.09 (d, J=13.6 Hz, CH—P), 45.76 (d, J=15.5 Hz, CH—P), 36.72 (s, CH—CH2), 35.33 (s, 2C, ArC—C(CH3)3), 32.79 (s, CH—CH2), 30.80 (s, 6C, ArC—C(CH3)3). 31P{1H} NMR (CDCl3, 126 MHz) δ 136.6 (s); 9.7 (s). HRMS (ES+) C3H46O5P2— [M+]+ m/z: 657.2884 found, 657.2899 required.
Synthesis of 3,3′-di-tert-butyl-5,5′-dimethyl-[1,1′-biphenyl]-2,2′-diol 8
The commercially available 2-(tert-butyl)-4-methylphenol 7 (1.63 g, 9.93 mmol) was dissolved in heptane (10 mL). To this was added manganese oxide (1.15 g, 13.24 mmol) and the mixture was heated to reflux for 1.5 hours. The reaction mixture was filtered through celite and the filtrate was concentrated in vacuo. The crude product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm) using 10% diethyl ether in hexane as eluent to afford compound 8 as a pale yellow solid (1.02 g, 3.13 mmol, 63%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 400 MHz) δ 7.20 (d, J=2.1 Hz, 2H, 2×Ar-H), 6.95 (d, J=2.1 Hz, 2H, 2×Ar-H), 5.23 (s, 2H, 2×OH), 2.36 (s, 6H, 2×Ar-CH3), 1.49 (s, 18H, 2×Ar-C(CH3)3). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 101 MHz) δ 149.87 (s, 2C, 2×ArC—OH), 136.91 (s, 2C, 2×ArC—C(CH3)3), 129.57 (s, 2C, 2×ArC—CH3), 128.78 (s, 2C, 2×ArCH), 128.48 (s, 2C, 2×ArCH), 122.57 (s, 2C, 2×ArC—ArC), 34.93 (s, 2C, 2×C(CH3)3), 29.66 (s, 6C, 2×C(CH3)3), 20.84 (s, 2C, 2×Ar-CH3). HRMS (ES+) C22H30O2— [M−H]− m/z: 325.2171 found, 325.2173 required.
Synthesis of 4,8-di-tert-butyl-6-(((2R,5R)-2,5-diphenylphospholan-1-yl)methoxy)-2,10-dimethyldibenzo[d,f][1,3,2]dioxaphosphepine 3, (tropos,R,R)-3
Unless stated otherwise, the procedure was carried out under Ar. Biphenol 8 (0.40 g, 1.23 mmol) was suspended in toluene (10 mL) and triethylamine (0.64 mL, 4.62 mmol) was added. The solution was then cooled to 0° C., before a solution of phosphorus tribromide (0.17 mL, 1.85 mmol) in toluene (5 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. Insoluble salts were filtered out via cannula and the filtrate was concentrated in vacuo. The resultant solid was dissolved in toluene (5 mL) and added to a solution of compound (R,R)-6 (0.35 g, 1.23 mmol) in toluene (5 mL). 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (0.69 g, 6.15 mmol) in toluene (10 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was filtered through a short pad of silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm), eluted with toluene. The filtrate was concentrated in vacuo to afford a crude solid. The crude product was purified by preparative TLC with alumina on glass plates (neutral) using hexane as eluent to afford compound (tropos,R,R)-3 as a white solid (0.08 g, 0.12 mmol, 10%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 500 MHz) δ 7.36-7.15 (m, 12H, Ar—H), 7.02-6.97 (m, 2H, Ar—H), 3.89-3.83 (m, 2H, P—CH2—O), 3.70-3.58 (m, 2H, 2×P—CH—Ar), 2.63-2.52 (m, 1H, P—CH—CH2), 2.42 (s, 3H, Ar—CH3), 2.39 (s, 3H, Ar—CH3), 2.36-2.28 (m, 2H, P—CH—CH2), 1.99-1.87 (m, 1H, P—CH—CH2), 1.40 (s, 9H, C(CH3)3), 1.38 (s, 9H, C(CH3)3). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 101 MHz) δ 146.40 (m, 2C, ArC—O—P), 144.25 (s, ArC—CCH3), 144.07 (s, ArC—CCH3), 140.31 (s, ArC—CH—P), 138.12 (s, ArC—CH—P), 133.28 (s, ArC), 133.14 (s, ArC), 132.73 (s, 2C, ArC—CH3), 129.96 (s, ArCH), 129.87 (s, ArCH), 128.47 (m, 4C, ArCH), 127.97 (m, 4C, ArCH), 127.50 (s, 2C, ArCH), 125.88 (s, 2C, ArCH), 62.19 (d, J=29.4 Hz, O—CH2—P), 46.18 (d, J=13.7 Hz, CH—P), 45.63 (d, J=15.4 Hz, CH—P), 36.73 (s, CH—CH2), 35.06 (s, 2C, ArC—C(CH3)3), 32.83 (s, CH—CH2), 31.02 (s, 6C, ArC—C(CH3)3), 21.22 (s, 2C, ArC—CH3). 31P{1H} NMR (CDCl3, 126 MHz) δ 136.5 (s); 10.2 (s). HRMS (ES+) C39H46O3P2— [M+H]+ m/z: 625.2990 found, 625.3000 required.
Synthesis of 4,8-di-tert-butyl-6-(((trans)-2,5-diphenylphospholan-1-yl)methoxy)-2,10-dimethyldibenzo[d,f][1,3,2]dioxaphosphepine 3, (tropos,trans)-3
Unless stated otherwise, the procedure was carried out under Ar. Diphenol 8 (0.24 g, 0.72 mmol) was suspended in toluene (7 mL) and triethylamine (0.24 mL, 1.73 mmol) was added. The solution was then cooled to 0° C., before a solution of phosphorus tribromide (0.08 mL, 0.86 mmol) in toluene (4 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. Insoluble salts were filtered out via cannula and the filtrate was concentrated in vacuo. The resultant solid was dissolved in toluene (5 mL) and added to a solution of compound (trans)-6 (0.20 g, 0.72 mmol) in toluene (5 mL). 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (0.40 g, 3.60 mmol) in toluene (5 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was filtered through a short pad of silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm), eluted with toluene. The filtrate was concentrated in vacuo to afford a crude solid. The crude product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm, pretreated with a solution of 95:5 toluene:tnethylamine) using hexane as eluent under N2, followed by preparative TLC with alumina on glass plates (neutral) using 10% diethyl ether in hexane as eluent to afford compound (tropos,trans)-3 as a white solid (0.10 g, 0.15 mmol, 21%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 400 MHz) δ 7.40-7.33 (m, 4H, Ar—H), 7.32-7.18 (m, 8H, Ar—H), 7.05-7.02 (m, 2H, Ar—H), 3.94-3.81 (m, 2H P—CH2—O), 3.75-3.61 (m, 2H, 2×P—CH—Ar), 2.68-2.56 (m, 1H, P—CH—CH2), 2.47-2.45 (m, 3H, Ar—CH3), 2.44-2.41 (m, 3H, Ar—CH3), 2.40-2.31 (m, 2H, P—CH—CH2), 2.02-1.89 (m, 1H, P—CH—CH2), 1.45 (s, 9H, C(CH3)3), 1.42 (s, 9H, C(CH3)3). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 101 MHz) δ 146.32 (m, 2C, ArC—O—P), 144.26 (s, ArC—CCH3), 144.08 (s, ArC—CCH3), 140.31 (m, ArC—CH—P), 138.14 (s, ArC—CH—P), 133.29 (s, ArC), 133.15 (s, ArC), 132.75 (m, 2C, ArC—OCH3), 129.98 (s, 2C, ArCH), 129.89 (s, 2C, ArCH), 128.48 (m, 4C, ArCH), 127.99 (m, 4C, ArCH), 127.51 (s, ArCH), 127.48 (s, ArCH), 125.89 (s, ArCH), 125.84 (s, ArCH), 62.22 (d, J=29.4 Hz, O—CH2—P), 46.20 (d, J=13.7 Hz, CH—P), 45.67 (d, J=15.4 Hz, CH—P), 36.74 (s, CH—CH2), 35.08 (s, 2C, ArC—C(CH3)3), 32.88 (s, CH—CH2), 31.05 (s, 6C, ArC—C(CH3)3), 21.24 (s, ArC—CH3), 21.20 (s, ArC—CH3). 31P{1H} NMR (CDCl3, 126 MHz) δ 136.5 (s); 10.2 (s). HRMS (ES+) C39H46O3P2— [M+H]+ m/z: 625.2997 found, 625.3000 required.
Synthesis of 4,8-di-tert-butyl-6-(((meso)-2,5-diphenylphospholan-1-yl)methoxy)-2,10-dimethoxydibenzo[d,f][1,3,2]dioxaphosphepine 2, (tropos,meso)-2
Unless stated otherwise, the procedure was carried out under Ar. Diphenol 5 (0.20 g, 0.56 mmol) was suspended in toluene (7 mL) and triethylamine (0.19 mL, 1.35 mmol) was added. The solution was then cooled to 0° C., before a solution of phosphorus tribromide (0.06 mL, 0.68 mmol) in toluene (4 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. Insoluble salts were filtered out via cannula and the filtrate was concentrated in vacuo. The resultant solid was dissolved in toluene (5 mL) and added to a solution of compound (meso)-6 (0.16 g, 0.56 mmol) in toluene (5 mL). 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (0.32 g, 2.82 mmol) in toluene (5 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was filtered through a short pad of silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm), eluted with toluene. The filtrate was concentrated in vacuo to afford a crude solid. The crude product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm, pretreated with a solution of 95:5 toluene:triethylamine) using 0-10% diethyl ether in hexane as eluent under N2, followed by preparative TLC with alumina on glass plates (neutral) using 15% diethyl ether in hexane as eluent to afford compound (tropos,meso)-2 as a white solid (0.12 g, 0.19 mmol, 33%). 1H NMR (CDCl3, 500 MHz) δ 7.27-7.20 (m, 8H, Ar—H), 7.19-7.11 (m, 2H, Ar—H), 6.87 (d, J=3.1 Hz, 2H, Ar—H), 6.61 (d, J=3.1 Hz, 2H, Ar—H), 3.86 (s, 6H, 2×O—CH3), 3.75 (m, 2H, 2×O—CH2—P), 3.62 (d, J=5.7 Hz, 2H, 2×Ar—CH—CH2), 2.34 (m, 4H, 2×Ar—CH—CH2), 1.34 (s, 18H, 6×CH3). 13C NMR (CDCl3, 101 MHz) δ 155.17 (s, 2C, ArC—OCH3), 142.22 (m, 2C, ArC—O—P), 141.93 (s, 2C, ArC—CCH3), 138.98 (s, 2C, ArC), 133.12 (m, 2C, ArC—CH—P), 128.48 (s, 4C, ArCH), 127.39 (s, 2C, ArCH), 127.35 (s, 2C, ArCH), 125.96 (s, 2C, ArCH), 114.41 (s, 2C, ArCH), 112.49 (s, 2C, ArCH), 58.84 (d, J=19.8 Hz, O—CH2—P), 55.53 (s, 2C, OCH3), 46.04 (d, J=16.9 Hz, 2C, CH—P), 35.23 (s, 2C, ArC—C(CH3)3), 31.87 (m, 2C, CH—CH2), 30.77 (s, 6C, ArC—C(CH3)3). 31P{1H} NMR (CDCl3, 126 MHz) δ 133.1 (s); 6.1 (s). HRMS (ES+) C39H46P2— [M+H]+ m/z: 657.2886 found, 657.2899 required.
Synthesis of (atropos,R,R,R)-1/(atropos,S,S,S)-1 mixture
Procedure was adapted from the synthesis of (Sax,S,S)-BOBPHOS (P. Dingwall, J. A. Fuentes, L. Crawford, A. M. Z. Slawin, M. Bühl, M. L. Clarke, J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2017, 139, 15921)
Unless stated otherwise, the procedure was carried out under Ar. Biphenol 11 (as the Rax/Sax mixture) (0.37 g, 1.06 mmol) was suspended in toluene (10 mL) and triethylamine (0.37 mL, 2.66 mmol) was added. The solution was then cooled to 0° C., before a solution of phosphorus tribromide (0.12 mL, 1.27 mmol) in toluene (5 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. Insoluble salts were filtered out via cannula and the filtrate was concentrated in vacuo. The resultant solid was dissolved in toluene (5 mL) and added to a solution of ((trans)-2,5-diphenylphospholan-1-yl)methanol 6 (as the (R,R)/(S,S) mixture) (0.30 g, 1.06 mmol) in toluene (5 mL). 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (0.47 g, 4.23 mmol) in toluene (5 mL) was added slowly. The reaction was left to stir at room temperature for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was filtered through a short pad of silica gel (silica 60, 40-63 μm), eluted with toluene. The filtrate was concentrated in vacuo to afford a crude solid (as an equal mixture of (Rax,R,R)/(Rax,S,S)/(Sax,R,R)/(Sax,S,S) isomers). The crude product was purified by recrystallisation from heptane to afford compound (as the (Rax,R,R)/(Sax,S,S) mixture) as a white solid (0.12 g, 0.16 mmol, 18%). The spectral data are in agreement with the full characterisation data of the (Sax,S,S) enantiomer previously reported. (Noonan, Fuentes, Cobley, Clarke, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2012, 51, 2477)
What is claimed is:
1. A process for preparing at least one aldehyde under hydroformylation temperature and pressure conditions, comprising contacting at least one olefin with hydrogen and carbon monoxide in the presence of at least one hydrocarbon solvent and a transition metal-based catalyst composition comprising a phospholane phosphite ligand represented by the following general formula:
wherein:
R1 and R2 are independently selected from substituted and unsubstituted, aryl, alkyl, aryloxy or cycloalkyl groups containing from 1 to 40 carbon atoms;
R3 and R4 are independently selected from substituted and unsubstituted, aryl, alkyl, alkoxy, trialkylsilyl, triarylsilyl, aryldialkylsilyl diarylalkylsilyl and cycloalkyl groups containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, wherein the silicon atom of the alkylsilyl is in the alpha position of the substituent; and
R5 is independently selected from H, or alkyl group.
2. The process of claim 1, wherein the phospholane phosphite ligand is represented by the following general formula:
3-6. (canceled)
7. The process of claim 1, wherein the hydrocarbon solvent is selected from n-nonane, n-decane, n-undecane, and n-dodecane.
8. The process of claim 1, wherein the product of the process comprises an iso-selectivity of about 55% to about 80%.
9. (canceled)
10. The process of claim 1, wherein the product of the process comprises an iso-selectivity of about 58 to about 73%.
11. The process of claim 7, wherein the product of the process comprises an iso-selectivity of about 60 to about 70%.
12. The process of claim 1, wherein the product of the process comprises an iso-selectivity of 55% or greater.
13. The process of claim 1, wherein the pressure ranges from about 2 atm to about 80 atm.
14. The process of claim 13, wherein the pressure ranges from about 8 atm to about 20 atm.
15. The process of claim 1, wherein the pressure is about 8 atm.
16. The process of claim 1, wherein the pressure is about 20 atm.
17. The process of claim 1, wherein the temperature ranges from about 40 about 120 degrees Celsius.
18. The process of claim 1, wherein the temperature ranges from about 50 about 90 degrees Celsius.
19. The process of claim 1, wherein the temperature is about 50 degrees Celsius.
20. The process of claim 1, wherein the temperature is about 75 degrees Celsius.
21. The process of claim 1, wherein the temperature is about 90 degrees Celsius.
22-25. (canceled)
26. The process of claim 1, wherein the olefin comprises propylene.
27. The process of claim 1, wherein the transition metal based catalyst comprises a rhodium based catalyst.
28. A process for preparing at least one aldehyde under hydroformylation temperature and pressure conditions, comprising contacting at least one olefin with hydrogen and carbon monoxide in the presence of at least one hydrocarbon solvent and a transition metal-based catalyst composition comprising a phospholane phosphite ligand derived from an achiral biphenol diol component.
29. The process of claim 28, wherein the phospholane phosphite ligand derived from the achiral biphenol diol component is selected from the following ligands, (A) through (D), represented by their general formulas:
30-33. (canceled)
34. The process of claim 33, wherein the hydrocarbon solvent is selected from n-nonane, n-decane, n-undecane, and n-dodecane.
35. The process of claim 28, wherein the product of the process comprises an iso-selectivity of about 55% to about 80%.
36. The process of claim 28, wherein the product of the process comprises an iso-selectivity of 55% or greater.
37. The process of claim 28, wherein the pressure ranges from about 2 atm to about 80 atm.
38. The process of claim 28, wherein the temperature ranges from about 40 about 120 degrees Celsius.
39. The process of claim 28, wherein the olefin comprises propylene.
40. The process of claim 28, wherein the transition metal based catalyst comprises a rhodium based catalyst.
41. A transition metal-based catalyst composition comprising a phospholane phosphite ligand represented by the following general formula:
wherein:
R1 and R2 are independently selected from substituted and unsubstituted, aryl, alkyl, aryloxy or cycloalkyl groups containing from 1 to 40 carbon atoms;
R3 and R4 are independently selected from substituted and unsubstituted, aryl, alkyl, alkoxy, trialkylsilyl, triarylsilyl, aryldialkylsilyl diarylalkylsilyl and cycloalkyl groups containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, wherein the silicon atom of the alkylsilyl is in the alpha position of the substituent; and
R5 is independently selected from H, or alkyl group.
42. The transition metal-based catalyst composition of claim 41 comprising a phospholane phosphite ligand represented by the following general formula:
43. A transition metal-based catalyst composition comprising a phospholane phosphite ligand derived from an achiral biphenol diol component, wherein the ligand is selected from the following ligands, (A) through (D), represented by their general formulas:
| 2018-10-29 | en | 2019-05-30 |
US-34663303-A | Tripod joint
ABSTRACT
A tripod joint has a main body, a screw rod, a washer, and a butterfly nut. The main body has a periphery slot, three lugs, a plurality of inner periphery recesses, a circular hole communicating with the periphery slot, and a threaded hole communicating with the periphery slot to match the circular hole. The screw rod is inserted through the threaded hole and the circular hole of the main body. The washer surrounds the screw rod. The butterfly nut engages with the screw rod.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a tripod joint. More particularly, the present invention relates to a tripod joint which positions a tripod device stably.
[0002] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a tripod device has a pair of tripod joints 10′, a collar 50′, a center post 30′, three legs 20′, and three support bars 21′. The center post 30′ passes through the collar 50′ and the tripod joints 10′. One of the tripod joints 10′ receives the legs 20′. The collar 50′ engages with one of the tripod joints 10′ to be fastened by a stud 51′. The other of the tripod joints 10′ receives the support bars 21′. Each of the tripod joints 10′ has three lugs 11′. However, a dent will be formed on the center post 30′ while the stud 51′ is fastened very tight. Since the stud 51′ fastens the collar 50′ and one of the tripod joints 10′ with a single point, the collar 50′ is easily displaced.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] An object of the present invention is to provide a tripod joint which will not damage a center post of a tripod device.
[0004] Another object of the present invention is to provide a tripod joint which positions a tripod device stably.
[0005] Accordingly, a tripod joint comprises a main body, a screw rod, a washer, and a butterfly nut. The main body has a periphery slot, three lugs, a plurality of inner periphery recesses, a circular hole communicating with the periphery slot, and a threaded hole communicating with the periphery slot to match the circular hole. The screw rod is inserted through the threaded hole and the circular hole of the main body. The washer surrounds the screw rod. The butterfly nut engages with the screw rod.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006]FIG. 1 is a perspective assembly view of a tripod device of the prior art;
[0007]FIG. 2 is a perspective exploded view of a collar and a tripod joint of the prior art;
[0008]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a main body of a tripod joint of a first preferred embodiment in accordance with the present invention;
[0009]FIG. 4 is a perspective exploded view of a tripod joint of a first preferred embodiment in accordance with the present invention;
[0010]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a tripod joint of a second preferred embodiment in accordance with the present invention;
[0011]FIG. 6 is a perspective exploded view of a collar and a tripod joint of a third preferred embodiment in accordance with the present invention; and
[0012]FIG. 7 is a perspective exploded view of a collar and a tripod joint of a fourth preferred embodiment in accordance with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0013] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, a first tripod joint comprises a main body 10, a screw rod 17, a washer 60, and a butterfly nut 18.
[0014] The main body 10 has a periphery slot 117, three lugs 11, a plurality of inner periphery recesses 13, a circular hole 15 communicating with the periphery slot 117, and a threaded hole 16 communicating with the periphery slot 117 to match the circular hole 15.
[0015] The screw rod 17 is inserted through the threaded hole 16 and the circular hole 15 of the main body 10.
[0016] The washer 60 surrounds the screw rod 17.
[0017] The butterfly nut 18 engages with the screw rod 17.
[0018] A diameter of the circular hole 15 of the main body 10 is larger than a diameter of the threaded hole 16 of the main body 10.
[0019] Each of the lugs 11 has a round hole 12.
[0020] Referring to FIG. 5, a second tripod joint comprises a main body 10 a, a screw rod 17 a, a washer 60 a, and a butterfly nut 18 a.
[0021] The main body 10 a has a periphery slot 117 a, three lugs 11 a, a plurality of inner periphery recesses 13 a, a circular hole 15 a communicating with the periphery slot 117 a, a threaded hole 16 a communicating with the periphery slot 117 a to match the circular hole 15 a, and a plurality of through holes 14 a in order to increase an elasticity of the main body 10 a.
[0022] The screw rod 17 a is inserted through the threaded hole 16 a and the circular hole 15 a of the main body 10 a.
[0023] The washer 60 a surrounds the screw rod 17 a.
[0024] The butterfly nut 18 a engages with the screw rod 17 a.
[0025] A diameter of the circular hole 15 a of the main body 10 a is larger than a diameter of the threaded hole 16 a of the main body 10 a.
[0026] Each of the lugs 11 a has a round hole 12 a.
[0027] Referring to FIG. 6, a third tripod joint comprises a main body 10 b, a screw rod 17 b, a washer 60 b, and a butterfly nut 18 b.
[0028] The main body 10 b has a periphery slot 117 b, three lugs 11 b, a plurality of inner periphery recesses 13 b, a circular hole 15 b communicating with the periphery slot 117 b, and a threaded hole 16 b communicating with the periphery slot 117 b to match the circular hole 15 b.
[0029] A collar 40 b is inserted in the main body 10 b.
[0030] The screw rod 17 b is inserted through the threaded hole 16 b and the circular hole 15 b of the main body 10 b.
[0031] The washer 60 b surrounds the screw rod 17 b.
[0032] The butterfly nut 18 b engages with the screw rod 17 b.
[0033] A diameter of the circular hole 15 b of the main body 10 b is larger than a diameter of the threaded hole 16 b of the main body 10 b.
[0034] Each of the lugs 11 b has a round hole 12 b.
[0035] Referring to FIG. 7, a fourth tripod joint comprises a main body 10 c, a screw rod 17 c, a washer 60 c, and a butterfly nut 18 c.
[0036] The main body 10 c has a periphery slot 117 c, three lugs 11 c, a plurality of inner periphery recesses 13 c, a circular hole 15 c communicating with the periphery slot 117 c, and a threaded hole 16 c communicating with the periphery slot 117 c to match the circular hole 15 c.
[0037] A collar 40 c is inserted in the main body 10 c.
[0038] The screw rod 17 c is inserted through the threaded hole 16 c and the circular hole 15 c of the main body 10 c.
[0039] The washer 60 c surrounds the screw rod 17 c.
[0040] The butterfly nut 18 c engages with the screw rod 17 c.
[0041] A diameter of the circular hole 15 c of the main body 10 c is larger than a diameter of the threaded hole 16 c of the main body 10 c.
[0042] Each of the lugs 11 c has a round hole 12 c.
[0043] The collar 40 c has an outer protruded block 41 c.
[0044] The main body 10 c further has an inner groove 19 c to receive the outer protruded block 41 c of the collar 40 c.
[0045] The invention is not limited to the above embodiment but various modification thereof may be made. Further, various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.
I claim:
1. A tripod joint comprises:
a main body, a screw rod, a washer, and a butterfly nut, the main body having a periphery slot, three lugs, a plurality of inner periphery recesses, a circular hole communicating with the periphery slot, and a threaded hole communicating with the periphery slot to match the circular hole, the screw rod inserted through the threaded hole and the circular hole of the main body, the washer surrounding the screw rod, and the butterfly nut engaging with the screw rod.
2. The tripod joint as claimed in claim 1, wherein a diameter of the circular hole of the main body is larger than a diameter of the threaded hole of the main body.
3. The tripod joint as claimed in claim 1, wherein the main body has a plurality of through holes.
4. The tripod joint as claimed in claim 1, wherein a collar is inserted in the main body.
5. The tripod joint as claimed in claim 4, wherein the collar has an outer protruded block, and the main body has an inner groove to receive the outer protruded block of the collar.
| 2003-01-15 | en | 2004-07-15 |
US-201816172220-A | Systems, devices, and methods for emergency responses and safety
ABSTRACT
Systems, devices, and methods for emergency responses are provided. A client device can be provided with a response to an emergency via a networked system that can determine that the client device is located with a defined area of coverage, and can route a call session to a answering platform associated with answering station device that can facilitate a facilitate a safety service. Client devices located outside the coverage area can be directed to communicate via a call to 911.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
The present application is a divisional of U.S. Ser. No. 15/688,814 filed Aug. 28, 2017 which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/380,064, filed Aug. 26, 2016, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings form part of the disclosure and are incorporated into the subject specification. The drawings illustrate example embodiments of the disclosure and, in conjunction with the present description and claims, serve to explain at least in part various principles, features, or aspects of the disclosure. Certain embodiments of the disclosure are described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, various aspects of the disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the implementations set forth herein. Like numbers refer to like, but not necessarily the same or identical, elements throughout.
FIG. 1 presents an example of an operational environment for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 2 presents another example of an operational environment for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 3 presents an example of a client device for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 4 presents an example of safety components for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 5 presents an example of user interface for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 6 presents another example of user interface for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIGS. 7-10 present examples of user interfaces for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 11 presents another example of safety components for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 12 presents another example of a client device for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 13 presents another example of safety components for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 14 presents an example of a user interface for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIGS. 15-18 present other examples user interfaces for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIGS. 19-21 present yet other example of user interfaces for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 22 presents another example of a user interface for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 23 presents an example computational environment for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
FIG. 24-25 present example methods in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The disclosure provides, in least some embodiments, systems, devices, methods and/or computer-readable non-transitory storage media for emergency responses are provided. A client device can be provided with a response to an emergency via a networked system that can determine that the client device is located with a defined area of coverage, and can route a call session to a answering platform associated with answering station device that can facilitate a facilitate a safety service. Client devices located outside the coverage area can be directed to communicate via a call to 911. While various embodiments are illustrated in connection with client devices that embody or constitute mobile devices, the disclosure is not so limited and other types of clients are contemplated.
FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an environment 100 for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The environment 100 includes a device 110 that can be configured to operate in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. To that end, computer-accessible instructions (e.g., computer-readable and/or computer-executable instructions) can be retained in one or more memory devices of the mobile device 110. In response to execution, the computer-accessible instructions can cause the mobile device 110 to operate in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. In some scenarios, can send a connection request 114 to establish a connection with a destination device that can provide or otherwise facilitate a safety service. The mobile device 110 can send the connection request 114 to a group of safety platform devices 140 (collectively referred to as safety service platform 140). The safety service can have a defined coverage area 120. For instance, the coverage area 120 can correspond to an area associated with a PSAP center within a defined region (e.g., a county). In one scenario, the mobile device 110 can send the connection request 114 from a location 125 outside the defined coverage area 120. In such a scenario, a server device within the safety service platform 140 can determine that the location 125 is outside the service coverage area 120. To that end, the connection request 114 can include information indicative of the location 125 of the mobile device 110. In response to such a determination, the server device can determine that service coverage is unavailable to the mobile device 110, and can send a connect denial message 114. The connect denial message 144 can be received by the mobile device 110 and can cause the mobile device 110 to direct an end-user of the mobile device 110 to dial 911, for example. More specifically, in one embodiment, in response to receiving the connect denial message 144, the mobile device 110 can display a message to dial 911. For instance, a display device of the mobile device 110 can present one or more visual elements indicating to dial 911. In addition or in another embodiment, the mobile device can render an audible signal indicating to dial 911.
In other scenarios, the mobile device 110 can be located at a location 160 within the service coverage area 120 and can send a connection request 118 to establish a connection with a destination device that can provide or that can facilitate providing the safety service. The connection request 118 can include information indicative of the location 160, and can be sent to the safety service platform 140. A server device within the safety service platform 140 can receive the connection request 118 and can determine, using the location information, that the mobile device 110 is located within the service coverage area 120. In response, the server device can send a connect information message 148 to the mobile device 110. The connection information message 148 can include an Internet protocol (IP) address or another type of communication address of a remote server device within a group of answering platform device (collectively referred to as answering platform 150). In some embodiments, the remote server device (not depicted) can establish a first connection with the mobile device 110. Such a connection is represented with session connect 154. In addition, in some instances, the remote server device can determine that the destination device is available for communication, and can establish a second connection with the destination device. The destination device can be included, for example, within the answering platform 150. The first connection and the second connection can result in the requested connection, where the mobile device 110 is connected with the intended destination device.
Upon or after the requested connection is established, the mobile device 110 and the destination device can exchange session content 158. The session content 158 can include text messages (e.g., SMS messages and/or MMS messages), audio signals, and/or video signals.
In some embodiments, the destination device that communicates with the mobile telephone 110 can send (e.g., forward) are least a portion of the session content 158 to a third-party device. As such, as is illustrated in FIG. 1, such a destination device can send session content 174 to a mobile telephone 170. In addition, the mobile telephone 170 can send information (e.g., audio signals, video signals, and/or messages) to the mobile device 110 via the answering platform 150.
FIG. 2 illustrates another example of an operational environment for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The environment 100 includes a client device 210 that can be configured to operate in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. In some embodiments, the client device 210 can embody or can constitute the mobile device 110. Similar to the mobile device 110, the client device 210 can include one or more safety units 218 (collectively referred to as safety unit(s) 218). In some scenarios, the client device 210 can send a connection request 214 to establish a connection with a destination device that can provide or otherwise facilitate a safety service. The client device 210 can be mobile and, thus, can configure (e.g., generate and/or format) the connection request 214 to include information indicative of a location of the client device 210. The client device 110 can utilize or otherwise leverage one or more networks 225 to send the connection request 214 to the safety service platform 140. One or more links 220 a (wireless links and/or wireline links) can functionally couple the client device 210 to at least one of the network(s) 225, and one or more links 220 b (wireless links and/or wireline links) can functionality couple at least a second one of the network(s) 225 to the safety platform 140. More specifically, in some embodiments, the at least second one of the network(s) 225 can functionally couple the networks 225 to the one or more safety server devices 240. In some embodiments, the safety server device(s) 240 can embody or can constitute a group of host server devices that can implement a cloud solution for the safety service platform of this disclosure.
As mentioned, the safety service associated with the destination device that the client device 210 intends to connect can have a defined coverage area. As such, in some aspects, a server device of the safety server device(s) 240 can utilize or otherwise leverage location information (e.g., GPS coordinates) included in the connection request 214 in order to determine a coverage state of the client device 210. Specifically, the safety service platform 140 can include location information retained in one or more memory elements 246 (collectively referred to as location information 246) within one or more memory devices 245 (collectively referred to as system repository 245). The location information 245 can include a list (or another type of data structure) that includes a group of remote server devices and respective service coverage areas. In addition, the server device can compare a location of the client device 210 to the respective coverage areas. Based at least on such a comparison, the server device can determine the coverage state of the client device 210. In one scenario, the service device can determine that the location of the client device 210 is outside of the coverage areas recorded or otherwise registered in the system repository 245. Therefore, the server device can determine that the coverage state corresponds to an uncovered state, and can send a response 218 to the client device 210. In such a scenario, the response 218 can include a message indicative of denial of the connection request 214.
In another scenario, the server device that assesses the connection request 214 at the safety service platform 140 can identify a coverage area that contains the location of the client device 210. The coverage area is associated with an answering device server 250 that can be located remotely from the client device 210. In one aspect, the answering device server 250 can be located at a site that can include multiple destination devices that provide or otherwise facilitate an emergency response service. Therefore, the server device can determine that the coverage state correspond to a covered state, and can configure the response 218 to include information indicative of a communication address (e.g., an IP address) of the answering server device. The server device can send such a response 218 to the client device 210.
Regardless of the type of response 218, the client device 210 can receive the response 218 via a network pathway 230 a. Receiving such a response 218 can cause the client device 210 to perform a defined action. In an example scenario in which the response 218 includes a connect denial message, the response 218 can cause the client device 210 to instruct the dialing of 911. More specifically, in one embodiment, in response to receiving the connect denial message 144, the mobile device 110 can display a message to dial 911. For instance, a display device of the mobile device 110 can present one or more visual elements indicating to dial 911. In addition or in another embodiment, the mobile device can render an audible signal indicating to dial 911.
In another example scenario in which the response 218 includes the communication address of the answering server device 250, receiving such a response 218 can cause the client device 210 to initiate a connection with the answering server device 250. The client device 210 and the answering server device 250 can exchange messages to establish a first connection. The messages are represented with session connect 234 and can be exchanged via a network pathway 230 b that includes at least portion of the link(s) 220 a, at least one of the network(s) 225, and at least a portion of the link(s) 220 c. In addition, in some instances, the answering server device 250 can be functionally coupled to one or more answering station devices 260, and can determine that a first answering station device of the answering station device(s) 260 is available for communication. Thus, in some embodiments, the answering server device 250 can establish a second connection between the client device 210 and a streaming server device. The streaming server device can be embodied in or can include, for example, at least one of the safety unit(s) 254. In addition, the answering server device 250 can establish a third connection between the streaming server device and the first answering station device. The second connection and the third connection can result in the connection requested by the connection request 214, where the client device 210 is connected with the first answering station device.
Upon or after the connection requested by the connection request is established, the client device 110 and the first answering station device can exchange session content 238. The session content 238 can include text messages (e.g., SMS messages and/or MMS messages), audio signals, and/or video signals.
In some embodiments, a third-party device (e.g., a device from a government authority, police, or military; not depicted) can access the answering server device 250 to establish a connection with or otherwise login to the answering server device 250. Therefore, in some embodiments, the third-party device can send information pertaining to the area of coverage associated with the answering server device 250; e.g., the coverage area associated with a PSAP center. The safety unit(s) 254 can permit establishing a connection between the answering server device 250 and the third-party device.
FIG. 3 presents a block diagram 300 of an example of a client device 210 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. As is illustrated, the client device 210 can include one or more audio input units 304 and one or more audio output units 308. As an illustration, the audio output unit(s) 308 can include speaker(s); digital-to-analog converters; volume control(s) and/or other audio controls, such as bass control, treble control, and the like; an on/off switch; a combination thereof; or the like. In addition or in another example, the audio input unit(s) 304 can include microphone(s), analog-to-digital converter(s), amplifier(s), filter(s), and/or other circuitry for processing of audio (e.g., equalizer(s)). The client device 210 also can include one or more input/output (I/O) interface units 310. In one aspect, the I/O interface unit(s) 310 can include a display unit 312. The display unit 312 can include, in some embodiments, a display device and operation circuitry for the operation of the display device. In one example, the display device can include a touch screen and, thus, the display unit 312 can include detection circuitry (not depicted) for the detection of physical interaction with the device, such as the application of a force (or pressure) on a surface of the touch screen.
The client device 210 also can include a location unit 314 that can generate location information, such as global positioning system (GPS) coordinates of the client device 210. To that end, the location unit 314 can be functionally coupled to a radio unit 320 that can receive timing messages from one or more satellites via respective deep-space links. The radio unit 320 can send the timing messages to the location unit 314. The location unit 314 can determine an estimate of a location of the client device 210 using at least the timing messages. It is noted that the disclosure is not limited to GPS coordinates and, in some embodiments, the location unit 314 can rely on other type of determinations in order to estimate a location of the client device. For instance, the location unit 314 can utilized or otherwise leverage triangulation of Wi-Fi signals (e.g., pilot signals) and/or cellular signals to determine an estimate of a location of the client device 210. Accordingly, as is illustrated in FIG. 3, the radio unit 320 can include one or more antennas 322 and a multi-mode communication processing unit 324 that can process multiple types of wireless signals received by at least one of the antenna(s) 322.
As is further illustrated in FIG. 3, the client device 210 also can include one or more memory devices 315 (collectively referred to as memory 315). The memory 315 can include one or more safety components 316 and safety information 318. In some embodiments, the safety component(s) 316 can be embodied in or can constitute computer-accessible instructions (e.g., computer-readable and/or computer-executable instructions) that, in response to execution, the computer-accessible instructions can cause the client device 210 to operate in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. In some embodiments, one or more processors 330 included in the client device 210 can execute the safety component(s) 316. The safety information 318 can be utilized during the operation of the client device 210 and can include, for example, location information generated by the location unit 314.
In some embodiments, as is illustrated in FIG. 4, the safety component(s) 316 can include a user-device interaction component 410 that can cause the client device 210 to present a user interface (UI) that permits or otherwise facilitates the utilization of the safety functionality in accordance with the disclosure. For instance, the user-device interaction component 410 can cause a display device of the display unit 312 to present selectable visual elements and/or non-selectable visual elements that constitute the user interface. In some embodiments, information indicative of respective formats (e.g., shape, size, font type, font size, etc.) and placements within the UI of the selectable visual elements and the non-selectable visual elements can be retained within the safety information 318 (see FIG. 3). An example of a UI 500 is shown in FIG. 5. The UI 500 includes a first selectable visual element 510 that, in response to being selected, can permit entering a username associated with a user account for a safety service that can provide the safety functionality of this disclosure. The UI 500 also includes a second selectable visual element 520 that, in response to being selected, can permit entering a password (or, in some embodiments, other types of security credentials) that can secure such an account. The UI 500 further includes a second selectable visual element 530 that, in response to being selected, can permit accessing the safety service that provides the safety functionality described herein.
In some embodiments, in response to (e.g., after or upon) an account associated with the safety service of this disclosure being accessed, the user-device interaction component 410 can cause the client device 210 illustrated in FIG. 3 to present a UI that can permit requesting a defined type of communication with a destination device (e.g., one of answering station device(s) 260). Thus, in one embodiment, the user-device interaction component 410 can cause the display device included in the display unit 312 (see FIG. 3) to present selectable visual elements representative of respective options for communication. As an illustration, FIG. 6 presents an example of a UI 650 that includes a first selectable visual element 610 for a first type of communication; a second selectable visual element 620 for a second type of communication; and a third selectable visual element for a third type of communication.
Selection of one of the first selectable visual element 610, the second selectable visual element 620, or the third selectable visual element 630 can cause the client device 210 to generate a connection request (see, e.g., connection request 214 in FIG. 2). To that end, with further reference to FIG. 4, a request composition component 430 can generate a connection request that include location information indicative of a location of the client device 210. In one embodiment, the location information can be indicative of GPS coordinates and can be received from the safety information 318. In addition or in other embodiments, the request composition component 430 can query the location unit 314 for location information (e.g., GPS coordinates or other type of coordinates). In addition, a communication component 420 can configure (e.g., format) the connection request according to a defined protocol for communication with a remote device (e.g., a server device of the safety service platform 140). In one example, the defined protocol for communication can include one of Hyper Text Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) or Session Initiation Protocol (SIP). The disclosure is not limited in that respect and other communication protocols can be contemplated. In some embodiments, the communication component 420 can direct the radio unit 320 to send the connection request to the remote device.
In scenarios in which the client device 210 is located outside a coverage area, the communication component 420 can receive a denial response message indicative of denial of the connection request sent by the client device 210. The denial response message can be embodied in, for example, an HTTPS message. In one embodiment, the response message can be received by the radio unit 320 and can be sent (or otherwise made available) to the communication component 420. As discussed herein, in some embodiments, in response to the denial response message, the client device 210 can instruct the dialing of 911. To that end, the user-device interaction component 410 can cause a display device within the display unit 312 to present a visual element (selectable or otherwise) that instructs the dialing of 911. In addition or in the alternative, the user-device interaction component 410 can cause such a display device to present a selectable visual element that in response to (e.g., after or upon) being selected can cause the client device 210 to dial 911. FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a UI 700 that can be presented at the client device 210 during the establishment of the connection with an answering station device (e.g., one of answering station device(s) 260).
In scenarios in which the client device 210 is located inside a coverage area, the communication component 420 can receive a connect response message that includes information indicative of a communication address (e.g., an IP address) of the answering server device 250 (see FIG. 2). The connect response message can be embodied in, for example, an HTTPS message. In one embodiment, the response message can be received by the radio unit 320 and can be sent (or otherwise made available) to the communication component 420. As discussed herein, in some embodiments, in response to the connect response message, the client device 210 can connect to the answering server device 250. To that end, client device 210 can exchange, via the communication component 420 and the radio unit 320, for example, one or more messages with the answering service device 250. In addition, the user-device interaction component 410 can cause to a display device of the display unit 312 to present visual elements (selectable or otherwise) that can inform that a connection is being established. FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a UI 800 that can be presented at the client device 210 during the establishment of the connection with an answering station device (e.g., one of answering station device(s) 260).
After or upon a communication session has been established with an answering station device (e.g., one of the answering station device(s) 260), the user-device interaction component 410 can cause a display device of the display unit 312 of the client device 210 (see, e.g., FIG. 3) to present visual elements (selectable or otherwise) that can inform that the communication session has been established or is otherwise in progress. As mentioned, a communication session can be embodied in or can include, for example, one of a voice call, a chat session, or a videochat session. FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a UI 900 that can be presented at a client device (e.g., client device 210) upon or after a voice call has been established between a client device and an answering station device (e.g., one of answering station device(s) 260), for example. FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a UI 1000 that can be presented at the client device upon or after a chat session has been established between the client device and the answering station device, for example.
With further reference to FIG. 5, the UI 500 can include a selectable visual element 540 that, in response to selection, can cause a client device (e.g., mobile telephone 110, client device 210, or the like) to collect information to configure an account associated with an end-user associated with the client device.
In some embodiments, a unique safe keyword and/or safe key-phrase can be generated and retained in a user profile associated with a user of a client device (e.g., mobile telephone 110 or client device 210). A safe keyword can be embodied in a defined word, and a sage key-phrase can be embodied in or can include a combination of defined words that can have a defined meaning in natural language or a particular meaning to an end-user that configures the safe key-phrase. In some implementations, the safe key-phrase can include a combination of words that would not typically occur in everyday speech) that activates a safety service in accordance with this disclosure.
Each one of a safe keyword or a safe key-phrase can activate safety functionality in the client device (e.g., a mobile device), the safety functionality including at least some of the functionality described herein. To that end, safety units (e.g., safety unit(s) 218) within the client device can include a keyword spotting component. As is illustrated in FIG. 11, in some embodiments, the safety component(s) 316 of the client device 210 can include a keyword spotting component 1110. In response to execution of the safety component(s), the keyword spotting component 110 can detect the safe keyword or the safe key-phrase. To that end, in some aspects, external audio signals can be received from a first audio input unit (e.g., a microphone) of the audio input unit(s) 304, and the keyword spotting component 1110 can analyze the external audio signals. In one example, the keyword spotting component 1110 can apply a keyword model to the external audio signal in order to determine either the presence or absence of the safe keyword and/or the safe key-phrase. The keyword model (e.g., a hidden Markov model (HMM) and/or a Gaussian mixture model) is directed to representing one or more predetermined keywords, such as “Need safety,” and providing a probability of the safe keyword and/or safe key-phrase be included in an audible signal received by one or more of the more audio input units 304.
In response to a determination that a portion of the external audio signals include the safe keyword and/or the safe key-phrase, the user-device interaction component 410 can cause the client device 210 to present the UI 600 illustrated in FIG. 6 in order to permit communicating with an answering station device in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.
In embodiments in which the I/O interface(s) 310 include a camera, in response to safe keyword or the safe key-phrase being uttered, the client device 210 (e.g., a mobile device) can turn on or otherwise energize a camera to collect images (e.g., still pictures and/or a video segment) of the environment surrounding the client device 210. Information representative of the images can be retained in the memory 315. In addition or in other embodiments, externals audio signals can be retained in the memory 315 and/or a recording device included in the client 210. The recording device can be energized in response to keyword spotting component 1110 determining that the safe keyword and/or the sage key-phrase has been uttered. In one embodiment, the mobile device can send audio signals indicative of external audio collected by the client device 210 to an answering station device (e.g., one of the answering station device(s) 260). In addition or in another embodiment, the client device 210 can send video signals representative of the images collected by the camera.
In addition to sending audio signals and/or video signals, in some embodiments, the client device 210 (e.g., a mobile device) can send location information indicative of a location of the client device 210. The location can be silently tagged and pinned. In one aspect, as discussed, the client device 210 can send information indicative of the location to an answering station device. For instance, the client device 210 can send a message including information indicative of GPS coordinates of the device to a communication address (e.g., an IP address, such as an IPv6 address) of the answering station device. The audio signals and/or the video signals can be retained in a repository included in or functionally coupled to the answering station device. In some instances, authorities may listen in and view the situation, determining whether or not help is necessary.
In some embodiments, a client device 210 configured with safety components in accordance with aspects of the disclosure can respond to violent movement and/or force exerted on the client device 210, such the movement or force that the client device 210 can experience in numerous distress events, such as a car accident, physical assault, fall, and gunshot, or an attack of some kind, among other events. FIG. 12 presents an example of the client device 210 that can respond to such events in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The client device 210 can include an accelerometer unit 1210 that can include a solid state accelerometer and circuitry that can permit or otherwise facilitate providing signals representative of acceleration (e.g., a nearly instantaneous acceleration) of the client device 210. The signals can represent an acceleration vector a=(ax, ay, az) in a device frame of reference. The safety components 316 in the client device 210 can include an accelerator monitor component 1220 that can acquire (e.g., collect or receive) and can monitor a time dependency of at least a portion of the signals representative of the acceleration of the client device 210. In addition, the safety information 318 can include one or more rules 1230 that the acceleration monitor component 120 and/or another one of the safety component(s) 316 can apply to acceleration signals that are monitored.
FIG. 13 illustrates the safety component(s) 316 in which a distress event can initiate a communication between the client device 210 illustrated in FIG. 12 and an answering station device (e.g., one of the answering station devices 260). Similar to other client devices, the user-device interaction component 1310 can cause the client device 210 to present a UI that includes selectable visual elements that can permit or otherwise facilitate accessing the safety functionality in accordance with the disclosure. As an example, the user-device interaction component 1310 can cause a display device of the display unit 312 to present the UI 1400 as is illustrated in FIG. 14. The UI 1400 includes a first selectable visual element 1410 that, in response to selection thereof can cause such a display device to present another UI that is similar to (or, in some embodiments, the same as) the UI 600 shown in FIG. 6. Selection of the first selectable visual element 1410 can be achieved, for example, via a physical interaction with a portion of a touch screen corresponding to an area of the element 1410.
As is illustrated in FIG. 14, the UI 1400 also can include a second selectable visual element 1420 that, in response to selection thereof, can cause the acceleration monitor component 1220 to initiate the collection of information representative of otherwise indicative of acceleration of the client device 210 (e.g., a mobile device). Thus, in one example, the acceleration monitor component 1220 can turn on or otherwise energize an accelerometer device or accelerometer circuitry associated therewith within the accelerometer unit to provide acceleration signals representative of an acceleration of the client device 210. In addition or in some embodiments, the acceleration monitor component 1220 can collect acceleration signals representative or otherwise indicative of the acceleration of computing device 210. In some embodiments, the acceleration monitor component 1220 can collect the acceleration signals at defined time intervals. For instance, the acceleration monitor component 1220 can collect the acceleration signals at a defined rate. In one aspect, the acceleration monitor component 1220 can query the accelerometer device at a defined rate and, in response, can receive signals representative of an acceleration vector a=(ax, ay, az) in a device frame of reference at a defined instant. In some embodiments, the defined rate can be one of about 100 Hz or about 60 Hz.
In addition, the acceleration monitor component 120 can apply a distress rule to a portion of acceleration information retained or otherwise available within the safety information 1218. A result or an outcome of the application of the distress rule can determine if a distress event has occurred. In some embodiments, the rule can dictate the computation of a magnitude of a difference between a current acceleration vector and a gravity vector, and the comparison of the difference with a defined threshold. As such, in some scenarios, the acceleration monitor component 120 can determine that a distress event is absent using at least the portion of the acceleration information. Specifically, the application of the distress rule can result in the magnitude of such a difference being less than the threshold. In one of such scenarios, the monitoring of the acceleration information can continue. In other scenarios, the acceleration monitor component 120 can determine that a distress event has occurred using at least the portion of the acceleration information. In particular, the application of the distress rule can result in the magnitude of such a difference being greater than the defined threshold.
In response to (e.g., after or upon) to a determination that the distress event has occurred, the user-device interaction component 1310 can validate the occurrence of the distress event. To that end, the user-device interaction component 1310 can cause the client device to prompt confirmation of the distress occurrence of the distress event. In some instances, the user-device interaction component 1310 can receive input information that confirms the occurrence of the distress event. In other instances, the user-device interaction component 1310 can determine that the prompt has timed, e.g., that a response to the prompt is absent after or by the time a defined time interval has elapsed.
Upon or after the distress event is confirmed, the user-interaction component 1310 can cause the client device 210 to activate a camera and recording device, and/or to tag the location of the client device 210. In addition, a communication session between the client device 210 and an answering station device (e.g., one of the answering station device(s) 260) can be initiated in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. The communication session can permit sending audio signals and/or video signals to the answering station device, which device can be located in a dispatch center. Dispatch looks into the situation, and determines whether or not help is necessary.
As described herein, an answering station device (e.g., one of the answering station device(s) 260) also can include one or more safety components that can provide safety functionality in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. In some embodiments, such safety component(s) can include a user-device interaction component that can cause a display device of the answering station device to present visual elements (selectable or otherwise) that can permit or otherwise facilitate accessing at least some of the safety functionality. In some aspects, in the absence of a session communication (e.g., a voice call, a video call, or a chat session), the user-interaction component can cause the display device to present a UI 1500 as is illustrated in FIG. 15. The UI 1500 can embody or can constitute a dashboard interface that can permit or otherwise facilitate an operator of the answering station device to access some of the safety functionality. The UI 1500 can include a visual element 1510 (selectable or otherwise) that can present a map of an area that includes a coverage area 1520 associated with the answering station device. The coverage area 1520 can embody, in one example, the coverage area 120 shown in FIG. 1. The UI 1500 also includes a section 1530 that can include a visual element indicating the absence of active calls. In addition, the UI 1500 can include multiple visual elements 1540 indicative of a communication session history of the answering station device that presents the UI 1500. The multiple visual elements 1540 can include first visual elements indicative of respective time stamps (e.g., respective days and times) of communication sessions in the history. The multiple visual elements 1540 also can include second visual elements (selectable or otherwise) indicative of respective locations associated with the communication sessions in the history. Each of the second visual elements can include a portion of a map in a vicinity of a location of a client device (such as the client device 210 (e.g., a mobile telephone, a smartwatch, a tablet computer, etc.)) that originated a communication session in the history. Further, the multiple visual elements 1540 can include third selectable visual elements (represented with a box labeled “View Call”) that, in response to selection, can cause the answering station device to present a record of the session content exchanged between the client device and the answering station device.
In response to (e.g., upon or after) a communication session being established between a client device and an answering station device, a user-device interaction component included in the answering station device can cause a display device of the answering station device to present a UI 1600 as is illustrated in FIG. 16. Similar to UI 1500, the UI 1600 can embody or can constitute a dashboard interface that can permit or otherwise facilitate an operator of the answering station device to access some of the safety functionality. The UI 1600 can include a visual elements 1610 (selectable or otherwise) that can present a map of an area that includes a coverage area 1620 associated with the answering station device. The coverage area 1620 can embody, in one example, the coverage area 120 shown in FIG. 1. The UI 1600 also includes a section that can include a first selectable visual element 1630 that, in response to selection, can cause the answering station device to answer a communication, thus initiating the exchange of session content between the client device and the answering station device. In addition, the UI 1600 can include a second selectable visual element that can initiate a chat session between the client device and the answering station device. The selectable visual element 1640 can include, for example, markings indicative of telephone number associated with the client device. Further, the UI 1600 can include a visual element 1650 representative of a portion of map in a vicinity of the location of client device, the portion of the map including the location of the client device. The visual element 1650 can include a visual element 1660 indicative of the location of the client device in the portion of the map. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the visual element 1650 can be selectable. In response to selection, the portion of the map can be modified to zoom in a neighboring portion of the location of the client device or to zoom out from the neighboring portion of the location of the client device.
Similar to the UI 1500, the UI 1600 can include multiple visual elements 1670 indicative of at least a portion of a communication session history of the answering station device that presents the UI 1600. The multiple visual elements 1670 can include first visual elements indicative of a time stamp (e.g., a day and time) of a communication session in the history. The multiple visual elements 1670 also can include second visual elements (selectable or otherwise) indicative of a location associated with the communication session in the history. The second visual element can include a portion of a map in a vicinity of the location of the client device (such as the client device 210 (e.g., a mobile telephone, a smartwatch, a tablet computer, etc.)) that originated the communication session in the history. Further, the multiple visual elements 1670 can include third selectable visual elements (represented with a box labeled “View Call”) that, in response to selection, can cause the answering station device to present a record of the session content exchanged between the client device and the answering station device.
In some embodiments, in response to (e.g., upon or after) establishing a chat session between an answering station device and a client device, a user-device interaction component within the answering station device can cause a display of the answering station device to present a UI 1700 as is illustrated in FIG. 17. The UI 1700 can include a visual element 1710 indicative of a telephone number (or, in some embodiments, another type of communication address) and a name of an end-user associated with the telephone number. Similar to other UIs presented by an answering station device in accordance with aspect of this disclosure, the UI 1700 can include a section 1750 including visual elements representative of a map that includes the location of the client device. A visual element 1760 can represent such a location within the map. The UI 1700 also can include a second section 1740 that includes visual elements indicative of coordinates (e.g., latitude and longitude) of the location of the client device. The second section 1740 also can include selectable visual elements that, in response to selection, permit or otherwise facilitate modifying the map shown in the section 1750.
Further, as is illustrated in FIG. 17, the UI 1700 includes a section 1730 that includes visual elements indicative of the chat session between the answering station device that presents the UI 1700 and a client device. A selectable visual element 1770 can permit inputting message, including text and/or symbols, that can be sent to the client device. To that end, the UI 1700 includes a selectable element 1780 that, in response to selection, can cause the answering station device to send the message inputted in the selectable visual element 1770.
In addition or in other embodiments, in response to (e.g., upon or after) establishing a video call session between an answering station device and a client device, a user-device interaction component within the answering station device can cause a display device of the answering station device to present a UI 1800 as is illustrated in FIG. 18. The UI 1800 can include a visual element 1810 indicative of a telephone number (or, in some embodiments, another type of communication address) and a name of an end-user associated with the telephone number. Similar to other UIs presented by an answering station device in accordance with aspect of this disclosure, the UI 1800 can include a section 1850 including visual elements representative of a map that includes the location of the client device. A visual element 1860 can represent such a location within the map. The UI 1800 also can include a second section 1840 that includes visual elements indicative of coordinates (e.g., latitude and longitude) of the location of the client device. The second section 1840 also can include selectable visual elements that, in response to selection, permit or otherwise facilitate modifying the map shown in the section 1850. The UI 1800 also can include a section 1830 on which session content conveyed by video signals received from the client device can be presented.
As mentioned, a third-party device (e.g., a police officer device, a firefighter device, a paramedic device, and the like) also can be configured to include one or more safety components that can provide or otherwise facilitate the safety functionality of this disclosure. As an example, FIG. 19 presents a UI 1900 that can be present in a third-party device in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. In one aspect, a user-device interaction component can cause the third-party device to present the UI interface 1900 before any communication sessions have been established between the third-party device and a client device.
In some embodiments, a communication session can be established between a client device (e.g., client device 210) and a third-party device, via an answering server device (e.g., answering server device 250). For example, such a communication session can be established in response to selection of a selectable visual element for a video call (e.g., selectable visual element 630 can be selected). In such instances, the third party device can present a UI 2000 as is illustrated in FIG. 20. The UI 2000 can include a first section 2010 a that can present a first motion picture of the surroundings of the client device and a second section 2010 b of that can present a second motion picture of surroundings of the third-party device. In some embodiments, the UI 2000 can include a first selectable visual element 2020 than, in response to selection can cause the third-party device to present a video stream carrying the first motion picture. The UI 2000 also can include a second selectable visual element 2030 that, in response to selection can terminate the communication session between the client device and the third-party device. In some embodiments, the UI 2000 also can include location information (e.g., GPS coordinates) of the client device. The location information can be overlaid on a map of the surroundings of the client device in order to monitor the movement of the client device.
In some embodiments, a third-party device also can present a UI 2100 as is shown in FIG. 21. In some aspects, the UI 2100 can include a call history associated with an end-user of the third-party device. To that end, the end-user can login to an answering server device (e.g., answering server device 250). In some embodiments, one or more safety components retained in the answering server device can permit or otherwise facilitate the login of the third-party device. The UI 2100 can include a section 2110 including visual elements representative of information about an end-user of the third-party device. The UI 2100 also can include visual elements 2030 representative of a call history associated with the end-user. Similar to other call histories described herein, the visual elements 2030 can include first selectable visual elements that, in response to selection, can cause the third-party device to present records associated with content exchanged between a client device and the third-party device. As described herein, the end-user (e.g., a police officer) of the third-party device can log off from the answering server device in order to avoid receiving calls while off duty and out of a coverage area of a PSAP, for instance.
In some embodiments of a client device 210, the user-device interaction component 410 can cause a display device of the client device 210 to present a UI 2200 as is illustrated in FIG. 22. In some aspects, the UI 2200 can permit configuring a user profile associated with an end-user of the client device 210. As described herein, the user profile can be retained within a user repository 242 in one or more memory elements 244 (collective referred to as user profile(s) 244.
FIG. 23 illustrates example of a computational environment 2300 for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The example computational environment 2300 is merely illustrative and is not intended to suggest or otherwise convey any limitation as to the scope of use or functionality of the computational environment's architecture. In addition, the illustrative computational environment 2300 depicted in FIG. 23 should not be interpreted as having any dependency or requirement relating to any one or combination of components illustrated in the example operational environments of the disclosure. The example computational environment 2300 or portions thereof can embody or can constitute the operational environments described hereinbefore. As such, the computing device 2310 can embody or can constitute, for example, any of the communication devices or servers (such as the caller analysis server 140) described herein. In one example, the computing device 2310 can be embodied in a portable personal computer or a handheld computing device, such as a mobile tablet computer, an electronic-book reader, a mobile telephone (e.g., a smartphone), and the like. In another example, the computing device 2310 can be embodied in a wearable computing device, such as a watch, goggles or head-mounted visors, or the like. In yet another example, the computing device 2310 can be embodied in portable consumer electronics equipment, such as a camera, a portable television set, a gaming console, a navigation device, a voice-over-internet-protocol telephone, a media playback device, or the like.
The computational environment 2300 represents an example implementation of the various aspects or features of the disclosure in which the processing or execution of operations described in connection with the management of unknown callers in accordance with aspects disclosed herein can be performed in response to execution of one or more software components at the computing device 2310. It should be appreciated that the one or more software components can render the computing device 2310, or any other computing device that contains such components, a particular machine for the management of unknown callers in accordance with aspects described herein, among other functional purposes. A software component can be embodied in or can comprise one or more computer-accessible instructions, e.g., computer-readable and/or computer-executable instructions. In one scenario, at least a portion of the computer-accessible instructions can embody and/or can be executed to perform at least a part of one or more of the example methods described herein, such as the example method presented in FIG. 23. For instance, to embody one such method, at least the portion of the computer-accessible instructions can be retained (e.g., stored, made available, or stored and made available) in a computer storage non-transitory medium and executed by a processor. The one or more computer-accessible instructions that embody a software component can be assembled into one or more program modules, for example, that can be compiled, linked, and/or executed at the computing device 2310 or other computing devices. Generally, such program modules comprise computer code, routines, programs, objects, components, information structures (e.g., data structures and/or metadata structures), etc., that can perform particular tasks (e.g., one or more operations) in response to execution by one or more processors, which can be integrated into the computing device 2310 or functionally coupled thereto.
The various example embodiments of the disclosure can be operational with numerous other general purpose or special purpose computing system environments or configurations. Examples of well-known computing systems, environments, and/or configurations that can be suitable for implementation of various aspects or features of the disclosure in connection with the management of unknown callers in accordance with aspects described herein can comprise personal computers; server computers; laptop devices; handheld computing devices, such as mobile tablets or e-readers; wearable computing devices; and multiprocessor systems. Additional examples can include set-top boxes, programmable consumer electronics, network personal computers (PCs), minicomputers, mainframe computers, blade computers, programmable logic controllers, distributed computing environments that comprise any of the above systems or devices, and the like.
As illustrated in FIG. 23, the computing device 2310 can comprise one or more processors 2314, one or more input/output (I/O) interfaces 2316, a memory 2330, and a bus architecture 2332 (also termed bus 2332) that functionally couples various functional elements of the computing device 2310. In certain embodiments, the computing device 2310 can include, optionally, a radio unit 2312. The radio unit 2312 can include one or more antennas and a communication processing unit that can permit wireless communication between the computing device 2310 and another device, such as one of the computing device(s) 2370. The bus 2332 can include at least one of a system bus, a memory bus, an address bus, or a message bus, and can permit the exchange of information (data, metadata, and/or signaling) between the processor(s) 2314, the I/O interface(s) 2316, and/or the memory 2330, or respective functional elements therein. In certain scenarios, the bus 2332 in conjunction with one or more internal programming interfaces 2350 (also referred to as interface(s) 2350) can permit such exchange of information. In scenarios in which the processor(s) 2314 include multiple processors, the computing device 2310 can utilize parallel computing.
The I/O interface(s) 2316 can permit communication of information between the computing device and an external device, such as another computing device, e.g., a network element or an end-user device. Such communication can include direct communication or indirect communication, such as the exchange of information between the computing device 2310 and the external device via a network or elements thereof. As illustrated, the I/O interface(s) 2316 can comprise one or more of network adapter(s) 2318, peripheral adapter(s) 2322, and display unit(s) 2326. Such adapter(s) can permit or facilitate connectivity between the external device and one or more of the processor(s) 2314 or the memory 2330. For example, the peripheral adapter(s) 2322 can include a group of ports, which can include at least one of parallel ports, serial ports, Ethernet ports, V.35 ports, or X.21 ports. In certain embodiments, the parallel ports can comprise General Purpose Interface Bus (GPM), IEEE-1284, while the serial ports can include Recommended Standard (RS)-232, V.11, Universal Serial Bus (USB), FireWire or IEEE-1394.
In one aspect, at least one of the network adapter(s) 2318 can functionally couple the computing device 2310 to one or more computing devices 2370 via one or more traffic and signaling pipes 2360 that can permit or facilitate the exchange of traffic 2362 and signaling 2364 between the computing device 2310 and the one or more computing devices 2370. Such network coupling provided at least in part by the at least one of the network adapter(s) 2318 can be implemented in a wired environment, a wireless environment, or both. The information that is communicated by the at least one of the network adapter(s) 2318 can result from the implementation of one or more operations of a method in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. Such output can be any form of visual representation, including, but not limited to, textual, graphical, animation, audio, tactile, and the like. In certain scenarios, each of the computing device(s) 2370 can have substantially the same architecture as the computing device 2310. In addition or in the alternative, the display unit(s) 2326 can include functional elements (e.g., lights, such as light-emitting diodes; a display, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma monitor, a light-emitting diode (LED) monitor, or an electrochromic monitor; combinations thereof; or the like) that can permit control of the operation of the computing device 2310, or can permit conveying or revealing the operational conditions of the computing device 2310.
In one aspect, the bus 2332 represents one or more of several possible types of bus structures, including a memory bus or a memory controller, a peripheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. As an illustration, such architectures can comprise an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, a Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, an Enhanced ISA (EISA) bus, a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) local bus, an Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) bus, a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus, a PCI-Express bus, a Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) bus, a Universal Serial Bus (USB), and the like. The bus 2332, and all buses described herein can be implemented over a wired or wireless network connection and each of the subsystems, including the processor(s) 2314, the memory 2330 and memory elements therein, and the I/O interface(s) 2316 can be contained within one or more remote computing devices 2370 at physically separate locations, connected through buses of this form, in effect implementing a fully distributed system. In certain embodiments, such a distributed system can implement the functionality described herein in a client-host or client-server configuration in which the safety component(s) 2336 or the safety information 2340, or both, can be distributed between the computing device 2310 and at least one of the computing device(s) 2370, and the computing device 2310 and at least one of the computing device(s) 2370 can execute such components and/or leverage such information. It should be appreciated that, in an embodiment in which the computing device 2310 embodies or constitutes a client device (e.g., client device 210), the safety component(s) 2336 can be different from those in an embodiment in which the computing device 2310 embodies or constitutes a safety server device (e.g., one of safety server device(s) 240), an answering server device 250, or an answering station device 260 in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.
The computing device 2310 can comprise a variety of computer-readable media. Computer-readable media can be any available media (transitory and non-transitory) that can be accessed by a computing device. In one aspect, computer-readable media can comprise computer non-transitory storage media (or computer-readable non-transitory storage media) and communications media. Example computer-readable non-transitory storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by the computing device 2310, and can comprise, for example, both volatile and non-volatile media, and removable and/or non-removable media. In one aspect, the memory 2330 can comprise computer-readable media in the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM).
The memory 2330 can comprise functionality instructions storage 2334 and functionality information storage 2338. The functionality instructions storage 2334 can comprise computer-accessible instructions that, in response to execution (by at least one of the processor(s) 2314), can implement one or more of the functionalities of the disclosure. The computer-accessible instructions can embody or can comprise one or more software components illustrated as safety component(s) 2336. In one scenario, execution of at least one component of the safety component(s) 2336 can implement one or more of the methods described herein, such as the example methods 2400 and 2500. For instance, such execution can cause a processor (e.g., one of the processor(s) 2314) that executes the at least one component to carry out a disclosed example method. It should be appreciated that, in one aspect, a processor of the processor(s) 2314 that executes at least one of the safety component(s) 2336 can retrieve information from or retain information in one or more memory elements 2340 in the functionality information storage 2338 in order to operate in accordance with the functionality programmed or otherwise configured by the safety component(s) 2336. The one or more memory elements 2340 may be referred to as call response control information 2340. Such information can include at least one of code instructions, information structures, or the like. For instance, at least a portion of such information structures can be indicative or otherwise representative of communication addresses, caller information, response rules, and the like, in accordance with aspects described herein.
At least one of the one or more interfaces 2350 (e.g., application programming interface(s)) can permit or facilitate communication of information between two or more components within the functionality instructions storage 2334. The information that is communicated by the at least one interface can result from implementation of one or more operations in a method of the disclosure. In certain embodiments, one or more of the functionality instructions storage 2334 and the functionality information storage 2338 can be embodied in or can comprise removable/non-removable, and/or volatile/non-volatile computer storage media.
At least a portion of at least one of the safety component(s) 2336 or the safety information 2340 can program or otherwise configure one or more of the processors 2314 to operate at least in accordance with the functionality described herein. One or more of the processor(s) 2314 can execute at least one of the safety component(s) 2336 and leverage at least a portion of the information in the functionality information storage 2338 in order to provide emergency responses in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.
It should be appreciated that, in certain scenarios, the functionality instructions storage 2334 can embody or can comprise a computer-readable non-transitory storage medium having computer-accessible instructions that, in response to execution, cause at least one processor (e.g., one or more of the processor(s) 2314) to perform a group of operations comprising the operations or blocks described in connection with the disclosed methods.
In addition, the memory 2330 can comprise computer-accessible instructions and information (e.g., data, metadata, and/or programming code instructions) that permit or facilitate the operation and/or administration (e.g., upgrades, software installation, any other configuration, or the like) of the computing device 2310. Accordingly, as illustrated, the memory 2330 can comprise a memory element 2342 (labeled operating system (OS) instruction(s) 2342) that contains one or more program modules that embody or include one or more operating systems, such as Windows operating system, Unix, Linux, Symbian, Android, Chromium, and substantially any OS suitable for mobile computing devices or tethered computing devices. In one aspect, the operational and/or architectural complexity of the computing device 2310 can dictate a suitable OS. The memory 2330 also comprises a system information storage 2346 having data, metadata, and/or programming code that permits or facilitates the operation and/or administration of the computing device 2310. Elements of the OS instruction(s) 2342 and the system information storage 2346 can be accessible or can be operated on by at least one of the processor(s) 2314.
It should be recognized that while the functionality instructions storage 2334 and other executable program components, such as the OS instruction(s) 2342, are illustrated herein as discrete blocks, such software components can reside at various times in different memory components of the computing device 2310, and can be executed by at least one of the processor(s) 2314. In certain scenarios, an implementation of the safety component(s) 2336 can be retained on or transmitted across some form of computer-readable media.
The computing device 2310 and/or one of the computing device(s) 2370 can include a power supply (not shown), which can power up components or functional elements within such devices. The power supply can be a rechargeable power supply, e.g., a rechargeable battery, and it can include one or more transformers to achieve a power level suitable for the operation of the computing device 2310 and/or one of the computing device(s) 2370, and components, functional elements, and related circuitry therein. In certain scenarios, the power supply can be attached to a conventional power grid to recharge and ensure that such devices can be operational. In one aspect, the power supply can include an I/O interface (e.g., one of the network adapter(s) 2318) to connect operationally to the conventional power grid. In another aspect, the power supply can include an energy conversion component, such as a solar panel, to provide additional or alternative power resources or autonomy for the computing device 2310 and/or one of the computing device(s) 2370.
The computing device 2310 can operate in a networked environment by utilizing connections to one or more remote computing devices 2370. As an illustration, a remote computing device can be a personal computer, a portable computer, a server, a router, a network computer, a peer device or other common network node, and so on. As described herein, connections (physical and/or logical) between the computing device 2310 and a computing device of the one or more remote computing devices 2370 can be made via one or more traffic and signaling pipes 2360, which can comprise wired link(s) and/or wireless link(s) and several network elements (such as routers or switches, concentrators, servers, and the like) that form a LAN, a MAN, a WAN, and/or other networks (wireless or wired) having different footprints. Such networking environments are conventional and commonplace in dwellings, offices, enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets, local area networks, and wide area networks.
In one or more embodiments, one or more of the disclosed methods can be practiced in distributed computing environments, such as grid-based environments, where tasks can be performed by remote processing devices (computing device(s) 2370) that are functionally coupled (e.g., communicatively linked or otherwise coupled) through a network having traffic and signaling pipes and related network elements. In a distributed computing environment, in one aspect, one or more software components (such as program modules) can be located in both a local computing device and at least one remote computing device.
FIGS. 24-25 illustrate examples of methods for emergency responses in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The example method 2400 includes the exchange information between a client device 2410 and a safety server device 2420. Implementation (e.g., execution) of the example method 2400 can provide integrity to a safety service. At block 2412, the client device 2410 can receive input information indicative of log in to an account associated with a safety service. At 2414, the client device can send, to the safety server device, a first message including login information. The login information can include a username and a password and/or other type of credential. The first message can be configured and transmitted according to a defined communication protocol, such as HTTPS, SIP, or the like. At block 2422 the safety server device 2420 can validate or otherwise check the login information. To that end, the safety server device 2420 can compare the login information to other information retained in a user profile associated with the user profile. At block 2424, the safety server 2420 can issue an authorization token for the client device 2410. At 2426 the safety server device 2420 can send, to the client device 2410, a second message including the token information. The first message can be configured and transmitted according to a defined communication protocol, such as HTTPS, SIP, or the like. At 2428, the client device 2410 can send, to the safety server device 2420, a third message including location information representative of a location of the client device 2410. At block 2430, the safety server device 2420 can determine a coverage area associated with the client device. To that end, the safety server device 2420 can perform a point-in-polygon calculation against a predefined group of GPS geofences, for example. A result of the calculation can determine if the client device 2410 is inside a coverage area associated with a PSAP associated with a GPS geofence or outside such a coverage area. At 2432, the safety server device 2420 can send, to the client device 2410 a fourth message including coverage information. The coverage information can convey that the client device 2410 is inside the GPS geofence or outside the GPS geofence. The client device 2410 can receive the coverage information and can configure, using at least a portion of the coverage information, safety functionality of the client device 2410. In a scenario in which the client device 2410 is inside the GPS geofence, the safety functionality can be configured to include video calls, voice calls, and/or chat sessions via an answering server device associated with a PSAP center. In a scenario in which the client device 2410 is outside the GPS geofence, the safety functionality can be limited to placing calls to 911.
A computing device can implement the example method 2500. The computing device can embody or can constitute, for example, a client device in accordance with one more embodiments of the disclosure. At block 2510, the computing device can receive an indication to monitor acceleration of the computing device. In one aspect, a display device of the computing device can receive the indication in response to the presentation of selection of a selectable visual element at the display device. At block 2520, the computing device can initiate monitoring of an accelerometer device (e.g., a solid-state accelerometer) of the computing device. At block 2530 the computing device can collect acceleration information (e.g., electric signals, such as a current signal or a voltage signal) indicative of the acceleration of the computing device. At block 2540, the computing device can determine, using at least a portion of the acceleration information, that the computing device satisfies a distress condition. At block 2550, the computing device can validate the distress condition. At block 2560, the computing device can initiate a distress communication with a destination device (e.g., an answering station device) that facilitates the safety service.
Various embodiments of the disclosure may take the form of an entirely or partially hardware embodiment, an entirely or partially software embodiment, or a combination of software and hardware (e.g., a firmware embodiment). Furthermore, as described herein, various embodiments of the disclosure (e.g., methods and systems) may take the form of a computer program product comprising a computer-readable non-transitory storage medium having computer-accessible instructions (e.g., computer-readable and/or computer-executable instructions) such as computer software, encoded or otherwise embodied in such storage medium. Those instructions can be read or otherwise accessed and executed by one or more processors to perform or permit the performance of the operations described herein. The instructions can be provided in any suitable form, such as source code, compiled code, interpreted code, executable code, static code, dynamic code, assembler code, combinations of the foregoing, and the like. Any suitable computer-readable non-transitory storage medium may be utilized to form the computer program product. For instance, the computer-readable medium may include any tangible non-transitory medium for storing information in a form readable or otherwise accessible by one or more computers or processor(s) functionally coupled thereto. Non-transitory storage media can include read-only memory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); magnetic disk storage media; optical storage media; flash memory, etc.
Embodiments of the operational environments and methods (or techniques) are described herein with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods, systems, apparatuses and computer program products. It can be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by computer-accessible instructions. In certain implementations, the computer-accessible instructions may be loaded or otherwise incorporated into a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable information processing apparatus to produce a particular machine, such that the operations or functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks can be implemented in response to execution at the computer or processing apparatus.
Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any protocol, procedure, process, or method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its acts or steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a process or a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its acts or steps or it is not otherwise specifically recited in the claims or descriptions of the subject disclosure that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is in no way intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic with respect to the arrangement of steps or operational flow; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; the number or type of embodiments described in the specification or annexed drawings, or the like.
As used in this application, the terms “component,” “environment,” “system,” “architecture,” “interface,” “unit,” “module,” “pipe,” and the like are intended to refer to a computer-related entity or an entity related to an operational apparatus with one or more specific functionalities. Such entities may be either hardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. As an example, a component may be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable portion of software, a thread of execution, a program, and/or a computing device. For example, both a software application executing on a computing device and the computing device can be a component. One or more components may reside within a process and/or thread of execution. A component may be localized on one computing device or distributed between two or more computing devices. As described herein, a component can execute from various computer-readable non-transitory media having various data structures stored thereon. Components can communicate via local and/or remote processes in accordance, for example, with a signal (either analogic or digital) having one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system, and/or across a network such as a wide area network with other systems via the signal). As another example, a component can be an apparatus with specific functionality provided by mechanical parts operated by electric or electronic circuitry that is controlled by a software application or firmware application executed by a processor, wherein the processor can be internal or external to the apparatus and can execute at least a part of the software or firmware application. As yet another example, a component can be an apparatus that provides specific functionality through electronic components without mechanical parts, and the electronic components can include a processor therein to execute software or firmware that provides, at least in part, the functionality of the electronic components. In certain embodiments, components can communicate via local and/or remote processes in accordance, for example, with a signal (either analog or digital) having one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system, and/or across a network such as a wide area network with other systems via the signal). In other embodiments, components can communicate or otherwise be coupled via thermal, mechanical, electrical, and/or electromechanical coupling mechanisms (such as conduits, connectors, combinations thereof, or the like). An interface can include input/output (I/O) components as well as associated processors, applications, and/or other programming components. The terms “component,” “environment,” “system,” “architecture,” “interface,” “unit,” “module,” and “pipe” can be utilized interchangeably and can be referred to collectively as functional elements.
As utilized in this disclosure, the term “processor” can refer to any computing processing unit or device comprising single-core processors; single processors with software multithread execution capability; multi-core processors; multi-core processors with software multithread execution capability; multi-core processors with hardware multithread technology; parallel platforms; and parallel platforms with distributed shared memory. Additionally, a processor can refer to an integrated circuit (IC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic controller (PLC), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), a discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A processor can be implemented as a combination of computing processing units. In certain embodiments, processors can utilize nanoscale architectures such as, but not limited to, molecular and quantum-dot based transistors, switches and gates, in order to optimize space usage or enhance the performance of user equipment or other electronic equipment.
In addition, in the present specification and annexed drawings, terms such as “store,” “storage,” “data store,” “data storage,” “memory,” “repository,” and substantially any other information storage component relevant to the operation and functionality of a component of the disclosure, refer to “memory components,” entities embodied in a “memory,” or components forming the memory. It can be appreciated that the memory components or memories described herein embody or comprise non-transitory computer storage media that can be readable or otherwise accessible by a computing device. Such media can be implemented in any methods or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, information structures, program modules, or other information objects. The memory components or memories can be either volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or can include both volatile and non-volatile memory. In addition, the memory components or memories can be removable or non-removable, and/or internal or external to a computing device or component. Examples of various types of non-transitory storage media can include hard-disc drives, zip drives, CD-ROMs, digital versatile disks (DVDs) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, flash memory cards or other types of memory cards, cartridges, or any other non-transitory medium suitable to retain the desired information and which can be accessed by a computing device.
As an illustration, non-volatile memory can include read only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM), which acts as external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in many forms such as synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM). The disclosed memory components or memories of the operational or computational environments described herein are intended to include one or more of these and/or any other suitable types of memory.
Conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain implementations could include, while other implementations do not include, certain features, elements, and/or operations. Thus, such conditional language generally is not intended to imply that features, elements, and/or operations are in any way required for one or more implementations or that one or more implementations necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements, and/or operations are included or are to be performed in any particular implementation.
What has been described herein in the present specification and annexed drawings includes examples of systems, devices, and techniques that can provide emergency responses within a defined coverage area. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of elements and/or methods for purposes of describing the various features of the disclosure, but it can be recognized that many further combinations and permutations of the disclosed features are possible. Accordingly, it may be apparent that various modifications can be made to the disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit thereof. In addition or in the alternative, other embodiments of the disclosure may be apparent from consideration of the specification and annexed drawings, and practice of the disclosure as presented herein. It is intended that the examples put forward in the specification and annexed drawings be considered, in all respects, as illustrative and not restrictive. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.
What is claimed is:
1. At least one computer-readable non-transitory storage medium having instructions encoded thereon that, in response to execution, cause a computing device to facilitate or perform operations comprising:
receiving an indication to monitor acceleration of the computing device; initiating monitoring of an accelerometer device of the computing device; collecting acceleration information indicative of the acceleration of computing device; determining, using at least a portion of the acceleration information, that the computing device satisfies a distress condition; validating the distress condition; and initiating a distress communication with a destination device that facilitates a safety service.
2. The at least one computer-readable non-transitory storage medium of claim 1, wherein the validating the distress condition comprises:
prompting confirmation of the distress condition; and receiving input information indicative of the confirmation of the distress condition.
3. The at least one computer-readable non-transitory storage medium of claim 1, wherein the validating the distress condition comprises:
prompting confirmation of the distress condition; and determining that a response to the prompting is absent after a defined time interval has elapsed.
4. The at least one computer-readable non-transitory storage medium of claim 1, wherein the collecting the acceleration information indicative of the acceleration of computing device comprises querying the accelerometer device at a defined rate.
5. The at least one computer-readable non-transitory storage medium of claim 1, wherein the defined rate is one of about 100 Hz or about 60 Hz.
6. The at least one computer-readable non-transitory storage medium of claim 1, wherein the determining, using at least a portion of the acceleration information, that the computing device satisfies a distress condition comprises determining that a magnitude of a difference between a current acceleration vector and a gravity vector is greater than a defined threshold.
7. A computing device, comprising:
at least one memory device including instruction encoded thereon; and at least one processor functionally coupled to the at least one memory device and configure, by the instructions, at least to:
receive an indication to monitor acceleration of the computing device;
initiate monitoring of an accelerometer device of the computing device;
collect acceleration information indicative of the acceleration of computing device;
determine, using at least a portion of the acceleration information, that the computing device satisfies a distress condition;
validate the distress condition; and
initiate a distress communication with a destination device that facilitates a safety service.
| 2018-10-26 | en | 2019-04-11 |
US-23124902-A | Production method of famciclovir and production and crystallization method of intermediate therefor
ABSTRACT
An N-9-position alkylated form is selectively precipitated by subjecting a mixture containing the N-9-position alkylated form and an N-7-position alkylated form of 2-amino-6-halopurine to a crystallization step using a mixed solvent of an organic solvent and water. Then, this N-9-position alkylated form is reduced to give famciclovir. By this method of the present invention, famciclovir known as an antiviral agent, and an intermediate compound therefor can be efficiently produced.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to industrial production and crystallization methods of famciclovir known as an antiviral agent and an intermediate compound therefor.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative of the formula (3)
[0003] wherein X is a chlorine atom, a bromine atom or an iodine atom and Ac is an acetyl group, is known as an important intermediate compound for famciclovir of the formula (4)
[0004] known as an antiviral agent.
[0005] The 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative (hereinafter to be also referred to as an N-9-position alkylated form) of the formula (3) can be obtained by reacting 2-amino-6-halopurine of the formula (1) with a compound of the formula (2) as shown in the following formulas:
[0006] Depending on the reaction, however, a 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative of the formula (5) (hereinafter to be also referred to as an N-7-position alkylated form) is by-produced as an impurity. This impurity is difficult to separate, and the separation has conventionally required silica gel chromatography, as taught in Tetrahedron, 46, page 6903 (1990).
[0007] In addition, a produce method of famciclovir through a different compound, which is free of silica gel chromatography, has been known. For example, Nucleosides & Nucleotides, 15, page 981 (1996), Tetrahedron, 56, page 4589 (2000), Tetrahedron letters, 42, page 1781 (2001), EP0728757A, EP0827960A and the like can be mentioned. However, since these methods require a number of steps, a more efficient production method has been demanded.
[0008] Accordingly, the present invention aims at providing an efficient production method of famciclovir known as an antiviral agent and an intermediate compound therefor.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] As a result of the intensive investigation of the present inventors, it has been found according to the present invention that, by subjecting a mixture containing an N-7-position alkylated form and an N-9-position alkylated form to a crystallization step using a mixed solvent of an organic solvent and water, the objective N-9-position alkylated form precipitates selectively and the N-7-position alkylated form can be removed highly.
[0010] Accordingly, the present invention provides the following.
[0011] [1] A production method of a 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative represented by the formula (3), which comprises subjecting a mixture containing 2-amino-6-halopurine derivatives represented by the formulas:
[0012] wherein X is a chlorine atom, a bromine atom or an iodine atom and Ac is an acetyl group, to a crystallizing step using a mixed solvent of an organic solvent and water to selectively precipitate the 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative represented by the formula (3).
[0013] [2] The production method of the above-mentioned [1], wherein the mixture containing the 2-amino-6-halopurine derivatives represented by the formulas (3) and (5) is obtained by reacting 2-amino-6-halopurine represented by the formula (1):
[0014] wherein X is as defined in the above-mentioned [1], with a compound represented by the formula (2):
[0015] wherein Y is a leaving group and Ac is as defined in the above-mentioned [1].
[0016] [3] The production method of the above-mentioned [1] or [2], wherein X is a chlorine atom.
[0017] [4] The production method of the above-mentioned [2], wherein the leaving group represented by Y is a group selected from the group consisting of a chlorine atom, a bromine atom, an iodine atom, a p-toluenesulfonyloxy group, a mesyloxy group, a trifluoromethanesulfonyloxy group, an alkylcarbonate group, a phenylcarbonate group and a saturated or unsaturated acyloxy group.
[0018] [5] The production method of the above-mentioned [2], wherein the 2-amino-6-halopurine represented by the formula (1) is reacted with the compound represented by the formula (2) in the same organic solvent as used for crystallization.
[0019] [6] The production method of any of the above-mentioned [1] to [5], wherein the organic solvent is at least one selected from the group consisting of dimethylformamide, N-methylpyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone and dimethylacetamide.
[0020] [7] The production method of the above-mentioned [2], wherein the 2-amino-6-halopurine represented by the formula (1) is reacted with the compound represented by the formula (2) in the presence of a base.
[0021] [8] The production method of the above-mentioned [7], further comprising neutralization of a reaction mixture by using an acid after completion of the reaction.
[0022] [9] The production method of any of the above-mentioned [1] to
[0023] [8], wherein the crystallization is cooling crystallization.
[0024] [10] A production method of famciclovir represented by the formula (4):
[0025] wherein Ac is an acetyl group, which comprises obtaining the 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative represented by the formula (3) according to any of the above-mentioned [1] to [9], and then reducing the 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative.
[0026] [11] A method of selectively crystallizing a 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative represented by the formula (3), which comprises subjecting a mixture containing 2-amino-6-halopurine derivatives represented by the formulas:
[0027] wherein X is a chlorine atom, a bromine atom or an iodine atom and Ac is an acetyl group, to a crystallization step using a mixed solvent of an organic solvent and water.
[0028] [12] The crystallization method of the above-mentioned [11], wherein X is a chlorine atom.
[0029] [13] The crystallization method of the above-mentioned [11], wherein the organic solvent is at least a member selected from the group consisting of dimethylformamide, N-methylpyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone and dimethylacetamide.
[0030] [14] The crystallization method of the above-mentioned [11], wherein the crystallization is cooling crystallization.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0031] The present invention is explained in detail in the following.
[0032] In the formula (1), the formula (3) and the formula (5) in the present invention, X represents a chlorine atom, a bromine atom or an iodine atom, with most preference given to a chlorine atom.
[0033] In the formula (2) of the present invention, Y represents a leaving group. The leaving group is not particularly limited and is, for example, a halogen atom (e.g., chlorine atom, bromine atom, iodine atom), a sulfonyloxy group (e.g., p-toluenesulfonyloxy group, mesyloxy group, trifluoromethanesulfonyloxy group and the like), an acyloxy group (preferably saturated or unsaturated acyloxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms in total, such as a group represented by R—C(═O)—O— wherein R is an aryl group optionally substituted by alkyl group (preferably having 6 to 8 carbon atoms in total, such as phenyl group, p-tolyl group and the like), an aryloxy group optionally substituted by alkyl group (preferably having 6 to 8 carbon atoms in total such as phenoxy group, p-tolyloxy group and the like), aralkyl group (preferably having 7 to 9 carbon atoms in total such as benzyl group and the like), arylalkenyl group (preferably having 8 or 9 carbon atoms in total such as cinnamyl group and the like), aralkyloxy group (having 7 to 15 carbon atoms in total such as benzyloxy group, 9-fluorenylmethyloxy group and the like), or alkoxy group (linear or branched chain alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms such as methoxy, ethoxy, t-butoxy and the like), and the like. Of these, chlorine atom, bromine atom, iodine atom, p-toluenesulfonyloxy group, mesyloxy group, trifluoromethanesulfonyloxy group, alkylcarbonate group, phenylcarbonate group and saturated or unsaturated acyloxy group and the like are preferable, particularly preferably bromine atom and mesyloxy group.
[0034] First, a step for crystallizing a mixture containing an N-7-position alkylated form and an N-9-position alkylated form (hereinafter to be also simply referred to as a mixture) is explained.
[0035] In the crystallization step of the present invention, the crystallization solvent is not only an organic solvent but water, which is a poor solvent to a mixture containing an N-7-position alkylated form and an N-9-position alkylated form. Using this mixed solvent, a mixture containing the N-7-position alkylated form and the N-9-position alkylated form is subjected to crystallization to selectively precipitate the N-9-position alkylated form.
[0036] The crystallization in the present invention means a conventional operation such as (1) a step for precipitating crystals from a solution, in which a crystalline substance (N-9-position alkylated form) is dissolved, comprising concentration by evaporating the solvent,
[0037] (2) a step for precipitating a crystal from a solution, in which a crystalline substance (N-9-position alkylated form) is dissolved, comprising lowering the temperature, thereby to make the concentration higher than the saturated solubility (also to be referred to as cooling crystallization),
[0038] (3) a step for precipitating a crystal by adding a suitable amount of water, which is a poor solvent, to a solution, in which a crystalline substance (N-9-position alkylated form) is dissolved, to make the concentration higher than the saturated solubility, and the like. In the present invention, the cooling crystallization is preferable for improving the purity of the N-9-position alkylated form. The crystallization is preferably carried out under stirring.
[0039] The solvent to be used for the crystallization step is a mixed solvent of an organic solvent and water, wherein the amount of water to be used is preferably 0.5 to 1.5-fold, more preferably 0.7 to 1.1-fold, in a volume ratio to the organic solvent.
[0040] Examples of the organic solvent in the mixed solvent used for the crystallization step include an amide solvent (e.g., dimethylformamide (DMF), N-methylpyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone, dimethylacetamide etc.), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), acetonitrile and the like, which is preferably an amide solvent, more preferably DMF, N-methylpyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone and dimethyl acetamide. Of these, DMF is particularly preferable. These organic solvents may be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds thereof.
[0041] The amount of use of the mixed solvent may be varied as appropriate depending on the mixing ratio, crystallization conditions and the like. For example, when a mixed solvent of water and DMF (water:DMF (volume ratio)=1:1-396:7) is used for crystallization under the above-mentioned crystallization conditions, 6-15 ml of a mixed solvent is preferably used per 1 mmol of a mixture containing an N-7-position alkylated form and an N-9-position alkylated form.
[0042] In the following, the crystallization in the present invention is explained by referring to a preferable embodiment (cooling crystallization) as an example. The present invention is not limited to the example.
[0043] By dissolving a mixture containing an N-7-position alkylated form and an N-9-position alkylated form with heating in a mixed solvent of water and an organic solvent and then cooling, an N-9-position alkylated form is selectively precipitated. The order of addition of the compound and the solvent is not particularly limited. For example, after dissolving a mixture containing an N-7-position alkylated form and an N-9-position alkylated form in an organic solvent, water is added; a mixture containing an N-7-position alkylated form and an N-9-position alkylated form is added to a mixed solvent of an organic solvent and water prepared in advance and the like.
[0044] The temperature during dissolving with heating is not particularly limited as long as it is a temperature at which the mixture can be dissolved in the mixed solvent, and varies depending on the mixed solvent to be used. Generally, heating at not lower than 50° C., preferably 50-80° C., more preferably 50-60° C., results in complete dissolution of the mixture.
[0045] After dissolution of the mixture with heating, the solution is cooled to allow precipitation of the desired N-9-position alkylated form. The cooling temperature is not particularly limited as long as it is a temperature at which a desired compound precipitates, which is preferably 0-30° C., more preferably 10-20° C. The cooling can be preferably done at a cooling rate of 1-10° C./hr, more preferably at 2-5° C./hr.
[0046] The crystal precipitated by cooling is preferably aged for a given time. The aging can be done at the cooling temperature preferably for 1-24 hr, more preferably 2-12 hr.
[0047] The crystallization method other than the cooling crystallization, such as the methods of the above-mentioned (1) and (3) can be performed under the conditions appropriately determined based on the explanation of the above-mentioned cooling crystallization. For example, in the method (1), the organic solvent may be evaporated from the solution so that the conditions, such as the mixing ratio of an organic solvent and water, the amount of use of the mixed solvent relative to the N-9-position alkylated form and the like, may fall within the above-mentioned range. In the method (3), water is added to the solution of an organic solvent while adjusting to meet the above-mentioned mixing ratio of the organic solvent and water, and the temperature is appropriately adjusted to crystallize the N-9-position alkylated form.
[0048] The obtained crystal can be separated by a conventional method such as filtration and the like. To increase the purity of the crystal, the crystal may be washed with, for example, a mixed solvent of DMF and water, water and the like. Alternatively, the obtained crystal is subjected again to a similar crystallization step to further increase the purity of the crystal.
[0049] In this way, a crystal of an N-9-position alkylated form highly free of an impurity, an N-7-position alkylated form, can be obtained. That is, the method of the present invention comprising subjecting a mixture containing an N-9-position alkylated form and an N-7-position alkylated form to a crystallization step using a mixed solvent of an organic solvent and water, selectively affords a crystal of an N-9-position alkylated form.
[0050] The crystallization step in the present invention is particularly useful for a mixture containing an N-7-position alkylated form and an N-9-position alkylated form, which results from a reaction simultaneously producing the N-7-position alkylated form and the N-9-position alkylated form. This is because the N-7-position alkylated form and the N-9-position alkylated form are difficult to separate, but the N-9-position alkylated form can be separated easily by applying the mixture to the crystallization step of the present invention. In the following, as the production method of a mixture to be subjected to the crystallization step, a method simultaneously affording an N-7-position alkylated form and an N-9-position alkylated form is explained as an example, but the production method of the mixture of the present invention is not limited to this method.
[0051] A mixture containing an N-7-position alkylated form and an N-9-position alkylated form to be subjected to the crystallization step can be produced by a known method. For example, the mixture is obtained by the method described in Tetrahedron, 46, page 6903 (1990), namely, by reacting 2-amino-6-halopurine represented by the formula (1) with a compound represented by the formula (2). This reaction is generally carried out in a reaction solvent.
[0052] The amount of use of a compound represented by the formula (2) is generally 0.5 to 2-fold mol, preferably 1 to 1.5-fold mol, relative to 2-amino-6-halopurine represented by the formula (1).
[0053] As the reaction solvent, for example, an amide solvent (e.g., DMF, N-methylpyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone, dimethylacetamide etc.), acetonitrile, DMSO and the like can be mentioned, preferably an amide solvent, more preferably DMF, N-methylpyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone, dimethylacetamide and the like. Particularly, DMF is preferable. These organic solvents may be used alone or in combination of two or more thereof.
[0054] The amount of use of the reaction solvent is such an amount as to make the concentration of 2-amino-6-halopurine represented by the formula (1) in a reaction solvent preferably 0.05-1 mol/L, more preferably 0.2-0.5 mol/L.
[0055] The mixture is generally produced in the presence of a base. Examples of the preferable base include an inorganic base such as potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, cesium carbonate and the like, a quaternary ammonium salt such as tetrabutylammonium hydroxide and the like, and the like. The amount of the base to be used is preferably 0.5 to 2-fold mol, more preferably 1 to 1.5-fold mol of 2-amino-6-halopurine represented by the formula (1).
[0056] The reaction temperature is generally 0-80° C., preferably 20-50° C. The reaction time is generally 2-48 hr, preferably 5-25 hr. If necessary, the reaction may be further conducted at 50-100° C. for 1-5 hr to complete the reaction.
[0057] After completion of the reaction, reaction solvent may be removed from the reaction solution by concentration and the like as necessary. When the reaction solvent can be used for the crystallization step, the above-mentioned crystallization may be generally applied without concentration and the like. Thus, the use of the same organic solvent for the reaction and the crystallization step is preferable because it is economical and industrially beneficial since the number of steps can be reduced.
[0058] When the reaction is conducted in the presence of a base, the reaction mixture may be neutralized with an acid and subjected to the next crystallization step. The acid to be used for neutralization is, for example, an organic acid such as acetic acid, citric acid and the like and an inorganic acid such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid and the like, with preference given to organic acid. For neutralization, the reaction solution need only to be adjusted to generally pH 5-9, preferably pH 6-8.
[0059] When a mixture containing an N-7-position alkylated form and an N-9-position alkylated form, which was obtained by the above-mentioned method, is subjected to a crystallization step using a solvent usable for the crystallization step as a reaction solvent, for example, water is added in excess to the reaction solution to allow precipitation of the crystal of N-9-position alkylated form. Preferably, a suitable amount of water is added to the reaction solution to give a mixed solvent, which is heated to a suitable temperature and subjected to cooling crystallization. The suitable amount of water and suitable temperature for heating are the same as those for the above-mentioned crystallization step. When water is added to a reaction solution to give a mixed solvent, a crystal is generally precipitated but when cooling crystallization is carried out, a precipitated crystal is preferably dissolved once by heating to a suitable temperature.
[0060] The obtained 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative (N-9-position alkylated form) is reduced to give famciclovir known as an antiviral agent. As described in Nucleosides & Nucleotides, 15, page 981 (1996), for example, a 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative (N-9-position alkylated form) is subjected to catalytic reduction using palladium carbon as a catalyst in a solvent such as ethyl acetate and the like in the presence of a base such as triethylamine and the like to give famciclovir.
[0061] While the present invention is explained in detail in the following by referring to Examples, the present invention is not limited by these examples in any way.
EXAMPLE 1
[0062] To a solution of 2-acetoxymethyl-4-methanesulfonoxy-1-butyl acetate (b) (3.74 g, 83.0 wt %, 11 mmol) in DMF (35 ml) were added 2-amino-6-chloropurine (a) (1.70 g, 10 mmol) and potassium carbonate (2.07 g, 15 mmol), and the mixture was reacted at 30° C. for 22 hr and at 70° C. for 2 hr. The N-9-position alkylated form (c): N-7-position alkylated form (d) ratio at the time of completion of the reaction was 5.55:1 and the total amount of the reaction product was 3.5 g (calculation by HPLC). After the reaction, the reaction product was cooled to 20° C., acetic acid (1.2 ml, 21 mmol) and water (30 ml) were added, and pH was adjusted to 7.0. The mixture was heated to 50° C. to dissolve the crystal. This solution was made to gradually cool to 20° C. at 5° C./hr and stirred at 20° C. for 12 hr. Water (5 ml) was added and the mixture was stirred at 20° C. for 2 hr. The obtained crystal was filtrated, washed with 50 v/v % aqueous DMF solution (6 ml) and water (6 ml), and dried in vacuo at 50° C. overnight to give 2-acetoxymethyl-4-(2-amino-6-chloropurin -9-yl)-1-butyl acetate (c) (2.27 g, yield 63.8%) as a white crystal. The (c):(d) ratio of the obtained crystal was 1144:1.
[0063]1H-NMR(CDCl3): 7.81(s,1H,H-8), 5.18(brs,2H,NH2), 4.21(t,2H,J=7.0 Hz,H-1′), 4.15(d,4H,J=5.4 Hz,H-4′), 2.07(s,6H,2Ac), 2.03-1.90(m,3H,H-2′,3′)
EXAMPLE 2
[0064] To a solution of 2-acetoxymethyl-4-methanesulfonoxy-1-butyl acetate (b) (4.08 g, 83.0 wt %, 12 mmol) in 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone (21 ml) were added 2-amino-6-chloropurine (a) (1.70 g, 10 mmol) and potassium carbonate (2.07 g, 15 mmol), and the mixture was reacted at 40° C. for 22 hr and at 70° C. for 2 hr. The N-9-position alkylated form (c):N-7-position alkylated form (d) ratio at the time of completion of the reaction was 5.13:1 and the total amount of the reaction product was 3.26 g (calculation by HPLC). After the reaction, the reaction product was cooled to 20° C., 1M aqueous hydrochloric acid solution (6 ml, 6 mmol) and water (15 ml) were added, and pH was adjusted to 7.0. The mixture was stirred at 20° C. for 4 hr. The obtained crystal was filtrated, washed with 50 v/v % aqueous 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone solution (10 ml) and water (10 ml), and dried at 50° C. for 12 hr to give 2-acetoxymethyl-4-(2-amino-6-chloropurin-9-yl)-1-butyl acetate (c) (1.86 g, yield 52.3%) as a white crystal. The (c):(d) ratio of the obtained crystal was 189.5:1.
[0065] According to the present invention, a 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative (N-9-position alkylated form) represented by the aforementioned formula (3) can be selectively crystallized, whereby famciclovir known as an antiviral agent, and an intermediate compound therefor can be efficiently produced.
[0066] This application is based on patent application No. 2001-262301 filed in Japan, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
What is claimed is
1. A production method of a 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative represented by the formula (3), which comprises subjecting a mixture comprising 2-amino-6-halopurine derivatives represented by the formulas:
wherein X is a chlorine atom, a bromine atom or an iodine atom and Ac is an acetyl group, to a crystallization step using a mixed solvent of an organic solvent and water to selectively precipitate the 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative represented by the formula (3)
2. The production method of claim 1, wherein the mixture comprising the 2-amino-6-halopurine derivatives represented by the formulas (3) and (5) is obtained by reacting 2-amino-6-halopurine represented by the formula (1):
wherein X is as defined in claim 1, with a compound represented by the formula (2):
wherein Y is a leaving group and Ac is as defined in claim 1.
3. The production method of claim 1 or 2, wherein X is a chlorine atom.
4. The production method of claim 2, wherein the leaving group represented by Y is a group selected from the group consisting of a chlorine atom, a bromine atom, an iodine atom, a p-toluenesulfonyloxy group, a mesyloxy group, a trifluoromethanesulfonyloxy group, an alkylcarbonate group, a phenylcarbonate group and a saturated or unsaturated acyloxy group.
5. The production method of claim 2, wherein the 2-amino-6-halopurine represented by the formula (1) is reacted with the compound represented by the formula (2) in the same organic solvent as used for crystallization.
6. The production method of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the organic solvent is at least one selected from the group consisting of dimethylformamide, N-methylpyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone and dimethylacetamide.
7. The production method of claim 2, wherein the 2-amino-6-halopurine represented by the formula (1) is reacted with the compound represented by the formula (2) in the presence of a base.
8. The production method of claim 7, further comprising neutralization of a reaction mixture by using an acid after completion of the reaction.
9. The production method of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the crystallization is cooling crystallization.
10. A production method of famciclovir represented by the formula (4):
wherein Ac is an acetyl group, which comprises obtaining the 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative represented by the formula (3) according to any of claims 1 to 9, and then reducing the 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative.
11. A method of selectively crystallizing a 2-amino-6-halopurine derivative represented by the formula (3), which comprises subjecting a mixture comprising 2-amino-6-halopurine derivatives represented by the formulas:
wherein X is a chlorine atom, a bromine atom or an iodine atom and Ac is an acetyl group, to a crystallization step using a mixed solvent of an organic solvent and water.
12. The crystallization method of claim 11, wherein X is a chlorine atom.
13. The crystallization method of claim 11, wherein the organic solvent is at least a member selected from the group consisting of dimethylformamide, N-methylpyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone and dimethylacetamide.
14. The crystallization method of claim 11, wherein the crystallization is cooling crystallization.
| 2002-08-30 | en | 2003-03-27 |
US-201313959399-A | Activity meter
ABSTRACT
An activity meter has an activity amount acquisition unit that acquires an amount of physical activity of a user. The activity meter acquires a first index relating to a difference between target calories burned for a unit period and computed calories burned that are computed from the amount of activity acquired by the activity amount acquisition unit in the unit period, and acquires a second index relating to a difference between a target value representing a body composition and a measurement value representing a body composition that is measured for the user. Information on an evaluation of the amount of activity based on the first index and second index that have been acquired is output.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to an activity meter that measures the amount of physical activity of a user, and more particularly to an activity meter that outputs information relating to the amount of physical activity.
BACKGROUND ART
For activity meters, Patent Literature 1 (JP 2006-204446A) and Patent Literature 2 (JP 2001-258870A) show methods for measuring the exercise intensity of physical activity or the calories burned during physical activity utilizing an acceleration sensor. With the activity meter of Patent Literature 1 (JP 2006-204446A), a standard deviation Sw of acceleration in a fixed time period tw is computed from the output signal of the acceleration sensor, and an exercise intensity wi is computed from the standard deviation Sw using a conversion equation formulated in advance. Also, with the device of Patent Literature 2 (JP 2001-258870A), the impulse of momentum is calculated by vector synthesis from triaxial acceleration, and energy expenditure is calculated from the impulse in response to the type of exercise. The type of exercise is determined based on the ratio between the impulse calculated by vector synthesis and the impulse in the depth, horizontal and vertical directions.
In Patent Literature 3 (JP 2010-17525A), what age activity pattern the user's state of activity is equivalent to is computed by comparing the energy expenditure history with reference data.
Patent Literature 4 (JP 2008-250967A) shows a configuration in which dietary intake amount is determined from the computed amount of physical activity and the result thereof is displayed.
CITATION LIST
Patent Literature
Patent Literature 1: JP 2006-204446A
Patent Literature 2: JP 2001-258870A
Patent Literature 3: JP 2010-17525A
Patent Literature: JP 2008-250967A
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Technical Problem
Although the activity meters of Patent Literature 1 (JP 2006-204446A) and Patent Literature 2 (JP 2001-258870A) output the user's activity amount as calories burned, it is unclear whether the amount of calories burned is high or low in comparison with a person of the same age or to a person of what age that amount of calories burned is equivalent. In order to compensate for this, in Patent Literature 3 (JP 2010-17525A), the age activity pattern to which the user's state of activity is equivalent is computed.
Meanwhile, although there is a demand for users to be able to personally evaluate the amount of activity (calories burned) and ask for advice to satisfy his/her health awareness due to a recent increased trend toward health awareness, the above-described conventional technology has not fulfilled such a demand.
Hence, an object of this invention is to provide an activity meter that outputs information for evaluating the amount of activity.
Solution to Problem
The activity meter according to this invention includes an activity amount acquisition unit that acquires an amount of physical activity of a user, an acquisition unit that acquires a first index relating to a difference between target calories burned for a unit period and computed calories burned that are computed from the amount of activity acquired by the activity amount acquisition means in the unit period, an acquisition unit that acquires a second index relating to a difference between a target value representing a body composition and a measurement value representing a body composition that is measured for the user, and an output unit that outputs information on an evaluation of the activity amount based on the first index and the second index that have been acquired.
Advantageous Effects of Invention
According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an activity meter that is capable of outputting information for evaluating the amount of activity.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIGS. 1A and 1B are diagrams respectively illustrating the external appearance and a mode of wearing an activity meter according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of a system that includes an activity meter according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the functional configuration of an activity meter according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing exemplary memory content of a memory according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a processing flowchart according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of display according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another example of display according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart for computing an aging index according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is diagram showing an example of a table of messages corresponding to aging indices according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the same or corresponding portions in the following embodiments are given the same reference signs in the drawings, and description thereof will not be repeated.
First, terms used in the present embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, “activity age” represents a standard (or average) age of persons who, in a predetermined period, burn the total amount of calories burned by the user when active for the same period. Here, for ease of description, the predetermined period is 1 day.
Also, “real age” indicates chronological age (age counted from the time of birth). Further, “body age” indicates biological age, more specifically it indicates the age of a body based on it's physical composition. It is assumed that the basal metabolic rate is used as a typical example of information for physical composition, but the present invention is not limited to thereto.
In the present embodiment, METs (Medical Evangelism Training & Strategies) is used as an index indicating physical activity intensity. A METs is a unit representing the intensity of physical activity in multiples of a resting state, with sitting down quietly being equivalent to 1 METs and normal walking being equivalent to 3 METs.
Also, “exercise (Ex)” is a unit representing the amount of physical activity, and is obtained by multiplying the intensity of physical activity (METs) by the implementation time period (time: hour) of physical activity.
In the present embodiment, a device that measures the number of steps a person takes is illustrated as the activity meter, but the activity meter is not limited to such a device. In other words, the activity meter can be any device having a function capable of measuring the activity amount resulting from physical activity including exercise and daily activities (e.g., vacuuming, carrying items, cooking, etc.). Although the activity meter can be shared among two or more persons, it is assumed here for ease of description that the activity meter is used by one person.
Referring to (A) of FIG. 1, a casing of an activity meter 110 is provided with a display 20 capable of displaying various items of information such as the counted number of steps, activity intensity and activity age, and an operation unit 30 having various buttons with which a user can perform operations. The operation unit 30 includes a button 31 that the user operates in order to request output of the activity age.
The user performs physical activity including exercise and daily activities while carrying the activity meter 100 in a pocket or the like in clothes, as shown in (B) of FIG. 1.
Referring to FIG. 2, a hardware configuration will now be described with reference to a system including the activity meter 100. The system includes the activity meter 100 and external devices 200 and 300 that communicate with each other.
The activity meter 100 includes, as hardware, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 10 for performing overall control, the display 20, the operation unit 30, an acceleration sensor unit 40 including an acceleration sensor and an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), a memory 50 for storing programs that are executed by the CPU 10, data and the like, a communication I/F (abbreviation of “interface”) 60 for wireless or wired communication with an external device, a power source 70 such as a battery, an audio output unit 80 for outputting audio, and a timer 90 that clocks time and outputs time data.
The activity meter 100 performs wireless or wired communication with external devices 200 and 300 via the communication I/F 60. The device 200 is equivalent to a mobile terminal (PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), mobile phone, etc.) or a stand-alone computer, for example, and the device 300 has a function of measuring the user's weight and body composition. Here, body composition indicates physical composition such as muscle mass, bone mass, fat mass, and the like of body.
The device 200 includes, as hardware, for example, a CPU 201, a memory 202, an output unit 203, an input unit 204, a communication I/F 205, and a device driver 207 for accessing data in a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory) 206. The device driver 207 has the CD-ROM 206 removably loaded therein, and reads out data (including programs) from the loaded CD-ROM 206 or writes data to the loaded CD-ROM 206.
The device 300 includes a weight/body composition measurement unit 301 that measures the user's height, weight, body composition (body fat and the like), a communication I/F 302 for transmitting measured information to outside the device, and a timer 303. Measured weight and body composition information is transmitted to the activity meter 100 via the communication I/Fs 302 and 60, as weight data and body composition data to which time data indicating the measurement time clocked by the timer 303 is respectively added. The timer 303 and the timer 90 are adjusted so as to perform synchronized clocking operations. The weight/body composition measurement unit 301 has a scale function and measures the weight of the user. Also, the weight/body composition measurement unit 301 has a function for computing values of body composition based on bioelectrical impedance measured from the user.
The configuration of functions that operate under the control of the CPU 10 is shown in FIG. 3. The functions include an activity amount acquisition unit 11 for acquiring the amount of physical activity of the user, a calories burned computation unit 12 for computing the total calories burned in the predetermined period based on the acquired activity amount, an activity age acquisition unit 13 for acquiring the activity age from the computed calories burned in the predetermined period, a basal metabolic rate acquisition unit 15 for acquiring the basal metabolic rate, a body age acquisition unit 16 for acquiring the body age, an evaluation acquisition unit 17 for acquiring information for evaluating the amount of activity, and an output processing unit 18 for outputting various items of information to outside the device. The information output from the output processing unit 18 includes an image, and the output processing unit 18 includes an image generation unit 19 that generates the image. These units are equivalent to a program or a combination of a program and a circuit module.
Computation of Calories Burned Based on Activity Amount
The activity amount acquisition unit 11 receives input of activity intensity from the acceleration sensor unit 40 and input of time data from the timer 90. Activity intensity data Mi (discussed later) obtained by associating the activity intensity from the acceleration sensor unit 40 and the time data from the timer 90 is acquired, and the acquired activity intensity data Mi is stored in the memory 50. The time data associated with the activity intensity indicates the implementation date and time of the exercise for which the activity intensity was measured.
The acceleration sensor unit 40 measures the number of steps similarly to measurement of the number of steps by a generic pedometer. The acceleration sensor detects acceleration applied to the activity meter 100. The detected acceleration is derived as a voltage signal. The MPU processes the output signal from the acceleration sensor. For example, the MPU performs processing so as to count each time an acceleration of greater than or equal to a threshold is detected as one step, based on the signal output sequentially from the acceleration sensor.
The measurement operation performed by the MPU of the acceleration sensor unit 40 involves computing the activity intensity (unit: METs) per unit period, using acceleration data measured based on the acceleration signal input from the acceleration sensor, with predetermined time intervals (e.g., 20-second intervals, etc.) defined in advance as the unit period. As a specific computation method, for example, the activity intensity can be computed using a well-known technique, such as the technique disclosed by the applicant in JP 2009-28312A.
Activity intensity is an index representing the intensity of physical activity that depends on walking pitch (number of steps per unit period) and the height of the user that is input in advance. For example, a resting state is equivalent to 1 METs, walking normally (4 km/h) is equivalent to 3 METs, vacuuming is equivalent to 3.5 METs, and jogging is equivalent to 7 METs (from Exercise and Physical Activity Guide for Health Promotion “Exercise Guide 2006” (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)).
The activity intensity may be computed by a method using the heart rate detected from the user and a predetermined arithmetic equation, instead of being computed by the abovementioned method based on body motion detected in accordance with the acceleration signal.
The storage content of the memory 50 is illustrated in FIG. 4. Referring to FIG. 4, the memory 50 includes an area E1 where the activity intensity data Mi (i=1, 2, 3, . . . n) is stored, an area E2 where a coefficient data group 51 that consists of different types of coefficients that are used in the conversion equation for converting total calories burned into an activity age is stored, an area E3, and an area E4 for storing a table 60 and image data 61. The coefficients in the coefficient data group 51 are assumed to have been computed in advance through testing and stored.
The activity intensity data Mi includes measured activity intensity and a measurement time period indicating the time period for which the activity was implemented. The values of the coefficients in the coefficient data group 51 may be variably set by a user operation via the operation unit 30.
The area E3 has stored therein computed calories burned 52 for the user, a computed basal metabolic rate 53 and an acquired activity age 54, and further has stored therein a real age 56 of the user, physique data 57 including the user's weight, height and the like, gender data 58 indicating the gender of the user, and a body age 59 of the user. Here, the real age 56, the physique data 57 and the gender data 58 represent body information relating to the user's body.
The image data 61 of the area E4 includes data to be used for generating an image to be displayed on the display 20, and data to be generated and displayed.
A processing flowchart according to the present embodiment is shown in FIG. 5. Processing according to this processing flowchart is realized by the CPU 10 reading out a predetermined program from the memory 50 and executing the instructions of the read program. Computation of the user's activity age and body age and output of information will be described according to the flowchart of FIG. 5. Note that it is assumed that a sufficient number of sets of activity intensity data Mi are stored in the area E1 of the memory 50.
When the user operates the button 31 of the operation unit 30, the CPU 10 receives the operation. Specifically, based on the operation signal output from the operation unit 30 as a result of the button 31 being operated, the CPU 10 starts the processing of FIG. 5. When the processing has been started, the activity amount acquisition unit 11 acquires the activity amount for the predetermined period, based on the activity intensity data Mi read out from the area E1 of the memory 50 (step S1). Subsequently, the basal metabolic rate acquisition unit 15 computes a basal metabolic rate of the user for a predetermined period (step S3). The procedure for computing a basal metabolic rate will be described in detail later. The calories burned computation unit 12 then computes the total calories burned for the predetermined period in accordance with the above-described computation equation, based on the acquired activity amount (step S5).
The activity age acquisition unit 13 computes the activity age, in accordance with a predetermined conversion equation using the computed total calories burned and basal metabolic rate and coefficients of the coefficient data group 51 (step S7). The procedure for computing the activity age will be described in detail later.
The body age acquisition unit 16 computes the body age in accordance with the procedure described later. The computed activity age and body age are output to the output processing unit 18. The image generation unit 19 of the output processing unit 18 generates image data based on the input activity age and body age. The generated image data is stored in the area E4. The output processing unit 18 displays on the display 20 various items of information such as the generated image data in the area E4 and the like (step S13). This ends the processing.
Next, computation procedures in the above-described units will be described.
Method of Computing Basal Metabolic Rate
Computation of basal metabolic rate (step S3) performed by the basal metabolic rate acquisition unit 15 will now be described. The basal metabolic rate acquisition unit 15 computes a theoretical basal metabolic rate 531 and a body composition information based basal metabolic rate 532.
Computation of the theoretical basal metabolic rate 531 will also now be described. It is known that a theoretical basal metabolic rate for 1 day can be computed by equation (1), and the basal metabolic rate acquisition unit 15 computes the theoretical basal metabolic rate 531 using equation (1). Note that equation (1) is proposed in Ganpule AA, et al. Interindividual variability in sleeping metabolic rate in Japanese subjects, European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2007), pp. 1-6.
theoretical basal metabolic rate 531−(0.0481×W+0.0234×H−0.0138×R×0.5473×F+0.1238)×239 (1)
where W denotes weight, H denotes height, R denotes real age, and F denotes gender. Weight W is denoted in kilograms (kg) and height H is denoted in centimeters (cm). F is 1 if the gender is male and is 2 if the gender is female.
Note that the equation for computing the basal metabolic rate is not limited to equation (1), and may be another arithmetic equation. Also, the type and value of the parameters used in the computation equation are not limited to those shown in equation (1), and a configuration may be adopted in which the basal metabolic rate is computed from biological information and the type and value of the parameters are determined empirically from the computed basal metabolic rate, for example, or a configuration may be adopted in which a predetermined value is read out from the coefficient data group 51.
The body composition information based basal metabolic rate 532 is computed from the body composition information of the user measured by the weight/body composition measurement unit 301. As for the method for computing the basal metabolic rate from body composition information, the basal metabolic rate can be computed using fat-free mass measured by the weight/body composition measurement unit 301 in accordance with the equation: basal metabolic rate 532=A×FFM+B (FFM: fat-free mass, A, B: constants).
Method of Computing Calories Burned
Computation of calories burned by the calories burned computation unit 12 (step S5) will now be described. The calories burned computation unit 12 computes ideal calories burned 521 and measurement calories burned 522.
First, the ideal calories burned 521 is computed using the physical activity level PAL (PAL: Physical Activity Level) for 1 day. It is known that PAL can be computed from total calories burned (unit: kcal) for 1 day/basal metabolic rate (unit: kcal) for 1 day, and that the physical activity level PAL is 1.60 to 1.90 for a “normal” amount of activity. Here, the intermediate value 1.75 is employed as the representative value.
Therefore, if PAL is used, an equation: “ideal calories burned [kcal/day]=ideal basal metabolic rate 531 [kcal/day]×1.75” is satisfied, and the ideal calories burned 521 is derived from this equation.
Next, computation of the measurement calories burned 522 will be described. The measurement calories burned 522 indicates calories burned by the user exercising. The calories burned computation unit 12 computes the measurement calories burned 522 in accordance with the following equation: measurement calories burned (kcal/day)=activity intensity (METs)×weight (kg)×activity duration (hour) for 1 day×1.05 (from Exercise and Physical Activity Guide for Health Promotion “Exercise Guide 2006”, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare). Here, activity intensity and activity duration can be acquired from the activity intensity data Mi, and weight can be acquired from physique data 57 in the memory 50.
Method of Computing Activity Age
Acquisition of activity age (step S7) performed by the activity age acquisition unit 13 will now be described.
The activity age acquisition unit 13 computes activity age in accordance with the following equation. Note that a coefficient k1 of the equation is read out from the coefficient data group 51.
activity age [age]=real age [age]+k1(ideal calories burned 521−measurement calories burned 522)
This equation indicates that “activity age” is a standard (or average) age of persons who, in a predetermined period, burn the total amount of calories burned by the user when active for the same period.
Note that the activity age acquisition unit 13 may acquire the activity age by searching a table, instead of computing activity age through an arithmetic equation. In other words, a table is stored in the memory 50 in advance in which the value of (ideal calories burned 521−measurement calories burned 522) and the activity age computed in accordance with the above-described equation are stored for each real age in association with each other. The activity age acquisition unit 13 may read out the activity age by searching the table based on the real age of the user and the value of (ideal calories burned 521−measurement calories burned 522).
Method of Computing Body Age
The body age acquisition unit 16 computes the body age in accordance with the following equation. Note that a coefficient k2 of the equation is read out from the coefficient data group 51.
body age [age]=real age [age]+k2(ideal basal metabolic rate 531−body composition information based basal metabolic rate 532)
According to this equation, “body age” represents the age of a body to be computed based on basal metabolic rate. Therefore, the equation indicates that in the case where (ideal basal metabolic rate 531=body composition information based basal metabolic rate 532) is satisfied, the body age denotes the real age and the body matches the user's age. On the other hand, the equation indicates that in the case where (ideal basal metabolic rate 531>body composition information based basal metabolic rate 532) is satisfied, the body composition information based basal metabolic rate 532 is small, and thus the body age exceeds the real age and the body tends to be biologically older than the real age.
Also, the equation indicates that in the case where (ideal basal metabolic rate 531<body composition information based basal metabolic rate 532) is satisfied, the body composition information based basal metabolic rate 531 is large, and thus the body age is less than the real age and the body tends to be biologically younger than the real age.
Generation and Display of Image
When various ages are acquired in accordance with the above-described procedures, the acquired ages are stored in the area E3. The image generation unit 19 reads out various ages from the area E3, and generates image data for display shown in FIG. 6 using the image data 61 of the area E4.
The image generation unit 19 generates image data including a message of advice relating to meals and activity based on the difference between body age and real age or the difference between activity age and real age, and outputs the generated image data to the output processing unit 18. The output processing unit 18 displays an image on the display 20 based on the image data that has been input. An example of display is shown in FIG. 6.
In FIG. 6, on a two dimensional coordinate plane defined by using an axis representing activity age and an axis representing body age that is orthogonal to the activity age axis, the real age is positioned at a point where these two axes intersect. The two dimensional plane of FIG. 6 is divided into four regions 70A to 70D by the two orthogonal axes. In the each region 70A to 70D, advice information obtained by evaluating activity amount based on a correlation between the body age and the activity age is presented.
The region 70A indicates an insufficient activity amount. Specifically, advice is displayed indicating that the body age is younger than the real age, but the activity age is high (old) and thus the activity amount is insufficient, and that an improved healthy body constitution is possible through daily activity.
The region 70B indicates an aged body constitution. Specifically, advice is displayed indicating that the body age and the activity age are older than the real age (ages are high) and the user has an aged body constitution, and that the activity amount in daily life or body constitution needs to be improved immediately.
The region 70C indicates an excessive body fat percentage. Specifically, advice is displayed indicating that the body age is older (higher) than the real age, but the activity age is young and thus the body fat percentage is excessive, and that an improved healthy body constitution is possible through changing daily eating habits.
The region 70D indicates a healthy body constitution age. Specifically, advice is displayed indicating that the body age and the activity age are younger than the real age, and thus the user is in an ideal state in which he/she will continue to remain healthy in the foreseeable future.
Information on advice displayed in each region may be acquired by searching a table. In other words, a configuration may be adopted in which information on advice is stored in advance in a predetermined table (not shown) in the memory 50 in association with the differences between the body age 59 and the real age 56 and the differences between the activity age 54 and the real age 56, and the image generation unit 19 computes a difference between the body age 59 and the real age 56 or a difference between the activity age 54 and the real age 56 and searches the table based on the computed difference so as to acquire information on the corresponding advice.
In FIG. 6, sections may be clarified by using different colors for displaying each region. Also, the region corresponding to the activity age and the body age of the user (in the case of FIG. 6, region 70B) may be displayed in a different mode from other regions, by being displayed in a blinking manner or the like so as to attract the user's attention.
Also, with FIG. 6, it is possible to arouse the user's attention by displaying an arrow that points toward the region 70D in order to improve his/her life style so that the activity age and the body age point toward the healthy body constitution of the region 70D.
Note that in FIG. 6, the activity age 54 and the body age 59 acquired in steps S7 and S9 may be displayed, or the difference between the body age 59 and the real age 56 and the difference between the activity age 54 and the real age 56 may be displayed.
Modes for displaying advice relating to meals and the amount of activity based on the body age, the activity age and the real age are not limited to FIG. 6.
In other words, if three types of ages, i.e. activity age, body age and real age, are considered from the viewpoint of body composition information, activity age can be considered as an index of the total calories burned (=exercise amount) as shown in the above-described computation equation.
Also, body age can be considered as an index of body fat percentage eating habits). In other words, if the above-described computation equation is used, body age is computed using body composition information (more specifically, fat-free mass), and thus if body fat percentage is high, body age increases, and if body fat percentage is low, body age decreases. Therefore, body age can be considered as body fat percentage. Here, body fat percentage can be improved by changing eating habits to lower fat diet, and therefore, it is possible to present advice about dietary composition by using body age.
In FIG. 7, an example of display is shown in which the activity age axis and the body age axis of FIG. 6 are respectively replaced by total calories burned and by parameters of basal metabolic rate or body fat percentage, and the regions 70A to 70D are substituted by regions 80A to 80D.
FIG. 7 shows a case in which the acquired activity age and body age are displayed where the real age, body age and activity age are respectively 40 y/o, 45 y/o and 35 y/o, and a mark 81 is plotted and displayed in a region that is closely related to these two ages. It is possible for the user to check whether his/her basal metabolic rate (body fat percentage) is higher or lower than that of the real age by checking the region where the mark 81 is displayed, and to check whether his/her total calories burned is higher or lower than that of real age and thus the user can gain motivation to improve his/her eating habits and the amount of activity.
Also, if the user specifies the displayed mark 81 via the operation unit 30 through a click operation or the like, the output processing unit 18 searches the table described with reference to FIG. 6, reads out the advice corresponding to the region, and displays the readout advice on the display 20. For example, the advice: “There is no problem about the amount of daily activity. Let's aim to have a much younger body by controlling eating habits.” is displayed.
Advice displayed in FIGS. 6 and 7 may be output via audio from the audio output unit 80 together with or instead of a display.
Acquisition of Aging Index
In the present embodiment, the evaluation acquisition unit 17 evaluates the body age of the user, that is, the degree of aging, using the difference between the body age 59 and the real age 56 and the difference between the activity age 54 and the real age 56. Here, the evaluation value computed by the evaluation acquisition unit 17 is referred to as the “aging index”.
The computed aging index is output from the output processing unit 18 via the display 20 or the audio output unit 80. The output processing unit 18 outputs the “aging index” as advice information about improvement of life style indicating that the body age is to improve or worsen in the case of the current life style (the amount of activity, eating habits, and the like) continuing. Computation of aging index and output of advice information on the improvement of life style will be described below.
First, the procedure for computing aging index will be described according to the flowchart of FIG. 8. Referring to FIG. 8, the evaluation acquisition unit 17 reads out the body age 59, the real age 56 and the activity age 54 from the memory 50, and computes B=(body age 59−real age 56) (step S90), and computes A=(activity age 54−real age 56) (step S91).
The evaluation acquisition unit 17 then determines whether or not the value A and the value B have the same sign (step S93). If it is determined that the value A and the value B have the same sign (YES in step S93), the evaluation acquisition unit 17 computes aging index=A+B (step S95), and if it is determined that their signs are not the same and they have different signs (NO in step S93), the evaluation acquisition unit 17 computes aging index=A (step S97). This ends the computation of the aging index.
In the present embodiment, when the aging index is computed, advice on the improvement of life style according to the computed aging index is output. In FIG. 9, a portion of the table 60 storing data of advice on the improvement of life style according to aging indices is excerpted and shown as an example.
Referring to FIG. 9, records R1 to R8 having aging index values 601 and advice data 602 corresponding to each aging index value are stored in the table 60. In FIG. 9, for description, the real age 56, the body age 59 and the activity age 54 used for computing aging indices of the records are shown in association with each record, as examples.
The aging indices computed by the evaluation acquisition unit 17 are output to the output processing unit 18. The output processing unit 18 searches the table 60 based on the aging index values to be input and specifies the corresponding record. The output processing unit 18 reads out the advice data 602 to be stored in the specified record, and outputs the readout advice data 602 via the display 20 or the audio output unit 80. Accordingly, it is possible for the user to be made aware of the necessity for an improvement of life style based on activity age and body age.
As shown in FIG. 9, the output processing unit 18 outputs advice indicating that the body age has improved or worsened, using the signs of aging index values. Specifically, advice is output that is divided into +: worsen, 0: matching age, and −: improve.
Modes for displaying aging indices are not limited to this, and other display modes may be adopted. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which each time an aging index is computed, the computed aging index is accumulated and stored together with the measurement date and time, and chronological change in aging indices is displayed using a trend graph, based on the stored information.
Advice based on the aging index of FIG. 9 may be output singularly, or may be output together with the display of FIG. 6 or FIG. 7.
Another Example of Displaying Acquired Age
Modes for outputting information on activity age or body age are not limited to the output modes of FIGS. 6 and 7. For example, the output processing unit 18 displays on the display 20 the activity age computed by the activity age acquisition unit 13 together with calories burned for 1 day computed by the calories burned computation unit 12, as shown in (A) of FIG. 1. The user is able to judge that the amount of activity (exercise) is appropriate in the case where the displayed activity age indicates the real age or is close to the real age, and is able to judge that the amount of activity (exercise) is insufficient if the displayed activity age greatly exceeds the real age. Accordingly, the user is able to gain the motivation to continue the appropriate amount of activity (exercise).
Although the activity age is displayed in (A) of FIG. 1, the body age acquired by the body age acquisition unit 16 may be displayed instead of or together with the activity age.
Information relating to age that is output is not limited thereto. For example, a value (+5 years old, etc.) obtained by subtracting the activity age (or the body age) from the real age or information indicating the age group (twenties, etc.) to which the activity age (or body age) belongs may be output.
Other Embodiments
The method for computing and outputting the activity age described using the abovementioned flowchart can also be provided as a program. The program for realizing the method is stored in the memory 50 of the activity meter 100 in advance, and the processing is realized by the CPU 10 reading out the program from the memory 50 and executing the instruction code. This program may be supplied by being downloaded from an external information processing device including the device 200 to the memory 50 via the communication I/F 60 through a communication line.
Also, the device 200 may store such a program and the data shown in. FIG. 4 in the memory 202, the activity age and the body age may be computed in the device 200 by the CPU 201 reading out the program from the memory 202 and executing the instruction code, and the computed activity age and body age may be displayed via the output unit 203 as shown in FIG. 7 or FIG. 8. The data shown in FIG. 4 can be transmitted from the activity meter 100 to the device 200 via the communication I/F 60. Also, the activity age and the body age computed by the device 200 and the output information of FIGS. 7 to 9 may be transmitted to the activity meter 100 and displayed on the display 20 of the activity meter 100.
To allow the device 200 to compute the activity age, the program is provided to the device 200 as a program product recorded on a computer-readable recording medium (not shown) that is attached to the device 200 such as a flexible disk, the CD-ROM 206, a ROM (Read Only Memory) of the memory 202, a RAM (Random Access Memory), or a memory card. Alternatively, the program can also be provided by prerecording the program on a recording medium such as a hard disk (not shown) built into the device 200. Also, the program can also be provided by download to the device 200 from other information processing device via a network.
The embodiments disclosed herein are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims rather than by the above description, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be embraced therein.
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST
11 activity amount acquisition unit
12 calories burned computation unit
13 activity age acquisition unit
15 basal metabolic rate acquisition unit
16 body age acquisition unit
17 evaluation acquisition unit
18 output processing unit 19 image generation unit
20 display
30 operation unit
31 button
40 acceleration sensor unit
54 activity age
56 real age
59 body age
100 activity meter
301 weight/body composition measurement unit
521 ideal calories burned
522 measured calories burned
531 ideal basal metabolic rate
532 body composition information based basal metabolic rate
Mi activity intensity data
1. An activity meter comprising:
activity amount acquisition means for acquiring an amount of physical activity of a user; means for acquiring a first index relating to a difference between target calories burned for a unit period and computed calories burned that are computed from the amount of activity acquired by the activity amount acquisition means in the unit period; means for acquiring a second index relating to a difference between a target value representing a body composition and a measurement value representing a body composition that is measured for the user; and means for outputting information on an evaluation of the activity amount based on the first index and the second index that have been acquired.
2. The activity meter according to claim 1,
wherein the means for acquiring the first index acquires, as the first index, an activity age representing a standard age of a person who does the same amount of activity as the activity amount acquired in the unit period, using a real age of the user and the difference between the target calories burned and the computed calories burned, and the means for acquiring the second index acquires, as the second index, a body age indicating a biological age of the user, using the real age of the user and the difference between the target value representing a body composition and the measurement value representing a body composition that is measured for the user.
3. The activity meter according to claim 2, wherein the means for outputting the evaluation information outputs the information on the evaluation of the activity amount based on the real age, the activity age and the body age of the user.
4. The activity meter according to claim 2, wherein the means for outputting the evaluation information outputs the evaluation information in association with a position indicated by the activity age and the body age that have been acquired for the user, on a coordinate plane defined by an axis of the activity age and an axis of body age that is orthogonal to the activity age axis.
5. The activity meter according to claim 4, wherein the means for outputting the evaluation information outputs the evaluation information in association with the position indicated by the activity age and the body age that have been acquired for the user, on a coordinate plane with the activity age axis being substituted by an axis of calories burned and the body age axis being substituted by an axis of the value representing a body composition.
6. The activity meter according to claim 1, wherein the value representing a body composition indicates a basal metabolic rate.
7. The activity meter according to claim 1, wherein the value representing a body composition indicates a body fat percentage.
8. The activity meter according to claim 2, wherein the means for outputting the evaluation information outputs information on an evaluation of an activity amount based on the difference between the activity age and the real age and the difference between the body age and the real age.
9. An activity amount management method for managing an amount of activity of a user with use of a processor, comprising the steps of:
the processor acquiring an amount of physical activity of a user; the processor acquiring a first index relating to a difference between target calories burned for a unit period and computed calories burned that are computed from the activity amount acquired in the activity amount acquisition step in the unit period; the processor acquiring a second index relating to a difference between a target value representing a body composition and a measurement value representing a body composition that is measured for the user; and the processor outputting, on a display, information on an evaluation of the activity amount based on the first index and the second index that have been acquired.
10. A program for causing a processor to execute an activity amount management method, the activity amount management method comprising the steps of:
the processor acquiring an amount of physical activity of a user; the processor acquiring a first index relating to a difference between target calories burned for a unit period and computed calories burned that are computed from the activity amount acquired in the activity amount acquisition step in the unit period; the processor acquiring a second index relating to a difference between a target value representing a body composition and a measurement value representing a body composition that is measured for the user; and the processor outputting on a display information on an evaluation of the activity amount based on the first index and the second index that have been acquired.
11. A system comprising a measurement device that measures an amount of activity of a user and an information processing device,
the measurement device including: means for measuring an activity intensity of the user; and means for outputting measurement data in which the activity intensity is associated with a measurement date-time, and the information processing device including: means for receiving the measurement data output from the measurement device; activity amount acquisition means for acquiring an amount of physical activity of a user from the measurement data; means for acquiring a first index relating to a difference between target calories burned for a unit period and computed calories burned that are computed from the amount of activity acquired by the activity amount acquisition means in the unit period; means for acquiring a second index relating to a difference between a target value representing a body composition and a measurement value representing a body composition that is measured for the user; and means for outputting information on an evaluation of the amount of activity based on the first index and the second index that have been acquired.
| 2013-08-05 | en | 2014-01-02 |
US-201113182220-A | Interconnection and assembly of three-dimensional chip packages
ABSTRACT
In a chip package, semiconductor dies in a vertical stack of semiconductor dies or chips (which is referred to as a ‘plank stack’) are aligned by positive features that are mechanically coupled to negative features recessed below the surfaces of adjacent semiconductor dies. Moreover, the chip package includes an interposer plate at approximately a right angle to the plank stack, which is electrically coupled to the semiconductor dies along an edge of the plank stack. In particular, electrical pads proximate to a surface of the interposer plate (which are along a stacking direction of the plank stack) are electrically coupled to pads that are proximate to edges of the semiconductor dies by an intervening conductive material, such as solder balls or spring connectors. Note that the chip package may facilitate high-bandwidth communication of signals between the semiconductor dies and the interposer plate.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application is related to U.S. Non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/029,825, entitled “Chip Package with Plank Stack of Semiconductor Dies,” by Darko R. Popovic, Matthew D. Giere, Bruce M. Guenin, Theresa Y. Sze, Ivan Shubin, John A. Harada, David C. Douglas and Jing Shi, filed on Feb. 17, 2011, having attorney docket number ORA 11-0066, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND
1. Field
The present disclosure generally relates to the design of chip packages. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a chip package that includes: a group of semiconductor dies arranged in a plank stack, an interposer plate oriented approximately at a right angle relative to the plank stack, and associated alignment features.
2. Related Art
The ability to provide low-latency and high-bandwidth access between a processor and memory remains a significant challenge in computer systems. To achieve the former, system designers are using packaging innovations to reduce the electrical path length between the processor and memory. For example, the processor and memory are now often implemented on a common package or interposer (as opposed to conventional individually packaged chips that are connected to a printed circuit board). Researchers are also attempting to stack memory chips directly onto a processor die. Moreover, in order to obtain a higher memory density per unit volume, several memory manufacturers are attempting to stack memory chips in the third dimension.
Chip packages that include stacked semiconductor chips can provide significantly higher performance in comparison to existing computer systems. These chip packages also provide certain advantages, such as the ability: to use different processes to fabricate different chips in the stack, to combine higher density logic and memory, and to transfer data using less power. For example, a stack of chips that implements a dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) can use a high metal-layer-count, high-performance logic process in a base chip to implement input/output (I/O) and controller functions, and a set of lower metal-layer-count, DRAM-specialized process chips can be used for the rest of the stack. In this way, the combined set of chips may have better performance and lower cost than: a single chip that includes the I/O and controller functions manufactured using the DRAM process; a single chip that includes memory circuits manufactured using a logic process; or a system constructed by attempting to use a single process to make both logic and memory physical structures.
However, integrating even one memory chip onto a processor or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) can be difficult. Typically, face-to-face integration is not used because this configuration can block access to power/ground and signal I/O lines for the processor. On the other hand, stacking the memory chip(s) on the back face of the processor typically involves the use of through-silicon-vias (TSVs) in the processor. In a TSV fabrication technique, chips are processed so that one or more of the metal layers on their active face are conductively connected to new pads on their back face. Then, chips are adhesively connected in a stack, so that the new pads on the back face of one chip make conductive contact with corresponding pads on the active face of an adjacent chip.
TSVs are typically more expensive than existing interconnect techniques (such as wire bonds), because TSVs pass through the active silicon layer of a chip. As a consequence, a TSV occupies area that could have been used for transistors or wiring. This opportunity cost can be large. For example, if the TSV exclusion or keep-out diameter is 20 μm, and TSVs are placed on a 30-μm pitch, then approximately 45% of the silicon area is consumed by the TSVs. This roughly doubles the cost per area for any circuits in the chips in the stack. (In fact, the overhead is likely to be even larger because circuits are typically spread out to accommodate TSVs, which wastes more area.) Furthermore, fabricating TSVs usually entails additional processing operations and yield loss, which also increase cost. In addition, TSVs occupy the surface traditionally used for cooling, which usually presents a significant challenge for thermal management, and thus often limits the number of stacked semiconductor dies.
Hence, what is needed is a chip package that offers the advantages of stacked semiconductor dies without the problems described above.
SUMMARY
One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a chip package. This chip package includes a group of semiconductor dies arranged in a plank stack in an x direction (which is sometimes referred to as a ‘stacking direction’), where a plane of a given semiconductor die is defined by a z direction and a y direction, where the z direction, the x direction and the y direction are substantially perpendicular to each other. Note that the semiconductor dies include first electrical pads proximate to edges of the semiconductor dies, and the edges of the semiconductor dies define a face of the plank stack. Moreover, surfaces of the semiconductor dies include negative features recessed below the surfaces. The chip package also includes positive features mechanically coupled to the negative features on adjacent semiconductor dies, thereby aligning the semiconductor dies in the plank stack. Furthermore, the chip package includes an interposer plate electrically coupled to the semiconductor dies along the x direction, where a plane of the interposer plate is defined by the x direction and the y direction. This electrical coupling to the semiconductor dies is between the first electrical pads, second electrical pads proximate to a surface of the interposer plate along the x direction, and an intervening conductive material between the first electrical pads and the second electrical pads.
Note that a first electrical pad on a given semiconductor die may be included in another negative feature recessed below one of the surfaces of the given semiconductor die. This other negative feature may be included in a dicing lane of the given semiconductor die.
Moreover, the intervening conductive material may include solder balls. Furthermore, the edges of the semiconductor dies may be surrounded by the solder balls. Alternatively, in some embodiments the intervening conductive material includes mechanically compliant electrical connectors, such as an array of spring connectors. Note that surfaces of a given semiconductor die may be positioned between and mechanically coupled to at least a pair of spring connectors in the array of spring connectors.
Additionally, a first electrical pad on a given semiconductor die may be electrically coupled to an additional pad on the given semiconductor die by an electrical signal line.
In some embodiments, the chip package includes a mechanical-alignment plate and mechanical-alignment components, where the plank stack is mechanically coupled to the mechanical-alignment plate by the mechanical-alignment components, thereby facilitating alignment of the semiconductor dies in the plank stack. Moreover, the mechanical-alignment plate may be mechanically coupled to the plank stack on an opposite face of the plank stack from the interposer plate. For example, the mechanical-alignment components may include: spheres, clamps and/or pins.
In some embodiments, the semiconductor dies include third electrical pads proximate to the edges of the semiconductor dies along the y direction, and the interposer plate is electrically coupled to the semiconductor dies along the y direction. This electrical coupling to the semiconductor dies may be between the third electrical pads, fourth electrical pads proximate to the surface of the interposer plate along the y direction, and the intervening conductive material between the third electrical pads and the fourth electrical pads.
Note that the second electrical pads may include discrete pads and/or a continuous electrical signal line on the interposer plate. Moreover, the interposer plate may include: a semiconductor die, a ceramic, an organic material and/or glass.
In some embodiments, the semiconductor dies are mechanically coupled by adhesive layers in spaces between the semiconductor dies. These adhesive layers may be recessed from the first electrical pads in the spaces between pairs of semiconductor dies.
Moreover, in some embodiments additional mechanical-alignment components are mechanically coupled to the edges of the semiconductor dies and the interposer plate.
Another embodiment provides a system (such as an electronic device and/or a computer system) that includes the chip package.
Another embodiment provides a method for fabricating the plank stack of semiconductor dies in an x direction. During this method, the semiconductor dies are stacked along the x direction into the plank stack, where the plane of the given semiconductor die is defined by the z direction and the y direction, where the z direction, the x direction and the y direction are substantially perpendicular to each other. Note that the semiconductor dies include the first electrical pads proximate to edges of the semiconductor dies, and the edges of the semiconductor dies define the face of the plank stack. Moreover, the surfaces of the semiconductor dies may include the negative features recessed below the surfaces. While stacking the semiconductor dies, the semiconductor dies in the plank stack are aligned by mechanically coupling positive features to the negative features on adjacent semiconductor dies. Furthermore, the interposer plate may be electrically coupled to the semiconductor dies along the x direction, where the plane of the interposer plate is defined by the x direction and the y direction. The electrical coupling to the semiconductor dies may be between the first electrical pads, second electrical pads proximate to the surface of the interposer plate along the x direction, and the intervening conductive material between the first electrical pads and the second electrical pads.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a top view of a chip in a wafer in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating a top view of the chip in FIG. 2 after dicing in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating a side view of the chip in FIG. 2 after dicing in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a side view of a semiconductor die with spring connectors in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a side view of assembly of a chip package that includes semiconductor dies with spring connectors in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a side view of assembly of a chip package that includes semiconductor dies with spring connectors in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package that includes semiconductor dies with spring connectors in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a system that includes one or more of the chip packages of FIGS. 1, 4-5 and 9-11 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for fabricating a plank stack of semiconductor dies in the chip packages of FIGS. 1, 4-5 and 9-11 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Note that like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the drawings. Moreover, multiple instances of the same part are designated by a common prefix separated from an instance number by a dash.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Embodiments of a chip package, a system that includes the chip package, and a method for fabricating a plank stack of semiconductor dies in the chip package are described. In this chip package, semiconductor dies in a vertical stack of semiconductor dies or chips (which is referred to as a ‘plank stack’) are aligned by positive features that are mechanically coupled to negative features recessed below the surfaces of adjacent semiconductor dies. Moreover, the chip package includes an interposer plate at approximately a right angle to the plank stack, which is electrically coupled to the semiconductor dies along an edge of the plank stack. In particular, electrical pads proximate to a surface of the interposer plate (which are along a stacking direction of the plank stack) are electrically coupled to pads that are proximate to edges of the semiconductor dies by an intervening conductive material, such as solder balls or spring connectors. Note that the chip package may facilitate high-bandwidth communication of signals between the semiconductor dies and the interposer plate.
This chip-stacking technique may facilitate improved three-dimensional (3D) stacks of semiconductor dies relative to existing techniques (such as through-silicon vias or TSVs, wire bonding, etc.). In particular, by using positive and negative features to facilitate alignment and assembly, the resulting plank stack may accommodate a significantly larger number of semiconductor dies (several tens) than existing chip packages. Moreover, by removing the need for costly and area-consuming TSVs in the semiconductor dies, the cost of the chip package may be reduced. For example, the cost may be reduced by avoiding the processing operations and the wasted area associated with TSVs in the semiconductor dies. Thus, the chips in the plank stack may be fabricated using standard processing (such as CMOS-compatible processing). Furthermore, the approximately perpendicular configuration of the semiconductor dies and the interposer plate may increase the density and may offer improved thermal management unconstrained by the number of semiconductor dies. Note that the interposer plate can offer a first-level interconnect with a higher inter-component communication bandwidth and reduced latency than wire bonding, and can have comparable communication bandwidth and latency to those offered by semiconductor dies that include TSVs. In addition, the chip-stacking technique may facilitate direct and simultaneous access to each semiconductor die in the plank stack. Consequently, the chip package can facilitate low-cost, low-latency, low-power and/or high-performance 3D stacks of semiconductor dies.
We now describe embodiments of the chip package. FIG. 1 presents a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package 100. This chip package includes a group of semiconductor dies 110 (which are sometimes referred to as ‘chips’) arranged in a plank stack 112 in an x direction 114 (which is sometimes referred to as a ‘stacking direction’), where a plane of a given semiconductor die is defined by a y direction 116 (which is into the plane of FIG. 1) and a z direction 118, and z direction 118, x direction 114 and y direction 116 are substantially perpendicular to each other. Note that semiconductor dies 110 include electrical pads 120 proximate to edges 122 of semiconductor dies 110, and edges 122 of semiconductor dies 110 define a face of plank stack 112. For example, electrical pads 120 may be deposited onto the active electronics. These pads can be implemented using either the semiconductor-die layout or a redistribution layer (RDL). In some embodiments, electrical pads 120 have a uniform inter-pad spacing. However, in other embodiments a non-uniform spacing is used.
Moreover, surfaces of semiconductor dies 110 (such as surface 124-1) may include negative features 126 recessed below surfaces. Chip package 100 also includes positive features 128 mechanically coupled to negative features 126 on adjacent semiconductor dies. These positive and negative features may constitute a self-alignment mechanism that aligns semiconductor dies 110 in plank stack 112.
Chip package 100 may include an interposer plate 130 (which is sometimes referred to as a ‘substrate’ or a ‘semiconductor base chip’) that may be rigidly mechanically and electrically coupled to semiconductor dies 110 along x direction 114 (i.e., to the face of plank stack 112), where a plane of interposer plate 130 is defined by x direction 114 and y direction 116. This electrical coupling to semiconductor dies 110 may be between: electrical pads 120, electrical pads 132 (which are proximate to a surface 134 of interposer plate 130 along x direction 114) and an intervening conductive material 136 (such as solder balls) between electrical pads 120 and electrical pads 132. For example, the electrical coupling may include edge connectors between electrical pads 120 and electrical pads 132. Note that the electrical coupling may facilitate input/output (I/O) communication with semiconductor dies 110 and/or supplying power to semiconductor dies 110. In some embodiments, chip package 100 facilitates simultaneous communication with each of a large number of semiconductor dies 110 while maintaining a small overall footprint.
While FIG. 1 illustrates electrical coupling between semiconductor dies 110 and interposer plate 130 along x direction 114, in some embodiments electrical pads 120 are also arranged along y direction 116 (i.e., electrical pads are arranged along an edge of semiconductor dies 110 in the plane of semiconductor dies 110), and electrical coupling between semiconductor dies 110 and interposer plate 130 also occurs along y direction 116 via intervening conductive material 136. In embodiments where semiconductor dies 110 are other than memory chips, the electrical pads 120 along y direction 116 for a given semiconductor die (such as semiconductor die 110-1) may be discrete or a continuous electrical signal line (such as a bus). Thus, the electrical coupling along y direction 116 may involve simultaneous one-to-one electrical connections or a bus. Similarly, the electrical coupling along x direction 114 may involve simultaneous one-to-one electrical connections or a bus. (Thus, electrical pads 132 may include discrete pads and/or a continuous electrical signal line on interposer plate 130).
In an exemplary embodiment, interposer plate 130 includes: a semiconductor die (such as silicon), a ceramic, an organic material and/or glass. Moreover, intervening conductive material 136 may include: solder balls (such as a compound or stoichiometry of tin-lead, tin-silver-copper, indium, etc.), which is further illustrated below with reference to FIGS. 4-6 and 11; stacked solder balls; partially ground conductive material having a modified aspect ratio compared with that of unground conductive material; stud bumps; copper pillars; plated traces; wire bonds; mechanically compliant electrical connectors, such as spring connectors, which are implemented on semiconductor dies 110 and/or interposer plate 130 (as illustrated below with reference to FIGS. 7-10 and 12); traces defined using tape automated bonding (TAB); an anisotropic conductive material that includes silver, copper and/or tin particles in one or more polymer binders (such as an anisotropic elastomer film, which is sometimes referred to as an ‘anisotropic conductive film’); and/or a conductive adhesive.
In some embodiments, chip package 100 includes a mechanical-alignment plate 138 (such as a micromachined component) and mechanical-alignment components 140, where plank stack 112 is mechanically coupled to mechanical-alignment plate 138 by mechanical-alignment components 140 that are positioned in negative features 142 (such as etch pits). Mechanical-alignment plate 138 may provide an external clamping mechanism that holds plank stack 112 together, thereby facilitating alignment of semiconductor dies 110 in plank stack 112. Note that mechanical-alignment components 140 may include: spheres (such as sapphire alignment balls, which may be held in place by an adhesive), clamps and/or pins. Moreover, mechanical-alignment plate 138 may be mechanically coupled to plank stack 112 on an opposite face of plank stack 112 from interposer plate 130.
Using negative features 126, positive features 128, mechanical-alignment plate 138 and/or mechanical-alignment components 140, the accumulated position errors over the group of semiconductor dies 110 in x direction 114 (i.e., an accumulated position error in positions of semiconductor dies 110 over plank stack 112) may be less than a sum of the position errors associated with the group of semiconductor dies 110 and an optional mechanical spacer between semiconductor dies (which is described further below with reference to FIG. 4). For example, the accumulated position error may be associated with thickness variation of the semiconductor dies 110 and/or thickness variation of the optional mechanical spacer. In some embodiments, the accumulated position error may be less than 1 μm, and may be as small as 0 μm. Additionally, the group of semiconductor dies 110 may have a maximum position error in the plane of semiconductor dies 110 that is associated with edge variation of semiconductor dies 110 (such as a variation in the saw-line position), that is less than a predefined value (for example, the maximum position error may be less than 1 μm, and may be as small as 0 μm).
Note that electrical pads 120 on a given semiconductor die may be included in negative features 144 recessed below one of the surfaces of the given semiconductor die. These negative features may be included in a dicing lane of the given semiconductor die. This is illustrated in FIG. 2, which presents a block diagram illustrating a top view of a chip 210 in a wafer 200. This chip includes electrical pads 212 (such as I/O pads). Moreover, wafer 200 includes negative features 144 (such as etch pits) in dicing lanes (which are sometimes referred to as ‘saw lanes’), such as a dicing lane defined by dicing lines 214. Note that dicing lanes are regions between chips on wafer 200 that are reserved for the dicing process (during which wafer 200 is cut up and singulated into individual semiconductor dies or chips).
After negative features 144 are fabricated, metal electrical connections 216 (which are sometimes referred to as ‘traces’ or ‘signal lines’) to electrical pads 212 may be fabricated on chip 210. Note that electrical connections 216 may electrically couple electrical pads 212 to edge connectors, such as electrical pads 120, in negative features 144 (e.g., to at least a single array of metallized etch pits, which may be used for signal redistribution). Furthermore, electrical connections 216 may be implemented in the RDL (which, along with electrical pads 120, may be fabricated using one or more post-processing operations). Thus, using this fabrication technique, I/O pads on the top face of chip 210 may be translated to a single linear array along the chip edge. Moreover, the operations used during the fabrication technique (such as pit etching, pit metallization, and redistribution wiring) can be performed at wafer scale, thereby capitalizing on the cost advantages of wafer-level batch processing. Based on this discussion, note that negative features 144 may facilitate mechanical and edge electrical coupling to interposer plate 130 (FIG. 1).
During the dicing process, a cut is made through the etched and metallized pit arrays (e.g., by blade dicing or laser ablation). The singulation process can be performed using the typical dicing-variation tolerances so that only the flat bottom of negative features 144 is left exposed to yield a partial pit structure as shown in FIG. 3A, which presents a block diagram illustrating a top view of chip 210 after dicing.
Moreover, after dicing, spheres coated with a reflowable material (such as solder) and, more generally, intervening conductive material 136 in FIG. 1 may be placed in negative features 144. This is illustrated in FIG. 3B, which presents a block diagram illustrating a side view of chip 210 (after dicing) and conductive sphere 350. Note that conductive sphere 350 may be held in place or attached to the partial etch pit at the edge of the diced chip using glue or an adhesive. Alternatively, the reflowable material may be reflowed.
Note that, because the electrical coupling between the plank stack and the interposer plate can use a reflow process, the dicing, chip placement and/or chip pitch may not need to be highly precise, so long as the cumulative position error is smaller than the maximum allowable offset for the reflow electrical coupling to be made between the semiconductor dies and the interposer plate.
Assembly of a chip package involves building up a plank stack with the desired number of chips or semiconductor dies, followed by assembling the plank stack onto a package substrate or printed circuit board (and, more generally, an interposer plate). A variety of techniques may be used to stack the semiconductor dies. Because the goal is to assemble the plank stack along an edge, during the stacking process the semiconductor dies typically have a separation or pitch that is approximately equal to the pitch of the matching arrays of electrical pads on the interposer plate (each of which corresponds to a given semiconductor die in the plank stack).
One technique for assembling the plank stack is to use a non-conductive mechanical spacer (such as an adhesive) between the semiconductor dies. For example, the semiconductor dies can be positioned using pick and place equipment, and the adhesive may be dispensed in liquid form or as precut sheets of adhesive tape. FIG. 4 presents a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package 400. This chip package includes mechanical spacers 410 in the spaces between pairs of semiconductor dies (such as semiconductor dies 110-1 and 110-2) in group of semiconductor dies 110. For example, semiconductor dies 110 in plank stack 112 may be mechanically coupled to each other by adhesive layers, such as an epoxy or glue that cures in 10 s at 140 C. (Alternatively, mechanical spacers 410 may be air.) Note that the adhesive layers may be recessed from electrical pads 120 in negative features 144. Moreover, if an adhesive is used in mechanical spacers 410, mechanical-alignment plate 138 (FIG. 1) and mechanical-alignment components 140 (FIG. 1) may not be needed.
A given semiconductor die in the group of semiconductor dies 110 may have a nominal thickness, such as thickness 412 (which may be between 30 and 250 μm), and mechanical spacers 410 may have a nominal thickness, such as thickness 414 (which may be between 10 and 600 μm). However, note that in some embodiments the thickness of at least some of semiconductor dies 110 and/or mechanical spacers 410 in plank stack 112 may be different (for example, thicknesses of semiconductor dies 110 and/or mechanical spacers 410 may vary along x direction 114).
Furthermore, spacing between semiconductor dies 110 in plank stack 112 may need to be controlled to ensure reliable electrical coupling to interposer plate 130. Controlled spacing between semiconductor dies 110 can be achieved using spacer bumps (which may be wider and taller than the solder or stud bumps in intervening conductive material 136).
In some embodiments, the group of semiconductor dies 110 may include at least two optional subsets of semiconductor dies, each of which includes at least two semiconductor dies 110. These optional subsets of semiconductor dies (which are sometimes referred to as ‘sub-stacks’) may be combined to form the full plank stack 112. Moreover, optional subsets of semiconductor dies may be separated by an optional gap 416 along x direction 114. This gap may be used during the assembly process to improve the alignment accuracy and/or improve the alignment in chip package 400 even in the presence of thermal expansion. Additionally, testing/screening of optional sub-stacks can be performed in order to improve the overall yield of chip package 400 (for example, testing of semiconductor dies 110 and/or plank stack 112 may be performed prior to assembly of chip package 400).
In general, packaging techniques that allow some rework are more cost-effective when faced with lower semiconductor-die yields or high expense to test extensively before packaging and assembly. Therefore, in embodiments where the mechanical and/or electrical coupling between semiconductor dies 110 and interposer plate 130 is remateable, the yield of the chip package may be increased by allowing rework (such as replacing a bad chip that is identified during assembly, testing or burn-in). In this regard, remateable mechanical or electrical coupling should be understood to be mechanical or electrical coupling that can be established and broken repeatedly (i.e., two or more times) without requiring rework or heating (such as with solder).
Referring back to FIG. 1, a remateable plank stack 112 may be implemented using non-metallized negative features 126 (which are used for alignment and stacking purposes) at the cost of fabricating etching pits on the back side of semiconductor dies 110. Moreover, positive features 128 may include polystyrene spheres, which may facilitate a remateable plank stack 112 without negative features 126. Alternatively or additionally, the remateable mechanical or electrical coupling may involve male and female components designed to couple to each other (such as components that snap together).
While the preceding embodiments illustrated mechanical-alignment components 140 as spheres or balls, in other embodiments mechanical-alignment plate 138 includes spring clamps that extend vertically from the surface and exert a horizontal force (thereby facilitating a remateable plank stack). This is illustrated in FIG. 5, which presents a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package 500 with spring clamps 510 providing a horizontal compressive force that helps hold plank stack 112 together.
In some embodiments, subassembly of the plank stack and electrical coupling to the interposer plate involves a reflow process. In particular, during the reflow process, the reflowable material on the conducting spheres in the etch pits (and, more generally, intervening conductive material 136 in negative features 144) reflows and forms electrical and mechanical coupling to the electrical pads 132.
However, in some embodiments the chip package is post-processed to fabricate mechanically compliant electrical connections, such as spring connectors, attached to electrical pads 120 along one of the edges of plank stack 112. These edge connectors and the spring connectors can be implemented in an RDL process (i.e., a wafer-scale process). This is illustrated in FIG. 6, which presents a block diagram illustrating a side view of a semiconductor die 600-1 with spring connector 610-1. This spring connector may include stress-engineered metal electrical connectors that can be designed to have a particular elevation above the surface of semiconductor die 600-1, and to have a coil structure. Consequently, when semiconductor die 600-1 is brought in contact with the surface of the interposer plate, spring connector 610-1 may provide a specified degree of mechanical compliance.
In this assembly technique, two singulated chips with spring connectors may be oriented so that the edges with the spring connectors are parallel to each other. The edge of the top chip may be forced against the one or more coiled spring connectors on the bottom chip, and the edge of the top chip may be used to unroll a portion of the coiled spring connector on the bottom chip, thereby extending the spring connectors outside the perimeter of the bottom chip. This is illustrated in FIG. 7, which presents a block diagram illustrating a side view of assembly of a chip package 700 that includes semiconductor dies 600 with spring connectors 610.
Alternatively, two semiconductor dies in a plank stack may be assembled with a predefined lateral gap or offset between their edges. This is shown in FIG. 8, which presents a block diagram illustrating a side view of assembly of a chip package 800 that includes semiconductor dies 600 with spring connectors 610.
After attachment of the first two semiconductor dies, the operations in this process may be repeated a number of times to build up the desired number of chips in the plank stack. This is shown in FIG. 9, which presents a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package 900 that includes semiconductor dies 600 with spring connectors 610. Note that several tens of chips having a specified thickness can be stacked together using one of these assembly techniques to fabricate an edge-accessible plank stack. Note that the spring connectors may be designed to have one or several turns. As is known to one of skill in the art, design parameters of spring connectors 610, such as the diameter of the coil, thickness of the coil, width of the coil, number of turns, effective spring constant, etc., may be independently determined depending on the particular geometry and application.
Note that a chip package that includes chips that are stacked with a lateral gap between their edges may be angled with respect to the surface of the interposer plate so that the edge with the spring connectors is approximately parallel to the surface. Because of the flexibility and mechanical compliance provided by the spring connectors, the resulting stacked interconnect may address problems associated with dicing tolerances (e.g., when there are variations in the chip width and/or length) and chip-to-chip placement errors. Moreover, the bond-line thickness between the chips may be minimized relative to one other. These assembly techniques may allow for either a more compact vertically stacked plank stack or a thicker plank stack (which may offer improved thermal performance).
Another configuration of the chip package is shown in FIG. 10, which presents a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package 1000. In this configuration, edge connectors as well as chip stacking may be achieved without using negative features 144 (FIGS. 1-5), such as etch pits. Instead, semiconductor dies 110 may only include electrical connections 216 (FIGS. 2-3B) into the dicing lane, and dicing through these traces may create the edge connectors. Semiconductor dies fabricated in this manner may be stacked using non-conductive adhesive layers or, as described previously, mechanical spacers in conjunction with a mechanical-alignment plate and mechanical-alignment components
Furthermore, plank stack 112 may be aligned to interposer plate 130 that has solder balls 1010 attached to electrical pads 132 (FIG. 1). Plank stack 112 with the exposed edge connectors may be aligned with this array of solder balls 1010 and, during reflow, electrical and mechanical coupling may occur by solder wicking up the appropriate exposed traces or electrical pads 120 (FIG. 1) on the surfaces of semiconductor dies 110. Thus, after assembly, edges of semiconductor dies 110 may be inserted into and surrounded by solder balls 1010.
Alternatively, in some embodiments solder balls 1010 may be replaced by mechanically compliant electrical connectors, such as an array of spring connectors or coiled springs. Note that surfaces of a given semiconductor die may be positioned between and mechanically coupled to at least a pair of spring connectors in the spring array (e.g., the given semiconductor die may be aligned and inserted between the pair of spring connectors). This is shown in FIG. 11, which presents a block diagram illustrating a side view of a chip package 1100 that includes spring connectors 1110. For example, as described previously, a coiled spring may be fabricated using stress-engineered metal interconnects. These spring connectors may be designed such that an anchor of a given spring connector is at the center of this spring connector. When released, the two loose ends of the stressed metal strip may curl up to yield a spring connector with two coils. As is known to one of skill in the art, the design of spring connectors 1110, such as the coil diameter, the spring constant, the lift height, etc., may be modified as needed. Note that spring connectors 1110 can provide remateable electrical and mechanical coupling between interposer plate 130 and a large number of semiconductor dies 110.
In an exemplary embodiment, the chip package may facilitate high-performance devices, such as a dual in-line memory module. For example, there may be up to 80 memory devices (such as dynamic random-access memory or another type of memory-storage device) in the chip package. If needed, ‘bad’ or faulty memory devices can be disabled. Thus, 72 memory devices (out of 80) may be used. Furthermore, this configuration may expose the full bandwidth of the memory devices in the memory module, such that there is little or no latency delay in accessing any of the memory devices.
Alternatively, the dual in-line memory module may include multiple fields that each can include a chip package. For example, there may be four chip packages (each of which includes nine memory devices) in a dual in-line memory module.
In some embodiments, one or more of these dual in-line memory modules (which can include one or more chip packages) may be coupled to a processor, thereby bringing a high-chip-count memory stack closer to the processor. For example, the processor may be electrically coupled, via the interposer plate, to one or more adjacent dual in-line memory modules. Alternatively, the one or more dual in-line memory modules may be electrically coupled to the processor, which, in turn, may be mounted on an interposer plate using C4 solder balls. Thus, the chip package may provide a low-latency and low-power link to the high-capacity memory.
We now describe embodiments of the system (such as an electronic device and/or a computer system). FIG. 12 presents a block diagram illustrating a system 1200 that includes one or more chip package(s) 1210, such as one or more of the chip packages of FIGS. 1, 4-5 and 9-11. System 1200 may include: a VLSI circuit, a switch, a hub, a bridge, a router, a communication system, a storage area network, a data center, a network (such as a local area network), and/or a computer system (such as a multiple-core processor computer system). Furthermore, the computer system may include, but is not limited to: a server (such as a multi-socket, multi-rack server), a laptop computer, a communication device or system, a personal computer, a work station, a mainframe computer, a blade, an enterprise computer, a data center, a portable-computing device, a tablet computer, a supercomputer, a network-attached-storage (NAS) system, a storage-area-network (SAN) system, and/or another electronic computing device. Note that a given computer system may be at one location or may be distributed over multiple, geographically dispersed locations.
The preceding embodiments of the chip package, as well as system 1200, may include fewer components or additional components. For example, in some embodiments there may be encapsulation around at least a portion of the chip package. Alternatively or additionally, referring back to FIG. 5, there may be optional fins or mechanical-alignment components 512 in negative features along edges 122. These optional mechanical-alignment components may be positioned into corresponding negative features in interposer plate 130, thereby aligning components in the chip package and providing the appropriate spacing between semiconductor dies 110. In this way, positive features 128 may be supplemented or obviated.
Moreover, although these chip packages and systems are illustrated as having a number of discrete items, these embodiments are intended to be functional descriptions of the various features that may be present rather than structural schematics of the embodiments described herein. Consequently, in these embodiments, two or more components may be combined into a single component and/or a position of one or more components may be changed. In addition, functionality in the preceding embodiments may be implemented more in hardware and less in software, or less in hardware and more in software, as is known in the art.
While the preceding embodiments illustrate particular configurations of the chip package, a number of techniques and configurations may be used to implement mechanical alignment of components. In particular, alignment and assembly of the semiconductor dies in the plank stack may be facilitated by positive and/or negative features that may be separated from or included on the semiconductor dies. In general, positive features (which protrude or extend above a surrounding region) that are included on the semiconductor dies may be photolithographically defined using an additive (i.e., a material-deposition) and/or a subtractive (i.e., a material-removal) process. These positive features may include: hemispheres, bumps or top-hat shapes, ridges, pyramids, and/or truncated pyramids. Moreover, positive features on a first semiconductor die may mate with or couple to negative features (which are positioned below or recessed relative to a surrounding region) on a second semiconductor die. Note that the negative features may also be photolithographically defined using an additive (i.e., a material-deposition) and/or a subtractive (i.e., a material-removal) process. Furthermore, in some embodiments positive and/or negative features on the semiconductor dies (such as an etch pit or slot) may be used in combination with micro-spheres or balls. This alignment technique can be implemented in a wafer-scale process, thereby facilitating simpler and lower-cost assembly of chip modules.
Moreover, while the preceding embodiments use semiconductor dies (such as silicon) in the chip package, in other embodiments a different material than a semiconductor may be used as the substrate material in one or more of the chips. However, in embodiments in which silicon is used, the semiconductor dies may be fabricated using standard silicon processing. These semiconductor dies may provide a silicon area that supports logic and/or memory functionality.
Furthermore, referring back to FIG. 1, in some embodiments interposer plate 130 is a passive component, such as a plastic interposer plate with metal traces to electrically couple to semiconductor dies 110. For example, interposer plate 130 may be fabricated using injection-molded plastic. Alternatively, interposer plate 130 may be another semiconductor die with one or more lithographically defined wires, and/or signal lines. In embodiments where interposer plate 130 includes a semiconductor die, active devices, such as limit amplifiers, may be included to reduce crosstalk between the signal lines. Additionally, crosstalk may be reduced in either an active or a passive interposer plate 130 using differential signaling.
In some embodiments, interposer plate 130 includes transistors and wires that shuttle data and power signals among semiconductor dies 110 via intervening conductive material 136. For example, interposer plate 130 may include high-voltage signals. These signals may be stepped down for use on semiconductor dies 110 using: a step-down regulator (such as a capacitor-to-capacitor step-down regulator), as well as capacitor and/or inductor discrete components to couple to semiconductor dies 110.
Additionally, interposer plate 130 may include a buffer or logic chip for memory, and/or I/O connectors to external device(s) and/or system(s). For example, the I/O connectors may include one or more: ball bonds, wire bonds, and/or edge connectors for coupling to external devices. In some embodiments, these I/O connectors may be on a back side of interposer plate 130, and interposer plate 130 may include one or more TSVs that couple the I/O connectors to additional connectors near semiconductor dies 110, such as solder pads.
In some embodiments, interposer plate 130 and semiconductor dies 110 in one or more embodiments of the chip package are mounted on an optional substrate (such as a printed circuit board or a semiconductor die). This optional substrate may include: ball bonds, wire bonds, edge connectors, solder bumps (such as C4), spring connectors, and/or socket connectors for coupling to external devices. If these I/O connectors are on a back side of the optional substrate, the optional substrate may include one or more TSVs.
Furthermore, in some embodiments heat can be removed from plank stack 112 using an optional heat sink (not shown), which may interface with one or more sides or faces of plank stack 112 (and which are different than the faces electrically coupled to interposer plate 130 and/or mechanical-alignment plate 138). Alternatively, mechanical-alignment plate 138 may remove heat from plank stack 112 (i.e., it may also be a heat sink). The heat sink may include ‘fins,’ which may provide mechanical stability and may also help remove heat without interfering with the alignment between semiconductor dies 110. This may be accomplished by placing the fins in the positive features. For example, the fins may provide a lattice structure that is positioned over the spherical balls, but which does not control or interfere with the micron-level positioning of the spherical balls. In some embodiments, the fins may have a slotted structure (as opposed to a lattice structure). In these embodiments, the fins extending from mechanical plate 138 may have slots such that when mechanical plate 138 is mated with plank stack 112 (in which semiconductor dies 110 are already aligned using positive features, such as spherical balls), then the positive features between the semiconductor dies may pass through a gap or a slot in each fin. Thus, plank stack 112 may be aligned using positive and negative features as described previously, but there may also be fins (with slots so as not to displace the alignment features) extending from mechanical plate 138 in between semiconductor dies 110 in plank stack 112.
Additionally, in some embodiments mechanical spacers 410 (FIG. 4) may include a heat-spreading material (and, more generally, an intermediate material between semiconductor dies 110 that has a high thermal conductivity), which may help remove heat generated during operation of circuits on one or more semiconductor dies 110 and/or interposer plate 130. This thermal management may include any of the following thermal paths: a first thermal path in the plane of semiconductor dies 110; a second thermal path in the plane of mechanical spacers 410 (FIG. 4); and/or a third thermal path in the plane of the heat-spreading material. Note that this thermal management may include the use of: phase change cooling, immersion cooling, and/or a cold plate.
In contrast with existing stacked semiconductor dies, in the present disclosure heat may be extracted from the edges of semiconductor dies 110 (as opposed to from the face of the semiconductor die at the end of the stack). Moreover, because of the approximately perpendicular orientation between semiconductor dies 110 and this optional heat sink, a thermal path (and, thus, unobstructed heat flow) between these components may be maintained along x direction 114 so that the maximum temperature of a given semiconductor die may be constant for all semiconductor dies 110 in plank stack 112 (i.e., the maximum temperature may be independent of the location of the given semiconductor die in plank stack 112). (Note that this uniform thermal management independent of the location in the plank stack is in contrast with existing 3D stacks of semiconductor dies, in which the maximum temperature of the semiconductor dies increases with distance from the heat sink at the end of the existing 3D stack.) Furthermore, because the temperature is independent of location and the number of semiconductor dies 110 in plank stack 112, chip package 100 may include more semiconductor dies 110 in plank stack 112 than chip packages that include TSVs.
In general, thickness 412 (FIG. 4) of semiconductor dies 110 may represent a tradeoff between the density of a given footprint (which favors a larger number of semiconductor dies and, thus, thinner semiconductor dies) and the thermal resistance (which favors thicker semiconductor dies).
While FIG. 1 illustrates chip package 100 in which semiconductor dies 110 have a common orientation (so that active electronics proximate to surfaces of semiconductor dies 110 are on a common side of semiconductor dies 110), in other embodiments (not shown) an alternating or periodic orientation is used (so that the active electronics proximate to surfaces of the pairs of adjacent semiconductor dies 110 face each other).
In some embodiments, more than one edge of a given semiconductor die can be used for electrical-pad placement and to interface with an interposer plate, which may allow more routing area and may improve the electrical performance of chip package 100.
Moreover, note that embodiments which involve soldering to gold stud bumps may involve additional processing operations to add barrier layers to prevent intermetallic formation. In particular, additional barrier layers, such as nickel/gold or nickel/palladium/gold metal stacks, may be deposited on the entire stud-bump surface using an electroless plating technique at either the wafer or die level. Similarly, embodiments that involve dicing through the stud bumps and/or bump pads may include processing operations to protect the bumps pads, such as depositing the additional barrier layers on the entire stud-bump surfaces.
We now describe embodiments of the method. FIG. 13 presents a flow diagram illustrating a method for fabricating a plank stack of semiconductor dies in the chip packages of FIGS. 1, 4-5 and 9-11. During this method, the semiconductor dies are stacked along the x direction into a plank stack (operation 1310), where the plane of the given semiconductor die is defined by the z direction and the y direction, where the z direction, the x direction and the y direction are substantially perpendicular to each other. Note that the semiconductor dies include the first electrical pads proximate to edges of the semiconductor dies, and the edges of the semiconductor dies define the face of the plank stack. Moreover, the surfaces of the semiconductor dies may include negative features recessed below the surfaces. While stacking the semiconductor dies, the semiconductor dies in the plank stack are aligned by mechanically coupling positive features to the negative features on adjacent semiconductor dies (operation 1312). Furthermore, the interposer plate may be electrically coupled to the semiconductor dies along the x direction (operation 1314), where the plane of the interposer plate is defined by the x direction and the y direction. The electrical coupling to the semiconductor dies may be between the first electrical pads, second electrical pads proximate to the surface of the interposer plate along the x direction, and the intervening conductive material between the first electrical pads and the second electrical pads.
Note that the stacking may occur before the semiconductor dies are diced from their associated wafers. Thus, wafer-level or die-level stacking may be used during the method.
In some embodiments of method 1300 there may be additional or fewer operations. Moreover, the order of the operations may be changed, and/or two or more operations may be combined into a single operation.
The foregoing description is intended to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the disclosure, and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Moreover, the foregoing descriptions of embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration and description only. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the forms disclosed. Accordingly, many modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, the discussion of the preceding embodiments is not intended to limit the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.
1. A chip package, comprising:
a group of semiconductor dies arranged in a plank stack in an x direction, wherein a plane of a given semiconductor die is defined by a z direction and a y direction, wherein the semiconductor dies include first electrical pads proximate to edges of the semiconductor dies, wherein the edges of the semiconductor dies define a face of the plank stack, and wherein surfaces of the semiconductor dies include negative features recessed below the surfaces; positive features mechanically coupled to the negative features on adjacent semiconductor dies, thereby aligning the semiconductor dies in the plank stack; and an interposer plate electrically coupled to the semiconductor dies along the x direction, wherein a plane of the interposer plate is defined by the x direction and the y direction; wherein the electrical coupling to the semiconductor dies is between the first electrical pads, second electrical pads proximate to a surface of the interposer plate along the x direction, and an intervening conductive material between the first electrical pads and the second electrical pads.
2. The chip package of claim 1, wherein a first electrical pad on a given semiconductor die is included in another negative feature recessed below one of the surfaces of the given semiconductor die.
3. The chip package of claim 2, wherein the other negative feature is included in a dicing lane of the given semiconductor die.
4. The chip package of claim 1, wherein the intervening conductive material includes solder balls.
5. The chip package of claim 4, wherein the edges of the semiconductor dies are surrounded by the solder balls.
6. The chip package of claim 1, wherein the intervening conductive material includes mechanically compliant electrical connectors.
7. The chip package of claim 6, wherein the mechanically compliant electrical connectors include an array of spring connectors.
8. The chip package of claim 7, wherein surfaces of a given semiconductor die are positioned between and mechanically coupled to at least a pair of spring connectors in the array of spring connectors.
9. The chip package of claim 1, wherein a first electrical pad on a given semiconductor die is electrically coupled to an additional pad on the given semiconductor die by an electrical signal line.
10. The chip package of claim 1, further comprising:
a mechanical-alignment plate; and mechanical-alignment components, wherein the plank stack is mechanically coupled to the mechanical-alignment plate by the mechanical-alignment components, thereby facilitating alignment of the semiconductor dies in the plank stack; and wherein the mechanical-alignment plate is mechanically coupled to the plank stack on an opposite face of the plank stack from the interposer plate.
11. The chip package of claim 10, wherein the mechanical-alignment components include at least one of: spheres, clamps and pins.
12. The chip package of claim 1, wherein the semiconductor dies include third electrical pads proximate to the edges of the semiconductor dies along they direction;
wherein the interposer plate is further electrically coupled to the semiconductor dies along the y direction; and wherein the electrical coupling to the semiconductor dies is between the third electrical pads, fourth electrical pads proximate to the surface of the interposer plate along the y direction, and the intervening conductive material between the third electrical pads and the fourth electrical pads.
13. The chip package of claim 1, wherein the second electrical pads include one of: discrete pads and a continuous electrical signal line on the interposer plate.
14. The chip package of claim 1, further comprising mechanical-alignment components mechanically coupled to the edges of the semiconductor dies and the interposer plate.
15. The chip package of claim 1, wherein the semiconductor dies are mechanically coupled by adhesive layers in spaces between the semiconductor dies; and
wherein the adhesive layers are recessed from the first electrical pads in the spaces between pairs of semiconductor dies.
16. A system, comprising a chip package, wherein the chip package includes:
a processor; a memory; wherein the memory comprises a group of semiconductor dies arranged in a plank stack in an x direction, wherein a plane of a given semiconductor die is defined by a z direction and a y direction, wherein the semiconductor dies include first electrical pads proximate to edges of the semiconductor dies, wherein the edges of the semiconductor dies define a face of the plank stack, and wherein surfaces of the semiconductor dies include negative features recessed below the surfaces; positive features mechanically coupled to the negative features on adjacent semiconductor dies, thereby aligning the semiconductor dies in the plank stack; and an interposer plate electrically coupled to the semiconductor dies along the x direction, wherein a plane of the interposer plate is defined by the x direction and the y direction; wherein the electrical coupling to the semiconductor dies is between the first electrical pads, second electrical pads proximate to a surface of the interposer plate along the x direction, and an intervening conductive material between the first electrical pads and the second electrical pads.
17. The system of claim 16, wherein a first electrical pad on a given semiconductor die is included in another negative feature recessed below one of the surfaces of the given semiconductor die.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the other negative feature is included in a dicing lane of the given semiconductor die.
19. The system of claim 16, further comprising:
a mechanical-alignment plate; and mechanical-alignment components, wherein the plank stack is mechanically coupled to the mechanical-alignment plate by the mechanical-alignment components, thereby facilitating alignment of the semiconductor dies in the plank stack; and wherein the mechanical-alignment plate is mechanically coupled to the plank stack on an opposite face of the plank stack from the interposer plate.
20. A method for fabricating a plank stack of semiconductor dies in an x direction, wherein the method comprises:
stacking the semiconductor dies along the x direction into the plank stack, wherein a plane of a given semiconductor die is defined by a z direction and a y direction, wherein the semiconductor dies include first electrical pads proximate to edges of the semiconductor dies, wherein the edges of the semiconductor dies define a face of the plank stack, and wherein surfaces of the semiconductor dies include negative features recessed below the surfaces; while stacking the semiconductor dies, aligning the semiconductor dies in the plank stack by mechanically coupling positive features to the negative features on adjacent semiconductor dies; and electrically coupling an interposer plate to the semiconductor dies along the x direction, wherein a plane of the interposer plate is defined by the x direction and the y direction; wherein the electrical coupling to the semiconductor dies is between the first electrical pads, second electrical pads proximate to a surface of the interposer plate along the x direction, and an intervening conductive material between the first electrical pads and the second electrical pads.
| 2011-07-13 | en | 2013-01-17 |
US-44923203-A | Coincident neutron detector for providing energy and directional information
ABSTRACT
A neutron detector comprises a neutron counter, and a plurality of optical fibers peripherally arrayed around the counter. The optical fibers have thereon a layer of scintillator material, whereby an incident fast neutron can transfer kinetic energy to nuclei in one or more of the optical fibers to produce recoil protons. The recoil protons interact with the coating to produce scintillation light that is channeled along the optical fiber or fibers with which the neutron interacted. The slowed neutron passes into the neutron counter where the neutron effects generation of a signal coincident with the light produced in the optical fibers in which the neutron deposited energy.
[0001] The invention herein described relates generally to the field of neutron detection and more particularly to a neutron detector that provides neutron energy and direction information.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A conventional method for detecting thermal neutrons is based on detection of the effects of secondary charged particles produced when a thermal neutron is captured by a 3He nucleus. This reaction results in the production of a 3H nucleus with a kinetic energy of 190 KeV and a proton with a kinetic energy of 570 KeV. These energetic charged particles produce ionization tracks in surrounding substances. The ionization track will include ionized gas molecules (ions) which can be detected either by optical emissions or by direct collection of ions. Optical detection has an advantage over ion collection of more rapid response time and insensitivity to noise caused by vibration.
[0003] A continuing need exists for the development of improved neutron detection systems capable of offering (a) better collection efficiency than standard 3He tubes, (b) better ruggedness and/or compactness for portability applications, and/or (c) the determination of both the energy of the neutron and the direction of travel. Various attempts to achieve one or more of these and other goals are described in the below-summarized patents.
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 5,155,366 discloses an apparatus and method for detecting a particular type of particle (e.g. neutrons) in an energy range of interest. The apparatus includes two PMTs which are spaced apart in facing relation to one another. A scintillator, positioned between the PMTs, comprises an array of optical fibers arranged substantially contiguously side-by-side. Each of the fibers has a first end proximate the one PMT and an opposing end proximate the other PMT. Also, each fiber has one of its ends being non-transmissive of light, and the fibers are arranged so that contiguous ones do not have their same ends being non-transmissive of light. Each of the fibers has a cross sectional dimension chosen in relation to a distance that the particular type of particle in the energy range of interest can travel. A signal processor unit discriminates between different types of particles and rays by determining the number of fibers affected within a predetermined time interval by an incoming particle or ray.
[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 5,231,290 discloses a neutron detector that relies upon optical separation of different scintillators to measure the total energy and/or number of neutrons from a neutron source. In a pulse mode embodiment, neutrons are detected in a first detector which surrounds a neutron source and in a second detector surrounding the first detector. An electronic circuit insures that only events are measured which correspond to neutrons first detected in the first detector followed by subsequent detection in the second detector. In a spectrometer embodiment, neutrons are thermalized in the second detector which is formed by a scintillator-moderator and neutron energy is measured from the summed signals from the first and second detectors. No directional information is provided.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,410,156 (RE36,201) discloses a fast neutron x-y detector and radiographic/tomographic device utilizing a white neutron probe. The detector detects fast neutrons over a two dimensional plane, measures the energy of the neutrons, and discriminates against gamma rays. The detector face is constructed by stacking separate bundles of scintillating fiber optic strands one on top of the other. The first x-y coordinate is determined by which bundle the neutron strikes. The other x-y coordinate is calculated by measuring the difference in time of flight for the scintillation photon to travel to the opposite ends of the fiber optic strand 20. Neutron energy is calculated by measuring the flight time of a neutron from a point source to the detector face.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,289,510 discloses a nuclear reaction detector with optical fibers arranged in side-by-side relationship in X and Y directions with a layer of nuclear reactive material operatively associated with surface regions of the optical fiber arrays. This arrangement provides position sensitivity with submillimeter resolution in two dimensions.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,880,469 discloses an apparatus and method for discriminating against neutrons coming from a direction other than a preferred direction and for discriminating against gamma rays. The apparatus includes two photomultiplier tubes that are parallel to each other and are attached to one end of a light pipe. A neutron scintillator is attached to the other end of the light pipe. The scintillator is comprised of optical fibers arranged contiguously along a first direction, which is perpendicular to a length dimension of the optical fibers, and which optical fibers alternate between optical fibers which emit photons only in the lower portion of the electromagnetic spectrum and optical fibers which emit photons only in the higher portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. Two filters are provided between the PM tubes and the light pipe, one filter transmitting only photons in the lower end of the electromagnetic spectrum and the other filter transmitting only photons in the higher portion of the electromagnetic spectrum.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,519,226 discloses an apparatus for detection of thermal neutrons including a volume of gas which includes 3He. A wavelength shifting optical (WSO) fiber is disposed to receive ultra-violet photons generated by reactions between neutrons and 3He. UV photons are absorbed within the WSO fiber to produce longer wavelength fluorescence generated photons that propagate within the WSO fiber. A photodetector is disposed to receive fluorescence generated photons from at least one end of the optical fiber and provide an output signal corresponding to neutron detection.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention provides a neutron detection system and method that is capable of offering (a) better collection efficiency than standard 3He tubes, (b) better ruggedness and/or compactness for portability applications, and/or (c) the determination of both the energy of the neutron and the direction of travel. More particularly, the present invention provides a compact detector configuration that provides both neutron energy and directional information. Still more particularly, the present invention provides a compact detector characterized by a 3He proportional counter surrounded by optical fibers (preferably plastic optical fibers) that are coated with a scintillator material (preferably an activated zinc sulfide scintillator material).
[0011] Accordingly, a neutron detector comprises a neutron counter, and a plurality of optical fibers peripherally arrayed around the counter. The optical fibers have thereon a layer of scintillator material, whereby an incident fast neutron can transfer kinetic energy to nuclei in one or more of the optical fibers to produce recoil protons. The recoil protons interact with the coating to produce scintillation light that is channeled along the optical fiber or fibers with which the neutron interacted. The slowed neutron passes into the neutron counter where the neutron effects generation of a signal coincident with the light produced in the optical fibers in which the neutron deposited energy.
[0012] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a neutron detector element comprises a neutron counter having an axis, a plurality of optical fibers extending along the axis of the neutron counter and peripherally arrayed around the neutron counter, and a scintillator material surrounding and optically coupled to the optical fibers.
[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the optical fibers have hydrogen nuclei for interaction with incident fast neutrons and more preferably the optical fibers are plastic optical fibers. The scintillator material can be provided on each optical fiber as an individual layer, for example as a coating, and the scintillator material can be an activated zinc sulfide scintillator material.
[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the neutron counter is a 3He proportional counter that is cylindrical, and the optical fibers are bundled in a cylindrical array around and contiguous with the cylindrical neutron counter. The bundle of optical fibers can completely surround and cover an outer cylindrical surface of the cylindrical neutron counter, and the optical fibers preferably extend parallel to the axis of the cylindrical neutron counter.
[0015] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a neutron detector comprising the foregoing neutron detector element, and first and second photodetectors optically coupled to the optical fibers at respective opposite ends of the optical fibers for receiving photons and generating representative output signals.
[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the first photodetector is a position determining photodetector to which the adjacent end of each fiber is optically coupled to a specific location on an end face of the positioning determining photodetector at a location corresponding to its location relative to the neutron counter. The position determining photodetector can be a position sensitive photomultiplier tube.
[0017] According to a further aspect of the invention, a neutron detector system comprises the foregoing neutron detector, and a signal processor for processing signals generated by the neutron counter and first and second photodetectors.
[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the signal processor provides two positional signals based on output signals of the first photodetector and a third positional signal based on output signals of the first and second photodetectors. The signal processor can output a neutron energy signal based on output signals of the first and second photodetectors, and only coincident signals from the first and second photodetectors and the neutron counter are analyzed for position information.
[0019] According to yet another aspect of the invention, a neutron detector comprises a cylindrical neutron counter having an axis; a plurality of plastic optical fibers having hydrogen nuclei for interaction with incident fast neutrons, the optical fibers extending parallel to the axis of the neutron counter and bundled in a cylindrical array around and contiguous with the cylindrical neutron counter, with each optical fiber having an individual coating of scintillator material; and first and second photodetectors optically coupled to the optical fibers at respective opposite ends of the optical fibers for receiving photons and generating representative output signals, said first photodetector being a position determining photodetector to which the adjacent end of each fiber is optically coupled to a specific location on an end face of the position determining photodetector at a location corresponding to its location relative to the neutron counter.
[0020] The invention also provides a method for detecting fast neutrons, comprising the steps of (a) positioning, at a location to be monitored for fast neutrons, a neutron detector element including a neutron counter, a plurality of optical fibers peripherally arrayed around the counter, and a scintillator material surrounding and optically coupled to the optical fibers, such that an incident fast neutron can transfer kinetic energy to nuclei in one or more of the optical fibers to produce recoil protons, the recoil protons can interact with the scintillator material to produce scintillation light that is channeled along the optical fiber or fibers with which the neutron interacted, and the slowed neutron can pass into the neutron counter where the neutron effects generation of a signal coincident with the light produced in the optical fibers in which the neutron deposited energy; (b) using a position determining photodetector at one end of the optical fibers and to which each fiber is optically coupled to a specific location on an end face of the positioning determining photodetector at a location corresponding to its location relative to the neutron counter, to provide two positional signals; (c) using another photodetector at an opposite end of the optical fibers and to which each fiber is optically coupled, to provide in conjunction with the position determining photodetector a third positional signal; and (d) analyzing for position and energy information only coincident signals from the first and second photodetectors and the neutron counter.
[0021] The foregoing and other features of the invention are hereinafter fully described and particularly pointed out in the claims, the following description and annexed drawings setting forth in detail a certain illustrative embodiment of the invention, this embodiment being indicative, however, of but one of the various ways in which the principles of the invention may be employed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022]FIG. 1 is a partly diagrammatic illustration of a neutron detector system according to the invention, which includes a detector that is shown in exploded perspective view with some of the optical fibers thereof removed for illustration purposes.
[0023]FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the detector of FIG. 1, taken along the line 2-2 of FIG. 1.
[0024]FIG. 3. is an illustration of a position sensitive photomultiplier tube wiring schematic, taken from a Hamamatsu R2486 technical specification.
[0025]FIG. 4 is schematic illustration of processing circuitry employed in the detector system of FIG. 1.
[0026]FIG. 5 illustrates neutron scatter locations with a coincident absorption in the proportional counter.
[0027]FIGS. 6 and 7 are histograms showing Neutron scatter sites along the X and Y axes.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] Referring now in detail to the drawings and initially to FIG. 1, an exemplary neutron detector according to the invention is generally designated by reference numeral 10. The detector is shown as part of a detector system 12 including the detector 10 and processing circuitry 14 for processing the signals generated by the detector to provide the energy and/or the direction of incident neutrons.
[0029] The detector 10 comprises a neutron detector element 16 and a pair of photodetectors 18 and 20 optically coupled to respective opposite ends of the detector element. The neutron detector element 16 comprises a neutron counter 22 and a plurality of optical fibers 24 peripherally arrayed around the counter 22. As shown, the neutron counter 22 can be a rugged 3He proportional counter including a cylindrical enclosure containing a gaseous mixture including 3He. As is well known, the absorption of a thermal neutron in the nucleus of 3He causes the prompt emission of a proton. The proton causes ionization in the gas to which a high voltage is applied, and this causes an electrical pulse to be produced. It is conceivable that other types of neutron counters can be used in the practice of the present invention.
[0030] The optical fibers 24 are bundled in a cylindrical array around and contiguous with the cylindrical enclosure of the neutron detector 22. Preferably, the optical fibers extend parallel to the axis of the cylindrical enclosure and are disposed in one or more rings concentric with the cylindrical enclosure. Ideally, the bundle 26 of optical fibers completely surrounds and covers the outer cylindrical surface of the neutron detector. In FIG. 1, the optical fibers nearest the viewer have been removed to better show the relationship between the optical fibers and the neutron counter.
[0031] The optical fibers 24 preferably are plastic optical fibers that contain hydrogen nuclei for interaction with incident neutrons, although it is conceivable that other types of optical fibers can be used in the practice of the invention, which other types interact with incident fast neutrons to produce recoil protons.
[0032] In addition, each optical fiber 24 has formed thereon a layer of scintillation material 28, as depicted in FIG. 2. Preferably, the layer is formed by coating each optical fiber with a scintillation material and particularly a silver-activated zinc sulfide scintillator. The thickness of the layer preferably is no greater than 5 mm, more preferably no greater than about 0.5 mm, and most preferably is about 0.1 mm. The fibers preferably have a diameter in the range of 0.1-3 mm and more preferably in the range of 0.1-1 mm. While individual coatings for the fibers is preferred, the fibers could be embedded in one or more blocks of scintillator material common to several or all of the fibers, such as a single tubular block of scintillator material.
[0033] Each optical fiber 24 has opposite ends thereof respectively optically coupled to the photodetectors 18 and 20 located at opposite ends of the bundle of fibers and consequently at opposite ends of the neutron counter. The photodetector 18 can be a standard photodetector such as a standard photomultiplier tube (PMT), whereas the photodetector 20 preferably is a position determining photodetector, such as a position sensitive PMT. The end of each fiber is optically coupled to a specific location on the end face of the position sensitive PMT at a location corresponding to its location in the bundle and thus its position relative to the 3He proportional counter.
[0034] An exemplary position sensitive PMT 20, such as an Hamamatsu R2486 PMT, has a wire mesh anode 32 which provides four signal outputs: two XA, XB for determining the x location and two YC, YD for determining the y location, as illustrated in FIG. 3. The charge produced from an electron cascade in the position sensitive PMT is distributed among the four signal outputs proportionally with respect to the incident light location. A similar proportionality exists for the z-axis, but this is generated by extracting a signal from the dynode nearest the anode on the position sensitive PMT 20 and comparing it with the signal from the standard PMT 18 at the opposite end of the fiber bundle.
[0035] The signal outputs of the PMTs 18 and 20 are supplied to the processing circuitry 14. Exemplary processing circuitry is schematically shown in FIG. 4. The input signals 36 from both PMTs 18 and 20 and the neutron counter 22 can be conditioned with charge sensitive pre-amplifiers 38 and then processed by algebraic circuits 40 and digitizers 42 for analysis by a computer 44. As illustrated, there is provided an x-axis position signal, a y-axis position signal, a z-axis position signal, an energy signal and an absorption signal. Although an orthogonal coordinate system is specifically described, it will be appreciated that other coordinate systems can be used if desired.
[0036] An exemplary data acquisition system can be composed of high speed digitizers, e.g. 2.5 GS/s, installed in a personal computer (PC). The signals from the PMTs and proportional counter can be conditioned by charge sensitive pre-amplifiers, discriminator circuits, and arithmetic circuits. Following conditioning, the signals can be routed to digitizers for storage. The digitizers can be configured similar to an oscilloscope with a leading edge trigger that will record the signal once it passes a threshold voltage. Each digitizer will also place a time stamp on each sample providing, for example, better than 1 ns timing resolution. The digitizers can each have 32 megabytes of on-board memory, and can be capable of streaming data to the PC for uninterrupted operation. Once the signals have been digitized and transferred to the PC, the remainder of the signal processing and data display can be performed by software.
[0037] In operation of the above-described neutron detector system 12, incident fast neutrons (>100 keV) emitted by a source will collide with hydrogen nuclei in the plastic fiber bundle annulus 26 surrounding the 3He proportional counter 22. Upon collision, the neutrons will transfer kinetic energy to hydrogen nuclei, creating recoil protons. The recoiling protons, being a massive charged particles, are detected by the scintillator material on the surface of the plastic fibers. The fibers channel the scintillation light to the position sensitive PMT 20 and the output signals of the PMT 20 can be analyzed to indicate the fiber or fibers in which an incident neutrons deposited energy. The neutrons, having imparted energy to the plastic fibers, may be moderated to thermal energies and enter the proportional counter where they have a high probability of being absorbed by the 3He gas. If within a certain time window there are events detected in both the fiber bundle and the 3He tube, this would be considered a coincidence detection. If the signals for a coincidence detection produced by the recoil protons are summed, they will be proportional to the total incident neutron energy. That is, when a coincidence is detected, the signals from the PMTs 18 and 20 can be summed to provide an output that is proportional to the kinetic energy of the incident neutron.
[0038] Directional information can also be obtained. The optical fibers 24 and position sensitive PMT 20 provide the ability to indicate the approximate location of the recoiling protons. That is, when neutrons enter the fiber bundle and scatter off of the hydrogen nuclei creating recoil protons, the protons travel a very short distance and interact in the ZnS(Ag) coating. The scintillation light produced is then directed to both the position sensitive PMT 20 and the standard PMT 18 through the individual fibers. Since optical fibers are used, in contrast to a scintillator block, there will be little light spreading and very little cross talk between adjacent fibers.
[0039] The position coordinates are calculated by determining the centroid from the individual axis signal pairs. Therefore, if there were a recoiling proton produced in a fiber 24 and the fiber guides the scintillation light onto the position sensitive PMT 20, there will be a charge pulse signal produced on all six signal cables. The x location can be calculated by dividing one of the x signals by the sum of the two x signals. The y and z locations can be determined by an identical method with their respective signal pairs.
[0040] A signal produced in the proportional counter 22 in coincidence with a photomultiplier tube signal is an indication that the neutron entered the detector, lost the majority of its kinetic energy, and was absorbed. When a coincidence is detected, the signals from the PMTs 18 and 20 can be summed to provide an output that is proportional to the kinetic energy of the incident neutron. An advantage of the scintillator clad fibers 24 is that the activated zinc sulfide provides an inherent ability to discriminate neutron interactions from gamma-ray interactions. The neutron interactions produce heavy charged particles that produce a proportionally greater amount of light in the scintillator than the light that the gamma-ray induced fast electrons produce.
[0041] When the neutron source is very close to the detector, such as within about 1 foot, the methodology, as thus far described, alone will work well to determine the source direction. When the source is far away, such as greater than 10 feet, the solid angle to the detector is small and the neutron scattering locations are distributed homogeneously throughout the plastic, which appears to make determining the source position difficult or impossible without a collimator. While a collimator could be employed, the problem can be overcome by examining the coincident events between the scintillator and proportional counter. If only coincident events between the fiber bundle and proportional counter are analyzed for position information, then the system will be primarily examining forward scattering events. This provides the required directional information without the use of a collimator. FIG. 5 illustrates the neutron interaction sites where greater than 100 keV of energy was deposited via scattering and are coincident with an absorption in the proportional counter. FIGS. 6 and 7 are histograms of the neutron scatter sites along the x and y axis. FIGS. 5-7 were generated using a Monte Carlo simulation where a spontaneous fission spectrum from 252Ca was simulated and emitted isotropically from a position 2 meters away along the positive x axis at mid height.
[0042] The aforedescribed method of neutron coincidence spectroscopy offers distinct advantages over prior methods. For example, the use of coated fibers affords the ability to obtain directional information about incident neutrons. Another advantage is improved gamma-ray rejection relative to earlier neutron coincidence systems that used blocks of scintillating plastic or a liquid scintillator to detect recoil protons.
[0043] The inherent gamma-ray rejection is due to the fact that the amount of scintillation light produced in ZnS(Ag) by heavy charged particles is greater than that for fast moving electrons of the same energy. Therefore, since the thickness of ZnS(Ag) preferably is minimal, the probability of gamma rays interacting in the scintillator is quite small. The combination of coating thickness and the fact that the amount of light produced by gamma rays in the scintillator is less than the amount produced by heavy charged particles makes the system inherently insensitive to gamma rays.
[0044] The applications of above-described detector system 12 are broad and include: detection of nuclear contraband at ports of entry; on-site inspections; identification of shielding problems at nuclear reactors; and identification of neutron streaming at high energy physics laboratories.
[0045] The detector system 12 essentially is functional for any application where knowing the neutron energy spectrum or source direction is useful. The foreseeable end users of the herein described system and method will likely be associated with national laboratories, defense threat reduction personnel, and universities. The present invention provides an instrument capable of measuring neutron energies over a broad spectral range with the added value of source direction determination.
[0046] Although the invention has been shown and described with respect to certain illustrated embodiments, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the specification and the annexed drawings. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described integers (components, assemblies, devices, compositions, etc.), the terms (including a reference to a “means” ) used to describe such integers are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any integer which performs the specified function (i.e., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein illustrated embodiments of the invention. In addition, while a particular feature of the invention may have been described above with respect to only one of several illustrated embodiments, such a feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other embodiment, as maybe desired and advantageous for any given or particular application.
What is claimed is:
1. A neutron detector element comprising a neutron counter having an axis, a plurality of optical fibers extending along the axis of the neutron counter and peripherally arrayed around the neutron counter, and a scintillator material surrounding and optically coupled to the optical fibers.
2. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 1, wherein the optical fibers have hydrogen nuclei for interaction with incident fast neutrons.
3. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 1, wherein the optical fibers are plastic optical fibers having hydrogen nuclei for interaction with incident fast neutrons.
4. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 1, wherein the scintillator material is provided on each optical fiber as an individual layer.
5. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 1, wherein each optical fiber has an individual layer of the scintillator material coated thereon.
6. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 4, wherein the layer has a thickness no greater than about 5 mm.
7. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 1, wherein the scintillator material is an activated zinc sulfide scintillator material.
8. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 1, wherein the neutron counter is a 3He proportional counter.
9. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 1, wherein the neutron counter is cylindrical, and the optical fibers are bundled in a cylindrical array around and contiguous with the cylindrical neutron counter.
10. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 9, wherein the bundle of optical fibers completely surrounds and covers an outer cylindrical surface of the cylindrical neutron counter.
11. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 1, wherein the optical fibers extend parallel to the axis of the cylindrical neutron counter.
12. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 1, wherein optical fibers are arranged in one or more rings concentric with the cylindrical enclosure.
13. A neutron detector comprising the neutron detector element of claim 1, and first and second photodetectors optically coupled to the optical fibers at respective opposite ends of the optical fibers for receiving photons and generating representative output signals.
14. A neutron detector as set forth in claim 13, wherein said first photodetector is a position determining photodetector to which the adjacent end of each fiber is optically coupled to a specific location on an end face of the positioning determining photodetector at a location corresponding to its location relative to the neutron counter.
15. A neutron detector as set forth in claim 14, wherein said position determining photodetector is a position sensitive photomultiplier tube.
16. A neutron detector system comprising a neutron detector as set forth in claim 14, and a signal processor for processing signals generated by the neutron counter and first and second photodetectors.
17. A neutron detector system as set forth in claim 16, wherein the signal processor provides two positional signals based on output signals of the first photodetector and a third positional signal based on output signals of the first and second photodetectors.
18. A neutron detector system as set forth in claim 17, wherein the signal processor outputs a neutron energy signal based on output signals of the first and second photodetectors.
19. A neutron detector system as set forth in claim 18, wherein only coincident signals from the first and second photodetectors and the neutron counter are analyzed for position information.
20. A neutron detector comprising:
a cylindrical neutron counter having an axis; a plurality of plastic optical fibers having hydrogen nuclei for interaction with incident fast neutrons, the optical fibers extending parallel to the axis of the neutron counter and bundled in a cylindrical array around and contiguous with the cylindrical neutron counter, with each optical fiber having an individual coating of scintillator material; and first and second photodetectors optically coupled to the optical fibers at respective opposite ends of the optical fibers for receiving photons and generating representative output signals, said first photodetector being a position determining photodetector to which the adjacent end of each fiber is optically coupled to a specific location on an end face of the position determining photodetector at a location corresponding to its location relative to the neutron counter.
21. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 20, wherein the layer has a thickness no greater than about 5 mm.
22. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 20, wherein the scintillator material is an activated zinc sulfide scintillator material.
23. A neutron detector element as set forth in claim 20, wherein the neutron counter is a 3He proportional counter.
24. A neutron detector as set forth in claim 20, wherein said position determining photodetector is a position sensitive photomultiplier tube.
25. A neutron detector system comprising a neutron detector as set forth in claim 24, and a signal processor for processing signals generated by the neutron counter and first and second photodetectors.
26. A neutron detector system as set forth in claim 25, wherein the signal processor provides two positional signals based on output signals of the first photodetector and a third positional signal based on output signals of the first and second photodetectors.
27. A neutron detector system as set forth in claim 26, wherein the signal processor outputs a neutron energy signal based on output signals of the first and second photodetectors.
28. A neutron detector system as set forth in claim 27, wherein only coincident signals from the first and second photodetectors and the neutron counter are analyzed for position information.
29. A method for detecting fast neutrons, comprising the steps of:
positioning, at a location to be monitored for fast neutrons, a neutron detector element including a neutron counter, a plurality of optical fibers peripherally arrayed around the counter, and a scintillator material surrounding and optically coupled to the optical fibers, such that an incident fast neutron can transfer kinetic energy to nuclei in one or more of the optical fibers to produce recoil protons, the recoil protons can interact with the scintillator material to produce scintillation light that is channeled along the optical fiber or fibers with which the neutron interacted, and the slowed neutron can pass into the neutron counter where the neutron effects generation of a signal coincident with the light produced in the optical fibers in which the neutron deposited energy; using a position determining photodetector at one end of the optical fibers and to which each fiber is optically coupled to a specific location on an end face of the positioning determining photodetector at a location corresponding to its location relative to the neutron counter, to provide two positional signals; using another photodetector at an opposite end of the optical fibers and to which each fiber is optically coupled, to provide in conjunction with the position determining photodetector a third positional signal; and analyzing for position and energy information only coincident signals from the first and second photodetectors and the neutron counter.
| 2003-05-30 | en | 2004-12-02 |
US-70180903-A | Method and software product for inserting author related information into electronic mail messages
ABSTRACT
A method for processing an email message includes the steps of obtaining originator data from the email message that is indicative of the message's origin. Additional data, such as the geographical location at which the email message was created is then retrieved from a database on the basis of the originator data. The additional data is added to the “From” field of the email address that is finally read by the intended recipient. Consequently, when replying to the email a response may be sent which takes into account the additional data and so is more appropriate than might otherwise be the case. An intended application of the method is in processing emails to a business in order to improve the likelihood of responding with messages that might produce a sale.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims benefit from provisional application Serial No. 60/426,069 filed Nov. 12, 2002, which is incorporated by reference herein as if reproduced in full below.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention is concerned with the processing of electronic mail messages. In a particular application the invention is concerned with a method for intercepting and processing e-mail messages so that a reader of the message is conveniently provided with additional information relating to the author of the message.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
[0004] Since the advent of the Internet, the popularity of electronic mail (e-mail) has grown to the point where it is now widely used for both personal and business communication. Electronic mail has become a significant first point of contact between businesses and new clients. However it is often difficult for businesses to maximize the potential that new electronic mail messages present. This is because electronic mail inquiries commonly have very little contextual information about the author that would assist the business to obtain a return from the e-mail inquiry in the form of, for example, a sale.
[0005] Consequently there is a need for an aid to assist businesses to maximize returns from e-mail message inquiries.
[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for processing emails so that the recipient of the e-mail is presented with information related to the author of the message in addition to the electronic mail message itself.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for processing an electronic mail message comprising the steps of:
[0008] obtaining originator data indicating the origin of an electronic mail message;
[0009] obtaining additional data from an information source on the basis of the originator data; and
[0010] inserting the additional data into the electronic mail message for presentation to a recipient of said message.
[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the invention the originator data comprises an IP Address associated with a workstation upon which said message was authored.
[0012] The originator data may be obtained by processing the electronic mail message.
[0013] Alternatively, the originator data may be obtained from a parameter of a data connection to the workstation.
[0014] Typically the additional data comprises a name of a geographical region corresponding to the IP Address.
[0015] The step of obtaining originator data from a field of the electronic mail message may be performed at a workstation of a recipient of the electronic message.
[0016] Alternatively, the step of obtaining the originator data is performed at a network computational device located between a workstation of the recipient and a workstation upon which said message was authored.
[0017] The network computational device may, for example, comprise any one of: a post office server, a firewall, a router, a gateway.
[0018] According to a further embodiment of the present invention there is provided an e-mail pre-processing computer software product stored on a computer readable medium, said product containing instructions for execution by an electronic processor, the instructions including:
[0019] instructions for obtaining originator data of an electronic mail message;
[0020] instructions for obtaining additional data from a data source on the basis of the originator data; and
[0021] instructions for inserting the additional data into the electronic mail message for presentation to a recipient.
[0022] Preferably the instructions for obtaining originator data include instructions for processing the electronic mail message to obtain an IP Address associated with a workstation upon which said message was authored.
[0023] Alternatively, the instructions for obtaining originator data may include instructions for obtaining an IP Address associated with the workstation upon which said message was authored from a parameter of a connection to said workstation.
[0024] It is preferable that the software product be configured for execution on a TCP/IP stack of a network computational device.
[0025] Other preferred features of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description wherein preferred embodiments of the invention will be explained in relation to a number of drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] In order that this invention may be more readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings wherein:
[0027]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram used to explain the operation of an embodiment of the present invention.
[0028]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram used to explain the operation of a further embodiment of the present invention.
[0029]FIG. 3 illustrates the interfacing of a software product according to an embodiment of the present invention, running on a network computational device such as a post office server.
[0030]FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the operational steps of a software product according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0031]FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a further embodiment of the present invention.
[0032]FIG. 6 illustrates the interfacing of a software product according to an embodiment of the present invention, running on a recipient's workstation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0033]FIG. 1 depicts an author workstation 1 which is able to author an electronic mail message 5 and to transmit it, for example by means of an Internet connection, to a first post office server 6. The term “post office server” is used to refer to a network computational device which runs a post office application. Such an application typically includes instructions for relaying and storing e-mail messages.
[0034] According to the SMTP protocol e-mail message 5 contains a header 20 and message body 22. Message header 20 contains the e-mail address of an e-mail account of the message's author. The e-mail address is, for example, in the form of AuthorName@AuthorISP.com and usually appears in the FROM field of the e-mail message when it is finally displayed upon the recipient's workstation 16. The message also includes a TO field which contains the e-mail address of the intended recipient of the message. Message 5 is typically relayed over one or more network devices, for example post office servers 6 and 4, until it reaches post office server 3. post office server 3 has a mail account and directory, or “mailbox” corresponding to the e-mail address of the intended recipient. The message is stored on post office server 3 for subsequent retrieval by its intended recipient by means of a remote workstation, for example workstation 16 in accordance with the POP3 protocol.
[0035] In the example depicted in FIG. 1 the first post office server to process message 5 is post office server 6. Post office server 6 determines originator data in the form of the IP Address of workstation 1 from its connection with workstation 1. That is, post office server 6 operates according to software which contains instructions to retrieve the IP Address of workstation 1 from the TCP/IP parameters of the connection between itself and workstation 1. The originator data indicates the origin of message 5. Post office server 6 inserts the IP Address of the author workstation into message header 20. Subsequently post office server 4 receives message 5 and appends the IP Address of the post office server which passed the message. Similarly post office 3 appends the IP Address of post office 4 to the message. The net result is that the header of message 5 contains multiple IP Addresses, one for the originating workstation 1 and one for each of the transient post offices through which the message is passed.
[0036] Transmission of electronic mail messages from one post office server to another, and from client workstation 1 to post office Server 3, is typically in accordance with the Simple Mail Transport Protocol (SMTP). The SMTP is described in RFC 822. Other mail transport protocols are also known such as X.400. The present invention is described in relation to SMTP and POP3 protocols but is not limited in applicability to any one transport system.
[0037] In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, message 5 is intercepted by an e-mail pre-processing application 12 after being passed to post office application 26. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 the E-mail preprocessing application 12 is located downstream of post office application 26 on post office server 3. However, pre-processing application 12 may also be resident on any of the post office servers and either upstream or downstream of post office application 26. The pre-processing application obtains the IP Address of workstation 1 at least two ways.
[0038] Firstly, if application 12 is located either downstream of post office application 26 on server 6, as shown in FIG. 1, or on any of the other post office servers, then the IP Address of workstation 1 may be obtained from message header 20, for example by parsing it according to standard techniques.
[0039] Secondly, with reference to FIG. 2, where application 12 is located upstream of post office application 26 on the first post office server, i.e. server 6, then the IP Address of workstation 1 may be obtained from a parameter of the TCP/IP connection between server 6 and workstation 1.
[0040] On the basis of the determined IP Address, pre-processing application 12 obtains additional data in the form of the name of a corresponding geographical location from data source 14. The name, which will for example be the name of a city or rural region, is appended to the entry in the FROM field of message header 20. The message is then processed by post office application 26 in standard fashion.
[0041] Application 12 preferably resides within the TCP/IP protocol stack of whatever server it is supported upon. For example, FIG. 3 schematically depicts application 12 residing within the TCP/IP protocol stack of server 3 of FIG. 1. Due to its residence in the stack, application 12 is able to intercept POP3 and SMTP transmissions carried by TCP/IP. Application 12 intercepts data passing through the TCP/IP protocol stack in the manner of a protocol layer. The application identifies POP3 and SMTP transmissions by their use of port-110 and port-25 respectively.
[0042] Messages processed by application 12 are passed to post office Application 26 via an operating system supplied interface, for example WinSocket API.
[0043] The operational steps of e-mail pre-processing application 12 will now be further explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 4. Initially, at box 7 application 12 accepts data from underlying layers, including the underlying TCP/IP layer. At box 9 pre-processing application 12 determines if the data that has been passed pertains to a port concerned with electronic mail data. As previously mentioned, in the case of SMTP and POP3 mail, messaging ports 25 and 110 respectively are used.
[0044] At box 11 application 12 parses message header 20 to obtain originator data of the message in the form of the IP Address of the author's workstation. Alternatively, if the pre-processing application 12 is located upstream of post-office application 26 on post office server 6, then the pre-processing application is programmed to obtain the IP Address of workstation 6 from the TCP/IP connection. At box 13 application 12 obtains additional data on the basis of the originator data. In the presently described embodiment the additional data comprises the name of a geographical location corresponding to the author workstation's IP address. The geographical location name may be obtained by reference to a remote data source 14. Data source 14 may be a remote database server for example. Alternatively the geographical location name may be obtained by reference to data held in memory on post office server 3. Methods for determining a geographical location corresponding to an IP Address are described in International Patent Application PCT/AU01/00096 (WO 01/57696) and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 60/380,093 both to the present applicant and both of which are hereby incorporated by cross-reference in their entireties.
[0045] At box 15 application 12 amends message header 20 by appending or inserting the geographical location name to the FROM field of the message header.
[0046] At box 17 the amended message is passed to a further protocol layer for further processing. In the presently described embodiment, where application 12 is running on a network device that is configured as a post office server, the message is passed to post office application 26. Alternatively, it will be realised that preprocessing application 12 may be resident on network devices other than a post office server. For example the application may be run by a Firewall or Gateway server or indeed any network computational device which supports the transmission of electronic mail messages.
[0047] It will be noted that the application operates on the e-mail according to various instructions. Broadly, pre-processing application 12 includes instructions for obtaining originator data, instructions for obtaining additional data from the data source on the basis of the originator data, and instructions for inserting the additional information into the electronic mail messages for presentation to a recipient. The instructions may be stored on a computer readable medium such as a magnetic or optical disk, thereby comprising a computer software product for processing by an electronic processor.
[0048] Referring again to FIG. 1, subsequent to operation of application 12, the message is retrieved by reader workstation 16 according to, for example, the POP3 protocol. The retrieved message 25 is displayed on reader workstation 16 by means an e-mail reader application. A popular e-mail reader application is Microsoft Corporation's Outlook program. The displayed message includes the approximate geographical location of the sender of the message, for example, in its FROM field
[0049]FIG. 5 depicts a further embodiment of the present invention wherein a reader workstation 16 runs a geographical resolving application 19 for pre-processing mail messages retrieved from post office server 3. FIG. 6, schematically shows the interfacing of application 19 between underlying TCP/IP processes 30 and a typical electronic mail reader application 28. Application 19 operates in the same manner as application 12 and in accordance with the flowchart of FIG. 4, except that at box 17 of that figure the e-mail message is passed to e-mail reader application 28 rather than to a post office server application.
[0050] E-mail messages that are processed according to the previously described embodiments of the invention present additional data in the form of the name of the approximate geographical location of the author workstation. The additional data is conveniently present in the FROM field of the messages. For example, the FROM field may read AuthorName@AuthorISP.com : New York. Consequently the reader of the e-mail knows that the author resides in New York. Accordingly when replying the response message may be specifically tailored to suit a person living in New York. Such tailoring may involve quoting shipping prices for goods that may be purchased to be shipped to New York or taking into account the climate and habits of residents of that region. Accordingly, the additional information associated with the originator of the message that is inserted into the FROM field, assists businesses in maximising returns from e-mail message inquiries.
[0051] It will be realised that the applications 12 and 19 may be configured to process electronic mail messages in other ways apart from determining the geographical location from the IP Address embedded in the message envelope.
[0052] The embodiments of the invention described herein are provided for purposes of explaining the principles thereof, and are not to be considered as limiting or restricting the invention since many modifications may be made by the exercise of skill in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.
I Claim:
1. A method for processing an electronic mail message comprising the steps of:
obtaining originator data indicating the origin of an electronic mail message; obtaining additional data from an information source on the basis of the originator data; and inserting the additional data into the electronic mail message for presentation to a recipient of said message.
2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the originator data comprises an IP Address associated with a workstation upon which said message was authored.
3. A method according to claim 1, wherein the originator data is obtained by processing the electronic mail message.
4. A method according to claim 2, wherein the originator data is obtained from a parameter of a data connection to the workstation.
5. A method according to claim 2, wherein the additional data comprises a name of a geographical region corresponding to the IP Address.
6. A method according to claim 1, wherein the step of obtaining originator data is performed at a workstation of a recipient of the electronic message.
7. A method according to claim 1, wherein the step of obtaining the originator data is performed at a network computational device located between a workstation of the recipient and a workstation upon which said message was authored.
8. A method according to claim 1, wherein the the network computational device comprises any one of: a post office server, a firewall, a router, a gateway.
9. An e-mail pre-processing computer software product stored on a computer readable medium, said product containing instructions for execution by an electronic processor, the instructions including:
instructions for obtaining originator data of an electronic mail message; instructions for obtaining additional data from a data source on the basis of the originator data; and instructions for inserting the additional data into the electronic mail message for presentation to a recipient.
10. An e-mail pre-processing computer software product according to claim 9, wherein the instructions for obtaining originator data include instructions for processing the electronic mail message to obtain an IP Address associated with a workstation upon which said message was authored.
11. An e-mail pre-processing computer software product according to claim 9, wherein the instructions for obtaining originator data include instructions for obtaining an IP Address associated with the workstation upon which said message was authored from a parameter of a connection to said workstation.
12. An e-mail pre-processing computer software product according to claim 9 configured for execution on a TCP/IP stack of a network computational device.
| 2003-11-05 | en | 2004-05-13 |
US-201816134799-A | Multi-step separation process
ABSTRACT
The present invention provides a chromatographic separation process for recovering a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) product from a feed mixture, which comprises: (a) purifying the feed mixture in a first chromatographic separation step using an eluent a mixture of water and a first organic solvent, to obtain an intermediate product; and (b) purifying the intermediate product in a second chromatographic separation step using as eluent a mixture of water and a second organic solvent, to obtain the PUFA product, wherein the second organic solvent is different from the first organic solvent and has a polarity index which differs from the polarity index of the first organic solvent by between 0.1 and 2.0, wherein the PUFA product is other than alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), linoleic acid, an ALA mono- di- or triglyceride, a GLA mono- di- or triglyceride, a linoleic acid mono- di- or triglyceride, an ALA C 1 -C 4 alkyl ester, a GLA C 1 -C 4 alkyl ester or a linoleic acid C 1 -C 4 alkyl ester or a mixture thereof.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/411,702, filed Jan. 20, 2017, which is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/759,764, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,694,302, filed Jul. 8, 2015, which is the National Phase entry of International Application No. PCT/GB2014/050054, filed Jan. 9, 2014, which claims priority of Great Britain Patent Application No. 1300354.6, filed Jan. 9, 2013, and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/750,389, filed Jan. 9, 2013. The contents of these related applications are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.
DESCRIPTION
The present invention relates to an improved chromatographic separation process for purifying polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and derivatives thereof. In particular, the present invention relates to an improved chromatographic separation process which employs a mixed solvent system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Fatty acids, in particular PUFAs, and their derivatives are precursors for biologically important molecules, which play an important role in the regulation of biological functions such as platelet aggregation, inflammation and immunological responses. Thus, PUFAs and their derivatives may be therapeutically useful in treating a wide range of pathological conditions including CNS conditions; neuropathies, including diabetic neuropathy; cardiovascular diseases; general immune system and inflammatory conditions, including inflammatory skin diseases.
PUFAs are found in natural raw materials, such as vegetable oils and marine oils. Such PUFAs are, however, frequently present in such oils in admixture with saturated fatty acids and numerous other impurities. PUFAs should therefore desirably be purified before nutritional or pharmaceutical uses.
Unfortunately, PUFAs are extremely fragile. Thus, when heated in the presence of oxygen, they are prone to isomerization, peroxidation and oligomerization. The fractionation and purification of PUFA products to prepare pure fatty acids is therefore difficult. Distillation, even under vacuum, can lead to non-acceptable product degradation.
Chromatographic separation techniques are well known to those of skill in the art. Chromatographic separation techniques involving stationary bed systems and simulated or actual moving bed systems are both familiar to one of skill in the art.
In a conventional stationary bed chromatographic system, a mixture whose components are to be separated percolates through a container. The container is generally cylindrical, and is typically referred to as the column. The column contains a packing of a porous material (generally called the stationary phase) exhibiting a high permeability to fluids. The percolation velocity of each component of the mixture depends on the physical properties of that component so that the components exit from the column successively and selectively. Thus, some of the components tend to fix strongly to the stationary phase and thus will percolate slowly, whereas others tend to fix weakly and exit from the column more quickly. Many different stationary bed chromatographic systems have been proposed and are used for both analytical and industrial production purposes.
Simulated and actual moving bed chromatography are known techniques, familiar to those of skill in the art. The principle of operation involves countercurrent movement of a liquid eluent phase and a solid adsorbent phase. This operation allows minimal usage of solvent making the process economically viable. Such separation technology has found several applications in diverse areas, including hydrocarbons, industrial chemicals, oils, sugars and APIs.
Thus, a simulated moving bed chromatography apparatus consists of a number of individual columns containing adsorbent which are connected together in series. Eluent is passed through the columns in a first direction. The injection points of the feedstock and the eluent, and the separated component collection points in the system, are periodically shifted by means of a series of valves. The overall effect is to simulate the operation of a single column containing a moving bed of the solid adsorbent, the solid adsorbent moving in a countercurrent direction to the flow of eluent. Thus, a simulated moving bed system consists of columns which, as in a conventional stationary bed system, contain stationary beds of solid adsorbent through which eluent is passed, but in a simulated moving bed system the operation is such as to simulate a continuous countercurrent moving bed.
A typical simulated moving bed chromatography apparatus is illustrated with reference to FIG. 1. The concept of a simulated or actual moving bed chromatographic separation process is explained by considering a vertical chromatographic column containing stationary phase S divided into sections, more precisely into four superimposed sub-zones I, II, III and IV going from the bottom to the top of the column. The eluent is introduced at the bottom at IE by means of a pump P. The mixture of the components A and B which are to be separated is introduced at IA+B between sub-zone II and sub-zone III. An extract containing mainly B is collected at SB between sub-zone I and sub-zone II, and a raffinate containing mainly A is collected at SA between sub-zone III and sub-zone IV.
In the case of a simulated moving bed system, a simulated downward movement of the stationary phase S is caused by movement of the introduction and collection points relative to the solid phase. In the case of an actual moving bed system, simulated downward movement of the stationary phase S is caused by movement of the various chromatographic columns relative to the introduction and collection points. In FIG. 1, eluent flows upward and mixture A+B is injected between sub-zone II and sub-zone III. The components will move according to their chromatographic interactions with the stationary phase, for example adsorption on a porous medium. The component B that exhibits stronger affinity to the stationary phase (the slower running component) will be more slowly entrained by the eluent and will follow it with delay. The component A that exhibits the weaker affinity to the stationary phase (the faster running component) will be easily entrained by the eluent. If the right set of parameters, especially the flow rate in each sub-zone, are correctly estimated and controlled, the component A exhibiting the weaker affinity to the stationary phase will be collected between sub-zone III and sub-zone IV as a raffinate and the component B exhibiting the stronger affinity to the stationary phase will be collected between sub-zone I and sub-zone II as an extract.
It will therefore be appreciated that the conventional simulated moving bed system schematically illustrated in FIG. 1 is limited to binary fractionation.
Processes and equipment for simulated moving bed chromatography are described in several patents, including U.S. Pat. No. 2,985,589, U.S. Pat. No. 3,696,107, U.S. Pat. No. 3,706,812, U.S. Pat. No. 3,761,533, FR-A-2103302, FR-A-2651148 and FR-A-2651149, the entirety of which are incorporated herein by reference. The topic is also dealt with at length in “Preparative and Production Scale Chromatography”, edited by Ganetsos and Barker, Marcel Dekker Inc, New York, 1993, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.
An actual moving bed system is similar in operation to a simulated moving bed system. However, rather than shifting the injection points of the feed mixture and the eluent, and the separated component collection points by means of a system of valves, instead a series of adsorption units (i.e. columns) are physically moved relative to the feed and drawoff points. Again, operation is such as to simulate a continuous countercurrent moving bed.
Processes and equipment for actual moving bed chromatography are described in several patents, including U.S. Pat. No. 6,979,402, U.S. Pat. No. 5,069,883 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,764,276, the entirety of which are incorporated herein by reference.
Purification of PUFA products is particularly challenging. Thus, many suitable feedstocks for preparing PUFA products are extremely complex mixtures containing a large number of different components with very similar retention times in chromatography apparatuses. It is therefore very difficult to separate certain PUFAs from such feedstocks. However, a high degree of purity of PUFA products is required, particularly for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. Historically, therefore, distillation has been used when high purity PUFA products are required. There are, however, significant drawbacks to using distillation as a separation technique for delicate PUFAs as discussed above.
Published international patent application WO-A-2011/080503, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference, discloses an SMB separation process for recovering a PUFA product from a feed mixture efficiently and in very high purity. It has been found, however, that it can be difficult to remove C18 fatty acids, in particular alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and/or gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), from feed mixtures efficiently without using large volumes of aqueous alcohol solvents. Efficient removal of C18 fatty acids is advantageous since many specifications for pharmaceutical and dietary oils require a low content of these fatty acids. For example, certain oil specifications for use in Japan require an ALA content of less than 1 wt %.
Accordingly, there is a need for a chromatographic separation process which can efficiently recover a PUFA product from a feed mixture whilst minimising the amount of C18 fatty acids, for example ALA and/or GLA, present in the resultant product.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It has now been surprisingly found that a PUFA product with low levels of C18 fatty acids, for example ALA and/or GLA, can be effectively purified from commercially available feedstocks such as fish oils by using a mixed solvent system.
The present invention therefore provides a chromatographic separation process for recovering a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) product from a feed mixture, which comprises:
(a) purifying the feed mixture in a first chromatographic separation step using as eluent a mixture of water and a first organic solvent, to obtain an intermediate product; and (b) purifying the intermediate product in a second chromatographic separation step using as eluent a mixture of water and a second organic solvent, to obtain the PUFA product, wherein the second organic solvent is different from the first organic solvent and has a polarity index which differs from the polarity index of the first organic solvent by between 0.1 and 2.0,
wherein the PUFA product is not alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), linoleic acid, an ALA mono- di- or triglyceride, a GLA mono- di- or triglyceride, a linoleic acid mono, di- or triglyceride, an ALA C1-C4 alkyl ester, a GLA C1-C4 alkyl ester or a linoleic acid C1-C4 alkyl ester or a mixture thereof.
Also provided is a PUFA product obtainable by the process of the present invention.
Also provided is a composition comprising a PUFA product obtainable by the process of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
FIG. 1 illustrates the basic principles of a simulated or actual moving bed process for separating a binary mixture.
FIG. 2 illustrates a chromatographic separation step, which comprises two simulated or actual moving bed processes, to separate EPA from faster and slower running impurities (i.e. more polar and less polar impurities).
FIG. 3 illustrates a chromatographic separation step, which comprises two simulated or actual moving bed processes, to separate DHA from faster and slower running impurities (i.e. more polar and less polar impurities).
FIG. 4 illustrates a chromatographic separation step, which comprises two simulated or actual moving bed processes, to separate EPA from faster and slower running impurities (i.e. more polar and less polar impurities).
FIG. 5 illustrates a chromatographic separation step, which comprises two simulated or actual moving bed processes, to separate DHA from faster and slower running impurities (i.e. more polar and less polar impurities).
FIG. 6 illustrates a chromatographic separation step, which comprises two simulated or actual moving bed processes, to separate EPA from faster and slower running impurities (i.e. more polar and less polar impurities).
FIG. 7 illustrates a chromatographic separation step, which comprises two simulated or actual moving bed processes, to separate DHA from faster and slower running impurities (i.e. more polar and less polar impurities).
FIG. 8 illustrates a chromatographic separation step, which comprises two simulated or actual moving bed processes, to separate EPA from faster and slower running impurities (i.e. more polar and less polar impurities).
FIG. 9 illustrates a chromatographic separation step, which comprises two simulated or actual moving bed processes, to separate EPA from faster and slower running impurities (i.e. more polar and less polar impurities).
FIG. 10 illustrates three ways in which a chromatographic separation step which comprises two simulated or actual moving bed processes may be carried out.
FIG. 11 illustrates a chromatographic separation step to separate EPA from faster and slower running impurities (i.e. more polar and less polar impurities).
FIG. 12 shows a GC-FAMES trace of an intermediate product produced by the first separation step of the process of the present invention where methanol is used as first organic solvent.
FIG. 13 shows a GC-FAMES trace of a PUFA product produced by the second separation step of the process of the present invention where acetonitrile is used as second organic solvent.
FIG. 14 shows a GC-FAMES trace of an intermediate product produced by the first separation step of the process of the present invention where acetonitrile is used as first organic solvent.
FIG. 15 shows a GC-FAMES trace of a PUFA product produced by the second separation step of the process of the present invention where methanol is used as second organic solvent.
FIG. 16 shows a GC-FAMES trace of a typical feed mixture, which contains 55% wt % EPA ethyl ester.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In its most general sense, the present invention provides a chromatographic separation process for recovering a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) product from a feed mixture, which comprises:
(a) purifying the feed mixture in a first chromatographic separation step using as eluent a mixture of water and a first organic solvent, to obtain an intermediate product; and (b) purifying the intermediate product in a second chromatographic separation step using as eluent a mixture of water and a second organic solvent, to obtain the PUFA product,
wherein the second organic solvent is different from the first organic solvent and has a polarity index which differs from the polarity index of the first organic solvent by between 0.1 and 2.0.
As used herein, the term “PUFA product” refers to a product comprising one or more polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and/or derivatives thereof, typically of nutritional or pharmaceutical significance. Typically, the PUFA product is a single PUFA or derivative thereof. Alternatively, the PUFA product is a mixture of two or more PUFAs or derivatives thereof.
The term “polyunsaturated fatty acid” (PUFA) refers to fatty acids that contain more than one double bond. Such PUFAs are well known to the person skilled in the art. As used herein, a PUFA derivative is a PUFA in the form of a mono-, di- or tri-glyceride, ester, phospholipid, amide, lactone, or salt. Mono-, di- and triglycerides and esters are preferred. Triglycerides and esters are more preferred. Esters are even more preferred. Esters are typically alkyl esters, preferably C1-C6 alkyl esters, more preferably C1-C4 alkyl esters. Examples of esters include methyl and ethyl esters. Ethyl esters are most preferred.
Typically, the PUFA product is at least one ω-3 or ω-6 PUFA or a derivative thereof, preferably at least one ω-3 PUFA or a derivative thereof.
Examples of ω-3 PUFAs include eicosatrienoic acid (ETE), eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA, DPA and DHA are preferred. EPA and DHA are most preferred.
Examples of ω-6 PUFAs include eicosadienoic acid, dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), arachidonic acid (ARA), docosadienoic acid, adrenic acid and docosapentaenoic (ω-6) acid. ARA and DGLA are preferred.
Preferably, the PUFA product is EPA, DHA, a derivative thereof or mixtures thereof. Typical derivatives include EPA and DHA mono-, di- and triglycerides and EPA and DHA esters, preferably alkyl esters such as C1-C4 alkyl esters.
More preferably, the PUFA product is EPA, DHA, or a derivative thereof. Typical derivatives include EPA and DHA mono-, di- and triglycerides and EPA and DHA esters, preferably alkyl esters such as C1-C4 alkyl esters.
Most preferably, the PUFA product is eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), EPA triglycerides, DHA triglycerides, EPA ethyl ester or DHA ethyl ester.
Particularly preferably, the PUFA product is EPA, DHA, EPA ethyl ester or DHA ethyl ester.
In one embodiment, the PUFA product is EPA and/or EPA ethyl ester (EE)
In another embodiment, the PUFA product is DHA and/or DHA ethyl ester (EE).
In a yet further embodiment, the PUFA product is a mixture of EPA and DHA and/or EPA EE and DHA EE.
In a most preferred embodiment, the PUFA product obtained in the second separation step is EPA or an EPA derivative, for example EPA ethyl ester, and is obtained at a purity greater than 90 wt %, preferably greater than 95 wt %, more preferably greater than 97 wt %, even more preferably greater than 98 wt %, still more preferably greater than 98.4 wt %. Preferably, the PUFA product obtained in the second separation step is EPA or an EPA derivative, for example EPA ethyl ester, and is obtained at a purity between 98 and 99.5 wt %.
Typically, in addition to said PUFA product, an additional secondary PUFA product is collected in the chromatographic separation process of the invention. Preferably, the PUFA product is EPA or a derivative thereof and the additional secondary PUFA product is DHA or a derivative thereof.
In a further embodiment of the invention, the process is configured to collect a PUFA product which is a concentrated mixture of EPA and DHA or derivatives thereof. Thus, a feed mixture is used which contains EPA, DHA, components which are more polar than EPA and DHA, and components which are less polar than EPA and DHA.
Typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), ALA mono-, di- and triglyceride and ALA C1-C4 alkyl ester impurities. More typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of impurities which are ALA and derivatives thereof. Typical ALA derivatives are as defined above for PUFA derivatives.
Typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), GLA mono-, di- and triglyceride and GLA C1-C4 alkyl ester impurities. More typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of impurities which are GLA and derivatives thereof. Typical GLA derivatives are as defined above for PUFA derivatives.
Typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of C18 fatty acid impurities, C18 fatty acid mono-, di- and triglyceride impurities and C18 fatty acid alkyl ester impurities. More typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of impurities which are C18 fatty acids and derivatives thereof. Typical C18 fatty acid derivatives are as defined above for PUFA derivatives. As used herein, a C18 fatty acid is a C18 aliphatic monocarboxylic acid having a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain. Typical C18 fatty acids include stearic acid (C18:0), oleic acid (C18:1n9), vaccenic acid (C18:1n7), linoleic acid (C18:2n6), gamma-linolenic acid/GLA (C18:3n6), alpha-linolenic acid/ALA (C18:3n3) and stearidonic acid/SDA (C18:4n3).
For the avoidance of doubt, in these embodiments the maximum amount of all of the specified impurities is 1 wt %.
As explained above, typically the amount of the above-mentioned impurities in the PUFA product is less than 1 wt %. Preferably, the amount of the above-mentioned impurities is less than 0.5 wt %, more preferably less than 0.25 wt %, even more preferably less than 0.1 wt %, yet more preferably less than 0.05 wt %, yet more preferably less than 0.01 wt %, yet more preferably less than 0.001wt %, yet more preferably less than 0.0001 wt %, yet more preferably less than 0.00001 wt %.
In certain preferred embodiments, the PUFA product is substantially free of the above-mentioned impurities.
The PUFA product is not ALA, GLA, linoleic acid, an ALA mono- di- or triglyceride, a GLA mono- di- or triglyceride, a linoleic acid mono, di- or triglyceride, an ALA C1-C4 alkyl ester, a GLA C1-C4 alkyl ester or a linoleic acid C1-C4 alkyl ester or a mixture thereof. Typically, the PUFA product is not ALA, GLA, linoleic acid, or a derivative or mixtures thereof. Typical ALA, GLA and linoleic acid derivatives are as defined above for PUFA derivatives.
Typically, the PUFA product is not a C18 PUFA, a C18 PUFA mono-, di- or triglyceride, or a C18 PUFA alkyl ester. Thus, the present invention provides a chromatographic separation process for recovering a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) product from a feed mixture, which comprises:
(a) purifying the feed mixture in a first chromatographic separation step using as eluent a mixture of water and a first organic solvent, to obtain an intermediate product; and
(b) purifying the intermediate product in a second chromatographic separation step using as eluent a mixture of water and a second organic solvent, to obtain the PUFA product, wherein the second organic solvent is different from the first organic solvent and has a polarity index which differs from the polarity index of the first organic solvent by between 0.1 and 2.0,
wherein the PUFA product is other than a C18 PUFA, a C18 PUFA mono-, di- or triglyceride, or a C18 PUFA alkyl ester.
More typically, the PUFA product is not a C18 PUFA or a C18 PUFA derivative. Typical C18 PUFAs include linoleic acid (C18:2n6), GLA (C18:3n6), and ALA (C18:3n3).
Suitable feed mixtures for separating by the process of the present invention may be obtained from natural sources including vegetable and animal oils and fats, and from synthetic sources including oils obtained from genetically modified plants, animals and micro organisms including yeasts. Examples include fish oils, algal and microalgal oils and plant oils, for example borage oil, Echium oil and evening primrose oil. In one embodiment, the feed mixture is a fish oil. In another embodiment, the feed mixture is an algal oil. Algal oils are particularly suitable when the desired PUFA product is EPA and/or DHA. Genetically modified yeast is particularly suitable when the desired PUFA product is EPA.
In a particularly preferred embodiment the feed mixture is a fish oil or fish-oil derived feedstock. It has advantageously been found that when a fish-oil or fish-oil derived feed stock is used, an EPA or EPA ethyl ester PUFA product can be produced by the process of the present invention in greater than 90% purity, preferably greater than 95% purity, more preferably greater than 97% purity, even more preferably greater than 98 wt %, still more preferably greater than 98.4 wt %, for example between 98 and 99.5 wt %.
The feed mixture may undergo chemical treatment before fractionation by the process of the invention. For example, it may undergo glyceride transesterification or glyceride hydrolysis followed in certain cases by selective processes such as crystallisation, molecular distillation, urea fractionation, extraction with silver nitrate or other metal salt solutions, iodolactonisation or supercritical fluid fractionation. Alternatively, a feed mixture may be used directly with no initial treatment step.
The feed mixtures typically contain the PUFA product and at least one more polar component and at least one less polar component. The less polar components have a stronger adherence to the adsorbent used in the process of the present invention than does the PUFA product. During operation, such less polar components typically move with the solid adsorbent phase in preference to the liquid eluent phase. The more polar components have a weaker adherence to the adsorbent used in the process of the present invention than does the PUFA product. During operation, such more polar components typically move with the liquid eluent phase in preference to the solid adsorbent phase. In general, more polar components will be separated into a raffinate stream, and less polar components will be separated into an extract stream.
The feed mixture typically contains the PUFA product and at least one C18 fatty acid impurity as defined above. Thus, more typically the feed mixture contains the PUFA product and at least one C18 fatty acid and/or derivative thereof. Typical C18 fatty acid derivatives are as defined above for PUFA derivatives. Preferably, the feed mixture contains the PUFA product and at least one C18 fatty acid impurity chosen from stearic acid (C18:0), oleic acid (C18:1n9), vaccenic acid (C18:1n7), linoleic acid (C18:2n6), gamma-linolenic acid/GLA (C18:3n6), alpha-linolenic acid (C18:3n3) and stearidonic acid/SDA (C18:4n3) and derivatives thereof.
Preferably, the feed mixture comprises (i) the PUFA product, and/or a mono-, di- or triglyceride of the PUFA product and/or a C1-C4 alkyl ester of the PUFA product, and (ii) ALA and/or a mono-, di- or triglyceride of ALA and/or a C1-C4 alkyl ester of ALA.
Preferably, the feed mixture comprises (i) the PUFA product, and/or a mono-, di- or triglyceride of the PUFA product and/or a C1-C4 alkyl ester of the PUFA product, and (ii) GLA and/or a mono-, di- or triglyceride of GLA and/or a C1-C4 alkyl ester of GLA.
More preferably, the feed mixture comprises (i) the PUFA product, and/or a mono-, di- or triglyceride of the PUFA product and/or a C1-C4 alkyl ester of the PUFA product, and (ii) ALA and/or GLA and/or a mono-, di- or triglyceride of ALA and/or a mono-, di- or triglyceride of GLA and/or a C1-C4 alkyl ester of ALA and/or a C1-C4 alkyl ester of GLA.
In embodiments where the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of the above-specified C18 fatty acid impurities, the feed mixture typically contains the specified C18 fatty acid impurities. Thus, it is a particular advantage of the present invention that the amount of C18 fatty acid impurities present in a feed mixture can be reduced to a low level by the process of the present invention. For example, where the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of ALA, ALA mono-, di- and triglycerides and ALA C1-C4 alkyl esters, the feed mixture typically contains ALA, ALA mono-, di- and triglycerides and/or ALA C1-C4 alkyl esters. Where the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of GLA, GLA mono-, di- and triglycerides and GLA C1-C4 alkyl esters, the feed mixture typically contains GLA, GLA mono-, di- and triglycerides and/or GLA C1-C4 alkyl esters. Where the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of C18 fatty acids, C18 fatty acid mono-, di- and triglycerides and C18 fatty acid alkyl esters, the feed mixture typically contains C18 fatty acids, C18 fatty acid mono-, di- and triglycerides and/or C18 fatty acid alkyl esters.
Examples of the more and less polar components include (1) other compounds occurring in natural oils (e.g. marine oils or vegetable oils), (2) byproducts formed during storage, refining and previous concentration steps and (3) contaminants from solvents or reagents which are utilized during previous concentration or purification steps.
Examples of (1) include other unwanted PUFAs; saturated fatty acids; sterols, for example cholesterol; vitamins; and environmental pollutants, such as polychlorobiphenyl (PCB), polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) pesticides, chlorinated pesticides, dioxines and heavy metals. PCB, PAH, dioxines and chlorinated pesticides are all highly non-polar components.
Examples of (2) include isomers and oxidation or decomposition products from the PUFA product, for instance, auto-oxidation polymeric products of fatty acids or their derivatives.
Examples of (3) include urea which may be added to remove saturated or mono-unsaturated fatty acids from the feed mixture.
Preferably, the feed mixture is a PUFA-containing marine oil (e.g. a fish oil), more preferably a marine oil (e.g. a fish oil) comprising EPA and/or DHA.
A typical feed mixture for preparing concentrated EPA (EE) by the process of the present invention comprises 50-75% EPA (EE), 0 to 10% DHA (EE), and other components including other essential ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids.
A preferred feed mixture for preparing concentrated EPA (EE) by the process of the present invention comprises 55% EPA (EE), 5% DHA (EE), and other components including other essential ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids. DHA (EE) is less polar than EPA(EE).
A typical feed mixture for preparing concentrated DHA (EE) by the process of the present invention comprises 50-75% DHA (EE), 0 to 10% EPA (EE), and other components including other essential ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids.
A preferred feed mixture for preparing concentrated DHA (EE) by the process of the present invention comprises 75% DHA (EE), 7% EPA (EE) and other components including other essential ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids. EPA (EE) is more polar than DHA (EE).
A typical feed mixture for preparing a concentrated mixture of EPA (EE) and DHA (EE) by the process of the present invention comprises greater than 33% EPA (EE), and greater than 22% DHA (EE).
The process of the present invention involves at least two chromatographic separation steps, where a mixture of water and a different organic solvent is used as eluent in each step. The first and second separation steps are carried out using mixtures of water and first and second organic solvents respectively.
Typically, neither eluent is in a supercritical state. Typically, both eluents are liquids.
The first and second organic solvents are typically chosen from alcohols, ethers, esters, ketones and nitriles. Alcohols and nitriles are preferred.
Alcohol solvents are well known to the person skilled in the art. Alcohols are typically short chain alcohols. Alcohols typically are of formula ROH, wherein R is a straight or branched C1-C6 alkyl group. The C1-C6 alkyl group is preferably unsubstituted. Examples of alcohols include methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, i-propanol, n-butanol, i-butanol, s-butanol and t-butanol. Methanol and ethanol are preferred. Methanol is more preferred.
Ether solvents are well known to the person skilled in the art. Ethers are typically short chain ethers. Ethers typically are of formula R—O—R′, wherein R and R′ are the same or different and represent a straight or branched C1-C6 alkyl group. The C1-C6 alkyl group is preferably unsubstituted. Preferred ethers include diethylether, diisopropylether, and methyl t-butyl ether (MTBE).
Ester solvents are well known to the person skilled in the art. Esters are typically short chain esters. Esters typically are of formula R—(C═O)O—R′, wherein R and R′ are the same or different and represent a straight or branched C1-C6 alkyl group. Preferred esters include methylacetate and ethylacetate.
Ketone solvents are well known to the person skilled in the art. Ketones are typically short chain ketones. Ketones typically are of formula R—(C═O)—R′, wherein R and R′ are the same or different and represent a straight or branched C1-C6 alkyl group. The C1-C6 alkyl group is preferably unsubstituted. Preferred ketones include acetone, methylethylketone and methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK).
Nitrile solvents are well known to the person skilled in the art. Nitriles are typically short chain nitriles. Nitriles typically are of formula R—CN, wherein R represents a straight or branched C1-C6 alkyl group. The C1-C6 alkyl group is preferably unsubstituted. Preferred nitriles include acetonitrile.
The second organic solvent is different from the first organic solvent.
The polarity index (P′) of a solvent is a well-known measure of how polar a solvent is. A higher polarity index figure indicates a more polar solvent. Polarity index is typically determined by measuring the ability of a solvent to interact with various test solutes. More typically, the polarity index (P′) of a solvent is as defined in Burdick and Jackson's Solvent Guide (AlliedSignal, 1997), the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. Burdick and Jackson rank solvents by reference to a numerical index that ranks solvents according to their different polarity. The Burdick and Jackson index is based on the structure of the solvents.
The polarity index (F) of a variety of common solvents is set out in the Table below, which is in accordance with Burdick and Jackson.
Solvent
Polarity Index (P')
Pentane
0.0
1,1,2-Trichlorotrifluoroethane
0.0
Cyclopentane
0.1
Heptane
0.1
Hexane
0.1
Iso-Octane
0.1
Petroleum Ether
0.1
Cyclohexane
0.2
n-Butyl Chloride
1.0
Toluene
2.4
Methyl t-Butyl Ether
2.5
o-Xylene
2.5
Chlorobenzene
2.7
o-Dichlorobenzene
2.7
Ethyl Ether
2.8
Dichloromethane
3.1
Ethylene Dichloride
3.5
n-Butyl Alcohol
3.9
Isopropyl Alcohol
3.9
n-Butyl Acetate
4.0
Isobutyl Alcohol
4.0
Methyl Isoamyl Ketone
4.0
n-Propyl Alcohol
4.0
Tetrahydrofuran
4.0
Chloroform
4.1
Methyl Isobutyl Ketone
4.2
Ethyl Acetate
4.4
Methyl n-Propyl Ketone
4.5
Methyl Ethyl Ketone
4.7
1,4-Dioxane
4.8
Acetone
5.1
Methanol
5.1
Ethanol
5.2
Pyridine
5.3
2-Methoxyethanol
5.5
Acetonitrile
5.8
Propylene Carbonate
6.1
N,N-Dimethylformamide
6.4
Dimethyl Acetamide
6.5
N-Methylpyrrolidone
6.7
Dimethyl Sulfoxide
7.2
Water
10.2
The second organic solvent has a polarity index which differs from the polarity index of the first organic solvent by between 0.1 and 2.0. Thus, where the polarity index of the first organic solvent is P1, the polarity index of the second organic solvent is P2, |P1-P2| is 0.1 to 2.0.
Typically, the second organic solvent has a polarity index which differs from the polarity index of the first organic solvent by at least 0.2, preferably at least 0.3, more preferably at least 0.4, still more preferably at least 0.5, and yet more preferably at least 0.6.
Typically, the second organic solvent has a polarity index which differs from the polarity index of the first organic solvent by at most 1.8, preferably at most 1.5, more preferably at most 1.3, still more preferably at most 1.0, and yet more preferably at most 0.8.
Preferably, the second organic solvent has a polarity index which differs from the polarity index of the first organic solvent by between 0.2 and 1.8, more preferably by between 0.3 and 1.5, still more preferably by between 0.4 and 1.3, yet more preferably by between 0.5 and 1.0, and most preferably by between 0.6 and 0.8.
Typically, the first and second organic solvents are miscible with water. More typically, the first and second organic solvents have a polarity index of 3.9 or greater. Preferably, the first and second organic solvents are chosen from tetrahydrofuran, isopropyl alcohol, n-propyl alcohol, methanol, ethanol, acetonitrile, 1,4-dioxane, N,N-dimethyl formamide, and dim ethyl sulphoxide.
Typically, the first organic solvent:water ratio is from 99.9:0.1 to 75:25 parts by volume, preferably from 99.5:0.5 to 80:20 parts by volume. If the first organic solvent is methanol, the methanol:water ratio is typically from 99.9:0.1 to 85:15 parts by volume, preferably from 99.5:0.5 to 88:12 parts by volume. If the first organic solvent is acetonitrile, the acetonitrile:water ratio is typically from 99:1 to 75:25 parts by volume, preferably from 96:4 to 80:20 parts by volume.
Typically, the second organic solvent:water ratio is from 99.9:0.1 to 75:25 parts by volume, preferably from 93:7 to 85:15 parts by volume. If the second organic solvent is methanol, the methanol:water ratio is typically from 95:5 to 85:15 parts by volume, preferably from 93:7 to 90:10 parts by volume. If the second organic solvent is acetonitrile, the acetonitrile:water ratio is typically from 90:10 to 80:20 parts by volume, preferably from 88:12 to 85:15 parts by volume.
Typically, one of the first and second organic solvents is acetonitrile.
Typically, one of the first and second organic solvents is methanol.
Preferably, the first and second organic solvents are selected from acetonitrile and methanol. Thus, it is preferable that (i) the first organic solvent is methanol and the second organic solvent is acetonitrile, or (ii) the first organic solvent is acetonitrile and the second organic solvent is methanol.
More preferably, the first organic solvent is methanol and the second organic solvent is acetonitrile, and (a) the methanol:water ratio is from 99.9:0.1 to 85:15 parts by volume, preferably from 99.5:0.5 to 88:12 and/or (b) the acetonitrile:water ratio is from 90:10 to 80:20 parts by volume, preferably from 88:12 to 85:15 parts by volume. In certain embodiments it is preferable that (a) the methanol:water ratio is from 91:9 to 93:7 parts by volume, and/or (b) the acetonitrile:water ratio is from 86:14 to 88:12 parts by volume.
Alternatively, the first organic solvent is acetonitrile and the second organic solvent is methanol, and (a) the acetonitrile:water ratio is from 99:1 to 75:25 parts by volume, preferably 96:4 to 80:20 parts by volume, and/or (b) the methanol:water ratio is from 95:5 to 85:15 parts by volume, preferably from 93:7 to 90:10 parts by volume. In certain embodiments it is preferable that (a) the acetonitrile:water ratio is from 86:14 to 88:12 parts by volume, and/or (b) the methanol:water ratio is from 87:13 to 89:11 parts by volume.
Each chromatographic separation step typically involves passing a feed mixture through one or more chromatographic columns. Thus, the first chromatographic separation step typically comprises passing the feed mixture through one or more chromatographic columns containing, as eluent, the mixture of water and the first organic solvent. Typically, the second chromatographic separation step comprises passing the intermediate product through one or more chromatographic columns containing, as eluent, the mixture of water and the first organic solvent. Preferably, the first chromatographic separation step comprises passing the feed mixture through one or more chromatographic columns containing, as eluent, the mixture of water and the first organic solvent, and the second chromatographic separation step comprises passing the intermediate product through one or more chromatographic columns containing, as eluent, the mixture of water and the first organic solvent. Any known chromatographic columns may be used in the claimed process.
The one or more chromatographic columns typically contains an adsorbent. Conventional adsorbents known in the art for chromatographic separation techniques may be used in the process of the present invention. When more than one chromatographic column is used, each chromatographic column may contain the same or a different adsorbent. Typically, when more than one chromatographic column is used each column contains the same adsorbent. Examples of such commonly used materials are polymeric beads, preferably polystyrene reticulated with DVB (divinylbenzene); and silica gel, preferably reverse phase bonded silica gel with C8 or C18 alkanes, especially C18. C18 bonded reverse phase silica gel is preferred. The adsorbent used in the process of the present invention is preferably non-polar.
The shape of the adsorbent stationary phase material may be, for example, spherical or nonspherical beads, preferably substantially spherical beads. Such beads typically have a diameter of 5 to 500 microns, preferably 10 to 500 microns, more preferably 15 to 500 microns, more preferably 40 to 500 microns, more preferably 100 to 500 microns, more preferably 250 to 500 microns, even more preferably 250 to 400 microns, most preferably 250 to 350 microns. In some embodiments, beads with a diameter of 5 to 35 microns may be used, typically 10 to 30 microns, preferably 15 to 25 microns. Some preferred particle sizes are somewhat larger than particle sizes of beads used in the past in simulated and actual moving bed processes. Use of larger particles enables a lower pressure of eluent to be used in the system. This, in turn, has advantages in terms of cost savings, efficiency and lifetime of the apparatus. It has surprisingly been found that adsorbent beads of large particle size may be used in the process of the present invention (with their associated advantages) without any loss in resolution.
The dimensions of the columns used are not particularly limited, and will depend to some extent on the volume of feed mixture to be purified. A skilled person would easily be able to determine appropriately sized columns to use. The diameter of each column is typically between 10 and 1000 mm, preferably between 10 and 500 mm, more preferably between 25 and 250 mm, even more preferably between 50 and 100 mm, and most preferably between 70 and 80 mm. The length of each column is typically between 10 and 300 cm, preferably between 10 and 200 cm, more preferably between 25 and 150 cm, even more preferably between 70 and 110 cm, and most preferably between 80 and 100 cm.
Any known chromatography apparatus may be used for the purposes of each separation step. The number of chromatographic columns used in each separation step is not particularly limited.
Typically, the process of the invention is carried out at room temperature, or a temperature greater than room temperature. Preferably, the process is carried out at a temperature greater than room temperature. The first and second separation steps may be carried out at the same temperature or a different temperature, preferably the same temperature.
Typically, the temperature of at least one of the chromatographic columns through which the feed mixture is passed is greater than room temperature. More typically, the temperature of all of the chromatographic columns used is greater than room temperature.
Thus, typically each chromatographic separation step involves passing a feed mixture through one or more chromatographic columns, and the temperature of at least one of those chromatographic columns is greater than room temperature. More typically, the temperature of all of the chromatographic columns used is greater than room temperature.
As will be appreciated, if at least one chromatographic column is at a temperature greater than room temperature, it is the interior of the column which is important to the separation process. Thus, it is typically the eluent and adsorbent inside the chromatographic column which may be at the temperature greater than room temperature. It is, of course, possible to achieve the required temperature inside the at least one chromatographic column by internal (for example by heating the eluent and/or feed mixture) and/or external means (for example by heating the outside of the chromatographic column by any known conventional means).
Typically, an elevated temperature can be achieved by heating the eluent and/or feed mixture. This has the effect of heating the columns internally.
Thus, the temperature of at least one of the chromatographic columns through which the feed mixture is passed can also be measured as the temperature of the eluent. Typically, therefore, the temperature of the eluent used in the first and/or second chromatographic separation steps is greater than room temperature.
Alternatively, the required temperature of at least one of the chromatographic columns may be achieved by heating the columns. The heating may be carried out using, for example, an electric heating mantle, a heated water jacket or coil or by radiative heat lamps. The interior and/or exterior of the one or more chromatographic columns may typically be heated.
The required temperature of at least one of the chromatographic columns may be achieved by heating the columns and/or the aqueous organic solvent eluent, and/or the feed mixture.
Typically, the temperature greater than room temperature is greater than 30° C., preferably greater than 35° C., more preferably greater than 40° C., even more preferably greater than 45° C., even more preferably greater than 50° C., even more preferably greater than 55° C., and even more preferably greater than 57° C. A temperature of 56° C. is useful in certain embodiments.
Typically, the temperature greater than room temperature is up to 100° C., preferably up to 95° C., more preferably up to 90° C., even more preferably up to 85° C., even more preferably up to 80° C., even more preferably up to 75° C., and even more preferably up to 70° C.
Thus, typical temperature ranges are from 30 to 100° C., from 35 to 95° C., from 40 to 90° C., from 45 to 85° C., from 50 to 80° C., from 55 to 75° C. or from 57 to 70° C.
Preferred temperature ranges are from 40 to 70° C., preferably from 50 to 67° C., more preferably from 56 to 65° C., even more preferably from 57 to 63° C.
In certain embodiments a single chromatographic column may be used, preferably a single stationary chromatographic column. Separation in this manner is typically carried out using known stationary bed chromatography apparatuses. Separation in this manner may be referred to as “stationary bed” chromatography. Typically, at least one of the first and/or second chromatographic separation steps involves at least one, for example one, “stationary bed” chromatography step.
In other embodiments, more than one chromatographic column is used. This may involve passing the feed mixture through two or more chromatographic columns, which may be the same or different, arranged in series or in parallel. The number of columns used in this embodiment is not particularly limited, but typically does not exceed thirty columns.
One particular embodiment where multiple chromatographic columns are used is simulated or actual moving bed chromatography.
Simulated and actual moving bed chromatography apparatuses are well known to the person skilled in the art. Any known simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus may be utilised for the purposes of the method of the present invention, as long as the apparatus is used in accordance with the process of the present invention. Those apparatuses described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,985,589, U.S. Pat. No. 3,696,107, U.S. Pat. No. 3,706,812, U.S. Pat. No. 3,761,533, FR-A-2103302, FR-A-2651148, FR-A-2651149, U.S. Pat. No. 6,979,402, U.S. Pat. No. 5,069,883 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,764,276 may all be used if configured in accordance with the process of the present invention. SMB processes as disclosed in, for example, WO-A-2011/080503 may also be employed.
The first and second separation steps may be carried out using either a stationary bed chromatography apparatus, or one or more simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatuses as discussed herein.
Typically, the first chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the feed mixture into a stationary bed chromatography apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the intermediate product into a stationary bed chromatography apparatus. Thus, typically the first chromatographic separation step is carried out using a stationary bed chromatography apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step is carried out using a stationary bed chromatography apparatus.
Alternatively, the first chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the feed mixture into a stationary bed apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the intermediate product into a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus. Thus, typically the first chromatographic separation step is carried out using a stationary bed apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step is carried out using a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus.
Alternatively, the first chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the feed mixture into a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the intermediate product into a stationary bed chromatography apparatus. Thus, typically the first chromatographic separation step is carried out using a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step is carried out using a stationary bed chromatography apparatus.
Alternatively, the first chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the feed mixture into a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the intermediate product into a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus. Thus, typically the first chromatographic separation step is carried out using a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step is carried out using a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus.
Said first chromatographic separation step may consist of a single chromatographic separation or two or more chromatographic separations, provided that each separation uses as eluent a mixture of water and the first organic solvent.
Said second chromatographic separation step may consist of a single chromatographic separation or two or more chromatographic separations, provided that each separation uses as eluent a mixture of water and the second organic solvent.
Typically, the first and/or second chromatographic separation steps can involve the use of a single SMB separation step using conventional apparatus, such as for example depicted in FIG. 1. Separation in this manner may be referred to as “single pass” SMB. Typically, at least one of the first and/or second chromatographic separation steps involves at least one, for example one, “single pass” SMB step.
Alternatively, the first and/or second chromatographic separation steps can each involve the use of multiple SMB separations.
In one embodiment, the first chromatographic separation step and/or the second chromatographic separation step can be carried out as described in WO-A-2011/080503 and PCT/GB2012/051591, the entirety of which are incorporated herein by reference. Preferred process conditions specified in WO-A-2011/080503 and PCT/GB2012/051591 are preferred process conditions for this embodiment, and may be incorporated from WO-A-2011/080503 and PCT/GB2012/051591.
The process disclosed in WO-A-2011/080503 and PCT/GB2012/051591 involves introducing an input stream to a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus having a plurality of linked chromatography columns containing, as eluent, an aqueous organic solvent, wherein the apparatus has a plurality of zones comprising at least a first zone and second zone, each zone having an extract stream and a raffinate stream from which liquid can be collected from said plurality of linked chromatography columns, and wherein (a) a raffinate stream containing the PUFA product together with more polar components is collected from a column in the first zone and introduced to a nonadjacent column in the second zone, and/or (b) an extract stream containing the PUFA product together with less polar components is collected from a column in the second zone and introduced to a nonadjacent column in the first zone, said PUFA product being separated from different components of the input stream in each zone. Separation in this manner may be referred to as a “double pass” SMB process.
In this “double pass” SMB process, the term “zone” refers to a plurality of linked chromatography columns containing, as eluent, an aqueous organic solvent, and having one or more injection points for an input stream, one or more injection points for water and/or organic solvent, a raffinate take-off stream from which liquid can be collected from said plurality of linked chromatography columns, and an extract take-off stream from which liquid can be collected from said plurality of linked chromatography columns. Typically, each zone has only one injection point for an input stream. In one embodiment, each zone has only one injection point for the aqueous organic solvent eluent. In another embodiment, each zone has two or more injection points for water and/or organic solvent.
In this “double pass” SMB process, reference to an “input stream” refers to the feed mixture when the above-described SMB process is used in the first chromatographic separation step, and refers to the intermediate product when the above-described SMB process is used in the second chromatographic separation step.
In this “double pass” SMB process, reference to an “aqueous organic solvent” refers to the mixture of water and the first organic solvent when the above-described SMB process is used in the first chromatographic separation step, and refers to the mixture of water and the second organic solvent when the above-described SMB process is used in the second chromatographic separation step.
The term “raffinate” is well known to the person skilled in the art. In the context of actual and simulated moving bed chromatography it refers to the stream of components that move more rapidly with the liquid eluent phase compared with the solid adsorbent phase. Thus, a raffinate stream is typically enriched with more polar components, and depleted of less polar components compared with an input stream.
The term “extract” is well known to the person skilled in the art. In the context of actual and simulated moving bed chromatography it refers to the stream of components that move more rapidly with the solid adsorbent phase compared with the liquid eluent phase. Thus, an extract stream is typically enriched with less polar components, and depleted of more polar components compared with an input stream.
As used herein, the term “nonadjacent” refers to columns, in for example the same apparatus, separated by one or more columns, preferably 3 or more columns, more preferably 5 or more columns, most preferably about 5 columns.
The “double pass” SMB process is illustrated in FIG. 11. An input stream F comprising the PUFA product (B) and more polar (C) and less polar (A) components is introduced into the top of column 5 in the first zone. Aqueous organic solvent desorbent is introduced into the top of column 1 in the first zone. In the first zone, the less polar components (A) are removed as extract stream E1 from the bottom of column 2. The PUFA product (B) and more polar components (C) are removed as raffinate stream R1 from the bottom of column 7. Raffinate stream R1 is then introduced into the second zone at the top of column 12. Aqueous organic solvent desorbent is introduced into the top of column 9 in the second zone. In the second zone, the more polar components (C) are removed as raffinate stream R2 at the bottom of column 14. The PUFA product (B) is collected as extract stream E2 at the bottom of column 10.
In this “double pass” SMB process, aqueous organic solvent is typically introduced into the top of column 1 in the first zone.
In this “double pass” SMB process, aqueous organic solvent is typically introduced into the top of column 9 in the second zone.
In this “double pass” SMB process, the input stream is typically introduced into the top of column 5 in the first zone.
In this “double pass” SMB process, a first raffinate stream is typically collected from the bottom of column 7 in the first zone and introduced into the top of column 12 in the second zone. The first raffinate stream may optionally be collected in a container before being introduced into column 12.
In this “double pass” SMB process, a first extract stream is typically removed from the bottom of column 2 in the first zone. The first extract stream may optionally be collected in a container and a portion reintroduced into the top of column 3 in the first zone. The rate of recycle of liquid collected via the extract stream from the first zone back into the first zone is the rate at which liquid is pumped from this container into the top of column 3.
In this “double pass” SMB process, a second raffinate stream is typically removed from the bottom of column 14 in the second zone.
In this “double pass” SMB process, a second extract stream is typically collected from the bottom of column 10 in the second zone. This second extract stream typically contains the PUFA product. The second extract stream may optionally be collected in a container and a portion reintroduced into the top of column 11 in the second zone. The rate of recycle of liquid collected via the extract stream from the second zone back into the second zone is the rate at which liquid is pumped from this container into the top of column 11.
In this “double pass” SMB process, the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream from the first zone is recycled back into the first zone is typically faster than the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream from the second zone is recycled back into the second zone. In this “double pass” SMB process, eluent is typically substantially the same in each zone.
Typically, at least one of the first and second chromatographic separation steps involves at least one, for example one, “double pass” SMB process as defined above.
In an alternative embodiment, the first chromatographic separation step and/or the second chromatographic separation step can be carried out as described in international patent application no. PCT/GB2012/051596 or PCT/GB2012/051597, the entirety of which are incorporated herein by reference. Such embodiments involve
(i) purifying an input stream in a first SMB step in a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus having a plurality of linked chromatography columns containing, as eluent, an aqueous organic solvent, to obtain a first product; and
(ii) purifying the first product obtained in (i) in a second SMB step using a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus having a plurality of linked chromatography columns containing, as eluent, an aqueous organic solvent, to obtain a second product; wherein
(a) the first and second SMB steps are carried out sequentially on the same chromatography apparatus, the first product being recovered between the first and second SMB steps and the process conditions in the chromatography apparatus being adjusted between the first and second SMB steps such that the PUFA product is separated from different components of the feed mixture in each SMB step; or
(b) the first and second SMB steps are carried out on separate first and second chromatography apparatuses respectively, the first product obtained from the first SMB step being introduced into the second chromatography apparatus, and the PUFA product being separated from different components of the feed mixture in each SMB step. Separation in this manner by be referred to as “back-to-back” SMB.
For the avoidance of doubt, if the first chromatographic separation step is a “back-to-back” SMB process along the above lines, the eluent in each of the SMB steps is a mixture of water and the first organic solvent. If the second chromatographic separation step is a “back-to-back” SMB process along the above lines, the eluent in each of the SMB steps is a mixture of water and the second organic solvent.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, the term “simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus” typically refers to a plurality of linked chromatography columns containing, as eluent, an aqueous organic solvent, and having one or more injection points for an input stream, one or more injection points for water and/or organic solvent, a raffinate take-off stream from which liquid can be collected from said plurality of linked chromatography columns, and an extract take-off stream from which liquid can be collected from said plurality of linked chromatography columns.
The chromatography apparatus used in this “back-to-back” SMB process has a single array of chromatography columns linked in series containing, as eluent, an aqueous organic solvent. Typically, each of the chromatography columns are linked to the two columns in the apparatus adjacent to that column. Thus, the output from a given column in the array is connected to the input of the adjacent column in the array, which is downstream with respect to the flow of eluent in the array. Thus, eluent can flow around the array of linked chromatography columns. Typically, none of the chromatography columns are linked to non-adjacent columns in the apparatus.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, reference to an “input stream” refers to the feed mixture when the above-described SMB process is used in the first chromatographic separation step, and refers to the intermediate product when the above-described SMB process is used in the second chromatographic separation step.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, reference to an “aqueous organic solvent” refers to the mixture of water and the first organic solvent when the above-described “back-to-back” SMB process is used in the first chromatographic separation step, and refers to the mixture of water and the second organic solvent when the above-described “back-to-back” SMB process is used in the second chromatographic separation step. The organic solvent used in the first and second SMB steps is the same. The organic solvent:water ratio used in the first and second SMB steps may be the same or different.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, reference to a “second product” refers to the intermediate product when the above-described SMB process is used in the first chromatographic separation step, and refers to the PUFA product when the above-described SMB process is used in the second chromatographic separation step.
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, each apparatus has only one injection point for an input stream. In one embodiment, each apparatus has only one injection point for the aqueous organic solvent eluent. In another embodiment, each apparatus has two or more injection points for water and/or organic solvent.
The term “raffinate” is well known to the person skilled in the art. In the context of actual and simulated moving bed chromatography it refers to the stream of components that move more rapidly with the liquid eluent phase compared with the solid adsorbent phase. Thus, a raffinate stream is typically enriched with more polar components, and depleted of less polar components compared with a feed stream.
The term “extract” is well known to the person skilled in the art. In the context of actual and simulated moving bed chromatography it refers to the stream of components that move more rapidly with the solid adsorbent phase compared with the liquid eluent phase. Thus, an extract stream is typically enriched with less polar components, and depleted of more polar components compared with a feed stream.
The number of columns used in each apparatus in this “back-to-back” SMB process is not particularly limited. A skilled person would easily be able to determine an appropriate number of columns to use. The number of columns is typically 4 or more, preferably 6 or more, more preferably 8 or more, for example 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 columns. In a preferred embodiment, 5 or 6 columns, more preferably 6 columns are used. In another preferred embodiment, 7 or 8 columns, more preferably 8 columns are used. Typically, there are no more than 25 columns, preferably no more than 20, more preferably no more than 15.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, the chromatographic apparatuses used in the first and second separation steps typically contain the same number of columns. For certain applications they may have different numbers of columns.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, the columns in the chromatographic apparatuses used in the first and second SMB separation steps typically have identical dimensions but may, for certain applications, have different dimensions.
The flow rates to the columns are limited by maximum pressures across the series of columns and will depend on the column dimensions and particle size of the solid phases. One skilled in the art will easily be able to establish the required flow rate for each column dimension to ensure efficient desorption. Larger diameter columns will in general need higher flows to maintain linear flow through the columns.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, for the typical column sizes outlined above, typically the flow rate of eluent into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is from 1 to 4.5 L/min, preferably from 1.5 to 2.5 L/min. Typically, the flow rate of the extract from the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is from 0.1 to 2.5 L/min, preferably from 0.5 to 2.25 L/min. In embodiments where part of the extract from the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the first SMB separation step, the flow rate of recycle is typically from 0.7 to 1.4 L/min, preferably about 1 L/min. Typically, the flow rate of the raffinate from the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is from 0.2 to 2.5 L/min, preferably from 0.3 to 2.0 L/min. In embodiments where part of the raffinate from the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the first SMB separation step, the flow rate of recycle is typically from 0.3 to 1.0 L/min, preferably about 0.5 L/min. Typically, the flow rate of introduction of the input stream into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is from 5 to 150 mL/min, preferably from 10 to 100 mL/min, more preferably from 20 to 60 mL/min.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, for the typical column sizes outlined above, typically the flow rate of eluent into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step is from 1 to 4 L/min, preferably from 1.5 to 3.5 L/min. Typically, the flow rate of the extract from the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step is from 0.5 to 2 L/min, preferably from 0.7 to 1.9 L/min. In embodiments where part of the extract from the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the second SMB separation step, the flow rate of recycle is typically from 0.6 to 1.4 L/min, preferably from 0.7 to 1.1 L/min, more preferably about 0.9 L/min. Typically, the flow rate of the raffinate from the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step is from 0.5 to 2.5 L/min, preferably from 0.7 to 1.8 L/min, more preferably about 1.4 L/min. In embodiments where part of the raffinate from the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the second SMB separation step, the flow rate of recycle is typically from 0.3 to 1.0 L/min, preferably about 0.5 L/min.
As the skilled person will appreciate, references to rates at which liquid is collected or removed via the various extract and raffinate streams refer to volumes of liquid removed in an amount of time, typically L/minute. Similarly, references to rates at which liquid is recycled back into an apparatus, typically to an adjacent column in the apparatus, refer to volumes of liquid recycled in an amount of time, typically L/minute.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, actual moving bed chromatography is preferred.
The step time, i.e. the time between shifting the points of injection of the input stream and eluent, and the various take off points of the collected fractions, is not particularly limited, and will depend on the number and dimensions of the columns used, and the flow rate through the apparatus. A skilled person would easily be able to determine appropriate step times to use in the process of the present invention. The step time is typically from 100 to 1000 seconds, preferably from 200 to 800 seconds, more preferably from about 250 to about 750 seconds. In some embodiments, a step time of from 100 to 400 seconds, preferably 200 to 300 seconds, more preferably about 250 seconds, is appropriate. In other embodiments, a step time of from 600 to 900 seconds, preferably 700 to 800 seconds, more preferably about 750 seconds is appropriate.
The “back-to-back” SMB process comprises a first and second SMB separation step.
These two steps can easily be carried out on a single chromatographic apparatus. Thus, in one embodiment, (a) the first and second SMB separation steps are carried out sequentially on the same chromatography apparatus, the first product being recovered between the first and second SMB separation steps and the process conditions in the chromatography apparatus being adjusted between the first and second SMB separation steps such that the PUFA product is separated from different components of the input stream in each separation step. A preferred embodiment of this “back-to-back” SMB process is shown as FIG. 10a . Thus, the first SMB separation step (left hand side) is carried out on an SMB apparatus having 8 columns. Between the first and second SMB separation steps the first product is recovered in, for example, a container, the process conditions in the chromatography apparatus are adjusted such that the PUFA product is separated from different components of the input stream in each SMB separation step. The second SMB separation step (right hand side) is then carried out on the same SMB apparatus having 8 columns.
In embodiment (a), adjusting the process conditions typically refers to adjusting the process conditions in the apparatus as a whole, i.e. physically modifying the apparatus so that the conditions are different. It does not refer to simply reintroducing the first product back into a different part of the same apparatus where the process conditions might happen to be different.
Alternatively, first and second separate chromatographic apparatuses can be used in the first and second SMB separation steps. Thus, in another embodiment, (b) the first and second SMB separation steps are carried out on separate first and second chromatography apparatuses respectively, the first product obtained from the first SMB separation step being introduced into the second chromatography apparatus, and the PUFA product being separated from different components of the input stream in each SMB separation step.
In embodiment (b), the two SMB separation steps may either be carried out sequentially or simultaneously.
Thus, in embodiment (b) in the case where the two SMB separation steps are carried out sequentially, the first and second SMB separation steps are carried out sequentially on separate first and second chromatography apparatuses respectively, the first product being recovered between the first and second SMB separation steps and the process conditions in the first and second SMB chromatography apparatuses being adjusted such that the PUFA product is separated from different components of the input stream in each separation step. A preferred embodiment of this “back-to-back” SMB separation process is shown as FIG. 10b . Thus, the first SMB separation step (left hand side) is carried out on an SMB apparatus having 8 columns, one to eight. Between the first and second SMB separation steps the first product is recovered, for example in a container, and then introduced into a second separate SMB apparatus. The second SMB separation step (right hand side) is carried out on the second separate SMB apparatus which has 8 columns, nine to sixteen. The process conditions in the two chromatography apparatuses are adjusted such that the PUFA product is separated from different components of the input stream in each SMB separation step.
In embodiment (b) in the case where the two SMB separation steps are carried our simultaneously, the first and second SMB separation steps are carried out on separate first and second chromatography apparatuses respectively, the first product being introduced into the chromatography apparatus used in the second SMB separation step, and the process conditions in the first and second chromatography apparatuses being adjusted such that the PUFA product is separated from different components of the input stream in each SMB separation step. A preferred embodiment of this “back-to-back” SMB separation process is shown as FIG. 10c . Thus, the first SMB separation step (left hand side) is carried out on an SMB apparatus having 8 columns, one to eight. The first product obtained in the first SMB separation step is then introduced into the second separate chromatography apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. The first product may be passed from the first SMB separation step to the second SMB separation step directly or indirectly, for example via a container. The second SMB separation step (right hand side) is carried out on the second separate SMB apparatus which has 8 columns, nine to sixteen. The process conditions in the two chromatography apparatuses are adjusted such that the PUFA product is separated from different components of the input stream in each separation step.
In embodiment (b) in the case where the two SMB separation steps are carried our simultaneously, eluent circulates separately in the two separate chromatographic apparatuses. Thus, eluent is not shared between the two separate chromatographic apparatuses other than what eluent may be present as solvent in the first product which is purified in the second SMB separation step, and which is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. Chromatographic columns are not shared between the two separate chromatographic apparatuses used in the first and second SMB separation steps.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, after the first product is obtained in the first SMB separation step, the aqueous organic solvent eluent may be partly or totally removed before the first product is purified in the second SMB separation step. Alternatively, the first product may be purified in the second SMB separation step without the removal of any solvent present.
As mentioned above, in this “back-to-back” SMB process the PUFA product is separated from different components of the input stream in each SMB separation step. In embodiment (a), the process conditions of the single SMB apparatus used in both SMB separation steps are adjusted between the first and second SMB separation steps such that the PUFA product is separated from different components of the input stream in each separation step. In embodiment (b), the process conditions in the two separate chromatography apparatuses used in the first and second SMB separation steps are set such that the PUFA product is separated from different components of the input stream in each separation step.
Thus, in this “back-to-back” SMB process the process conditions in the first and second SMB separation steps vary. The process conditions which vary may include, for example, the size of the columns used, the number of columns used, the packing used in the columns, the step time of the SMB apparatus, the temperature of the apparatus, the water:organic solvent ration of the eluent used in the separation steps, or the flow rates used in the apparatus, in particular the recycle rate of liquid collected via the extract or raffinate streams.
Preferably in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the process conditions which may vary are the water:organic solvent ratio of the eluent used in the SMB separation steps, and/or the recycle rate of liquid collected via the extract or raffinate streams in the SMB separation steps. Both of these options are discussed in more detail below.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, the first product obtained in the first SMB separation step is typically enriched in the PUFA product compared to the input stream.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, the first product obtained in the first SMB separation step is then introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, the first product is typically collected as the raffinate or extract stream from the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation process.
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the first product is collected as the raffinate stream in the first SMB separation step, and the second product is collected as the extract stream in the second SMB separation step. Thus, the raffinate stream collected in the first SMB separation step is used as the input stream in the second SMB separation step. The raffinate stream collected in the first SMB separation step typically contains the second product together with more polar components.
Alternatively in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the first product is collected as the extract stream in the first SMB separation step, and the second product is collected as the raffinate stream in the second SMB separation step. Thus, the extract stream collected in the first SMB separation step is used as the input stream in the second SMB separation step. The extract stream collected in the first SMB separation step typically contains the second product together with less polar components.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process the PUFA product is separated from different components of the input stream in each SMB separation step. Typically, the components separated in each SMB separation step of the process of the present invention have different polarities.
Preferably in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the PUFA product is separated from less polar components of the input stream in the first SMB separation step, and the PUFA product is separated from more polar components of the input stream in the second SMB separation step.
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, (a) part of the extract stream from the apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the first SMB separation step; and/or (b) part of the raffinate stream from the apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the first SMB separation step; and/or (c) part of the extract stream from the apparatus used in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the second SMB separation step; and/or (d) part of the raffinate stream from the apparatus used in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
Preferably in this “back-to-back” SMB process, (a) part of the extract stream from the apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the first SMB separation step; and (b) part of the raffinate stream from the apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the first SMB separation step; and (c) part of the extract stream from the apparatus used in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the second SMB separation step; and (d) part of the raffinate stream from the apparatus used in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
The recycle in this “back-to-back” SMB process involves feeding part of the extract or raffinate stream out of the chromatography apparatus used in the first or second SMB separation step back into the apparatus used in that SMB step, typically into an adjacent column. This adjacent column is the adjacent column which is downstream with respect to the flow of eluent in the system.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process the rate at which liquid collected via the extract or raffinate stream in the first or second SMB separation steps is recycled back into the chromatography apparatus used in that SMB step is the rate at which liquid collected via that stream is fed back into the apparatus used in that SMB step, typically into an adjacent column, i.e. the downstream column with respect to the flow of eluent in the system.
This can be seen with reference to FIG. 9. The rate of recycle of extract in the first SMB separation step is the rate at which extract collected from the bottom of column 2 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is fed into the top of column 3 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step, i.e. the flow rate of liquid into the top of column 3 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process the rate of recycle of extract in the second SMB separation step is the rate at which extract collected at the bottom of column 2 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step is fed into the top of column 3 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step, i.e. the flow rate of liquid into the top of column 3 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process recycle of the extract and/or raffinate streams in the first and/or second SMB separation steps is typically effected by feeding the liquid collected via that stream in that SMB separation step into a container, and then pumping an amount of that liquid from the container back into the apparatus used in that SMB separation step, typically into an adjacent column. In this case, the rate of recycle of liquid collected via a particular extract or raffinate stream in the first and/or second SMB separation steps, typically back into an adjacent column, is the rate at which liquid is pumped out of the container back into the chromatography apparatus, typically into an adjacent column.
As the skilled person will appreciate, in this “back-to-back” SMB process the amount of liquid being introduced into a chromatography apparatus via the eluent and input streams is balanced with the amount of liquid removed from the apparatus, and recycled back into the apparatus.
Thus, in this “back-to-back” SMB process with reference to FIG. 9, for the extract stream, the flow rate of eluent (desorbent) into the chromatographic apparatus(es) used in the first and second SMB separation steps (D) is equal to the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in that SMB separation step accumulates in a container (E1 and E2) added to the rate at which extract is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in that particular SMB separation step (D-E1 and D-E2).
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, for the raffinate stream from a SMB separation step, the rate at which extract is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in that particular SMB separation step (D-E1 and D-E2) added to the rate at which feedstock is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in that particular SMB separation step (F and R1) is equal to the rate at which liquid collected via the raffinate stream in that particular SMB separation step accumulates in a container (R1 and R2) added to the rate at which raffinate is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in that particular SMB separation step (D+F-E1-R1 and D+R1-E2-R2).
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, the rate at which liquid collected from a particular extract or raffinate stream from a chromatography apparatus accumulates in a container can also be thought of as the net rate of removal of that extract or raffinate stream from that chromatography apparatus.
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the rate at which liquid collected via the extract and raffinate streams in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in that separation step is adjusted such that the PUFA product can be separated from different components of the input stream in each SMB separation step.
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the rate at which liquid collected via the extract and raffinate streams in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in that SMB separation step is adjusted such that the PUFA product can be separated from different components of the input stream in each SMB separation step.
Preferably in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the rate at which liquid collected via the extract and raffinate streams in each SMB separation step is recycled back into the apparatus used in that SMB separation step is adjusted such that the PUFA product can be separated from different components of the input stream in each SMB separation step.
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatography apparatus used in the first SMB separation step differs from the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatography apparatus used in the second SMB separation step, and/or the rate at which liquid collected via the raffinate stream in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatography apparatus used in the first SMB separation step differs from the rate at which liquid collected via the raffinate stream in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatography apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
Varying the rate at which liquid collected via the extract and/or raffinate streams in the first or second SMB separation steps is recycled back into the apparatus used in that particular SMB separation step has the effect of varying the amount of more polar and less polar components present in the extract and raffinate streams. Thus, for example, a lower extract recycle rate results in fewer of the less polar components in that SMB separation step being carried through to the raffinate stream. A higher extract recycle rate results in more of the less polar components in that SMB separation step being carried through to the raffinate stream.
This can be seen, for example, in FIG. 6. The rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in that SMB separation step (D-E1) will affect to what extent any of component A is carried through to the raffinate stream in the first SMB separation step (R1).
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is faster than the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. Preferably, a raffinate stream containing the second product together with more polar components is collected from the first SMB separation step and purified in a second SMB separation step, and the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is faster than the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
Alternatively in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is slower than the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the rate at which liquid collected via the raffinate stream in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first separation step is faster than the rate at which liquid collected via the raffinate stream in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. Preferably, an extract stream containing the second product together with less polar components is collected from the first SMB separation step and purified in a second SMB separation step, and the rate at which liquid collected via the raffinate stream in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is faster than the rate at which liquid collected via the raffinate stream in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
Alternatively in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the rate at which liquid collected via the raffinate stream in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is slower than the rate at which liquid collected via the raffinate stream in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, where recycle rates are adjusted such that the PUFA product can be separated from different components of the input stream in each SMB separation step, the water:organic solvent ratio of the eluents used in each SMB separation step may be the same or different. Typical water:organic solvent ratios of the eluent in each SMB separation step are as defined above.
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the aqueous organic solvent eluent used in each SMB separation step has a different water:organic solvent ratio. The organic solvent used in each SMB separation step is the same. The water:organic solvent ratio used in each SMB separation step is preferably adjusted such that the PUFA product can be separated from different components of the input stream in each SMB separation step.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, the eluting power of the eluent used in each of the SMB separation steps is typically different. Preferably, the eluting power of the eluent used in the first SMB separation step is greater than that of the eluent used in the second SMB separation step. In practice this is achieved by varying the relative amounts of water and organic solvent used in each SMB separation step.
Depending on the choice of organic solvent, they may be more powerful desorbers than water. Alternatively, they may be less powerful desorbers than water. Acetonitrile and alcohols, for example, are more powerful desorbers than water. Thus, when the aqueous organic solvent is aqueous alcohol or acetonitrile, the amount of alcohol or acetonitrile in the eluent used in the first SMB separation step is typically greater than the amount of alcohol or acetonitrile in the eluent used in the second SMB separation step.
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the water:organic solvent ratio of the eluent in the first SMB separation step is lower than the water:organic solvent ratio of the eluent in the second SMB separation step. Thus, the eluent in the first SMB separation step typically contains more organic solvent than the eluent in the second SMB separation step.
It will be appreciated that the ratios of water and organic solvent in each SMB separation step referred to above are average ratios within the totality of the chromatographic apparatus.
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the water:organic solvent ratio of the eluent in each SMB separation step is controlled by introducing water and/or organic solvent into one or more columns in the chromatographic apparatuses used in the SMB separation steps. Thus, for example, to achieve a lower water:organic solvent ratio in the first SMB separations step than in the second SMB separation step, water is typically introduced more slowly into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step than in the second SMB separation step.
Typically in this “back-to-back” SMB process, essentially pure organic solvent and essentially pure water may be introduced at different points in the chromatographic apparatus used in each SMB separation step. The relative flow rates of these two streams will determine the overall solvent profile in the chromatographic apparatus. Alternatively in this “back-to-back” SMB process, different mixtures of the organic solvent and water may be introduced at different points in each chromatographic apparatus used in each SMB separation step. That will involve introducing two or more different mixtures of the organic solvent and water into the chromatographic apparatus used in a particular SMB separation step, each organic solvent/water mixture having a different organic solvent:water ratio. The relative flow rates and relative concentrations of the organic solvent/water mixtures in this “back-to-back” SMB process will determine the overall solvent profile in the chromatographic apparatus used in that SMB separation step.
Preferably in this “back-to-back” SMB process, either (1) the first product containing the second product together with more polar components is collected as the raffinate stream in the first SMB separation step, and the second product is collected as the extract stream in the second SMB separation step; or (2) the first product containing the second product together with less polar components is collected as the extract stream in the first SMB separation step, and the second product is collected as the raffinate stream in the second SMB separation step.
Option (1) is suitable for purifying EPA from an input stream.
Option (1) is illustrated in FIG. 2. An input stream F comprising the second product (B) and more polar (C) and less polar (A) components is purified in the first SMB separation step. In the first SMB separation step, the less polar components (A) are removed as extract stream E1. The second product (B) and more polar components (C) are collected as raffinate stream R1. Raffinate stream R1 is the first product which is then purified in the second SMB separation step. In the second SMB separation step, the more polar components (C) are removed as raffinate stream R2. The second product (B) is collected as extract stream E2.
Option (1) is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is identical to FIG. 2, except that the points of introduction of the organic solvent desorbent (D) and water (W) into each chromatographic apparatus are shown. The organic solvent desorbent (D) and water (W) together make up the eluent. The (D) phase is typically essentially pure organic solvent, but may, in certain embodiments be an organic solvent/water mixture comprising mainly organic solvent. The (W) phase is typically essentially pure water, but may, in certain embodiments be an organic solvent/water mixture comprising mainly water, for example a 98% water/2% methanol mixture.
A further illustration of option (1) is shown in FIG. 6. Here there is no separate water injection point, and instead an aqueous organic solvent desorbent is injected at (D).
In option (1), the separation into raffinate and extract stream can be aided by varying the desorbing power of the eluent within each chromatographic apparatus. This can be achieved by introducing the organic solvent (or organic solvent rich) component of the eluent and the water (or water rich) component at different points in each chromatographic apparatus. Thus, typically, the organic solvent is introduced upstream of the extract take-off point and the water is introduced between the extract take-off point and the point of introduction of the feed into the chromatographic apparatus, relative to the flow of eluent in the system. This is shown in FIG. 4.
Typically, in option (1), the aqueous organic solvent eluent used in the first SMB separation step contains more organic solvent than the eluent used in the second SMB separation step, i.e. the water:organic solvent ratio in the first SMB separation step is lower than the water:organic solvent ratio in the second SMB separation step.
In option (1), the SMB separation can be aided by varying the rates at which liquid collected via the extract and raffinate streams in the first and second SMB separation steps is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in that SMB separation step.
Typically, in option (1), the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is faster than the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream in the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
In option (1) the first raffinate stream in the first SMB separation step is typically removed downstream of the point of introduction of the input stream into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step, with respect to the flow of eluent.
In option (1), the first extract stream in the first SMB separation step is typically removed upstream of the point of introduction of the input stream into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step, with respect to the flow of eluent.
In option (1), the second raffinate stream in the second SMB separation step is typically removed downstream of the point of introduction of the first product into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step, with respect to the flow of eluent.
In option (1), the second extract stream in the second SMB separation step is typically collected upstream of the point of introduction of the first product into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step, with respect to the flow of eluent.
Typically in option (1), the organic solvent or aqueous organic solvent is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step upstream of the point of removal of the first extract stream, with respect to the flow of eluent.
Typically in option (1), when water is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step, the water is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step upstream of the point of introduction of the input stream but downstream of the point of removal of the first extract stream, with respect to the flow of eluent.
Typically in option (1), the organic solvent or aqueous organic solvent is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step upstream of the point of removal of the second extract stream, with respect to the flow of eluent.
Typically in option (1), when water is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step, the water is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step upstream of the point of introduction of the first product but downstream of the point of removal of the second extract stream, with respect to the flow of eluent.
Option (2) is suitable for purifying DHA from an input stream.
Option (2) is illustrated in FIG. 3. An input stream F comprising the second product (B) and more polar (C) and less polar (A) components is purified in the first SMB separation step. In the first SMB separation step, the more polar components (C) are removed as raffinate stream R1. The second product (B) and less polar components (A) are collected as extract stream E1. Extract stream E1 is the first product which is then purified in the second SMB separation step. In the second SMB separation step, the less polar components (A) are removed as extract stream E2. The second product (B) is collected as raffinate stream R2.
Option (2) is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is identical to FIG. 3, except that the points of introduction of the organic solvent desorbent (D) and water (W) into each chromatographic apparatus are shown. As above, the (D) phase is typically essentially pure organic solvent, but may, in certain embodiments be an organic solvent/water mixture comprising mainly organic solvent. The (W) phase is typically essentially pure water, but may, in certain embodiments be an organic solvent/water mixture comprising mainly water, for example a 98% water/2% methanol mixture.
A further illustration of option (2) is shown in FIG. 7. Here there is no separate water injection point, and instead an aqueous organic solvent desorbent is injected at (D).
Typically in option (2), the rate at which liquid collected via the raffinate stream in the first SMB separation step is reintroduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is faster than the rate at which liquid collected via the raffinate stream in the second SMB separation step is reintroduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
Typically in option (2), the aqueous organic solvent eluent used in the first SMB separation step contains less organic solvent than the eluent used in the second SMB separation step, i.e. the water:organic solvent ratio in the first SMB separation step is higher than in the second SMB separation step.
In option (2) the first raffinate stream in the first separation step is typically removed downstream of the point of introduction of the input stream into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step, with respect to the flow of eluent.
In option (2), the first extract stream in the first SMB separation step is typically removed upstream of the point of introduction of the input stream into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step, with respect to the flow of eluent.
In option (2), the second raffinate stream in the second SMB separation step is typically removed downstream of the point of introduction of the first product into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step, with respect to the flow of eluent.
In option (2), the second extract stream in the second SMB separation step is typically collected upstream of the point of introduction of the first product into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step, with respect to the flow of eluent.
Typically in option (2), the organic solvent or aqueous organic solvent is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step upstream of the point of removal of the first extract stream, with respect to the flow of eluent.
Typically in option (2), when water is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step, the water is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step upstream of the point of introduction of the input stream but downstream of the point of removal of the first extract stream, with respect to the flow of eluent.
Typically in option (2), the organic solvent or aqueous organic solvent is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step upstream of the point of removal of the second extract stream, with respect to the flow of eluent.
Typically in option (2), when water is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step, the water is introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step upstream of the point of introduction of the first product but downstream of the point of removal of the second extract stream, with respect to the flow of eluent.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, each of the simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus used in the first and second SMB separation steps preferably consist of eight chromatographic columns. These are referred to as columns 1 to 8. In each apparatus the eight columns are arranged in series so that the bottom of column 1 is linked to the top of column 2, the bottom of column 2 is linked to the top of column 3 . . . etc . . . and the bottom of column 8 is linked to the top of column 1. These linkages may optionally be via a holding container, with a recycle stream into the next column. The flow of eluent through the system is from column 1 to column 2 to column 3 etc. The effective flow of adsorbent through the system is from column 8 to column 7 to column 6 etc.
This is illustrated in FIG. 8. An input stream F comprising the second product (B) and more polar (C) and less polar (A) components is introduced into the top of column 5 in the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. Organic solvent desorbent is introduced into the top of column 1 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. Water is introduced into the top of column 4 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. In the first SMB separation step, the less polar components (A) are removed as extract stream E1 from the bottom of column 2. The second product (B) and more polar components (C) are removed as raffinate stream R1 from the bottom of column 7. Raffinate stream R1 is the first product which is then purified in the second SMB separation step, by being introduced into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step at the top of column 5. Organic solvent desorbent is introduced into the top of column 1 in the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. Water is introduced into the top of column 4 in the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. In the second SMB separation step, the more polar components (C) are removed as raffinate stream R2 at the bottom of column 7. The second product (B) is collected as extract stream E2 at the bottom of column 2.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 8, organic solvent is typically introduced into the top of column 1 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 8, water is typically introduced into the top of column 4 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 8, organic solvent is typically introduced into the top of column 1 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 8, organic solvent is typically introduced into the top of column 4 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 8, the input stream is typically introduced into the top of column 5 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 8, a first raffinate stream is typically collected as the first product from the bottom of column 7 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. This first product is then purified in the second SMB separation step and is typically introduced into the top of column 5 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. The first raffinate stream may optionally be collected in a container before being purified in the second SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 8, a first extract stream is typically removed from the bottom of column 2 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. The first extract stream may optionally be collected in a container and reintroduced into the top of column 3 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 8, a second raffinate stream is typically removed from the bottom of column 7 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 8, a second extract stream is typically collected from the bottom of column 2 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. This second extract stream typically contains the second product. The second extract stream may optionally be collected in a container and reintroduced into the top of column 3 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 8, the eluent used is typically as defined above.
Typically, in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the water:organic solvent ratio in the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is lower than the water:organic solvent ratio in the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. Thus, the eluent in the first SMB separation step typically contains more organic solvent than the eluent used in the second SMB separation step.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, the water:organic solvent ratio in the first SMB separation step is typically from 0.5:99.5 to 1.5:98.5 parts by volume. The water:organic solvent ratio in the second SMB separation step is typically from 2:98 to 6:94 parts by volume.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, although the apparatus of FIG. 8 is configured as shown in FIG. 10a , the configurations shown in FIGS. 10b and 10c could also be used.
This “back-to-back” SMB process is also illustrated in FIG. 9. An input stream F comprising the second product (B) and more polar (C) and less polar (A) components is introduced into the top of column 5 in the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. Aqueous organic solvent desorbent is introduced into the top of column 1 in the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. In the first SMB separation step, the less polar components (A) are removed as extract stream E1 from the bottom of column 2. The second product (B) and more polar components (C) are removed as raffinate stream R1 from the bottom of column 7. Raffinate stream R1 is the first product which is purified in the second SMB separation step by being introduced into the top of column 4 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. Aqueous organic solvent desorbent is introduced into the top of column 1 in the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. In the second SMB separation step, the more polar components (C) are removed as raffinate stream R2 at the bottom of column 7. The second product (B) is collected as extract stream E2 at the bottom of column 2.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 9, aqueous organic solvent is typically introduced into the top of column 1 in the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 9, aqueous organic solvent is typically introduced into the top of column 9 in the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 9, the input stream is typically introduced into the top of column 5 in the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 9, a first raffinate stream is typically collected as the first product from the bottom of column 7 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. This first product is then purified in the second SMB separation step and is typically introduced into the top of column 5 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. The first raffinate stream may optionally be collected in a container before being purified in the second SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 9, a first extract stream is typically removed from the bottom of column 2 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. The first extract stream may optionally be collected in a container and a portion reintroduced into the top of column 3 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. The rate of recycle of liquid collected via the extract stream in the first SMB separation step back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is the rate at which liquid is pumped from this container into the top of column 3.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 9, a second raffinate stream is typically removed from the bottom of column 7 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 9, a second extract stream is typically collected from the bottom of column 2 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. This second extract stream typically contains the second product. The second extract stream may optionally be collected in a container and a portion reintroduced into the top of column 3 of the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step. The rate of recycle of liquid collected via the extract stream from the second SMB separation step back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step is the rate at which liquid is pumped from this container into the top of column 3.
In the “back-to-back” SMB process shown in FIG. 9, the eluent used is as defined above.
Typically, in this “back-to-back” SMB process, the water:organic solvent ratio in the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is lower than the water:organic solvent ratio in the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. Thus, the eluent used in the first SMB separation step typically contains more organic solvent than the eluent used in the second SMB separation step.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, the water:organic solvent ratio in the first SMB separation step is typically from 0.5:99.5 to 1.5:98.5 parts by volume. The water:organic solvent ratio in the second SMB separation step is typically from 2:98 to 6:94 parts by volume.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream from the first SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the first SMB separation step is typically faster than the rate at which liquid collected via the extract stream from the second SMB separation step is recycled back into the chromatographic apparatus used in the second SMB separation step. In this case, the aqueous organic solvent eluent is typically substantially the same in each SMB separation step.
In this “back-to-back” SMB process, although the apparatus of FIG. 9 is configured as shown in FIG. 10a , the configurations shown in FIGS. 10b and 10c could also be used.
Typically, at least one of the first and second chromatographic separation steps involve at least one, for example one, “back-to-back” SMB process as defined above.
Typically, the PUFA product is separated from different components of the feed mixture in each chromatographic separation step.
Typically, the PUFA product is separated from one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above in the first and/or second separation steps. Typically the PUFA product is separated from one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities discussed above in only one of the first and second separation steps.
More typically, the PUFA product is separated from ALA, ALA mono-, di- and triglycerides and ALA C1-C4 alkyl esters in the first and/or second separation steps.
More typically, the PUFA product is separated from GLA, GLA mono-, di- and triglycerides and GLA C1-C4 alkyl esters in the first and/or second separation steps.
Preferably, the PUFA product is separated from C18 fatty acids, C18 fatty acid mono-, di- and triglycerides and C18 fatty acid alkyl esters in the first and/or second separation steps.
Typically, the intermediate product has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the feed mixture; and/or the PUFA product produced in the second separation step has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the intermediate product.
More typically, the intermediate product has a lower concentration of impurities selected from ALA, mono, di- and triglycerides of ALA and C1-C4 alkyl esters of ALA than the feed mixture; and/or the PUFA product produced in the second separation step has a lower concentration of said impurities than the intermediate product.
More typically, the intermediate product has a lower concentration of impurities selected from GLA, mono, di- and triglycerides of GLA and C1-C4 alkyl esters of GLA than the feed mixture; and/or the PUFA product produced in the second separation step has a lower concentration of said impurities than the intermediate product.
Preferably, the intermediate product has a lower concentration of C18 fatty acids or C18 fatty acid derivatives than the feed mixture; or the PUFA product produced in the second separation step has a lower concentration of C18 fatty acids or C18 fatty acid derivatives than the intermediate product. In certain embodiments the intermediate product has a lower concentration of C18 fatty acids or C18 fatty acid derivatives than the feed mixture; and the PUFA product produced in the second separation step has a lower concentration of C18 fatty acids or C18 fatty acid derivatives than the intermediate product.
A lower concentration typically means a concentration which is lower by an amount of 5 wt % or more, more typically 10 wt % or more, preferably 20 wt % or more, more preferably 30 wt % or more, even more preferably 40 wt % or more, yet more preferably 50 wt % or more, yet more preferably 60 wt % or more, yet more preferably 70 wt % or more, yet more preferably 80 wt % or more, yet more preferably 90 wt % or more. Thus, when the intermediate product has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the feed mixture, the concentration of the C18 fatty acid impurities in the intermediate product is typically 10 wt % or more, preferably 20 wt % or more etc, lower than the concentration of the C18 fatty acid impurities in the feed mixture. When the PUFA product produced in the second separation step has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the intermediate product, the concentration of the C18 fatty acid impurities in the PUFA product is typically 10 wt % or more, preferably 20 wt % or more etc, lower than the concentration of the C18 fatty acid impurities in the intermediate product.
Typically, the first organic solvent is acetonitrile, and the intermediate product has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the feed mixture. Alternatively, the second organic solvent is acetonitrile, and the PUFA product produced in the second separation step has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the intermediate product.
Preferably, the PUFA product is EPA ethyl ester, and (i) the first organic solvent is acetonitrile, and the intermediate product has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the feed mixture, or (ii) the second organic solvent is acetonitrile, and the PUFA product produced in the second separation step has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the intermediate product.
More preferably, the PUFA product is EPA ethyl ester, and (i) the first organic solvent is acetonitrile, the second organic solvent is methanol and the intermediate product has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the feed mixture, or (ii) the first organic solvent is methanol, the second organic solvent is acetonitrile, and the PUFA product produced in the second separation step has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the intermediate product.
More preferably, the PUFA product is EPA ethyl ester, and (i) the first organic solvent is acetonitrile, the second organic solvent is methanol, and the first chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the feed mixture into a stationary bed apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the intermediate product into a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus; or (ii) the first organic solvent is methanol and the second organic solvent is acetonitrile, the first chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the feed mixture into a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the intermediate product into a stationary bed chromatography apparatus.
Even more preferably, the PUFA product is EPA ethyl ester, and (i) the first organic solvent is acetonitrile, the second organic solvent is methanol, the intermediate product has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the feed mixture, and the first chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the feed mixture into a stationary bed apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the intermediate product into a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus; or (ii) the first organic solvent is methanol, the second organic solvent is acetonitrile, the PUFA product produced in the second separation step has a lower concentration of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above than the intermediate product, and the first chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the feed mixture into a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the intermediate product into a stationary bed chromatography apparatus.
The present invention also provides a PUFA product, as defined above, which is obtainable by the process of the present invention.
The present invention also provides a composition comprising a PUFA product of the present invention.
Such compositions typically contain, as PUFA product, EPA or EPA ethyl ester.
The PUFA product is typically present in the compositions in an amount in an amount greater than 90 wt % , preferably greater than 95 wt %, more preferably greater than 97 wt %, even more preferably greater than 98 wt %, still more preferably greater than 98.4 wt %.
Preferably, the PUFA product is EPA or EPA ethyl ester and is present in the compositions in an amount in an amount greater than 90 wt %, preferably greater than 95 wt %, more preferably greater than 97 wt %, even more preferably greater than 98 wt %, still more preferably greater than 98.4 wt %, for example in an amount between 98 and 99.5 wt %.
Typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of one or more of the C18 fatty acid impurities disclosed above.
Typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), ALA mono-, di- and triglyceride and ALA C1-C4 alkyl ester impurities. More typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of impurities which are ALA and derivatives thereof. Typical ALA derivatives are as defined above for PUFA derivatives.
Typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), GLA mono-, di- and triglyceride and GLA C1-C4 alkyl ester impurities. More typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of impurities which are GLA and derivatives thereof. Typical GLA derivatives are as defined above for PUFA derivatives.
Typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of C18 fatty acid impurities, C18 fatty acid mono-, di- and triglyceride and C18 fatty acid alkyl ester impurities. More typically, the PUFA product contains less than 1 wt % of impurities which are C18 fatty acids and derivatives thereof. For the avoidance of doubt, in this embodiment the maximum amount of all such impurities is 1 wt %. Typical C18 fatty acid derivatives are as defined above for PUFA derivatives. As used herein, a C18 fatty acid is a C18 aliphatic monocarboxylic acid having a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain. Typical C18 fatty acids include stearic acid (C18:0), oleic acid (C18:1n9), vaccenic acid (C18:1n7), linoleic acid (C18:2n6), gamma-linolenic acid/GLA (C18:3n6), alpha-linolenic acid/ALA (C18:3n3) and stearidonic acid/SDA (C18:4n3).
As explained above, typically the amount of the above-mentioned impurities in the PUFA product is less than 1 wt %. Preferably, the amount of the above-mentioned impurities is less than 0.5 wt %, more preferably less than 0.25 wt %, even more preferably less than 0.1 wt %, yet more preferably less than 0.05 wt %, yet more preferably less than 0.01 wt %, yet more preferably less than 0.001 wt %, yet more preferably less than 0.0001 wt %, yet more preferably less than 0.00001 wt %.
In certain preferred embodiments, the PUFA product is substantially free of the above-mentioned impurities.
The PUFA product is not ALA, GLA, linoleic acid, an ALA mono- di- or triglyceride, a GLA mono- di- or triglyceride, an oleic acid mono, di- or triglyceride, an ALA C1-C4 alkyl ester, a GLA C1-C4 alkyl ester or an oleic acid C1-C4 alkyl ester or a mixture thereof. Typically, the PUFA product is not ALA, GLA, linoleic acid, or a derivative or mixtures thereof. Typical ALA, GLA and linoleic acid derivatives are as defined above for PUFA derivatives.
Typically, the PUFA product is not a C18 PUFA, a C18 PUFA mono-, di- or triglyceride, or a C18 PUFA alkyl ester. More typically, the PUFA product is not a C18 PUFA or a C18 PUFA derivative. Typical C18 PUFAs include linoleic acid (C18:2n6), GLA (C18:3n6), and ALA (C18:3n3).
Typically, the composition comprises, as PUFA product, EPA or EPA ethyl ester present in an amount between 98 and 99.5 wt %, the composition containing less than 1 wt % of ALA ethyl ester.
Typically, the composition comprises, as PUFA product, EPA or EPA ethyl ester present in an amount between 98 and 99.5 wt %, the composition containing less than 1 wt % of GLA ethyl ester.
Preferably, the composition comprises, as PUFA product, EPA or EPA ethyl ester present in an amount between 98 and 99.5 wt %, the composition containing less than 1 wt % of ALA, ALA mono-, di- and triglycerides and ALA C1-C4 alkyl esters.
Preferably, the composition comprises, as PUFA product, EPA or EPA ethyl ester present in an amount between 98 and 99.5 wt %, the composition containing less than 1 wt % of GLA, GLA mono-, di- or triglycerides and GLA C1-C4 alkyl esters.
More preferably, the composition comprises, as PUFA product, EPA ethyl ester present in an amount between 98 and 99.5 wt %, the composition containing less than 1 wt % of ALA, ALA mono-, di- or triglycerides and ALA C1-C4 alkyl esters.
More preferably, the composition comprises, as PUFA product, EPA ethyl ester present in an amount between 98 and 99.5 wt %, the composition containing less than 1 wt % of GLA, GLA mono-, di- or triglycerides and GLA C1-C4 alkyl esters.
The following Examples illustrate the invention.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
First Chromatographic Separation Step
A fish oil derived feedstock (55 weight % EPA ethyl ester (EE), 5 weight % DHA EE) with fatty acid profile as shown in FIG. 16 was fractionated using an actual moving bed chromatography system using bonded C18 silica gel (particle size 300 μm, particle porosity 150 angstroms) as stationary phase and aqueous methanol (typically 0.5% to 10% water) as eluent through a “single pass” SMB apparatus consisting of 15 columns (diameter: 76.29 mm, length: 914.40 mm) connected in series.
The operating parameters and flowrates are as follows.
(typical flow scheme as per FIG. 8)
Step time: 750 secs
Cycle time: 200 mins
Feed mixture feed rate (F1): 74 ml/min
Desorbent feed rate (D1): 6250 ml/min
Extract accumulation rate (E1): 1250 ml/min
Extract recycle rate (D1-E1): 5000 ml/min
Raffinate accumulation rate (R1): 1688 ml/min
Cycle time: 600 secs
The intermediate product produced by this process has a GC-FAMES trace as shown in FIG. 12. EPA EE is contained at 96.5% purity. The major impurity is ethyl-alpha linolenoate (ALA—C18:3n3) present at 0.9%. ALA is present in the raw material at 0.65%. ALA can therefore be seen to co-elute with EPA using methanol/water as the mobile phase. Methanol/water is, however, very efficient at removing the closely related component ethyl-docosahexaenoate (DHA—C22:6n3).
Second Chromatographic Separation Step
The intermediate product produced in the first chromatographic separation step was further purified by preparative HPLC in a fixed bed using an acetonitrile/water mobile phase mix. Acetonitrile/water in a ratio of 87:13 by wt was utilised. An HPLC column of dimensions 600 mm×900 mm packed with c18 bonded silica (20 μm particle size) is used with a feed mixture injection volume of 1400 ml and a desorbent flow rate of 2200 ml/min.
The final PUFA product produced was analysed by GC FAMES and the trace is shown in FIG. 13. It can be see that ALA has been completely removed and the EPA purity increased to 98.5%.
Alternative Second Chromatographic Separation Step
The intermediate product produced in the first chromatographic separation step was fractionated using an actual moving bed chromatography system using bonded C18 silica gel (particle size 300 μm, particle porosity 150 angstroms) as stationary phase and aqueous acetonitrile (12% water) as eluent through a “single pass” SMB apparatus consisting of 8 columns (diameter: 76.29 mm, length: 914.40 mm) connected in series.
The operating parameters and flowrates are as follows.
(typical flow scheme as per FIG. 8)
Step time: 780 secs
Feed mixture feed rate (F1): 90 ml/min
Desorbent feed rate (D1): 6500 ml/min
Extract accumulation rate (E1): 1400 ml/min
Extract recycle rate (D1-E1): 5100 ml/min
Raffinate accumulation rate (R1): 1690 ml/min
Cycle time: 600 secs
Example 2
First Chromatographic Separation Step
A fish oil derived feedstock (55 weight % EPA EE, 5 weight % DHA EE) with fatty acid profile as shown in FIG. 16 was subjected to preparative HPLC separation using an acetonitrile/water eluent. The mobile phase used is 87:13 Acetonitrile:water. An HPLC column of dimensions 600 mm×900 mm packed with c18 bonded silica (20 μm particle size) is used with a feed mixture injection volume of 600 ml and a desorbent flow rate of 2200 ml/min. The intermediate product produced was analysed by GC FAME and the trace is shown as FIG. 14.
It can be seen that ethyl-alpha-linolenoate (ALA—C18:3n3) was completely removed from the feed mixture. However a purity level of only 92.5% EPA EE was achieved mainly due to the presence of a high level of ethyl-docosahexaenoate (DHA—C22:6n3).
Alternative First Chromatographic Separation Step
A fish oil derived feedstock (55 weight % EPA EE, 5 weight % DHA EE) with fatty acid profile as shown in FIG. 16 was fractionated using an actual moving bed chromatography system using bonded C18 silica gel (particle size 300 μm, particle porosity 150 angstroms) as stationary phase and aqueous acetonitrile (typically 4% to 18% water) as eluent through a “single pass” SMB apparatus consisting of 15 columns (diameter: 76.29 mm, length: 914.40 mm) connected in series.
The operating parameters and flowrates are as follows.
(typical flow scheme as per FIG. 8)
Step time: 600 secs
Feedstock (F) feed rate: 105 ml/min
Desorbent (D) feed rate: 4800 ml/min
Extract rate: 1250 ml/min
Raffinate rate: 1800 ml/min
Second Chromatographic Separation Step
The intermediate product produced was subjected to further purification using preparative HPLC using as eluent methanol/water at 88:12 ratio by wt. An HPLC column of dimensions 600 mm×900 mm packed with c18 bonded silica (20 μm particle size) is used with a feed mixture injection volume of 1250 ml and a desorbent flow rate of 2200 ml/min.
The final product produced has a GC FAMES trace as shown in FIG. 15. The product produced contains EPA EE at 99% purity.
Thus, it can be seen that the outcome from performing acetonitrile/water separation first followed by methanol/water is essentially the same as performing methanol/water first followed by acetonitrile/water. In each case combining a step involving methanol/water and a further step involving acetonitrile/water is advantageous in preparing a highly purified EPA (EE) concentrate at .about 0.99% purity with a low content of C18 fatty acid impurities, for example ALA.
Alternative Second Chromatographic Separation Step
The intermediate product produced was fractionated using an actual moving bed chromatography system using bonded C18 silica gel (particle size 300 μm, particle porosity 150 angstroms) as stationary phase and aqueous methanol (7% water) as eluent through a “single pass” SMB consisting of 8 columns (diameter: 76.29 mm, length: 914.40 mm) connected in series.
The operating parameters and flowrates are as follows.
(typical flow scheme as per FIG. 8)
Step time: 960 secs
Feedstock (F) feed rate: 45 ml/min
Desorbent (D) feed rate: 3975 ml/min
Extract rate: 3655 ml/min
Raffinate rate: 2395 ml/min
Comparative Example 1
A fish oil derived feedstock (55 weight % EPA EE, 5 weight % DHA EE) with fatty acid profile as shown in FIG. 16 is fractionated in first and second chromatographic separation steps using an actual moving bed chromatography system using bonded C18 silica gel (particle size 300 μm, particle porosity 150 angstroms) as stationary phase and aqueous methanol as eluent in both separation steps.
First separation step performed on a series of 8 columns (diameter: 76.29 mm, length: 914.40 mm) connected in series.
The operating parameters and flowrates are as follows.
(typical flow scheme as per FIG. 8)
Feed mixture feed rate (F1): 34 ml/min
Desorbent feed rate (D1): 14438 ml/min
Extract accumulation rate (E1): 9313 ml/min
Extract recycle rate (D1-E1): 5125 ml/min
Raffinate accumulation rate (R1): 1688 ml/min
Cycle time: 1200 secs
Second separation step performed on a second series of 7 columns (diameter: 76.29 mm, length: 914.40 mm) connected in series.
Second intermediate product feed rate (F3): 40 ml/min
Desorbent feed rate (D3): 6189 ml/min
Extract accumulation rate (E3): 1438 ml/min
Extract recycle rate (D3-E3): 4750 ml/min
Raffinate accumulation rate (R3): 1438 ml/min
Cycle time: 1080 secs
The comparative example produced an EPA concentrate with a less advantageous impurity profile. The upper purity achievable is limited in particular by the presence of C18:3 components (GLA and ALA).
What is claimed is:
1. A chromatographic separation process for recovering a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) product from a feed mixture, which comprises:
(a) purifying the feed mixture in a first chromatographic separation step using as eluent a mixture of water and a first organic solvent, to obtain an intermediate product; and (b) purifying the intermediate product in a second chromatographic separation step using as eluent a mixture of water and a second organic solvent, to obtain the PUFA product,
wherein the second organic solvent is different from the first organic solvent, and wherein the first chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the feed mixture into a stationary bed chromatography apparatus and the second chromatographic separation step comprises introducing the intermediate product into a simulated or actual moving bed chromatography apparatus.
2. The process according to claim 1, wherein the first chromatographic separation step consists of two chromatographic separations, wherein each separation uses as eluent a mixture of water and the first organic solvent.
3. The process according to claim 1, wherein the second chromatographic separation step consists of two chromatographic separations, wherein each separation uses as eluent a mixture of water and the second organic solvent.
4. The process according to claim 1, wherein the first and second organic solvents are chosen from alcohols, ethers, esters, ketones and nitriles.
5. The process according to claim 4, wherein the ketone is acetone, methylethylketone or methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK), preferably acetone.
6. The process according to claim 1, wherein one of the first and second organic solvents is methanol.
7. The process according to claim 1, wherein the second organic solvent is methanol.
8. The process according to claim 1, wherein the first organic solvent:water ratio is from 99.9:0.1 to 75:25 parts by volume, preferably from 99.5:0.5 to 80:20 parts by volume.
9. The process according to claim 1, wherein the second organic solvent:water ratio is from 99.9:0.1 to 75:25 parts by volume, preferably from 90:10 to 85:15 parts by volume.
10. The process according to claim 1, wherein the second organic solvent is methanol, and the methanol:water ratio is from 95:5 to 85:15 parts by volume, preferably from 93:7 to 90:10 parts by volume.
11. The process according to claim 1, wherein the PUFA product is at least one ω-3 PUFA or at least one ω-3 PUFA derivative.
12. The process according to claim 1, wherein the PUFA product is eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), EPA triglyceride, DHA triglyceride, EPA ethyl ester or DHA ethyl ester.
13. The process according to claim 1, wherein the PUFA product is EPA, or EPA ethyl ester.
14. The process according to claim 1, wherein the PUFA product is obtained in the second separation step at a purity greater than 95 wt %, preferably greater than 97 wt %, more preferably greater than 98 wt %, still more preferably greater than 98.4 wt %.
15. The process according to claim 1, wherein the first organic solvent is acetone, and the second organic solvent is methanol.
16. A PUFA product obtainable by the process of claim 1.
17. A composition comprising a PUFA product obtainable by the process of claim 1.
| 2018-09-18 | en | 2019-01-17 |
US-201916366685-A | Method and nb wireless device for determining whether or not to transmit sr
ABSTRACT
One disclosure of the present application provides a method for a narrowband (NB) wireless device to determine whether or not to transmit a scheduling request (SR). The method may comprise a step of determining whether or not to transmit an SR by using a resource for the transmission of a hybrid automatic retransmit request (HARQ) acknowledgement/negative acknowledgement (ACK/NACK) signal. The step of determination may be performed if one or more HARQ processes are run. The resource for the HARQ ACK/NACK signal may include a narrowband physical uplink shared channel (NPUSCH).
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), this application is a continuation of International Application PCT/KR2018/003364, filed on Mar. 22, 2018, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Applications Nos. 62/475,881 filed on Mar. 24, 2017, 62/501,108 filed on May 4, 2017, and 62/523,243 filed on Jun. 21, 2017, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to mobile communication.
Related Art
Interest in next-generation, i.e., fifth generation (5G) mobile communication is growing and research thereon is being rapidly conducted owing to success of LTE (Long Term Evolution)/LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) for fourth generation mobile communication.
According to LTE/LTE-A, a UE can transmit a scheduling request (SR) to be allocated uplink resources. The SR can be transmitted in a predetermined transmission-possible subframe.
Recently, IoT (Internal of Things) communication has been under the spotlight. IoT communication is characterized in that the quantity of transmitted data is small and uplink or downlink data transmission and reception rarely occur.
Accordingly, techniques for causing IoT devices to operate in a reduced bandwidth irrespective of the system bandwidth of a cell have been proposed. IoT communication performed in such a reduced bandwidth is called NB (Narrow Band) IoT communication.
However, an SR procedure is not provided in NB-IoT systems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Therefore, an object of the disclosure of the present application is to provide an SR procedure for NB IoT devices.
To achieve the foregoing purposes, the disclosure of the present invention proposes a method for determining whether to transmit a scheduling request (SR). The method may be performed by a narrowband (NB) wireless device and comprise: determining whether to transmit an SR using a resource for transmission of a hybrid automatic retransmit request (HARQ) acknowledgement/negative acknowledgement (ACK/NACK) signal. The determining may be performed when one or more HARQ processes are executed. The resource for transmission of the HARQ ACK/NACK signal may include a narrowband physical uplink shared channel (NPUSCH).
The determining may be performed based on a new data indicator (NDI).
The SR may be transmitted when the NDI indicates transmission of new data.
The determining may be performed based on a redundancy version (RV).
The NPUSCH may include a bit indicating whether the SR is transmitted.
A codeword cover may be applied to one or more orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols to which the NPUSCH is mapped when the SR is transmitted.
The NPUSCH may be modulated based on quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) when the SR is transmitted.
Whether to transmit the SR may be determined according to information included in downlink control information (DCI).
To achieve the foregoing purposes, the disclosure of the present invention proposes an NB wireless device for determining whether to transmit an SR. The wireless device may comprise: a transceiver; and a processor for controlling the transceiver and determining whether to transmit an SR using a resource for transmission of a hybrid automatic retransmit request (HARQ) acknowledgement/negative acknowledgement (ACK/NACK) signal. The determining may be performed when one or more HARQ processes are executed. The resource for transmission of the HARQ ACK/NACK signal may include a narrowband physical uplink shared channel (NPUSCH).
According to the disclosure of the present invention, the problem of the conventional technology described above may be solved.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a wireless communication system.
FIG. 2 illustrates a structure of a radio frame according to FDD in 3GPP LTE.
FIG. 3 illustrates a structure of a downlink radio frame according to TDD in 3GPP LTE.
FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a scheduling request (SR) transmission mechanism.
FIG. 5 illustrates a buffer status reporting (BSR) procedure.
FIG. 6A illustrates an example of IoT (Internet of Things) communication.
FIG. 6B is an illustration of cell coverage expansion or enhancement for an IoT device.
FIG. 6C is an illustration of an example of transmitting a bundle of downlink channels.
FIGS. 7A and 7B are illustrations of examples of subbands in which an IoT device operates.
FIG. 8 illustrates an example of representing time resources available for NB-IoT in units of M-frame.
FIG. 9 is another illustration of time resources and frequency resources available for NB IoT.
FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a subframe type in NR.
FIG. 11 is an illustration of an example in which a codeword cover is applied.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining to transmit an SR.
FIGS. 13A and 13B are illustrations of SR transmission procedures.
FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a wireless device and an eNB in which the disclosure of the present application is implemented.
FIG. 15 is a detailed block diagram of a transceiver of the wireless device illustrated in FIG. 14.
DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
Hereinafter, based on 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) long term evolution (LTE) or 3GPP LTE-advanced (LTE-A), the present invention will be applied. This is just an example, and the present invention may be applied to various wireless communication systems. Hereinafter, LTE includes LTE and/or LTE-A.
The technical terms used herein are used to merely describe specific embodiments and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Further, the technical terms used herein should be, unless defined otherwise, interpreted as having meanings generally understood by those skilled in the art but not too broadly or too narrowly. Further, the technical terms used herein, which are determined not to exactly represent the spirit of the invention, should be replaced by or understood by such technical terms as being able to be exactly understood by those skilled in the art. Further, the general terms used herein should be interpreted in the context as defined in the dictionary, but not in an excessively narrowed manner.
The expression of the singular number in the present invention includes the meaning of the plural number unless the meaning of the singular number is definitely different from that of the plural number in the context. In the following description, the term “include” or “have” may represent the existence of a feature, a number, a step, an operation, a component, a part or the combination thereof described in the present invention, and may not exclude the existence or addition of another feature, another number, another step, another operation, another component, another part or the combination thereof.
The terms “first” and “second” are used for the purpose of explanation about various components, and the components are not limited to the terms “first” and “second”. The terms “first” and “second” are only used to distinguish one component from another component. For example, a first component may be named as a second component without deviating from the scope of the present invention.
It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “connected to” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present.
Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In describing the present invention, for ease of understanding, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same components throughout the drawings, and repetitive description on the same components will be omitted. Detailed description on well-known arts which are determined to make the gist of the invention unclear will be omitted. The accompanying drawings are provided to merely make the spirit of the invention readily understood, but not should be intended to be limiting of the invention. It should be understood that the spirit of the invention may be expanded to its modifications, replacements or equivalents in addition to what is shown in the drawings.
As used herein, “base station” generally refers to a fixed station that communicates with a wireless device and may be denoted by other terms such as eNB (evolved-NodeB), BTS (base transceiver system), or access point.
As used herein, “user equipment (UE)” may be stationary or mobile, and may be denoted by other terms such as device, wireless device, terminal, MS (mobile station), UT (user terminal), SS (subscriber station), MT (mobile terminal) and etc.
FIG. 1 illustrates a wireless communication system.
As seen with reference to FIG. 1, the wireless communication system includes at least one base station (BS) 20. Each base station 20 provides a communication service to specific geographical areas (generally, referred to as cells) 20 a, 20 b, and 20 c. The cell can be further divided into a plurality of areas (sectors).
The UE generally belongs to one cell and the cell to which the UE belong is referred to as a serving cell. A base station that provides the communication service to the serving cell is referred to as a serving BS. Since the wireless communication system is a cellular system, another cell that neighbors to the serving cell is present. Another cell which neighbors to the serving cell is referred to a neighbor cell. A base station that provides the communication service to the neighbor cell is referred to as a neighbor BS. The serving cell and the neighbor cell are relatively decided based on the UE.
Hereinafter, a downlink means communication from the base station 20 to the UE 10 and an uplink means communication from the UE 10 to the base station 20. In the downlink, a transmitter may be a part of the base station 20 and a receiver may be a part of the UE 10. In the uplink, the transmitter may be a part of the UE 10 and the receiver may be a part of the base station 20.
Meanwhile, the wireless communication system may be generally divided into a frequency division duplex (FDD) type and a time division duplex (TDD) type. According to the FDD type, uplink transmission and downlink transmission are achieved while occupying different frequency bands. According to the TDD type, the uplink transmission and the downlink transmission are achieved at different time while occupying the same frequency band. A channel response of the TDD type is substantially reciprocal. This means that a downlink channel response and an uplink channel response are approximately the same as each other in a given frequency area. Accordingly, in the TDD based wireless communication system, the downlink channel response may be acquired from the uplink channel response. In the TDD type, since an entire frequency band is time-divided in the uplink transmission and the downlink transmission, the downlink transmission by the base station and the uplink transmission by the terminal may not be performed simultaneously. In the TDD system in which the uplink transmission and the downlink transmission are divided by the unit of a subframe, the uplink transmission and the downlink transmission are performed in different subframes.
Hereinafter, the LTE system will be described in detail.
FIG. 2 shows a downlink radio frame structure according to FDD of 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) long term evolution (LTE).
The radio frame includes 10 sub-frames indexed 0 to 9. One sub-frame includes two consecutive slots. Accordingly, the radio frame includes 20 slots. The time taken for one sub-frame to be transmitted is denoted TTI (transmission time interval). For example, the length of one sub-frame may be 1 ms, and the length of one slot may be 0.5 ms.
The structure of the radio frame is for exemplary purposes only, and thus the number of sub-frames included in the radio frame or the number of slots included in the sub-frame may change variously.
Meanwhile, one slot may include a plurality of OFDM symbols. The number of OFDM symbols included in one slot may vary depending on a cyclic prefix (CP).
One slot includes NRB resource blocks (RBs) in the frequency domain. For example, in the LTE system, the number of resource blocks (RBs), i.e., NRB, may be one from 6 to 110.
The resource block is a unit of resource allocation and includes a plurality of sub-carriers in the frequency domain. For example, if one slot includes seven OFDM symbols in the time domain and the resource block includes 12 sub-carriers in the frequency domain, one resource block may include 7×12 resource elements (REs).
The physical channels in 3GPP LTE may be classified into data channels such as PDSCH (physical downlink shared channel) and PUSCH (physical uplink shared channel) and control channels such as PDCCH (physical downlink control channel), PCFICH (physical control format indicator channel), PHICH (physical hybrid-ARQ indicator channel) and PUCCH (physical uplink control channel).
The uplink channels include a PUSCH, a PUCCH, an SRS (Sounding Reference Signal), and a PRACH (physical random access channel).
FIG. 3 illustrates the architecture of a downlink radio frame according to TDD in 3GPP LTE.
For this, 3GPP TS 36.211 V10.4.0 (2011-12) “Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA); Physical Channels and Modulation (Release 8)”, Ch. 4 may be referenced, and this is for TDD (time division duplex).
Sub-frames having index #1 and index #6 are denoted special sub-frames, and include a DwPTS (Downlink Pilot Time Slot: DwPTS), a GP (Guard Period) and an UpPTS (Uplink Pilot Time Slot). The DwPTS is used for initial cell search, synchronization, or channel estimation in a terminal. The UpPTS is used for channel estimation in the base station and for establishing uplink transmission sync of the terminal. The GP is a period for removing interference that arises on uplink due to a multi-path delay of a downlink signal between uplink and downlink.
In TDD, a DL (downlink) sub-frame and a UL (Uplink) co-exist in one radio frame. Table 1 shows an example of configuration of a radio frame.
TABLE 1
UL-DL
configura-
Switch-point
Subframe index
tion
periodicity
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
0
5
ms
D
S
U
U
U
D
S
U
U
U
1
5
ms
D
S
U
U
D
D
S
U
U
D
2
5
ms
D
S
U
D
D
D
S
U
D
D
3
10
ms
D
S
U
U
U
D
D
D
D
D
4
10
ms
D
S
U
U
D
D
D
D
D
D
5
10
ms
D
S
U
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
6
5
ms
D
S
U
U
U
D
S
U
U
D
‘D’ denotes a DL sub-frame, ‘U’ a UL sub-frame, and ‘S’ a special sub-frame. When receiving a UL-DL configuration from the base station, the terminal may be aware of whether a sub-frame is a DL sub-frame or a UL sub-frame according to the configuration of the radio frame.
<Carrier Aggregation>
A carrier aggregation system is now described.
A carrier aggregation system aggregates a plurality of component carriers (CCs). A meaning of an existing cell is changed according to the above carrier aggregation. According to the carrier aggregation, a cell may signify a combination of a downlink component carrier and an uplink component carrier or an independent downlink component carrier.
Further, the cell in the carrier aggregation may be classified into a primary cell, a secondary cell, and a serving cell. The primary cell signifies a cell operated in a primary frequency. The primary cell signifies a cell which UE performs an initial connection establishment procedure or a connection reestablishment procedure or a cell indicated as a primary cell in a handover procedure. The secondary cell signifies a cell operating in a secondary frequency. Once the RRC connection is established, the secondary cell is used to provide an additional radio resource.
As described above, the carrier aggregation system may support a plurality of component carriers (CCs), that is, a plurality of serving cells unlike a single carrier system.
The carrier aggregation system may support a cross-carrier scheduling. The cross-carrier scheduling is a scheduling method capable of performing resource allocation of a PDSCH transmitted through other component carrier through a PDCCH transmitted through a specific component carrier and/or resource allocation of a PUSCH transmitted through other component carrier different from a component carrier basically linked with the specific component carrier.
<Scheduling Request (SR)>
AUE performs an SR procedure in order to be allocated uplink resources from an eNB. An SR includes a PUCCH SR simply serving as a flag which is a 1-bit signal. The SR in the form of a flag was designed to reduce uplink overhead.
When an SR has been triggered, the SR is considered to be pending until it is cancelled. All pending SRs are cancelled if a MAC PDU (protocol data unit) is assembled and includes a PDU including all buffer statuses of a final event or a UL grant is received and the received UL grant can accept all UL data that is pending for transmission.
If an SR is triggered and other pending SRs are not present, an MAC entity sets an SR counter, for example, SR_COUNTER, to 0.
The MAC entity operates as follows for each TTI whenever one SR is pending.
When there is no UL-SCH resource available for transmission in this TTI, When the MAC entity does not have a valid PUCCH resource configured for an SR in an arbitrary TTI, the MAC entity performs a random access procedure. However, when the MAC entity has a valid PUCCH resource configured for an SR in this TTI, the TTI is not a measurement gap, and an SR prohibition timer, e.g., sr-ProhibitTimer, is not operating, and when SR_COUNTER <dsr-TransMax, the MAC entity increases SR_COUNTER by 1, instructs the physical layer to signal the SR on a PUCCH, and starts sr-ProhibitTimer. If not, The MAC entity notifies the RRC layer to release PUCCHs/SRSs for all serving cells. The MAC entity clears all set downlink allocation and uplink grants. And, the MAC entity starts a random access procedure.
Meanwhile, an SR can be transmitted in a predetermined transmission-possible subframe.
FIG. 4 illustrates an example of an SR (Scheduling Request) transmission mechanism.
In the example of FIG. 4, a UE transmits an SR in a reserved SR transmission-possible subframe when there is no UL grant. The SR transmission may be repeated until a UL grant is received.
The subframe in which the SR is transmitted is a subframe that satisfies the following condition.
(10×n f +└n s/2┘−N OFFSET,SR)mod SR PERIODICITY=0 [Mathematical expression 1]
Here, ns is a slot number and nf is a system frame number (SFN) for a radio frame.
SRPERIDOCITY is SR transmission periodicity and NOFFSET,SR is an SR subframe offset. SRPERIDOCITY and NOFFSET,SR are SR configuration and are determined according to the following table using a parameter sr-ConfigIndex ISR transmitted from an eNB through higher layer signaling (e.g., RRC signaling).
TABLE 2
SR configuration index
SR periodicity (ms)
SR subframe offset
ISR
SRPERIDOCITY
NOFFSET, SR
0-4
5
ISR
5-14
10
ISR − 5
15-34
20
ISR − 15
35-74
40
ISR − 35
75-154
80
ISR − 75
155-156
2
ISR − 155
157
1
ISR− 157
<Buffer Status Reporting (BSR)>
Hereinafter, buffer status reporting (BSR) will be described.
A BSR procedure is used to provide information about the quantity of data available for transmission in a UL buffer of a UE to an eNB which provides a service.
In other words, the eNB providing the service needs to know the type and quantity of data desired to be transmitted by each UE in order to efficiently use uplink radio resources. With respect to downlink radio resources, data to be transmitted through downlink is transmitted from an access gateway to an eNB providing a service and thus the eNB providing the service can be aware of the quantity of data that needs to be transmitted to each UE through downlink. On the other hand, with respect to uplink radio resources, the eNB providing the service cannot be aware of the quantity of uplink radio resources required for each UE unless a UE signals information about data to be transmitted through uplink to the eNB providing the service. Accordingly, in order for the eNB providing the service to appropriately allocate uplink radio resources to a UE, the UE is required to provide information for uplink radio resource scheduling to the eNB providing the service.
Accordingly, when the UE has data to be transmitted to the eNB providing the service, the UE notifies the eNB providing the service that the UE has data to be transmitted to the eNB and the eNB allocates appropriate uplink radio resources to the UE on the basis of the information. This procedure is referred to as a buffer status reporting (BSR) procedure.
A UE requires uplink radio resources to transmit BSR to an eNB providing a service. If uplink radio resources have been allocated when the BSR is triggered, the UE immediately transmits the BSR to the eNB providing the service using the allocated uplink radio resources. If the UE does not have allocated uplink radio resources when the BSR is triggered, the UE starts a scheduling request (SR) procedure for receiving uplink radio resources from the eNB providing the service.
For the BSR procedure, the UE may consider all radio bearers that are not suspended or consider suspended radio bearers.
BSR is triggered when any predefined event occurs. BSR can be classified into three BRS, regular BSR, padding BSR and periodic BSR, according to events that have occurred.
The regular BSR can be triggered when uplink data can be transmitted in an RLC entity or a PDCP entity for a logical channel belonging to a logical channel group (LCG). Data regarded as transmittable data has been defined in 3GPP TS 36.322 V9.1.0 (2010-03) section 4.5 and 3GPP TS 36.323 V9.0.0 (2009-12) section 4.5. The regular BSR can be triggered when the data belongs to a logical channel having a higher priority than the priority of logical channels belonging to any LCG and data transmission therefor is possible. The regular BSR can also be triggered when data that can be transmitted for any logical channel belonging to the LCG is not present.
The padding BSR can be triggered when uplink resources are allocated and the number of padding bits is equal to or greater than the sum of a BSR MAC control element (CE) and a sub-header.
The regular BSR can be triggered when a retransmission BSR timer expires and the UE has data that can be transmitted for any logical channel belonging to the LCG.
The periodic BSR can be triggered when a periodic BSR timer expires.
FIG. 5 illustrates a BSR procedure.
Referring to FIG. 5, an eNodeB 200 controls a BSR procedure associated with a logical channel in each UE through MAC-MainConfig signal transmission defined in the RRC layer. The RRC message includes information in a BSR period timer periodicBSR-timer and/or a BSR retransmission timer retxBSR-timer. Further, the RRC message includes configuration information associated with a BSR format and a data size.
The UE can trigger BSR at any time.
The UE can transmit a BSR report upon BSR triggering. The BSR is configured in consideration of configuration information established by RRC signal delivery.
<IoT (Internet of Things) Communication>
Hereinafter, IoT will be described.
FIG. 6A illustrates an example of IoT (Internet of Things) communication.
IoT refers to information exchange between IoT devices 100 without human intersection through an eNB 200 or information exchange between an IoT device 100 and a server 700 through the eNB 200. IoT communication is also called CIoT (Cellular Internet of Things) since IoT communication is performed through a cellar eNB.
Such IoT communication is a kind of MTC (Machine Type Communication). Accordingly, an IoT device may also be called an MTC device.
IoT services differ from services in communication with human intervention and may include services in various categories, such as tracking, metering, payment, medical services and remote control. For example, IoT services may include meter checking, water level measurement, utilization of monitoring cameras, vending machine inventory reporting, etc.
Since IoT communication is characterized in that the quantity of transmitted data is small and uplink or downlink data transmission and reception rarely occur, it is desirable to reduce the price of IoT devices and decrease battery consumption in response to a low data transfer rate. Further, IoT devices have low mobility and thus channel environments hardly change.
FIG. 6B is an illustration of cell coverage expansion or enhancement for an IoT device.
Recently, cell coverage extension or enhancement has been considered for an IoT device 100 and various techniques for cell coverage extension or enhancement are under discussion.
However, in the case of cell coverage extension or enhancement, when an eNB transmits a downlink channel to an IoT device located in a coverage extension (CE) or coverage enhancement (CE) area, the IoT device has difficulty in receiving the downlink channel. Similarly, when the IoT device located in the CE area transmits an uplink channel, the eNB has difficulty in receiving the uplink channel.
To solve such a problem, a downlink channel or an uplink channel may be repeatedly transmitted on a plurality of subframes. Such repeated uplink/downlink channel transmission on a plurality of subframes is referred to as bundle transmission.
FIG. 6C is an illustration of an example of transmitting a bundle of downlink channels.
As seen with reference to FIG. 6C, an eNB repeatedly transmits downlink channel (e.g., a PDCCH and/or a PDSCH) on a plurality of subframes (e.g., N subframes) to an IoT device 100 located in a CE area.
Then, the IoT device or the eNB can increase a decoding success rate by receiving a bundle of downlink/uplink channels on a plurality of subframes and decoding a part of or entire bundle.
FIGS. 7A and 7B are illustrations of examples of subbands in which an IoT device operates.
As a method for a low-cost IoT device, the IoT device can use a subband of about 1.4 MHz, for example, irrespective of the system bandwidth of a cell, as shown in FIG. 7A.
Here, the area of a subband in which such an IoT device operates may be positioned at the center (e.g., 6 PRBs at the center) of the system bandwidth of the cell, as shown in FIG. 7A.
Alternatively, a plurality of subbands for IoT devices may be provided to one subframe for multiplexing of IoT devices in a subframe such that IoT devices can use different subbands. Here, most IoT devices may use subbands other than the subband at the center (e.g., 6 PRBs at the center) of the system bandwidth of the cell.
Such IoT communication performed in a reduced bandwidth may be called NA (Narrow Band) IoT communication or NB CIoT communication.
FIG. 8 illustrates an example in which time resources available for NB-IoT are represented in units of M-frame.
Referring to FIG. 8, a frame that can be used for NB-IoT may be called an M-frame and may be 60 ms in length, for example. Further, a subframe that can be used for NB IoT can be called an M-subframe and may be 6 ms in length, for example. Accordingly, an M-frame can include 10 M-subframes.
Each M-subframe can include two slots and each slot may be 3 ms in length, for example.
However, a slot that can be used for NB IoT may be 2 ms in length, differently from the illustration of FIG. 8, and thus a subframe may be 4 ms in length and a frame may be 40 ms in length. This will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 9.
FIG. 9 is another illustration of time resources and frequency resources available for NB IoT.
Referring to FIG. 9, a physical channel or a physical signal transmitted through a slot on uplink of NB-IoT includes Nsymb UL SC-FDMA symbols in the time domain and includes Nsc UL subcarriers in the frequency domain. Uplink physical channel can be classified into an NPUSCH (Narrowband Physical Uplink Shared Channel) and an NPRACH (Narrowband Physical Random Access Channel). In addition, a physical signal can be an NDMRS (Narrowband DeModulation Reference Signal) in NB-IoT.
In NB-IoT, an uplink bandwidth of Nsc UL subcarriers for a slot Tslot is as follows.
TABLE 31
Subcarrier spacing
NSC UL
Tslot
Δf = 3.75 kHz
48
61440*Ts
Δf = 15 kHz
12
15360*Ts
In NB-IoT, each resource element (RE) of a resource grid can be defined as an index pair (k, l) in a slot when k=0, . . . , Nsc UL-1 and 1=0, . . . , Nsymb UL−1 which indicate the time domain and the frequency domain. In NB-IoT, downlink physical channels include an NPDSCH (Narrowband Physical Downlink Shared Channel), an NPBCH (Narrowband Physical Broadcast Channel) and an NPDCCH (Narrowband Physical Downlink Control Channel). In addition, downlink physical signals include an NRS (Narrowband Reference Signal), an NSS (Narrowband Synchronization Signal) and an NPRS (Narrowband Positioning Reference Signal). The NSS includes an NPSS (Narrowband Primary Synchronization Signal) and an NSSS (Narrowband Secondary Synchronization Signal).
Meanwhile, NB-IoT is a communication method for wireless devices using reduced bandwidths (i.e., narrow bands) according to low complexity/low cost. Such NB-IoT communication aims at connection of a large number of wireless devices in a reduced bandwidth. Furthermore, NB-IoT communication aims at support of wider cell coverage than cell coverage of LTE communication.
Meanwhile, a subcarrier having a reduced bandwidth includes only one PRB when a subcarrier spacing is 15 kHz as seen with reference to Table 1. That is, NB-IoT communication can be performed using only one PRB. Here, a PRB accessed by a wireless device to receive NPSS/NSSS/NPBCH/SIB-NB on the assumption that NPSS/NSSS/NPBCH/SIB-NB are transmitted from an eNB may be called an anchor PRB (or anchor carrier). The wireless device can be allocated additional PRBs from the eNB in addition to the anchor PRB (or anchor carrier). Here, among the additional PRBs, a PRB through which NPSS/NSSS/NPBCH/SIB-NB is not expected to be received by the wireless device from the eNB may be called a non-anchor PRB (or non-anchor carrier).
<Next-Generation Mobile Communication Network>
Interest in next-generation, i.e., fifth generation (5G) mobile communication is growing and research thereon is being rapidly conducted owing to success of LTE (Long Term Evolution)/LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) for fourth generation mobile communication.
Fifth generation mobile communication defined by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) provides a data rate of up to 20 Gbps and a perceptible rate of 100 Mbps or higher anyplace. The formal title thereof is “IMT-2020” and fifth generation mobile communication aims at worldwide commercialization in 2020.
ITU suggests three usage scenarios, for example, eMBB (enhanced Mobile BroadBand), mMTC (massive Machine Type Communication) and URLLC (Ultra Reliable and Low Latency Communications).
URLLC refers to a usage scenario that requires high reliability and low delay time. For example, services such as automated driving, factory automation and augmented reality require high reliability and low delay (e.g., delay time of 1 ms or less). The current delay time of 4G (LTE) is statistically 21 to 43 ms (best 10%) and 33 to 75 ms (median). This is insufficient to support services that require delay time of 1 ms or less. eMBB refers to a usage scenario that requires mobile super-wideband.
That is, the 5G mobile communication system aims at higher capacity than 4G LTE and can increase mobile wideband user concentration and support D2D (Device to Device), high stability and MTC (Machine type communication). Further, 5G research and development aim at lower latency and lower battery consumption than those of the 4G mobile communication system in order to realize IoT more efficiently. For such 5G mobile communication, a new radio access technology (New RAT or NR) may be proposed.
In NR, reception from an eNB using a downlink subframe and transmission to the eNB using an uplink subframe can be considered. This method can be applied to a paired spectrum and an unpaired spectrum. A pair of spectra refers to inclusion of two carrier spectra for downlink and uplink operations. For example, one carrier can include a pair of a downlink band and an uplink band in one pair of spectra.
FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a subframe type in NR.
A TTI (Transmission Time Interval) shown in FIG. 10 may be called a subframe or a slot for NR (or new RAT). The subframe (or slot) shown in FIG. 10 can be used in a TDD system of NR (or new RAT) in order to minimize data transmission delay. As shown in FIG. 10, a subframe (or slot) includes 14 symbols as in the current subframe. The symbol at the head of the subframe (or slot) can be used for a DL control channel and the symbol at the end of the subframe (or slot) can be used for a UL control channel. The remaining symbols can be used for DL data transmission or UL data transmission. According to this subframe (or slot) structure, downlink transmission and uplink transmission can be sequentially performed in one subframe (or slot). Accordingly, downlink data can be received in a subframe (or slot) and uplink ACK/NACL may be transmitted in the subframe (or slot). Such a subframe (or slot) structure may be called a self-contained subframe (or slot). When this subframe (or slot) structure is used, a time taken to retransmit data that has failed in reception can be reduced to minimize final data transmission latency. In such a self-contained subframe (or slot) structure, a time gap may be required in a process of transition from a transmission mode to a reception mode or from the reception mode to the transmission mode. To this end, some OFDM symbols when DL switches to UL in the subframe structure can be set to a guard period (GP).
<Support of Various Numerologies>
In future systems, a plurality of numerologies may be provided to a UE with the development of wireless communication technology.
A numerology can be defined by a cycle prefix (CP) length and a subcarrier spacing. On cell can provide a plurality of numerologies to a UE. When the index of a numerology is represented by, subcarrier spacings and CP lengths corresponding thereto may be as shown in the following table.
TABLE 4
M
Δf = 2μ · 15 [kHz]
CP
0
15
Normal
1
30
Normal
2
60
Normal, extended
3
120
Normal
4
240
Normal
In the case of the normal CP, when the index of a numerology is represented by μ, the number Nslot symb of OFMD symbols per slot, the number Nframe,μ slot of slots per frame, and the number Nsubframe,μ slot of slots per subframe are as shown in the following table.
TABLE 5
μ
Nslot symb
Nframe, μ slot
Nsubframe, μ slot
0
14
10
1
1
14
20
2
2
14
40
4
3
14
80
8
4
14
160
16
5
14
320
32
In the case of the extended CP, when the index of a numerology is represented by, the number Nslot symb of OFMD symbols per slot, the number Nframe,μ slot of slots per frame, and the number Nsubframe,μ slot of slots per subframe are as shown in the following table.
TABLE 6
μ
Nslot symb
Nframe, μ slot
Nsubframe, μ slot
2
12
40
4
Meanwhile, each symbol in symbols can be used for downlink or uplink in next-generation mobile communication as shown in the following table. In the following table, uplink is represented by U and downlink is represented by D. In the following table, X indicates a symbol that can be flexibly used as uplink or downlink.
TABLE 7
For-
Symbol number in slot
mat
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
0
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
1
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
2
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
3
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
4
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
5
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
X
6
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
X
X
7
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
8
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
9
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
U
10
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
11
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
12
X
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
13
X
X
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
14
X
X
X
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
15
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
16
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
17
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
18
D
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
19
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
20
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
21
D
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
22
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
U
23
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
U
24
D
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
U
25
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
U
U
26
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
U
U
27
D
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
U
U
28
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
U
29
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
U
30
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
X
U
31
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
U
U
32
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
U
U
33
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
X
U
U
34
D
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
35
D
D
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
36
D
D
D
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
37
D
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
38
D
D
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
39
D
D
D
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
40
D
X
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
41
D
D
X
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
42
D
D
D
X
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
43
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
X
X
U
44
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
U
U
45
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
46
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
D
D
D
D
D
D
X
47
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
D
D
D
D
D
X
X
48
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
D
D
X
X
X
X
X
49
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
50
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
X
U
U
U
U
U
U
51
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
X
X
U
U
U
U
U
52
X
X
X
U
U
U
U
X
X
X
U
U
U
U
53
X
X
X
X
U
U
U
X
X
X
X
U
U
U
54
D
D
D
D
D
X
U
D
D
D
D
D
X
U
55
D
D
X
U
U
U
U
D
D
X
U
U
U
U
56
D
X
U
U
U
U
U
D
X
U
U
U
U
U
57
D
D
D
D
X
X
U
D
D
D
D
X
X
U
58
D
D
X
X
U
U
U
D
D
X
X
U
U
U
59
D
X
X
U
U
U
U
D
X
X
U
U
U
U
60
D
X
X
X
X
X
U
D
X
X
X
X
X
U
61
D
D
X
X
X
X
U
D
D
X
X
X
X
U
<Disclosure of Present Specification>
In the legacy LTE system, a UE can receive a UL grant using an SR when the UE has uplink data to be transmitted. However, an SR procedure is no provided in NB-IoT system. Accordingly, an object of the disclosure of the present specification is to provide an SR procedure for NB IoT devices. Although the following description focuses on the NB-IoT system, the present invention can be applied to other systems in which a wireless device performs an SR procedure.
I. First Disclosure
I-1. Dedicated NPRACH Based SR
In this section, a method in which an NB-IoT device uses a random access procedure in order to transmit an SR is proposed. According to the proposed method, an NB-IoT device (or an NB-IoT device group) may use dedicated NPRACH resources. Specifically, an NB-IoT device in an RRC idle state can use a random access procedure in order to perform SR according to the proposition. The NB-IoT device described below may correspond to an NB-IoT device that receives configuration information about an SR in an RRC connected state and then returns to an RRC idle state. However, the proposition can also be applied to a process in which an NB-IoT device performs SR in an RRC connected state. An NPRACH procedure based SR transmission method proposed in this section can be performed along with a process of determining a timing advance (TA) or a transmission power level in an RRC idle state.
I-2. Dedicated NPRACH Resources for SR Transmission
Dedicated NPRACH resources for an SR, mentioned in this section, can be defined as distinguishable radio resources that can be used for an NB-IoT device for the SR. Resources used in the SR transmission method using the dedicated NPRACH can be used through one selected from the following options or a combination thereof.
(Option 1) All or some of preambles (and/or tone hopping pattern) that can be used for the NPRACH can be determined to be used for an SR as an example of allocating dedicated NPRACH resources. If all available preambles (and/or tone hopping pattern) are used for the SR, NPRACH operation for the SR can be determined to be distinguished from NPRACH operation for radon access using resources of the time, frequency and/or codeword domains. If only some of preambles (and/or tone hopping pattern) are used for the SR, NPRACH operation for the SR can share the time, frequency and/or codeword domains with NPRACH operation for radon access. Here, NPRACH preambles (and/or tone hopping pattern) for random access can be determined such that preambles (and/or tone hopping pattern) selected for the SR are not used.
(Option 2) As another example of dedicated NPRACH resources, time (and/or frequency) domain resources can be independently allocated for SR operation. Here, time (and/or frequency) domain resources allocated for the SR can be determined such that they do not collide with physical uplink channels for other purposes. If collision occurs, operations of physical uplink channels for other purposes may be temporarily delayed or punctured in order to perform the SR operation.
(Option 3) As another example of dedicated NPRACH resources, a codeword cover can be used. If NPRACH resources other than the codeword cover are shared with NPRACH resources for other purposes, a codeword cover for an SR can be used such that it can be distinguished from the codeword cover used for the conventional NPRACH. If codewords used for dedicated NPRACH resources are used to identify a cell, a codeword used in each cell can be determined not to overlap with that of a neighboring cell.
I-3. Grouping of Dedicated NPRACH Resources
Dedicated NPRACH resources can be divided into groups and used according to purposes. Here, a group may include one or more NB-IoT devices. If a group is configured to include only one NB-IoT device, the NB-IoT device performs contention-free SR transmission. If one or more NB-IoT devices are included in a group, the NB-IoT devices perform contention based SR transmission. Grouping may be performed using one of the following methods or a combination of one or more thereof.
(Method 1) For example, dedicated NPRACH resources can be configured in such a manner that different resources are selected according to coverage levels. This may be for the purpose of providing a repetition level required according to each coverage level of an NB-IoT device. If an eNB does not separately configure a coverage level, an NB-IoT device can determine a coverage level thereof on the basis of a measured value such as RSRP and a threshold value indicated by a specific eNB. If the eNB configures a coverage level, the NB-IoT device can select dedicated NPRACH resources suitable for the coverage level. Here, if the coverage level determined by the eNB differs from a coverage level measured before the NB-IoT device performs SR transmission, the NB-IoT device can perform an operation for receiving dedicated NPRACH resources configured therefor.
(Method 2) As another example, dedicated NPRACH resources can be determined to be identified by an ID of an NB-IoT device. Here, the ID of the NB-IoT device may be determined on the basis of the unique ID of the NB-IoT or determined as a value set by an eNB. This may be for the purpose of identifying dedicated NPRACH resources used between NB-IoT devices. If different dedicated NPRACH resources are configured for respective NB-IoT devices determined to perform SR transmission, the SR transmission can be contention-freely performed.
(Method 3) As another example, dedicated NPRACH resources can be used to indicate the size of information to be transmitted by an NB-IoT device on uplink. Here, the NB-IoT device selects dedicated NPRACH resources through which the NB-IoT device will perform SR on the basis of the BSR thereof. Here, an eNB can indicate information about the criteria for selection to the NB-IoT through higher layer signaling. In this case, an operation of the NB-IoT device to additionally transmit the BSR when the eNB allocates an uplink grant can be omitted.
I-4. Configuration of Dedicated NPRACH Resources
Dedicated NPRACH resources can be configured by an eNB. Here, configuration related information can be indicated to an NB-IoT device through higher layer signaling. In addition, the NB-IoT device can maintain some of information acquired in an RRC connected state in an RRC idle state. According to the proposition, the NB-IoT device can acquire information about an SR in an RRC connected state and perform SR transmission in an RRC idle state using the information.
Dedicated NPRACH resources acquired in an RRC connected state can be used only for a specific period (e.g., TSR) from a specific time (e.g., no). Accordingly, the dedicated NPRACH resources may be configured not to be used when the specific period TSR ends. Here, a time at which RRC connection release is triggered by an eNB can be used as an example of the specific time n0. Here, information about the specific period TSR can be transmitted through higher layer signaling in a process in which the eNB provides information related to an SR to the NB-IoT device in the RRC connected state. According to this method, dedicated NPRACH resources for an SR can be controlled per NB-IoT device. Alternatively, the information about the specific period TSR can be transmitted from the eNB to the NB-IoT device through information that can be acquired in an RRC idle state, such as SIB. This method can transmit varying SR information even to NB-IoT devices in an RRC idle state while commonly controlling SR operations of all NB-IoT devices.
When an NB-IoT device fails in SR operation by a specific number of times ntry or more, acquired dedicated NPRACH resources may not be used any more. Here, information about the specific number of times ntry can be transmitted through higher layer signaling in a process in which the eNB provides information related to an SR to an NB-IoT device in an RRC connected state. Alternatively, the information about the specific number of times ntry, can be transmitted from the eNB to the NB-IoT device through information that can be acquired in an RRC idle state, such as SIB.
When the eNB intends to change an SR operation method in a situation in which some NB-IoT devices have already acquired SR related information, the eNB can indicate a change in SR operation through a signal that can be acquired by an NB-IoT device in an RRC idle state, such as SIB. For example, when the eNB indicates a change in SR information through SIB, NB-IoT devices may not use the existing information about the SR any more.
I-5. BSR Transmission
When SR is performed using dedicated NPRACH resources, BSR can be transmitted using the dedicated NPRACH resources. Specifically, an NB-IoT device can be assigned one or more dedicated NPRACH resources for an SR. Here, the resources may be determined to correspond to buffer states having different sizes. Information about the size of a buffer state corresponding to the index of each resource can be transmitted through higher layer signaling in a process in which the eNB delivers configuration with respect to an SR to an NB-IoT device in an RRC connected state. Alternatively, the information about the size of a buffer state corresponding to the index of each resource may be transmitted cell-commonly through a signal that can be acquired by an NB-IoT device in an RRC idle state, such as SIB.
If when the size of BSR cannot be identified through dedicated NPRACH resources, an NB-IoT device can transmit BSR thereof through the third message (i.e., MSG 3) in a random access procedure.
II. Second Disclosure
In this section, details necessary for an SR when an NB-IoT device is in an RRC connected state are described. Specifically, a case in which an additional uplink control channel for SR transmission is not present is considered in this section. In addition, a situation in which additional resources for SR transmission are allocated is considered in this section. Although a method of allocating resources using a physical channel carrying ACK/NACK when an uplink control channel for SR transmission is not present will be described, this is merely an example and the present invention can be extended and applied to other uplink channels. In addition, uplink resources additionally allocated for an SR are represented as SR resources.
II-1. SR Transmission During Downlink Procedure
An NB-IoT device can use a physical channel carrying ACK/NACK in order to transmit an SR. Specifically, when the NB-IoT device receives downlink data, the NB-IoT device transmits a HARQ (Hybrid Automatic Retransmit reQuest) ACK/NACK (acknowledgement/negative-acknowledgement) signal using NPUSCH format 2. Here, an SR can be included and transmitted in NPUSCH format 2 in this section.
When an SR is transmitted using NPUSCH format 2, NPUSCH format 2 including the SR and NPUSCH format 2 that does not include the SR can be transmitted through different radio resources. Accordingly, NPUSCH format 2 including the SR and NPUSCH format 2 that does not include the SR can be discriminated from each other using the radio resources.
Here, a subcarrier index can be used to represent the SR using NPUSCH format 2. For example, an NB-IoT device can divide subcarrier resources for NPUSCH format 2 into subcarriers for SR transmission and subcarriers for other purposes. Alternatively, NPUSCH format 2 including the SR and NPUSCH format 2 that does not include the SR may be discriminated from each other on time resources, for example, using a subframe index. More specifically, an NB-IoT device may divide ACK/NACK timing delay for NPUSCH format 2 into first timing delay for SR transmission and second timing delay for other purposes and use the timing delays, for example. Alternatively, a codeword cover may be used to identify NPUSCH format 2 including the SR. A codeword cover can be applied as a resource unit (e.g., a symbol, a slot or a subframe) composed of one or more symbols in the time domain. Here, the codeword may not be applied when an SR is not transmitted and may be applied when an SR is transmitted in consideration of backward compatibility. As a specific example, when ACK/NACK is transmitted using NPUSCH format 2 in NB-IoT, a codeword cover of [c0 c1 c2 c3] can be applied to a data part. Here, a codeword may be generated in the form of [1 −1 1 −1] to satisfy orthogonality on the assumption that a codeword of [1 1 1 1] is used in transmission without an SR. FIG. 11 shows an example in which codeword covers are applied to a case in which a subcarrier spacing of 15 kHz is used and a case in which a subcarrier spacing of 3.75 kHz is used.
In addition, as a method for representing an SR using NPUSCH format 2, QPSK constellation may be used. For example, mapping may be performed using 1 and −1 when only an ACK/NACK signal is transmitted without an SR and mapping may be performed using j and −j when an ACK/NACK signal and an SR are transmitted together. Here, an NB-IoT device may conform to r/4 rotation rule as a conventional phase rotation rule irrespective of whether an ACK/NACK signal is transmitted. This may be for the purpose of achieving uniform DMRS transmission at all time while preventing PAPR from increasing.
A procedure for configuring radio resources necessary to perform SR may be one of the following methods.
(Method 1) Distinguishable radio resources used to distinguish whether an SR is transmitted may be configured using DCI. Here, an NB-IoT device that monitors the DCI may be limited to an NB-IoT device configured to perform SR in an RRC connection establishment procedure. This may be for the purpose of identifying an NB-IoT device that cannot support SR operation and transmitting DCI. To this end, an NB-IoT device may need to transmit SR capability thereof to an eNB when or before RRC connection is established.
(Method 2) Radio resources of an ACK/NACK signal used for SR transmission may be defined as an offset with respect to radio resources of an ACK/NACK signal used when an SR is not transmitted. Here, the value of the offset can be transmitted to an NB-IoT device through higher layer signaling in an RRC connection establishment procedure. Here, the NB-IoT device to which the offset is applied may be limited to an NB-IoT device configured to transmit an SR in an RRC connection establishment procedure. This may be for the purpose of allowing an eNB to check whether the NB-IoT device needs to transmit an SR and perform scheduling such that the SR does not collide with other radio resources. To this end, the NB-IoT device can transmit information about SR capability thereof to the eNB when or before RRC connection is established.
When the NB-IoT device is configured to transmit an SR in an RRC connection procedure, the NB-IoT device can determine whether to transmit the SR according to information indicated by DCI. This may be for the purpose of improving scheduling flexibility from the viewpoint of the eNB. When (Method 1) is used and a plurality of radio resources of NPUSCH format 2, indicated by DCI, are identical, the NB-IoT device may not perform SR transmission in corresponding ACK/NACK signal transmission. If (Method 2) is used, DCI may include a bit indicating whether an SR is transmitted.
II-3. Collision Handling
In this section, a method of selecting one of two SR resources when periods in which an SR can be transmitted collide when an NB-IoT device separately allocated uplink resources for SR transmission transmits SR using ACK/NACK resources upon reception of downlink data is described. Methods described below are applicable to cases in which collision between two SR resources occurs in some periods as well as cases in which collision between the two SR resources occurs in all periods.
As described above, when two differently configured two SR resources overlap, the NB-IoT device can select one of the SR resources and simultaneously transmit an ACK/NACK signal and an SR.
As a method, the NB-IoT device can abandon use of separately allocated dedicated SR resources and transmit an SR using resources for an ACK/NACK signal when two SR resources overlap. This may be for the purpose of preventing the NB-IoT device from repeatedly transmitting an SR and separately operating dedicated SR resources. Further, the eNB can dynamically configure uplink resources for utilization of resources optimized at the corresponding transmitting time.
On the other hand, when two SR resources overlap, the NB-IoT device can attempt to transmit an ACK/NACK signal and an SR using dedicated SR resources. This may be for the purpose of preventing the NB-IoT device from repeatedly transmitting an SR and preventing an operation of allocating separate resources for the ACK/NACK signal from being performed. In this case, bits for ACK/NACK resource scheduling included in DCI may include predetermined known bits (e.g., all zero value) in order to improve decoding performance or may be used for other purposes. If the bits for ACK/NACK resource scheduling are determined to be used for other purpose but the NB-IoT device does not require the purposes, the bits may be regarded as reserved bits and processed.
As another method of selecting one of two SR resources, the NB-IoT device may be configured to select one of the SR resources on the basis of a repetition number of each SR resource or a code rate. For example, the NB-IoT device may select an SR resource with a higher repetition number or an SR resource configured at a lower code rate. This may be for the purpose of securing SR transmission reliability. Here, if the two resources have the same repetition number or the same code rate, a resource may be determined using one of the above-described selection methods.
Distinguished from the above description, when SR resources configured differently through the two methods overlap, the NB-IoT device may perform transmission using both the resources. For example, the NB-IoT device may transmit only an ACK/NACK signal through resources configured for the ACK/NACK signal and transmit only an SR through dedicated SR resources. This may be for the purpose of transmitting an SR while maintaining ACK/NACK reliability. As another example, the NB-IoT device may transmit an SR through the dedicated SR resources and repeatedly transmit the SR using ACK/NACK resources at the same time. This may be for the purpose of improving SR reliability by repeatedly transmitting the SR.
II-4. SR Transmission According to Multiple HARQ Processes
In this section, a method of transmitting an SR using resources of an ACK/NACK signal when an NB-IoT device operates one or more HARQ processes is described.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method of determining whether to transmit an SR.
As shown in FIG. 12, an NB-IoT device checks whether one or more HARQ processes are operated.
The NB-IoT device checks DCI upon reception of the DCI through an NPDCCH.
In addition, the NB-IoT device determines whether to transmit an SR using resources for HARQ ACK/NACK signal transmission.
Here, one of the following methods may be used in order to reduce the number of cases in which ACK/NACK reliability decreases due to SR transmission.
(Method 1) When a HARQ process is applied, SR transmission using ACK/NACK transmission resources can be selected on the basis of information indicated by a NDI (New Data Indicator) field in DCI. For example, SR transmission using ACK/NACK transmission resources may be performed only when new data is transmitted. This may be for the purpose of preventing repeated transmission of an SR when retransmission is performed once or more when retransmission is determined and securing reliability of ACK/NACK feedback in a retransmission stage. Alternatively, SR transmission using ACK/NACK transmission resources may be limited to a case in which retransmission is performed. This may be for the purpose of preventing the NB-IoT device from missing initially transmitted downlink data and losing an ACK/NACK signal transmission opportunity.
(Method 2) When a HARQ process is applied, SR transmission using ACK/NACK transmission resources can be determined according to a RV (Redundancy Version) in DCI. For example, SR transmission can be performed only when a specific RV is indicated in DCI. Alternatively, SR transmission may not be performed when the specific RV is indicated in the DCI. Here, one or more RVs may be provided. In this case, an eNB can dynamically control whether an SR is transmitted without additional overhead increase.
(Method 3) When two or more HARQ processes are applied, SR transmission using ACK/NACK transmission resources can be limited to a specific HARQ process ID. In this case, a HARQ process ID to be used can be indicated through higher layer signaling or dynamically indicated through DCI. Alternatively, the HARQ process ID to be used may be changed depending on the number of transmissions. For example, when a HARQ process ID used for SR transmission using ACK/NACK signal transmission resources during initial transmission is #0, HARQ process IDs may be determined in such a manner that the HARQ process ID number increases by one from #0.
II-5. Power Control
When an SR and an ACK/NACK signal are simultaneously transmitted, the number of transmitted bits increases and thus decoding reliability is likely to decrease. To solve such a problem, a method of performing power control when an SR and an ACK/NACK signal are simultaneously transmitted is proposed in this section.
When an SR and an ACK/NACK signal are simultaneously transmitted, a corresponding transport block may use higher power than in other cases.
Specifically, when a repetition number is 1 in an NB-IoT system, a value corresponding to Pcmax that is a maximum power value which can be used by an NB-IoT device for NPUSCH transmission can be used. This may be for the purpose of allowing NPUSCH transmission with higher power by improving a method of setting a maximum power value of an NPUSCH to a value less than Pcmax when a repetition number is 1 defined in the current standards. Specifically, when a maximum power value that can be used for an ACK/NACK signal without an SR in an NB-IoT system is limited to Pcmax, simultaneous transmission of an SR and an ACK/NACK signal can be permitted such that the SR and the ACK/NACK signal are transmitted with a power value greater than Pcmax. Here, when the SR and the ACK/NACK signal are simultaneously transmitted, a power value used therefor can be determined as an offset with respect to Pcmax and the offset value can be transmitted to the NB-IoT device through RRC signaling. Here, when the SR and the ACK/NACK signal are simultaneously transmitted, a power value can be determined by a value Pcmax_SR indicated through RRC signaling. If the NB-IoT device does not transmit an SR even though it is configured to simultaneously transmit the SR and an ACK/NACK signal, the original power value may be used.
II-6. Repetition Number
When an SR is transmitted through NPUSCH format 2, the SR can be simultaneously transmitted using resources for an ACK/NACK signal or resources allocated only for SR. In this situation, different repetition levels may be configured in the respective cases. In this case, a repetition number of NPUSCH format 2 for SR transmission may be determined through one of the following methods.
A repetition number of an SR with an ACK/NACK signal can be determined as a larger one between a repetition number of the SR with the ACK/NACK signal and a repetition number for SR on dedicated resources. ACK/NACK signal resources to which a larger repetition number is applied can be limited to ACK/NACK resources permitted for SR transmission. This may be for the purpose of preventing unnecessary repetition in the case of an ACK/NACK transport block through which SR transmission is not performed. ACK/NACK signal resources to which a larger repetition number is applied can be all ACK/NACK resources. This may be for the purpose of preventing an NB-IoT device that misunderstands allocation of ACK/NACK transport block in which SR transmission is permitted from performing many repetitions to interfere with other NB-IoT devices or from performing less repetition to deteriorate decoding performance of an eNB.
II-7. SR without BSR Procedure
NPUSCH format 2 can include a 1-bit ACK/NACK signal basically. Accordingly, 1-bit information representing whether an SR is transmitted needs to be added to NPUSCH format 2 when the SR is simultaneously transmitted using resources for an ACK/NACK signal.
On the other hand, an on/off keying based method that identifies an SR according to whether a signal or a channel is transmitted can be used for an SR using dedicated SR resources. Accordingly, when the SR using the dedicated SR resources is transmitted using NPUSCH format 2, the aforementioned 1-bit ACK/NACK information and 1-bit additional information representing whether an SR is transmitted may not be required. Here, the aforementioned bit information that can be represented using NPUSCH format 2 may be used for other purposes. For example, when an NB-IoT device uses NPUSCH format 2 in order to transmit an SR, the aforementioned added bit information may be used for the NB-IoT device to request an uplink resource having a specific size. Here, one of the information represented by bits may be used for the purpose of operating an SR which requires a normal BSR procedure. If 1 bit can be further added in addition to information representing an SR using BSR, the bit may be used for the purpose of requesting an uplink grant that assumes a predetermined buffer size. In this case, the eNB can perform an operation of allocating an uplink grant suitable to a fixed buffer size in response to an SR request of the NB-IoT device. The NB-IoT device can omit a BSR procedure and immediately perform uplink data transmission fitted for the designated buffer size after reception of the response. If information of 2 bits or more can be additionally used in addition to the information representing an SR using BSR, each information can be used for the purpose of representing a buffer size intended to be requested. For example, when 3-bit information can be used, the information can be used to represent bit information having sizes of N1, N2 and N3.
If the NB-IoT device transmits an SR that does not require a BSR procedure, modulation and TBS (Transport block size) used in uplink data transmission process can use predefined values.
If the NB-IoT device transmits an SR that does not require a BSR procedure, the size of resources used in the frequency domain may be predetermined in order to obtain latency reduction effect. Specifically, the size of resources used in the frequency domain may be the number of subcarriers or the number of used PRBs. Here, the size of resources used in the frequency domain may be a fixed value determined in the standards. Alternatively, the size of resources used in the frequency domain may be a value set through RRC signaling.
FIGS. 13A and 13B are illustrations of SR transmission procedures.
FIG. 13A shows an example of a procedure carried out when an NB-IoT device performs an SR that requires BSR. FIG. 13B shows an example of a procedure carried out when an NB-IoT device intends to transmit uplink data that does not require BSR and is fitted for a determined buffer size.
II-8. SR Counter and Prohibit Timer
In the conventional SR operation, a transmission time can be determined using an SR counter, an SR prohibit counter and an SR periodicity. In the case of the SR counter, counting starts from an initial SR transmission time, and when a counted value reaches dsr-TransMax because a response to an SR is not continuously received, an SR related procedure is stopped and a random access procedure starts. The SR periodicity refers to a period in which available dedicated SR resources are configured. The SR prohibit timer indicates a position of a dedicated SR resource in which the next SR transmission is permitted from a dedicated SR resource in which SR has been actually performed. The above-described operation is a method applicable when dedicated SR resources are used and a new method for determining an SR transmission time is required if an SR uses ACK/NACK signal resources. To achieve such an object, a method of applying the SR counter, the SR prohibit timer and the SR periodicity when an SR and an ACK/NACK signal are simultaneously transmitted is proposed in this section.
When an NB-IoT device transmits an SR using ACK/NACK resources during NPDSCH reception, the SR counter can increase by 1 whenever the NB-IoT device requests an SR.
If the value accumulated by the SR counter does not exceed a value indicated by dsr-TransMax even after reception of all NPDSCHs ends and when dedicated SR resources configured for the NB-IoT device are present, the NB-IoT device can continuously transmit the SR using the dedicated SR resources. Here, a time when the SR is transmitted using the dedicated SR resources can be determined on the basis of a position at which the dedicated SR resources are configured after a specific time from a last ACK/NACK signal transmission time.
Here, the SR may not be transmitted along with the last ACK/NACK signal when the last ACK/NACK signal is transmitted. Here, the specific time may be determined by the SR prohibit timer. Here, the specific time may be determined by a value additionally configured through higher layer signaling for the aforementioned operation. This may be for the purpose of sufficiently reflecting DRX timing of a search space in which an uplink grant can be received.
If the value accumulated by the SR counter exceeds the value indicated by dsr-TransMax before reception of all NPDSCHs ends, the NB-IoT device may not immediately start a random access procedure. The NB-IoT device may perform the random access procedure after a time when reception of all NPDSCHs ends.
Meanwhile, when the value accumulated by the SR counter reaches the value indicated by dsr-TransMax, the NB-IoT device may perform one of the following options in remaining ACK/NACK resource periods available for SR.
(Option 1) The NB-IoT device can transmit no more SR through resources for ACK/NACK signals. This may be for the purpose of preventing excessive SR request of the NB-IoT device to reduce the influence on ACK/NACK signal reliability.
(Option 2) The NB-IoT device can continuously transmit an SR through the resources for ACK/NACK signals. This may be for the purpose of increasing a probability that the NB-IoT device can receive an uplink grant without a random access procedure.
A time at which the NB-IoT device starts a random access procedure after NPDSCH reception may be determined by a position at which an NPRACH resource is configured after a specific time from the last ACK/NACK signal transmission time. For example, the time at which the random access procedure starts may correspond to a time at which the NPRACH resource is configured.
Here, an SR may not be transmitted along with the last ACK/NACK signal when the last ACK/NACK signal is transmitted. Here, the specific time may be determined by the SR prohibit timer. Here, the specific time may be determined by a value additionally set through higher layer signaling for the aforementioned operation. This may be for the purpose of sufficiently reflecting DRX timing of a search space in which an uplink grant can be received.
When the NB-IoT device transmits an SR using dedicated SR resources, the value of the SR counter does not reach the value indicated by dsr-TransMax, and an NPDCCH needs to be monitored for NPDSCH reception, the NB-IoT device can stop SR transmission using the dedicated SR resources until reception of the NPDSCH ends.
Here, the NB-IoT device can transmit the SR using ACK/NACK resources. Here, the value of the SR counter is not initiated and a value of the SR counter with respect to SR transmission using resources for ACK/NACK signals can be accumulated on the basis of a value of the SR counter with respect to SR transmission using the dedicated SR resources.
When the NB-IoT device transmits the SR using the resources for ACK/NACK signals during NPDSCH reception, one of the following options may be performed.
(Option 1) The value of the SR prohibit timer can be determined by reusing a value of the prohibit timer for SR transmission using the dedicated SR resources. Here, an SR transmission time can be determined on the basis of ACK/NACK signal resources that can be used for SR from closest ACK/NACK transmission timings after the time of the SR prohibit timer expires from a time when the NB-IoT device previously transmits an SR.
(Option 2) The SR prohibit time may be ignored. Here, the NB-IoT device can transmit an SR on all ACK/NACK signal resources that can be used for SR.
When the NB-IoT device transmits an SR using resources for ACK/NACK signals during NPDSCH reception and the NB-IoT device has not acquired DCI within a specific time after transmission of the last ACK/NACK signal,
If the SR counter does not reach dsr-TransMax, the NB-IoT device can start SR transmission using the dedicated SR resources. Here, the SR transmission start time can be determined on the basis of a closest dedicated SR resource after a specific time.
If the value of the SR counter is greater than a value indicated by dsr-TransMax, the NB-IoT device can start a random access procedure. Here, the RACH start time can be determined on the basis of a closest NPRACH resource after a specific time.
In the above description, the specific time may be a value set through a higher layer.
In the above illustrative description, although the methods have been described on the basis of the flowcharts using a series of the steps or blocks, the disclosure of the present specification is not limited to the sequence of the steps, and some of the steps may be performed at different sequences from the above-described steps or may be performed simultaneously with the steps. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the steps shown in the flowcharts are not exclusive and may include other steps or one or more steps of the flowcharts may be deleted without affecting the scope of the present invention.
The embodiment of the present invention may be achieved by various means, for example, hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. This will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a wireless device and an eNB in which the disclosure of the present specification is implemented.
Referring to FIG. 14, a wireless device 100 and an eNB 200 can implement the disclosure of the present specification.
The illustrated wireless device 100 includes a processor 101, a memory 102 and a transceiver 103. Similarly, the illustrated eNB 200 includes a processor 201, a memory 202 and a transceiver 203. The illustrated processors 101 and 201, the memories 102 and 202 and the transceivers 103 and 203 may be implemented as separate chips or at least two blocks/functions may be implemented through one chip.
The transceiver 103 or 203 includes a transmitter and a receiver. When a specific operation is performed, only the operation of one of the transmitter and the receiver may be performed or the operations of both the transmitter and the receiver may be performed. The transceiver 103 or 203 may include one or more antennas that transmit and/or receive RF signals. Further, the transceiver 103 or 203 may include an amplifier for amplifying a received signal and/or a transmitted signal and a bandpass filter for transmission in a specific frequency band.
The processor 101 or 201 may implement functions, processes and/or methods proposed in the present specification. The processor 101 or 201 may include an encoder and a decoder. For example, the processor 101 or 201 may perform operations according to the above description. The processor 101 or 201 may include an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), other chipsets, a logic circuit, a data processing device and/or a converter for converting a baseband signal and an RF signal to each other.
The memory 102 or 202 may include a ROM (Read-Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a flash memory, a memory card, a storage medium and/or other storage devices.
FIG. 15 is a detailed block diagram of the wireless device illustrated in FIG. 14.
Referring to FIG. 15, a transceiver 110 includes a transmitter 111 and a receiver 112. The transmitter 111 includes a DFT (Discrete Fourier Transform) unit 1111, a subcarrier mapper 1112, an IFFT unit 1113, a CP insertion unit 1114 and a wireless transmission unit 1115. The transmitter 111 may further include a modulator. In addition, the transmitter 111 may further include a scramble unit (not shown), a modulation mapper (not shown), a layer mapper (not shown) and a layer permutator (not shown) which may be arranged before the DFT unit 1111. That is, to prevent PAPR (Peak-to-Average Power Ratio) increase, the transmitter 111 allows information to pass through the DFT unit 1111 before mapping a signal to a subcarrier. A signal spread (or precoded in the same sense) through the DFT unit 1111 is mapped to a subcarrier through the subcarrier mapper 1112 and then converted into a signal on the time domain through the IFFT (Inverse Fast Fourier Transform) unit 1113.
The DFT unit 1111 performs DFT on input symbols to output complex-valued symbols. For example, when Ntx symbols are input (Ntx is a natural number), a DFT size is Ntx. The DFT unit 1111 may be called a transform precoder. The subcarrier mapper 1112 maps the complex-valued symbols to subcarriers in the frequency domain. The complex-valued symbols can be mapped to resource elements corresponding to a resource block allocated for data transmission. The subcarrier mapper 1112 may be called a resource element mapper. The IFFT unit 1113 performs IFFT on input symbols to output a baseband signal for data, which is a time domain signal. The CP insertion unit 1114 copies a part of the rear part of the baseband signal for data and inserts the copied part into the front part of the baseband signal for data. ISI (Inter-Symbol Interference) and ICI (Inter-Carrier Interference) are prevented through CP insertion and thus orthogonality can be maintained even in multi-path channels.
On the other hand, the receiver 112 includes a wireless receiver 1121, a CP removal unit 1122, an FFT unit 1123 and an equalizer 1124. The wireless reception unit 1121, the CP removal unit 1122 and the FFT unit 1123 of the receiver 112 perform functions reverse to those of the wireless transmission unit 1115, the CP insertion unit 1114 and the IFFT unit 1113 of the transmitter 111. The receiver 112 may further include a demodulator.
What is claimed is:
1. A method for transmitting a signal for a narrowband physical uplink shared channel (NPUSCH), the method performed by a wireless device and comprising:
applying a code to the signal for the NPUSCH; and transmitting the signal for the NPUSCH in which the code is applied, wherein the code is determined based on whether a scheduling request (SR) is to be transmitted through the signal for the NPUSCH.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the signal for the NPUSCH includes hybrid automatic repeat and request (HARQ) acknowledgement/negative acknowledgement (ACK/NACK) information.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the signal for the NPUSCH is generated based on a NPUSCH format 2.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the code is determined among a first code and a second code based on whether an SR is to be transmitted.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein the first code includes a positive value and the second code includes a negative value.
6. The method of claim 4, wherein
the first code includes at least values of 1, −1, 1 and −1, based on that the SR is to be transmitted through the signal for the NPUSCH.
7. The method of claim 4, wherein
the first code includes at least one negative 1, based on that the SR is to be transmitted through the signal for the NPUSCH, and the second code includes a positive 1, based on that the SR is not to be transmitted.
8. The method of claim 4, wherein the first code is orthogonal with the second code.
9. A wireless device for transmitting a signal for a narrowband physical uplink shared channel (NPUSCH), the wireless device comprising:
a transceiver; and a processor which applies a code to the signal for the NPUSCH and controls the transceiver to transmit the signal for the NPUSCH in which the code is applied, wherein the code is determined based on whether a scheduling request (SR) is to be transmitted through the signal for the NPUSCH.
10. The wireless device of claim 9, wherein the signal for the NPUSCH includes hybrid automatic repeat and request (HARQ) acknowledgement/negative acknowledgement (ACK/NACK) information.
11. The wireless device of claim 9, wherein the signal for the NPUSCH is generated based on a NPUSCH format 2.
12. The wireless device of claim 9, wherein the code is determined among a first code and a second code based on whether an SR is to be transmitted through the signal for the NPUSCH.
13. The wireless device of claim 12, wherein the first code includes a positive value and the second code includes a negative value.
14. The wireless device of claim 12, wherein
the first code includes at least values of 1, −1, 1 and −1, based on that the SR is to be transmitted through the signal for the NPUSCH.
15. The wireless device of claim 12, wherein
the first code includes at least one negative 1, based on that the SR is to be transmitted through the signal for the NPUSCH, and the second code includes a positive 1, based on that the SR is not to be transmitted.
16. The wireless device of claim 12, wherein the first code is orthogonal with the second code.
17. A base station cell for receiving a signal for a narrowband physical uplink shared channel (NPUSCH), the base station comprising:
a transceiver; and a processor which controls the transceiver to receives the signal for the NPUSCH, wherein the signal for the NPUSCH includes a code, which is determined based on whether a scheduling request (SR) is to be transmitted through the signal for the NPUSCH.
18. The base station of claim 17, wherein the signal for the NPUSCH includes hybrid automatic repeat and request (HARQ) acknowledgement/negative acknowledgement (ACK/NACK) information.
19. The base station of claim 17, wherein the signal for the NPUSCH is generated based on a NPUSCH format 2.
20. The base station of claim 17, wherein the code includes
a first code including at least values of 1, −1, 1 and −1, based on that the SR is to be transmitted through the signal for the NPUSCH.
| 2019-03-27 | en | 2019-07-18 |
US-47910509-A | Calorimeter and methods of using it and control systems therefor
ABSTRACT
Control systems and calorimeters using them are provided. In certain examples, a calorimeter comprising a thin film sample sensor, a thin film reference sensor, a first controller configured to receive a temperature signal from only the reference sensor and to generate a first control signal, based on the received temperature signal, to provide average power to the sample sensor and to the reference sensor, and a second controller configured to receive temperature signals from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor and to generate a second control signal, based on the temperature signals received from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor, to provide differential power to only the sample sensor is described. Methods using the control systems and calorimeters are also described.
PRIORITY APPLICATION
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/059,321 filed on Jun. 6, 2008, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD
Certain examples of the technology described herein are directed to a calorimeter. More particularly, in certain embodiments, a differential scanning calorimeter configured to scan at high heating and cooling rates is described.
BACKGROUND
A calorimeter is a device that performs quantitative measurements of the heat required or evolved during a chemical or physical process. Calorimeters may be used, for example, to measure heat capacities, the heats of reaction that may be produced (exothermic) or consumed (endothermic). A calorimeter may also be used to measure physical transitions including, but not limited to, phase changes, crystallization processes and the like.
SUMMARY
In one aspect, a calorimeter is provided. In certain examples, the calorimeter may comprise a thin film sample sensor, a thin film reference sensor, a first controller configured to receive a temperature signal from only the reference sensor and to generate a first control signal, based on the received temperature signal, to provide average power to the sample sensor and to the reference sensor, and a second controller configured to receive temperature signals from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor and to generate a second control signal, based on the temperature signals received from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor, to provide differential power to only the sample sensor.
In certain embodiments, the first controller is a proportional-integral-derivative controller. In some examples, the second controller is an analog proportional controller or, in certain instances, a proportional-integral-derivative controller. In some examples, the first and second controller can be the same controller. For example, the controller can include a first control loop configured to receive a temperature signal from the reference sensor, e.g., from only the reference sensor. The controller can generate a first control signal, based on the received temperature signal, to provide average power to the sample sensor and to the reference sensor. The controller can also include a second control loop configured to receive temperature signals from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor. The controller can generate a second control signal, based on the temperature signals received from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor, to provide differential power to the sample sensor, e.g., provide differential power to only the sample sensor. In other examples, the calorimeter may further comprise a storage medium configured with a temperature program with a selected heating rate and/or cooling rate. In some embodiments, the heating rate of the temperature program may be at least 10 Kelvin/second. In certain examples, each of the thin film sample sensor and the thin film reference sensor can be a XI-296, a XI-270, a XI-272 or a XI-292 sensor. In some examples, the proportional controller may be configured to detect temperature changes at a heating rate of 10 Kelvin/second or more.
In an additional aspect, a control system for a calorimeter comprising a sample sensor and a reference sensor, the control system comprising a first controller configured to receive a temperature signal from only the reference sensor and to generate a first control signal, based on the received temperature signal, to provide power to the sample sensor and to the reference sensor, and a second controller configured to receive temperature signals from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor and to generate a second control signal to provide differential power to only the sample sensor is disclosed.
In certain embodiments, the first controller may be a proportional-integral-derivative controller and the second controller is an analog proportional controller. In certain examples, the first controller and the second controller may each be configured to provide power to a thin film sample sensor and a thin film reference sensor. In some examples, the second controller may be configured to detect temperature changes at a heating rate of 10 Kelvin/second or more.
In another aspect, a method of controlling a calorimeter that includes a reference sensor and a sample sensor is disclosed. In certain examples, the method comprises generating a first control signal using a first controller, the first control signal based on receipt of a temperature signal from only the reference sensor of the calorimeter by the first controller. In some examples, the method may further comprise providing power to the reference sensor and the sample sensor, based the generated first control signal, to control the average temperature of the reference sensor and the sample sensor. In other examples, the method may further comprise generating a second control signal using a second controller, the second control signal based on receipt of a temperature signal from each of the reference sensor and the sample sensor to provide a differential temperature between the reference sensor and the sample sensor. In additional examples, the method may further comprise providing differential power to only the sample sensor, based on the generated second control signal, to heat or cool the temperature of the sample sensor to substantially the same temperature as the reference sensor.
In certain embodiments, the method may include configuring the first controller to be a proportional-integral-derivative controller. In other embodiments, the method may include configuring the second controller to be an analog proportional controller. In additional examples, the method may include heating the sample sensor and the reference sensor at a heating rate of 10 Kelvin/second or more.
In another aspect, a method of facilitating calorimeter control, the method comprising providing a control module comprising a first controller configured to receive a temperature signal from only a reference sensor and to generate a first control signal, based on the received temperature signal, to provide average power to a sample sensor and to the reference sensor is provided. In certain examples, the control module can also include a second controller configured to receive temperature signals from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor and to generate a second control signal, based on the temperature signals received from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor, to provide differential power to only the sample sensor.
Additional features, aspects, examples and embodiments are described in more detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Certain embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying figures in which:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a calorimeter, in accordance with certain examples;
FIG. 2 is a schematic of a conventional control system used in a power compensated differential scanning calorimeter;
FIG. 3 is a schematic of a control system suitable for use with high heating rates, in accordance with certain examples;
FIGS. 4A-4D are photographs of a thin film sensor (XI-296, Xensor Integration, The Netherlands [1]), in accordance with certain examples;
FIGS. 5A-5D are block diagrams of hyphenated devices, in accordance with certain examples;
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a control system suitable for use with high heating rates, in accordance with certain examples;
FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic of a calorimeter assembled for testing metals and polymers and FIG. 7C is a photograph of a thermostat including two sensors, in accordance with certain examples;
FIGS. 8A and 8B show the results of testing metal particles, in accordance with certain examples;
FIGS. 9A and 9B shows the results of melting metal particles at different heating rates, in accordance with certain examples;
FIGS. 10A and 10B show the temperature differences of the sample and reference sensors at different gain settings, in accordance with certain examples;
FIGS. 11A and 11B show the melting and cooling of a polymer, in accordance with certain examples; and
FIG. 12 shows the results of an isothermal crystallization experiment, in accordance with certain examples.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Certain embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a calorimeter that is configured to scan at high heating and cooling rates to measure fast occurring chemical and physical processes that occur, for example, on a timescale too quick for measurement using conventional calorimetric devices. For example, certain examples of the devices disclosed herein may be used to characterize polymers, fibers, films, thermosets, elastomers, composites, pharmaceuticals, foods, cosmetics, as well as organic and inorganic materials that undergo chemical and/or physical processes on a fast time scale. The devices may be used to determine various properties including, but not limited to, glass transition temperature (Tg), melting temperature (Tm), crystallization times and temperatures, heats of melting and crystallization, percent crystallinities, oxidative stabilities, compositional analysis, heat capacities, heats of cure, completeness of cure, percent cure, purities, thermal stabilities, polymorphism, heat set temperatures of recyclates or regrinds. These and other materials and processes may be analyzed using the devices and methods disclosed herein. The response time of certain embodiments of the control systems and devices disclosed herein may be five milliseconds or less, depending on the materials being analyzed and the exact configuration of the device.
In certain embodiments, a calorimeter configured for differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is provided. In DSC, a sample and a reference are used. The difference in the amount of heat required to increase the temperature of the sample and the reference are measured as a function of heat input (temperature). The sample and the reference are maintained at substantially the same temperature during the analysis. A temperature program may be implemented such that the sample holder temperature is increased as a function of time. The reference is selected so that it has a well-defined or known heat capacity over the desired temperature range. Unlike existing calorimeters, certain examples of the calorimeters disclosed herein implement an analog power compensation technique. Illustrative devices implementing such power compensation, optionally along with control and data treatment algorithms and measurements, are described in more detail below.
In a particular type of DSC, power compensation may be used. Power compensation is used to maintain the sample and reference at substantially the same temperature. During operation, power may be provided (or removed) to either the sample or the reference depending on the exact process the sample undergoes. For example, where the sample undergoes an endothermic process, power provided to the reference may be decreased to keep the reference at substantially the same temperature as the sample. Alternatively, the power provided to the sample may be increased. Where the sample undergoes an exothermic process, power provided to the reference may be increased to keep the reference at substantially the same temperature as the sample. Alternatively, power provided to the sample may be reduced to keep the sample and the reference at substantially the same temperature.
In certain systems, conventional DSC systems may not provide sufficient accuracy to study chemical and physical changes occurring on the millisecond or less time scale. For example, in polymers, pharmaceuticals, (amorphous) metal alloys metastability is the rule rather than the exception, and the study of the kinetics of such systems has become an important issue. For a thorough understanding of the kinetics of various temperature- and time-dependent processes related to metastability there is an urgent need for new techniques. There is likewise a great need for equipment enabling the use of high heating rates. In addition, it is important to be able to mimic realistic conditions as occurring during a product's life including processing at high cooling rates.
In certain embodiments, a block diagram of a power compensated DSC is shown in FIG. 1. The device 100 includes a sample holder 110 and a reference holder 120. Each of the sample holder 110 and the reference holder 120 includes each own heating element (not shown). When an exothermic (heat yielded) or endothermic (heat absorbed) change occurs in the sample, power or energy is applied to or removed from one or both of the sample and the reference to compensate for the energy change occurring in the sample. A controller 130 is used to determine whether power should be supplied or removed and to which component such power should be supplied or removed. In effect, this power compensation maintains a “thermal null” state at all times. The amount of power required to maintain the system in equilibrium conditions is directly proportional to the energy changes occurring in the sample.
A typically control system 200 for a DSC is shown in FIG. 2 The control system includes two separate control loops: a first control loop 210 configured to control the average temperature of the standard and reference holders, and a second control loop 220 configured to control the temperature difference between the sample and reference holders. The average control loop 210 compares the arithmetic average of sample and reference temperatures with a temperature program 205. Average power is defined by difference between reference sensor and programmed temperature. The average control loop 210 includes a controller 212 which is electrically coupled to the sample sensor 211 and the reference sensor 221 through interconnects or electrical connections 214 and 216, respectively. The controller 212 is also electrically coupled to the reference sensor 221 through electrical connections 213 and 215. In some examples, the controller 212 may be configured to provide power, or send a signal to another device to provide power, to the heaters of both the sample 211 and reference 221 sensors through electrical connections shown as 216 and 215, respectively. While shown as having separate connections in FIG. 2 for providing power and sensing the temperature, the controller may have a single electrical connection to the sample holder 211 and a single electrical connection to the reference holder 221. If there is a deviation in temperature between the sample 211 and reference 221 holders, then the average control loop is configured to provide the same electrical output to both the sample holder 211 and the reference holder 221. Due to the feedback, the difference between measured average temperature and programmed temperature is minimized. If the temperature desired in the temperature program is greater than the average temperature of the sample holder 211 and the reference holder 221, more power will be provided to each of the heaters, which, like the thermometers, are embedded in the sample holder 211 and reference holder 221 to provide a short response time for the system.
The differential temperature control loop 220 of the DSC shown in FIG. 2 is configured to measure the temperature difference between both the sample holder 211 and the reference holder 221. The differential temperature control loop 220 includes a controller 222 electrically coupled to the sample holder 211 and the reference holder 221 through interconnects 224 and 223, respectively. The controller 222 may also be coupled to the sample holder 211 and the reference holder 221 through connection 226 and 225, respectively, to adjust the differential power increments provided to the sample holder 211 and the reference holder 221. For example, signals representing the sample and reference temperatures, measured, for example, by platinum thermometers of the holders, are provided to the differential temperature amplifier. The differential temperature amplifier output will then adjust the differential power increment provided to the reference and sample heaters in the direction and magnitude necessary to correct any temperature difference between them. In the case of a lower temperature of the sample holder, for example, due to an endothermic transition, additional power may be provided to the sample holder. In order to minimize the difference most effectively and to keep a strict symmetry of the measuring system, the same amount of power may be subtracted on the reference side. This power is recorded and together with the average temperature profile it provides the complete information about the heat flow to the sample. This scheme is implemented, for example, in PerkinElmer DSC calorimeters working up to 8 K/s scanning rate with milligram samples. This control allows for a relatively simple determination of the differential heat flow from the remaining temperature differences between sample and reference cups. In the PerkinElmer differential power compensation DSC, the additional heat needed (or released) during an endothermic (exothermic) event in the sample is finally provided by the average controller because the differential controller does not add or remove heat from the system due to its symmetric operation. In this configuration, the controllers of both control loops must react fast enough to avoid deviations from the programmed temperature. Therefore, it is common practice to use proportional controllers for both controllers of the first control loop 210 and the second control loop 220.
In certain embodiments disclosed herein, the control loop (and more particularly, the average controller 212) shown in FIG. 2 may not respond precisely enough at high heating rates such as, for example, those exceeding 10 K/second to provide adequate measurements. For example, if higher heating rates and sensitivity are desired, the average signal, if generated using the control system of FIG. 2, may contain small and fast events from the nanogram quantities of sample which will not be detected using the conventional control system shown in FIG. 2. To overcome such problems, a control system as shown in FIG. 3 may be used. Similar to the control system of FIG. 2, the control system 300 comprises two control loops 310 and 320 but the configuration and/or function of each of the control loop differs from those shown in FIG. 2. It may be beneficial to separate average and difference control to avoid any cross talk between both control loops 310 and 320. For example, the control reference temperature may be measured without measuring an average temperature of the sample holder. Thus, the sample temperature lead 312 of the first control loop 310 may be omitted, as shown schematically using an “X” in FIG. 3, and reference controller 311 does not measure the average temperature of the sample holder 316. In the average temperature control loop 310, the controller 311 may be electrically coupled only to the reference holder 316 through lead 313 without any direct electrical connection for monitoring the temperature of the sample holder 326. This configuration permits the use of a relatively slow but precise PID controller for the reference temperature control. For example, time resolution for the control of the reference temperature may be orders of magnitude slower compared to the differential controller 321. In addition, output power range (dynamics) of the reference controller 311 is orders of magnitude larger than for the differential controller 321. For example, the differential temperature control loop 320 may have a time constant of about 3 ms, whereas the average temperature control loop 310 has a time constant of about 20 ms. The integral part of the reference controller 311 assures that the difference between program temperature and reference temperature is practically zero. Assuming high symmetry between the reference and sample sensors, the same temperature profile in the sample sensor as in the reference sensor may unexpectedly be achieved by applying substantially the same output voltage of the reference controller 311 to the heaters of the sample sensor 326 and the reference sensor 316 through, for example, connections 314 and 315.
In the second control loop 320, which is the differential control loop, the controller 321 is electrically coupled to the sample sensor 326 and the reference sensor 316, through connections 322 and 323, respectively, and is configured to detect any differences between reference and sample sensor temperatures. The controller 321 can then add or subtract its output voltage solely on (or from) the sample sensor 326. That is, the differential power to the reference holder 316 is not monitored, detected, used or altered using controller 321, as shown in the “X” for the differential power connection to the reference holder 316. Using this configuration to provide a total separation between both of controller 311 and 321, the unexpected results of high heating rates along with high accuracy can be achieved. In addition, this configuration permits the use of a precise (but slow) PID controller for control of the reference temperature and a highly sensitive and fast proportional controller for the differential controller.
In certain examples, the control system shown in FIG. 3 may be used to monitor chemical and physical processes of samples using a heating rate (or cooling rate) of 1 K/second or more, more particularly about 10 K/second or more, for example about 1-10,000 K/second, more particularly 10-1000 K/second, e.g., 10-500 K/second, 10-100 K/second or any value within these illustrative ranges. Such high heating rates and the calorimeters described herein permit the study of chemical and physical transitions that occur on time scales too rapid for study using conventional calorimeters. In some examples, the heating may be linear such that a linear increase between a starting temperature and a final temperature is implemented with the heating rate being the slope of temperature as a function of time. Similarly, once the final temperature is reached, a cooling rate, which may be the same or similar to the heating rate, may be used to study processes during cooling of the sample and reference holders. In other examples, the heating and/or cooling may be stepped, non-linear or may take other forms depending in the material being studied and the desired information therefrom.
In certain embodiments, the control system described herein may be used with conventional calorimetric crucibles or with thin film sample holders, depending on the desired heating rates (or cooling rates). For example, high heating rates may be limited by the mass of the measuring cell. By using thin films, such as those described by Hager, Allen and co-workers and Lopeandia et al., along with the control systems disclosed herein, small amounts of sample may be studied using high heating and cooling rates. In addition, the gap in scanning rate between DSC and fast scanning calorimetric techniques ranging between 8 . . . 102 K/s, an area of interest due to many material processing steps being within this cooling rate range, may be bridged. Illustrative thin film sensors include, but are not limited to, those including XI-296, XI-270, XI-272 and XI-292 commercially available from Xensor Integration, The Netherlands and other sensors including, for example, those described in the van Herwaarden, A. W. article listed herein.
In certain embodiments of the thin film sensors, the sizes and dimension of the films may be selected such that they have a low heat capacity as compared to traditional crucibles or cups used in calorimetry. For examples, instead of using cups with a mass of about 1 gram, the devices disclosed herein may include two high sensitive, low addenda heat capacity thin film sensors, e.g., a XI-296 sensor such as those used for single-sensor fast scanning calorimeters. In certain embodiments, the measuring cell may include a silicon frame having dimensions of about 2.5×5 mm2 fixed on a standard integrated circuit housing, e.g. a TO-5 housing. Calorimeters including the thin films may also include a heater and a thermopile embedded at the center of a freestanding SiN membrane (e.g., 0.5 μm thick) as shown, for example, in FIGS. 4A-4D. FIG. 4A shows the chip (dark) mounted on a TO-5 housing. In FIG. 4B, the thick chip with a silicon frame (dark) and the free standing SiN membrane (light area in the center of the chip) is shown. A more detailed view on the chip is presented in FIG. 4C where the wiring to the measurement area in the center is seen. The arrangement of the heater (thick stripes) and the thermopiles (thin stripes) in the center of the membrane is shown on FIG. 4D. The size of the heated area may vary from about 8 microns to about 100 microns, for example, about 8 microns by 10 microns or about 60 microns by 80 microns. A desired number of thermopiles may be placed in the heated area to allow fast and precise temperature measurement. The thermopiles may be produced using suitable lithographic techniques and p- and n-doped silicon, and the hot junctions are placed just in between the two heater stripes while the cold junctions are placed on top of the silicon frame (FIG. 4C, left and right of the free standing membrane). The thermopiles typically include a series of thermocouples that can measure temperature of and/or provide/take away heat to or near the thin films. The exact type of thermopile used may vary and illustrative types of thermopiles include, but are not limited to, semiconducting thermopiles, and thermopiles including one or more of known types of thermocouples. For example, illustrative thermocouple types include, but are not limited to, Type B (Platinum/30% Rhodium (+) versus Platiumt/6% Rhodium (−)), Type E (Nickel/10% Chromium (+) versus constantan (−)), Type J (Iron (+) versus constantan (−)), Type K (Nickel/10% Chromium (+) versus Nickel/5% Aluminum-Silicon (−)), Type R (Platinum/13% Rhodium (+) versus Platinum (−), and Type S (Platinum/10% Rhodium (+) versus Platinum (−)), as described, for example, in ANSI C96.1-1964. Additional thermocouples such as, for example, pure platinum, platinum palladium, platinum iridium, platinum tungsten and tungsten rhenium thermocouples, however, will be selected by the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure. As detailed herein, many different types of suitable thin films sensors are commercially available from numerous suppliers.
In some examples, the thin film may be configured with five or six semiconducting thermopiles placed inside the heating area with the “hot” junction in the center, and the “cold” junction on the frame of the sensor (see FIGS. 4C and 4D). For fast scanning experiments, such as those where a heating rate of about 10 K/second or more is used, the sample may be placed on the top of the thin film area that is heated so that reliable information about sample temperature for thin samples can be obtained. Otherwise the strong temperature gradients outside the heated area may adversely affect the measurements.
In certain embodiments that implement thin film sensors, one or more suitable algorithms may be used to determine the amount of heat produced or lost. For example, separation of the control loops in the devices disclosed herein makes the calculation of sample heat capacity more difficult in comparison to the symmetric power compensation scheme such as those commonly used in power compensation DSC, but allows going to higher heating rates with reliable average temperature control. In general, the thermal contact between the heater and a thin sample is sufficiently good because of adhesive forces and any residual heat loss may be neglected. The heat capacities and thermal resistances of the thin film-heater and of the thermopile are also negligibly small. The main heat capacity of the cell is the effective heat capacity of the heated part of the membrane, which is about 2×10−7 J/K at room temperature. The system can be described by the following parameters: the effective heat capacity of the central part of the cell C0, the heat capacity of the sample C, and the coefficient of heat exchange, ξ, between the central part of the cell and the environment. The resistive film-heater, about. 1 kOhm resistance, provides the heat flow P0(t), which is supplied to the thin film/sample interface and propagates through the sample, membrane and the ambient gas. Using these variables, the equation of the heat balance may be represented as:
where T(t) and T0 are the temperatures of the heating region and of the environment, respectively, P0 is the power provided to the system, and C and C0 are the heat capacity of the sample and the thin film sensor, respectively. Assuming a perfectly symmetric differential system (both sensors are always at substantially the same temperature), the heat losses to the surrounding (the second term on the right side of the equation), and the addenda heat capacities C0 of both sides are compensated. Then the difference of equation 1 for sample and reference sensors provides the following equation.
Where Pdifference is the difference between the power supplied to the sample and the reference sensors. Pdifference can be obtained from the remaining temperature difference between both sensors and the other quantities measured, see, for example, FIG. 7B, using the calorimeters disclosed herein.
In certain embodiments, the calorimeters disclosed herein may be conjugated or hyphenated to other analytical devices such that measurements other than heat measurements may also be performed on a sample. In some examples, one or more other analytical devices may be conjugated to the calorimeter for additional analysis of the materials being analyzed or for analysis of gases evolved during the calorimetric analysis. Illustrative analytical devices include, but are not limited to, a mass spectrometer (MS), an infrared (IR) spectrometer, a gas chromatograph (GC) and combinations of these techniques. Block diagrams illustrating some hyphenated devices are shown in FIGS. 5A-5D. Such hyphenated devices may be particular useful for evolved gas analysis, where one or more gases is evolved from the sample during a calorimetric measurement. Such gases may be directed or drawn into another instrument or device using suitable devices such as, for example, vacuum pumps, fans, head space sampling and the like. In some examples, a heated tube may provide fluid coupling between the calorimeter and the MS such that species that evolve as gases in the thermal analysis device may be kept as gases during the transfer to the MS. Additional suitable devices and methods for transferring species from a thermal analysis device to a MS will be readily selected by the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 5A, a system 500 may comprise a calorimeter 510, shown as CAL in the figures, coupled to a mass spectrometer 515. The calorimeter 510 may be configured as described herein, for example, with separate control loops. The mass spectrometer 515 may be any mass spectrometer commonly used in chemical analysis such as those commercially available, for example, from PerkinElmer Life and Analytical Sciences, Inc. (Waltham, Mass.). Illustrative mass spectrometers include, but are not limited to, those configured to use or implement a magnetic sector mass analyzer, a quadrupole mass analyzer, an ion trap analyzer, a time-of-flight analyzer, those implementing electrospray deionization and other suitable mass analyzers that may separate species with different mass-to-charge ratios. It may be desirable to include one or more valves, fittings or devices to compensate for the difference in pressure between the calorimeter 510 and the mass spectrometer 515. Such pressure compensation will be achieved by the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 5B, a system 520 may comprise a calorimeter 525 coupled to an infrared (IR) spectrometer 530. The calorimeter 525 may be configured as described herein, for example, with separate control loops. The infrared spectrometer may be any commonly used infrared spectrometers, such as, for example, a continuous wave infrared spectrometer, a single or a dual beam infrared spectrometer, or an interference spectrometer such as a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. Suitable other infrared spectrometers and suitable methods for coupling a calorimeter to an IR device will be recognized by the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 5C, a system 540 may comprise a calorimeter 545 coupled to a gas chromatography system (GC) 550. The calorimeter 545 may be configured as described herein, for example, with separate control loops. The GC 550 may receive evolved gas from the calorimeter 545 and separate species within the evolved gas. For example, it may be desirable to separate gaseous reaction products evolved during the calorimetric analysis. It will be within the ability of the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure, to select suitable GC devices for use with the calorimeters disclosed herein.
Referring to FIG. 5D, a system 560 may comprise a calorimeter 565 coupled to a gas chromatograph 570 which itself is coupled to a mass spectrometer 575. The calorimeter 565 may be configured as described herein, for example, with separate control loops. The GC 570 and the MS 575 may each be, for example, any of the illustrative GC and MS devices discussed in reference to FIGS. 5A and 5C or other suitable GC and MS devices. The illustrative systems shown in FIGS. 5A-5D may also include additional components such as, for example, autosamplers, filters, analysis systems and software, computer interfaces and the like.
In accordance with certain examples, the instrument configurations described herein may be controlled or used with, at least in part, a computer system. The computer systems may be, for example, general-purpose computers such as those based on Unix, Intel PENTIUM-type processor, Motorola PowerPC, Sun UltraSPARC, Hewlett-Packard PA-RISC processors, or any other type of processor. It should be appreciated that one or more of any type computer system may be used according to various embodiments of the technology. Further, the system may be located on a single computer or may be distributed among a plurality of computers attached by a communications network. A general-purpose computer system according to one embodiment may be configured to perform any of the described functions including but not limited to: data acquisition, calorimeter control, data analysis and the like. It should be appreciated that the system may perform other functions, including network communication, and the technology is not limited to having any particular function or set of functions.
For example, various aspects may be implemented as specialized software executing in a general-purpose computer system. The computer system may include a processor connected to one or more memory devices, such as a disk drive, memory, or other device for storing data. The memory is typically used for storing programs and data during operation of the computer system. Components of the computer system may be coupled by an interconnection mechanism, which may include one or more busses (e.g., between components that are integrated within a same machine) and/or a network (e.g., between components that reside on separate discrete machines). The interconnection mechanism enables communications (e.g., data, instructions) to be exchanged between system components. The computer system typically is electrically coupled to an interface on the system such that electrical signals may be provided from the system to the computer system for storage and/or processing.
The computer system may also include one or more input devices, for example, a keyboard, mouse, trackball, microphone, touch screen, analog to digital converter (ADC, DAQ boards), and one or more output devices, for example, a printing device, status or other LEDs, display screen, speaker, digital to analog converter (DAC boards) and the like. In addition, the computer system may contain one or more interfaces that connect the computer system to a communication network (in addition or as an alternative to the interconnection mechanism). The storage system of the computer typically includes a computer readable and writeable nonvolatile recording medium in which signals are stored that define a program to be executed by the processor or information stored on or in the medium to be processed by the program. For example, the heating profiles, heating rates, cooling rates and the like may be stored on the medium. The medium may, for example, be a disk or flash memory. Typically, in operation, the processor causes data to be read from the nonvolatile recording medium into another memory that allows for faster access to the information by the processor than does the medium. This memory is typically a volatile, random access memory such as a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or static memory (SRAM). It may be located in storage system or in memory system. The processor generally manipulates the data within the integrated circuit memory and then copies the data to the medium after processing is completed. A variety of mechanisms are known for managing data movement between the medium and the integrated circuit memory element, and the technology is not limited thereto. The technology is not limited to a particular memory system or storage system.
The computer system may also include specially-programmed, special-purpose hardware, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Aspects of the technology may be implemented in software, hardware or firmware, or any combination thereof. Further, such methods, acts, systems, system elements and components thereof may be implemented as part of the computer system described above or as an independent component.
In some examples, the computer system may be a general-purpose computer system that is programmable using a high-level computer programming language. The computer system may be also implemented using specially programmed, special purpose hardware. In the computer system, the processor is typically a commercially available processor such as the well-known Pentium class processor available from the Intel Corporation. Many other processors are available. Such a processor usually executes an operating system which may be, for example, the Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT, Windows 2000 (Windows ME), Windows XP or Windows Vista operating systems available from the Microsoft Corporation, MAC OS System X operating system available from Apple Computer, the Solaris operating system available from Sun Microsystems, or UNIX or Linux operating systems available from various sources. Many other operating systems may be used. In addition or alternative to a processor, the computer system may include a controller such as for example and 8-bit or 16-bit controller. Other controllers such as 32-bit or higher controller may also be used in place of a processor or in addition to the processor of the computer system.
The processor and operating system together define a computer platform for which application programs in high-level programming languages can be written. It should be understood that the technology is not limited to a particular computer system platform, processor, operating system, or network. Also, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present technology is not limited to a specific programming language or computer system. Further, it should be appreciated that other appropriate programming languages and other appropriate computer systems could also be used.
In certain examples, the hardware or software is configured to implement cognitive architecture, neural networks or other suitable implementations. One or more portions of the computer system may be distributed across one or more computer systems coupled to a communications network. These computer systems also may be general-purpose computer systems. For example, various aspects may be distributed among one or more computer systems configured to provide a service (e.g., servers) to one or more client computers, or to perform an overall task as part of a distributed system. Various aspects may be performed on a client-server or multi-tier system that includes components distributed among one or more server systems that perform various functions according to various embodiments. These components may be executable, intermediate (e.g., IL) or interpreted (e.g., Java) code which communicate over a communication network (e.g., the Internet) using a communication protocol (e.g., TCP/IP). It should also be appreciated that the technology is not limited to executing on any particular system or group of systems. Also, it should be appreciated that the technology is not limited to any particular distributed architecture, network, or communication protocol.
Various embodiments may be programmed using an object-oriented programming language, such as SmallTalk, Basic, Java, C++, Ada, LabView (National Instruments) or C# (C-Sharp). Other object-oriented programming languages may also be used. Alternatively, functional, scripting, and/or logical programming languages may be used. Various aspects may be implemented in a non-programmed environment (e.g., documents created in HTML, XML or other format that, when viewed in a window of a browser program, render aspects of a graphical-user interface (GUI) or perform other functions). In some examples, the desired heating rates, cooling rates, sampling rates and the like may be selected from one or more pull down menus of the graphical user interface. Various aspects may be implemented as programmed or non-programmed elements, or any combination thereof. In certain examples, a user interface may be provided such that a user may enter desired parameters such as, for example, the heating rates, the cooling rates, sample size, initial power and the like. Other features for inclusion in a user interface will be readily selected by the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure.
In certain embodiments, a control system configured to control the temperature of a sample sensor and a reference sensor of a calorimeter is provided. The system is shown in a block diagram in FIG. 6. In certain examples, the control system 600 comprises a first controller 610 and a second controller 620 each electrically coupled to a sample sensor 630 and a reference sensor 640 through at least one electrical connection. The first controller 610 may be configured to receive a temperature signal from the reference sensor 640 through connection 612. The first controller 610 may generate a first control signal based on the temperature signal from the reference sensor 640, e.g., based solely on the temperature signal from the reference sensor 640, and provide power to both the sample sensor 630 and the reference sensor 640 through connections 616 and 614, respectively, based on the generated first control signal. In some examples, the second controller 620 may be configured to receive a temperature signal, from the sample sensor 630 and the reference sensor 640 through connections 626 and 628, respectively. In certain instances, the second controller 620 may generate a second control signal to provide differential power only to the sample sensor 630, based on the generated second control signal, through electrical connection 624. In certain examples, the sample sensor and the reference sensor may each be thin film sensors that can respond rapidly to alter their temperature during high heating rates. The sample sensor and the reference sensor each typically include a sample holder, a heating element (for example, a resistive heating element), and a temperature sensing element (for example, a thermocouple, thermometer or the like). The signals provided to the sample sensor 630, and the reference sensor 640 are suitable signals to increase (or decrease) the heat provided by the heating element of that particular sensor so the sample sensor 620 and the reference sensor 640 may remain at substantially the same temperature during the analysis. In some examples, the first controller 610 may be a PID controller, and the second controller 620 may be a proportional controller or other suitable controller that can detect rapid heat changes that may occur due to high heating rates.
In some examples, the systems disclosed herein may include additional components such as, for example, an autoloader. The autoloader may be configured to load samples (or sensors that include a sample) sequentially into and out of the system such that the system may perform measurements without user intervention or monitoring. The autoloader may comprise, for example, a robotic arm and/or motor that can securely grip the samples/sensors and load them into a desired position in the system. The system may include other electrical components such as operational amplifiers, gain control devices and the like. The system may include a bar code reader so that each sample may be encoded with a bar code and the measurements of each sample can be associated with its respective bar code. Additional components and features for including in the devices and systems disclosed herein will be readily selected by the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure. In some examples, the autoloader may be configured to load only sample, whereas in other examples, the autoloader may load sensor plus sample into the sampling space.
In certain examples, a method of measuring physical or chemical changes using a calorimeter is disclosed. In certain examples, the method comprises controlling a sample sensor and a reference sensor by generating a first control signal using a first controller, the first control signal based on receipt of a temperature signal from only the reference sensor of the calorimeter by the first controller. In some examples, the method may also comprise providing power to the reference sensor and the sample sensor, based the generated first control signal, to control the average temperature of the reference sensor and the sample sensor, e.g., without sensing the temperature of the sample sensor. In other examples, the method may also comprise generating a second control signal using a second controller, the second control signal based of receipt of a temperature signal from each of the reference sensor and the sample sensor to provide a differential temperature between the reference sensor and the sample sensor. In certain embodiments, the method may further comprise providing power to only the sample sensor, based on the generated second control signal, to heat or cool the temperature of the sample sensor to substantially the same temperature as the reference sensor. In certain examples, the method may include configuring the first controller to be a proportional-integral-derivative controller. In other examples, the method may include configuring the second controller to be an analog proportional controller. In certain embodiments, the method may include heating the sample sensor and the reference sensor at a heating rate of 10 Kelvin/second or more, e.g., 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100 Kelvin/second or more.
In certain embodiments, a method of facilitating calorimeter control is provided. Such method may be performed by providing the controller (or control loop) configurations described herein in the form of a control module, for example. In certain examples, the method comprises providing a control module comprising a first controller configured to receive a temperature signal from only a reference sensor and to generate a first control signal, based on the received temperature signal, to provide average power to a sample sensor and to the reference sensor and a second controller configured to receive temperature signals from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor and to generate a second control signal, based on the temperature signals received from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor, to provide differential power to only the sample sensor. The module can interface with existing calorimetric devices or may itself include spaces for a sample sensor and a reference sensor that can be coupled to the controller of the module as described herein.
Certain specific examples are described in more detail below to facilitate a better understanding of the technology disclosed herein.
EXAMPLE 1
Calorimeter Construction
A calorimeter having a control system with two control loops was constructed as follows: two calorimetric sensors, one with sample the other without sample, were placed in a thermostat, as shown in the photograph of FIG. 7C, at a controlled temperature, e.g. 35° C. as indicated in FIG. 7B, and with a selected ambient gas, e.g. helium or nitrogen at 50 kPa or 100 kPa. The sensor was in good thermal contact to the thermostat and the cold junction temperature of the thermopile equaled the thermostat temperature. The sensors were connected to the two control loops as schematically shown in FIG. 7A and in detail in FIG. 7B. Amplifier X1 (SIM910, low output noise, 1 MHz bandwidth voltage amplifier) amplified the thermopile output from the reference sensor 710 and provided it to the PID controller 730 (SIM960, analog PID) which serves as the reference controller for the average temperature control loop 310, as described in reference to FIG. 3. The PID compares the measured reference sensors' temperature with the predefined temperature program 750. The output of the PID was provided to the heater of the reference sensor 710, which was in series with some wire resistors indicated by boxes in FIG. 7B and a constant resistor of 1.5 KOhm allowed measurement of the current through the heater. All voltages needed to recalculate power and finally differential power as needed in Eq. (2) were measured by a DAQ board ME4680 is from Meilhaus Electronic. The board also provided the temperature program (Uprog). Voltage across the heater as well as the constant resistor was measured in four (three) wire connections to compensate for wire resistors. Amplifier X2 (SIM910) amplified the temperature difference signal coming from the thermopiles of the reference 710 and the sample senor 720, which were connected in series. Amplifier X4 (SIM911) was used to add the output from X2 to the output of the PID. X2 and X4 acted as the differential controller described in reference to FIG. 3. The output of X4 was provided to the heater of the sample sensor 720. Again voltage and current to recalculate power and differential power was measured using the configuration shown in FIG. 7B. Input range of X4 was limited to 1 Volt. Therefore the output of the PID (0-10 V) was divided by 10 using resistor R6 so not to overload X4. Adjusting R6 further allowed compensating small differences between the two sensors. X3 (SIM911) amplified the temperature difference signal further and was used for the calculation of the differential power. All amplifiers and the PID were produced by Stanford Research Systems, Inc., and were placed in a Small Instrumentation Modules SIM900—Mainframe, also from Stanford Research Systems, Inc. The latter allowed full control of all functions from the computer via a GPIB interface.
In operation of the device shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, analog devices were used to shorten response time and therefore allow high rate temperature processing. As described above, an analog PID controller was used to control reference sensor temperature and to provide average power to both sensors. The programmed temperature as function of time was supplied to the PID from a computer or controller according to a user-defined temperature profile. As soon as the temperature (thermopile voltage) of the sample side sensor was different from reference sensor temperature, the difference was amplified and added to the voltage that was provided to the sample side heater. The differential control loop consisted of a high frequency analog amplifier so that it had a very fast response time on the order of one or a few microseconds. Differential power and all voltages needed for measurements were collected by the computer using, for example, an ADC/DAC board. The used SRS Small Instrumentation Module analog device frame permitted controlling parameters of the analyses from a computer. The program for managing the experiment and obtaining data was developed using LabView™.
EXAMPLE 2
Metal Testing
For testing the device described in Example 1, melting and crystallization of small (micron diameter) spherical metal particles was studied. For such first order transitions the heat capacity and the resulting heat flow curves are known. Even though the particles were small, the heat of fusion was large compared to the addenda heat capacity of the sensors. Therefore, strong deviations of the programmed temperature profile were detected at low differential gain settings, as described below. The instrument was capable of detecting such transitions and providing differential power to control the calorimeter.
The results of heating single spherical tin particles (about 350 nanograms) with a heating-cooling rate of 500 K/s measured with the device of Example 1 are shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, with the reference sensor being an empty sensor in all the measurements described below. FIG. 8A shows the temperature program and remaining temperature difference between sample and reference sensors. FIG. 8B shows the heat capacity from the data shown in FIG. 8A. On heating, the peak shape is determined by the heat transfer from the sensor to the relatively heavy sample. The well known linear leading edge of the peak is shown in FIG. 8A. From the width of the peak the time for melting (the heat transfer) was estimated as 29 milliseconds. Crystallization on cooling was much faster because of about 100 K supercooling. The crystallization can be considered nearly as a delta function. The response time of the instrument was estimated to be 3 milliseconds. The crystallization peak nicely demonstrated the power of the device in handling fast processes.
Referring to FIG. 9A, the results of heating single spherical tin particles (about 35 nanograms) using a single sensor device, as described in the Minakov (Rev. Sci. Instr. 2007) article listed below, and the device of Example 1 are shown. In FIG. 9A, the melting curves for the small tin sample were compared for the single sensor chip calorimeter without active control and the power-compensated differential chip calorimeter at different heating rates. While the single sensor device yielded very round curves, the differential device of Example 1 provided the expected triangle like melting curves as known from power compensation DSCs. The differential setup provided more realistic data with less distortion by the instrument. FIG. 9B shows placement of the sample on the sensor.
The effect of differential gain settings using the device of Example 1 was determined using about 350 micrograms of a tin sample, with the settings for the reference controller remaining constant. The single spherical particles were melted using a heating rate of 1,000 K/s and the different, differential gain settings. FIG. 10A shows the remaining temperature difference at different gains. FIG. 10B shows the power difference, calculated from the data shown in FIG. 10A. The inset of FIG. 10B shows the peak area as a function of gain setting. At low gain settings, the melting peak was much broader than for higher gain settings. Not enough heat was provided to the sample sensor, and consequently to the sample, allowing the sample to melt as fast as limited by the heat transfer (thermal resistor) between the sensor and the sample. Only at high gain settings was the limit reached, and a limiting shape of the peak is observed in FIG. 10A. At low gain settings, prerequisites for the power determination like equal temperature for reference and sample sensor are not fulfilled during melting. Therefore, the area (see inset of FIG. 10B), is smaller and reaches the true value only for gain settings above 10.
EXAMPLE 3
Polymer Testing
Polymers are known to show strong kinetic effects on crystallization and melting at high rates. An example of a polymer melting curve is shown in FIG. 11A. 20 nanograms of isotactic polypropylene (iPP), as shown deposited on the sensor in FIG. 11B, was melted and/or cooled at various rates. The inset of FIG. 11A shows the temperature profile. At rates below 200 K/second, crystallization was observed at cooling. The crystallization peak shifted to lower temperatures at increasing cooling rates and disappeared for rates above 200 K/s. On heating, cold crystallization was observed even at heating rates of 10,000 K/s. The glass transition at about 270 K as well as the cold crystallization shifted to higher temperatures with increasing heating rates. Only the position of the melting peak was more or less rate independent because of the very fast reorganization of the polymer crystals on heating. The rate independent position of the melting peak demonstrated that there was no significant thermal lag in the system; a consequence of the power compensation. As seen in FIG. 11A, the heat capacity values outside the transitions, for example, below glass transition and above melting, were basically rate independent. Thus, this example confirmed the device was working as intended.
Because of the absence of any crystallization on cooling, isothermal crystallization experiments for isotactic polypropylene may be performed at any temperature. An example of this type of measurement is shown in FIG. 12. After a quench at 323 K at 1000 K/second, the temperature difference between the sample and reference sensors equilibrated within about five milliseconds. After that time, the exothermic crystallization process manifested itself as an increase in temperature of the sample sensor as shown in the inset of FIG. 12. Even though there was a temperature increase, the measurement can be considered as isothermal because the increase is only about 0.5 K or less.
The following articles are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
1. van Herwaarden A W. Overview of calorimeter chips for various applications. Thermochim Acta 2005:432(2):192-201.
2. Pijpers M F J, Mathot V B F, Goderis B, Scherrenberg R, van der Vegte E. High-speed calorimetry for the analysis of kinetics of vitrification, crystallization and melting of macromolecule. Macromolecules 2002:35(9):3601-3613.
3. Brucato V, Piccarolo S, La Carrubba V. An experimental methodology to study polymer crystallization under processing conditions. The influence of high cooling rates. Chem Eng Sci 2002:57(19):4129-4143.
4. O'Neill M J. The analysis of a temperature-controlled scanning calorimeter. Anal Chem 1964:36(7):1238-1245.
5. Watson E S, O'Neill M O, Justin J, Brenner N. A differential scanning calorimeter for quantitative differential thermal analysis. Anal Chem 1964:36(7):1233-1238.
6. Hager N E. Thin heater calorimeter. Rev Sci Instrum 1964:35(5):618-624.
7. Allen L H, Ramanath G, Lai S L, Ma Z, Lee S, Allman D D J, Fuchs K P. 1000 000 “CIS thin film electrical heater: In situ resistivity measurements of and I TiISi thin films during ultra rapid thermal annealing. Appl Phys Lett 1994:64(4):417-419.
8. Efremov M Y, Olson E A, Zhang M, Schiettekatte F, Zhang Z, Allen L H. Ultrasensitive, fast, thin-film differential scanning calorimeter. Rev Sci Instrum 2004:75(1):179-191.
9. Lopeandia A F, Valenzuela J, Rodríguez-Viejo J. Power compensated thin film calorimetry at fast heating rates. Sensors and Actuators A: Physical 2008:143(2):256-264.
10. Minakov A A, Schick C. Ultrafast thermal processing and nanocalorimetry at heating and cooling rates up to 1 MK/s. Rev Sci Instr 2007:78(7):073902-073910.
11. Adamovsky S A, Minakov A A, Schick C. Scanning microcalorimetry at high cooling rate. Thermochim Acta 2003:403(1):55-63.
12. De Santis F, Adamovsky S, Titomanlio G, Schick C. Scanning nanocalorimetry at high cooling rate of isotactic polypropylene. Macromolecules 2006:39:2562-2567.
13. Minakov A, Wurm A, Schick C. Superheating in linear polymers studied by ultrafast nanocalorimetry. Eur Phys J E Soft Matter 2007:23(1):43-53.
14. Tol R T, Minakov A A, Adamovsky S A, Mathot V B F, Schick C. Metastability of polymer crystallites formed at low temperature studied by Ultra fast calorimetry* Polyamide 6 confined in sub-micrometer droplets vs bulk PA6. Polymer 2006:47(6):2172-2178.
15. Minakov A A, Mordvintsev D A, Schick C. Melting and Reorganization of Poly(ethylene Terephthalate) on Fast Heating (1,000 K/s). Polymer 2004:45(11):3755-3763.
16. Minakov A A, Mordvintsev D A, Schick C. Isothermal reorganization of poly(ethylene terephthalate) revealed by fast calorimetry (1000 K s-1; 5 ms). Faraday Discuss 2005:128:261-270.
When introducing elements of the examples disclosed herein, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,” “including” and “having” are intended to be open ended and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. It will be recognized by the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure, that various components of the examples can be interchanged or substituted with various components in other examples.
Although certain features, aspects, examples and embodiments have been described above, additions, substitutions, modifications, and alterations of the disclosed illustrative features, aspects, examples and embodiments will be readily recognized by the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure. To the extent that the meaning of any terms in the publications incorporated herein by reference conflict with those used in the instant disclosure, the meaning of the terms in the instant disclosure are intended to be controlling.
1. A calorimeter comprising:
a thin film sample sensor; a thin film reference sensor; a first controller configured to receive a temperature signal from only the reference sensor and to generate a first control signal, based on the received temperature signal, to provide average power to the sample sensor and to the reference sensor; and a second controller configured to receive temperature signals from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor and to generate a second control signal, based on the temperature signals received from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor, to provide differential power to only the sample sensor.
2. The calorimeter of claim 1, in which the first controller that is a proportional-integral-derivative controller.
3. The calorimeter of claim 2, in which the second controller is an analog proportional controller.
4. The calorimeter of claim 3, further comprising a storage medium configured with a temperature program with a selected heating rate and/or cooling rate.
5. The calorimeter of claim 4, in which the heating rate of the temperature program is at least 10 Kelvin/second.
6. The calorimeter of claim 1, in which each of the thin film sample sensor and the thin film reference sensor is a XI-296 sensor, a XI-270 sensor, a XI-272 sensor or a XI-292 sensor.
7. The calorimeter of claim 2, in which the proportional controller is configured to detect temperature changes at a heating rate of 10 Kelvin/second or more.
8. A control system for a calorimeter comprising a sample sensor and a reference sensor, the control system comprising:
a first controller configured to receive a temperature signal from only the reference sensor and to generate a first control signal, based on the received temperature signal, to provide power to the sample sensor and to the reference sensor; and a second controller configured to receive temperature signals from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor and to generate a second control signal to provide differential power to only the sample sensor.
9. The control system of claim 8, in which the first controller is a proportional-integral-derivative controller and the second controller is an analog proportional controller.
10. The control system of claim 9, in which the first controller and the second controller are configured to provide power to a thin film sample sensor and a thin film reference sensor.
11. The control system of claim 8, in which the second controller is configured to detect temperature changes at a heating rate of 10 Kelvin/second or more.
12. The control system of claim 8, in which the second controller is a proportional-integral-derivative controller.
13. A method of controlling a calorimeter that includes a reference sensor and a sample sensor, the method comprising:
generating a first control signal using a first controller, the first control signal based on receipt of a temperature signal from only the reference sensor of the calorimeter by the first controller; providing power to the reference sensor and the sample sensor, based on the generated first control signal, to control the average temperature of the reference sensor and the sample sensor; generating a second control signal using a second controller, the second control signal based of receipt of a temperature signal from each of the reference sensor and the sample sensor to provide a differential temperature between the reference sensor and the sample sensor; and providing differential power to only the sample sensor, based on the generated second control signal, to heat or cool the temperature of the sample sensor to substantially the same temperature as the reference sensor.
14. The method of claim 13, further comprising configuring the first controller to be a proportional-integral-derivative controller.
15. The method of claim 14, further comprising configuring the second controller to be a proportional-integral-derivative controller.
16. The method of claim 13, further comprising heating the sample sensor and the reference sensor at a heating rate of 10 Kelvin/second or more.
17. The method of claim 13, in which the second controller is an analog proportional controller.
18. A method of facilitating calorimeter control, the method comprising providing a control module comprising a first controller configured to receive a temperature signal from only a reference sensor and to generate a first control signal, based on the received temperature signal, to provide average power to a sample sensor and to the reference sensor and a second controller configured to receive temperature signals from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor and to generate a second control signal, based on the temperature signals received from both the sample sensor and the reference sensor, to provide differential power to only the sample sensor.
| 2009-06-05 | en | 2010-02-25 |
US-63199109-A | Barrier film and laminated material, container for wrapping and image display medium using the same, and manufacturing method for barrier film
ABSTRACT
An object of the present invention is to provide a barrier film having the extremely high barrier property and the better transparency, a method for manufacturing the same, and a laminated material, a container for wrapping and an image displaying medium using the barrier film. According to the present invention, there is provided a barrier film provided with a barrier layer on at least one surface of a substrate film, wherein the barrier layer is a silicon oxide film having an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:C=100:140 to 170:20 to 40, peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration between 1060 to 1090 cm −1 , a film density in a range of 2.6 to 2.8 g/cm 3 , and a distance between grains of 30 nm or shorter. Still more, there is provided a barrier film provided with a barrier layer on at least one surface of a substrate film, has a composition wherein the barrier layer is a silicon oxi-nitride film, and the silicon oxi-nitride film has an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:N:C=100:60 to 90:60 to 90:20 to 40, a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration is in a range of 820 to 930 cm −1 , a film density is in a range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cm 3 , and a distance between grains is 30 nm or shorter.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a barrier film having the extremely high barrier property which is used as a wrapping material for foods, medical products and the like, a packaging material for electronic devices and the like, or a substrate material, a method for manufacturing the same, and a laminated material, a container for wrapping and an image displaying medium using this barrier film.
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventionally, as a wrapping material having the barrier property to an oxygen gas and water vapor, and the better storage suitability for foods, medical products and the like, various materials have been developed and proposed, such as a barrier film having a composition in which a coating layer of polyvinilidene chloride or an ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer is provided on a flexible plastic substrate.
However, in these barrier films, there is a problem that the barrier property to oxygen and water vapor is not sufficient, and the barrier property is remarkably reduced, in particular, at sterilization treatment at a high temperature. Further, a barrier film with a coating layer of polyvinilidene chloride provided thereon generates harmful dioxin at burning, and adverse effect on the environment is concerned.
Therefore, recently, a barrier film having a composition of an inorganic oxide deposition film such as silicon oxide, aluminium oxide and the like is provided on a substrate film, has been proposed. In addition, lamination, of a resin layer comprising an epoxy resin or a mixture thereof with the above-mentioned deposition film, is proposed (JP-A 8-164595).
On the other hand, in an electronic device, for example, in an image displaying device such as flexible display, when a barrier film is used as a substrate for a plastic film base which is a substitute for a glass substrate, or when a barrier film is used as a cover film for a solar cell module, the higher barrier property as compared with the barrier property required in utility of the conventional wrapping (e.g. an oxygen transmission rate is 1.0 cc/m2/day·atm or less, a water vapor transmission rate is 1.0 g/m2/day or less) is required to a barrier film. In addition, the heat resistance and the chemical resistance such as resistance to a high temperature at preparation of a display element and various treating chemicals are required to a barrier film and, further, also after the barrier film is made into products, it is required to maintain a high barrier property under the severe environment such as a resistance to wet heat test.
The conventional barrier film with an inorganic oxide deposition film such as silicon oxide, aluminium oxide and the like provided thereon is excellent in the transparency, and has little influence on the environment, and an its demand for a wrapping material and the like is greatly expected. However, the barrier property of these barrier films is still lower as compared with a laminated material for wrapping using an aluminium foil, and there is a problem in serviceability in use in an electronic device requiring the particularly high barrier property (e.g. an oxygen transmission rate is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, a water vapor transmission rate is 0.1 g/m2/day or less).
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention has been achieved in order to solve the above problems. It is an object of this invention to provide a barrier film having the extremely high barrier property and also a better, transparency, a method for manufacturing the same, and a laminated material, a container for wrapping and an image displaying medium using the barrier film.
In order to achieve the above object, in the first embodiment of the present invention, a barrier film provided with a barrier layer on at least one surface of a substrate film, has a composition wherein the barrier layer is a silicon oxide film, and the silicon oxide film has an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:C=100:140 to 170:20 to 40, peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration is between 1060 to 1090 cm−1, a film density is in a range of 2.6 to 2.8 g/cm3, and a distance between grains is 30 nm or shorter.
In other aspect of the present invention, the barrier film has a composition wherein the barrier layer is provided on the substrate film via a resin layer.
In other aspect of the present invention, the barrier film has a composition wherein a resin layer is provided on the barrier layer.
In other aspect of the present invention, the barrier film has a composition wherein oxygen transmission rate thereof is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, and water vapor transmission rate thereof is 0.1 g/m2/day or less.
In the present invention, a laminated material has a composition wherein a heat sealable resin layer is provided on at least one surface of the above barrier film.
In the present invention, a container for wrapping has a composition wherein the container is obtained by making a bag or a can by heat anastomosing the heat sealable resin layer using the above laminated material.
In addition, in the present invention, a laminated material has a composition wherein a conductive layer is provided on at least one surface of the above barrier film.
In the present invention, an image displaying medium has a composition wherein an image displaying layer is provided on the conductive layer using the above laminated material as a substrate.
In the present invention, a method for manufacturing a barrier film comprises forming a silicon oxide film on a substrate film as a barrier layer wherein the silicon oxide film has an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:C=100:140 to 170:20 to 40, peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration is between 1060 to 1090 cm−1, a film density is in a range of 2.6 to 2.8 g/cm3 and a distance between grains is 30 nm or shorter, by using either of silicon having a sintered density of 80% or higher or silicon monoxide having a sintered density of 80% or higher as a target in the presence of an oxygen gas by a sputtering method.
In other aspect of the present invention, the method for manufacturing a barrier film has a composition wherein the sputtering method is any of a RF sputtering method and a dual magnetron sputtering method.
In other aspect of the present invention, the method for manufacturing a barrier film has a composition wherein a resin layer is provided on the substrate film in advance, and the barrier layer is formed on the resin layer.
In such the present invention, by rendering an atomic ratio in a silicon oxide film, a peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibrations, a film density and a distance between grains in specified ranges, the silicon oxide film becomes to have a compact structure, and a barrier layer comprising this silicon oxide film gives a high barrier property and transparency to the barrier film.
In addition, in the second embodiment of the present invention, a barrier film provided with a barrier layer on at least one surface of a substrate film, has a composition wherein the barrier layer is a silicon oxi-nitride film, and the silicon oxi-nitride film has an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:C=100:60 to 90:60 to 90:20 to 40, a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration is in a range of 820 to 930 cm−1, a film density is in a range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cm3, and a distance between grains is 30 nm or shorter.
In other aspect of the present invention, the barrier film has a composition wherein the barrier layer is provided on the substrate film via a resin layer.
In other aspect of the present invention, the barrier film has a composition wherein a resin layer is provided on the barrier layer.
In other aspect of the present invention, the barrier film has a composition wherein oxygen transmission rate thereof is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, and water vapor transmission rate thereof is 0.1 g/m2/day or less.
In the present invention, a laminated material has a composition wherein a heat sealable resin layer is provided on at least one surface of the above barrier film.
In the present invention, a container for wrapping has a composition wherein the container is obtained by making a bag or a can by heat anastomosing the heat sealable resin layer using the above laminated material.
In addition, in the present invention, a laminated material has a composition wherein a conductive layer is provided on at least one surface of the above barrier film.
In the present invention, an image displaying medium has a composition wherein an image displaying layer is provided on the conductive layer using the above laminated material as a substrate.
In the present invention, a method for manufacturing a barrier film comprises forming a silicon oxi-nitride film on a substrate film as a barrier layer wherein the silicon oxi-nitride film has an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:N:C=100:60 to 90:60 to 90:20 to 40, a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration is in a range of 820 to 930 cm−1, a film density is in a range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cm3 and a distance between grains is 30 nm or shorter, by using silicon nitride (Si3N4) having a sintered density of 60% or higher as a target in the presence of an oxygen gas by a sputtering method.
In other aspect of the present invention, the method for manufacturing a barrier film has a composition wherein the sputtering method is a RF sputtering method.
A method for manufacturing a barrier film of the present invention comprises forming, as a barrier layer, a silicon oxi-nitride film having an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:N:C=100:60 to 90:60 to 90:20 to 40, a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration in a range of 820 to 930 cm−1, a film density in a range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cm3, and a distance between grains of 30 nm or shorter, on a substrate film, using silicon having an electric resistivity of 0.2 Ωcm or less as a target in the presence of an oxygen gas and a nitrogen gas by a sputtering method.
In other aspect of the present invention, the sputtering method is a dual magnetron sputtering method or a RF sputtering method.
In other aspect of the present invention, the method for manufacturing a barrier film has a composition wherein a resin layer is provided on the substrate film in advance, and the barrier layer is formed on the resin layer.
In such the present invention, by rendering an atomic ratio in a silicon oxi-nitride film, a maximum peak of an infrared-ray absorbing band due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration, a film density and a distance between grains in specified ranges, the silicon oxi-nitride film becomes to have a compact structure, and a barrier layer comprising this silicon oxi-nitride film gives a high barrier property and transparency to the barrier film.
As described above in detail, according to the present invention, a barrier film is provided with a barrier layer on at least one surface of a substrate film, this barrier layer is a silicon oxide film having an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:C=100:140 to 170:20 to 40, peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration is between 1060 to 1090 cm−1, a film density is in a range of 2.6 to 2.8 g/cm3, and a distance between grains is 30 nm or shorter, therefore, the barrier layer has a compact structure, thereby, a barrier film having the extremely high barrier property and the excellent transparency becomes possible.
Still more, according to the present invention, a barrier film is provided with a barrier layer on at least one surface of a substrate film, this barrier layer is a silicon oxi-nitride film having an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:N:C=100:60 to 90:60 to 90:20 to 40, a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration is in a range of 820 to 930 cm−1, a film density is in a range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cm3, and a distance between grains is 30 nm or shorter, therefore, the barrier layer has a compact structure, thereby, a barrier film having the extremely high barrier property and the excellent transparency becomes possible.
In addition, by intervening a resin layer between a substrate film and a barrier layer, a dimensional change in a substrate film at formation of a barrier layer is prevented, and the adhesion between a substrate film and a barrier layer becomes higher, and, thus, a barrier film having a improved barrier property becomes possible.
Further, by provision of a resin layer on a barrier layer, this resin layer functions as a protective film and gives the heat resistance, the chemical resistance and the weather resistance to a barrier film and, at the same time, even when a barrier layer has a defective part, by filling the part, it becomes possible to maintain the high barrier property.
According to the method for manufacturing of the present invention, the barrier film of the present invention can be manufactured simply, and the barrier film of the present invention can be preferably used in utility requiring the extremely high barrier property, for example, wrapping materials for foods, medical products and the like, packaging materials such as electronic devices, and the like.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing one embodiment of a barrier film of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a barrier film of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a barrier film of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing one embodiment of a laminated material using a barrier film of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a laminated material using a barrier film of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a laminated material using a barrier film of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing one embodiment of a container for wrapping using a barrier film of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of a container for wrapping using a barrier film of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a plane view of a blank plate used in manufacturing the container for wrapping shown in FIG. 8.
FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a laminated material using a barrier film of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a dual-cathode type sputtering apparatus used in example 3.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Next, embodiments of the present invention will be explained by referring to the drawings.
(Barrier Film)
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing one embodiment of a barrier film of the present invention. In FIG. 1, a barrier film 1 is provided with a substrate film 2, and a barrier layer 3 formed on one surface of this substrate film 2. Still more, a barrier film 1 of the present invention may be provided with a barrier layer 3 on both surfaces of a substrate film 2.
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a barrier film of the present invention. In FIG. 2, a barrier film 11 is provided with a substrate film 12, and a barrier layer 13 formed on one surface of this substrate film 12 via a resin layer 19. Still more, a barrier film 11 of the present invention may be such that a resin layer 14 and a barrier layer 13 are laminated on both surfaces of a substrate film 12. Still more, a barrier film 11 may be formed by repeating lamination of a resin layer 14 and a barrier layer 13 for two or more times.
In addition, FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a barrier film of the present invention. In FIG. 3, a barrier film 21 is provided with a substrate film 22, and a barrier layer 23 and a resin layer 24 which are laminated in this order on one surface of this substrate film 22. Still more, a barrier film 21 of the present invention may be such that a barrier layer 23 and a resin layer 24 are laminated in this order on both surfaces of a substrate film 22. Still more, a barrier film 21 may be formed by repeating lamination of a barrier layer 23 and a resin layer 24 for two or more times.
Then, each constituent member of the above-mentioned barrier film of the present invention will be explained.
(Substrate Film)
A substrate film constituting a barrier film of the present invention is not particularly limited as far as the film can retain a barrier layer, or a barrier layer and a resin layer, and can be appropriately selected depending on intended use of a barrier film. Specifically, as a substrate film, oriented (monoaxial or biaxial) or non-oriented flexible transparent resin films of polyolefin series resins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutene and the like; amorphous polyolefin series resins such as cyclic polyolefin and the like; (meth) acrylic series resins; polyvinyl chloride series resins; polystyrene series resins; saponified ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer; polyvinyl alcohol series resins such as polyvinyl alcohol resin, ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer and the like; polycarbonate series resins; polyvinyl butyrate resins; polyalylate resins; fluorine series resins such as ethylene-ethylene tetrafluoride copolymer, ethylene chloride trifluoride, ethylene tetrafluoride-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer, vinylidene fluoride, vinyl fluoride, perfluoro-perfluoropropylene-perfluorovinyl ether copolymer and the like; polyvinyl acetate series resins; acetal series resins; polyester series resins such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene 2,6-naphthalate (PEN) and the like; polyamide series resins such as nylon (trade name) 6, nylon (trade name) 12, copolymerized nylon (trade name) and the like; polyimide resins; polyetherimide resins; polysulfone resins; polyethersulfone resins; polyether ether ketone resins can be used. A thickness of a substrate film can be appropriately set in a range of 5 to 500 μm, preferably 10 to 200 μm.
(Barrier Layer)
A barrier layer constituting a barrier film of the first embodiment of the present invention is a silicon oxide film having an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:C=100:140 to 170:20 to 40. In this silicon oxide film, peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration is between 1060 to 1090 cm−1, a film density is in a range of 2.6 to 2.8 g/cm3, preferably 2.7 to 2.8 g/cm3, and a distance between grains is 30 nm or less, preferably in a range of 10 to 30 nm, more preferably 10 to 20 nm. A distance between grains reflects a growing nucleus distribution density at preparation of a silicon oxide film and, when there are many growing nuclei, and a film is manufactured elaborately, micro crystals (grains) cover a substrate film or a resin layer without any gap.
When an atomic ratio, a peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration, a film density and a distance between grains of a silicon oxide film which is a barrier layer are out of the above-mentioned ranges, elaboration of a silicon oxide film is reduced, the extremely high barrier property (indicates an oxygen transmission rate is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, a water vapor transmission rate is around 0.1 g/m2/day or less) can not be obtained, a silicon oxide film becomes hard and brittle, and the durability is reduced, being not preferable.
Herein, in the present invention, the above-mentioned an atomic ratio is measured by a photoelectron spectroscopy (Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis; ESCA). In addition, the infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration is measured using a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (Herschel FT-IR-610 manufactured by JASCO Corporation) provided with a multiple reflection (Attenuated Total Reflection; ATR) measuring apparatus. In addition, the above-mentioned film density is measured with a X-ray reflectivity measuring apparatus (ATX-E manufactured by Rigaku Corporation). Further, the above-mentioned distance between grains is measured by using an atom force microscope (AFM) (Nano ScopeIII manufactured by Digital Instruments).
Such the barrier layer can be formed by a sputtering method such as a RF sputtering method, a dual magnetron sputtering method and the like. A thickness of a barrier layer can be appropriately set in a range of 5 to 500 nm, preferably 10 to 100 nm. When a thickness of a barrier layer is less than 5 nm, the extremely high barrier property (indicates an oxygen transmission rate is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, and a water vapor transmission rate is around 0.1 g/m2/day or less) can not be manifested. On the other hand, when a thickness of a barrier layer exceeds 500 nm, a great stress is exerted and, when a substrate film is flexible, a crack is easily caused in a barrier layer, the barrier property is reduced and, at the same time, a time necessary for manufacturing a film becomes longer, being not preferable.
A barrier layer constituting a barrier film of the second embodiment of the present invention is a silicon oxi-nitride film having an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:N:C=100:60 to 90:60 to 90:20 to 40. In this silicon oxi-nitride film, a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration exists in a range of 820 to 930 cm−1, a film density is in a range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cm3, preferably 3.0 to 3.2 g/cm3, and a distance between grains is 30 nm or less, preferably in a range of 10 to 30 nm, more preferably 10 to 20 nm. If there are a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—N stretching vibration, a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration indicates the greater peak. And if there is one maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration, it indicates the peak absorption. A distance between grains reflects a growing nucleus distribution density at preparation of a silicon oxi-nitride film and, when there are many growing nuclei, and a film is manufactured elaborately, micro crystals (grains) cover a substrate film or a resin layer without any gap.
When an atomic ratio, a maximum peak of an infrared-ray absorbing band due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration, a film density and a distance between grains of a silicon oxi-nitride film which is a barrier layer are out of the above-mentioned ranges, elaboration of a silicon oxi-nitride film is reduced, the extremely high barrier property (indicates an oxygen transmission rate is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, a water vapor transmission rate is around 0.1 g/m2/day or less) can not be obtained, a silicon oxi-nitride film becomes hard and brittle, and the durability is reduced, being not preferable.
Herein, in the present invention, the above-mentioned an atomic ratio is measured by a photoelectron spectroscopy (Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis; ESCA). In addition, a maximum peak of the infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration is measured using a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (Herschel FT-IR-610 manufactured by JASCO Corporation) provided with a multiple reflection (Attenuated Total Reflection; ATR) measuring apparatus. In addition, the above-mentioned film density is measured with a X-ray reflectivity measuring apparatus (ATX-E manufactured by Rigaku Corporation). Further, the above-mentioned distance between grains is measured by using an atom force microscope (AFM) (Nano ScopeIII manufactured by Digital Instruments).
Such the barrier layer can be formed by a sputtering method such as a RF sputtering method, a dual magnetron sputtering method and the like. A thickness of a barrier layer can be appropriately set in a range of 5 to 500 nm, preferably 10 to 200 nm. When a thickness of a barrier layer is less than 5 nm, the extremely high barrier property (indicates an oxygen transmission rate is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, and a water vapor transmission rate is around 0.1 g/m2/day or less) can not be manifested. On the other hand, when a thickness of a barrier layer exceeds 500 nm, a great stress is exerted and, when a substrate film is flexible, a crack is easily caused in a barrier layer, the barrier property is reduced and, at the same time, a time necessary for manufacturing a film becomes longer, being not preferable.
(Resin Layer)
A resin layer 14 constituting a barrier film 11 of the present invention is for improving the adhesion between a substrate film 12 and a barrier layer 13, and for improving the barrier property. In addition, a resin layer 24 covering a barrier layer 23 functions as a protecting film and is for giving the heat resistance, the chemical resistance and the weather resistance to a barrier film 21 and, at the same time, for improving the barrier property by filling a defective part even when a barrier layer 23 has the defective part.
Such the resin layer can be formed from one kind, or a combination of 2 or more commercially available resin materials such as polyamic acid, a polyethylene resin, a melamine resin, a polyurethane resin, a polyester resin, a polyol resin, a polyurea resin, a polyazomethine resin, a polycarbonate resin, polyacrylate resin, a polystyrene resin, a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) resin, a polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) and the like, a curing epoxy resin containing a high-molecular weight epoxy polymer which is a polymer of a bifunctional epoxy resin and a bifunctional phenols, and a resin material used in the above-mentioned substrate film, an anchor coating agent used in a laminated material described later, an adhesive, a heat sealable resin material and the like. It is preferable that a thickness of a resin layer is appropriately set depending on a material to be used and, for example, the thickness can be set in a range of around 5 nm to 5×105 nm.
In addition, in the present invention, a non-fibrous inorganic filler having an average particle diameter in a range of 0.8 to 5 μm may be contained in a resin layer. Examples of the non-fibrous inorganic filler to be used include aluminium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, talc, alumina, magnesia, silica, titanium dioxide, clay and the like and, in particular, sintered clay can be preferably used. Such the inorganic filler can be contained in a range of 10 to 60% by volume, preferably 25 to 45% by weight of a resin layer.
Method for Manufacturing Barrier Film
Next, a method for manufacturing a barrier film of the present invention will be explained.
In a method for manufacturing a barrier film of the first embodiment of the present invention, a barrier layer is formed by a sputtering method. As a sputtering method, any of a RF sputtering method and a dual magnetron sputtering method is used. A film is manufactured in the presence of an oxygen gas using silicon having a sintered density of 80% or greater, or silicon monoxide having a sintered density of 80% or greater, as a target. By rendering a density of a target 80% or greater, it becomes possible to form an elaborated silicon oxide film. In addition, since forming a film by the above-mentioned sputtering method is a reactive forming of film, control of oxidation degree is easy and, further, by rendering a distance between a target and a material on which a film is to be formed, and an input electric power adequate, suitable etching is generated in a material on which a film is to be formed at preparation of a film, and a silicon oxide film can be manufactured at a high adhesion. And, a material and film manufacturing conditions to be used can be selected so that an atomic ratio in a manufactured silicon oxide film is in a range of Si:O:C=100:140 to 170:20 to 40, peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration is between 1060 to 1090 cm−1, a film density is in a range of 2.6 to 2.8 g/cm3, preferably 2.7 to 2.8 g/cm3, and a distance between grains is 30 nm or less, preferably in a range of 10 to 30 nm, more preferably 10 to 20 nm.
In addition, in the case of the above-mentioned barrier films 11 and 21 provided with a resin layer as shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, formation of a resin layer can be performed by a dry forming method by a physical deposition method such as previously known vacuum deposition, sputtering, ion plating and the like, a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method and the like, or a wet forming method of coating by a coating method such as roll coating, gravure coating, knife coating, dipping coating, spray coating and the like, thereafter, drying to remove a solvent and a diluent. A forming method can be appropriately selected depending on a material to be used. Still more, by forming a resin layer by a sputtering method, formation of a barrier layer and formation of a resin layer may be performed by in-line in the same film manufacturing apparatus.
In addition, in a method for manufacturing a barrier film of the second embodiment of the present invention, a barrier layer is formed by a sputtering method. As a sputtering method, any of a RF sputtering method and a dual magnetron sputtering method is used. A film is manufactured in the presence of an oxygen gas using silicon nitride (Si3N4) having a sintered density of 60% or greater, as a target. Usually in forming a film, nitriding of a film is difficult, but in the above method of manufacturing, it makes possible to form silicon oxi-nitride film easily because the target itself has Si—N bonding. By rendering a density of a target 60% or greater, it becomes possible to form an elaborated silicon oxi-nitride film. In addition, since forming a film by the above-mentioned sputtering method is a reactive forming of film, control of oxidation degree is easy and, further, by rendering a distance between a target and a material on which a film is to be formed, and an input electric power adequate, suitable etching is generated in a material on which a film is to be formed at preparation of a film, and a silicon oxi-nitride film can be manufactured at a high adhesion. And, a material and film manufacturing conditions to be used can be selected so that an atomic ratio in a manufactured silicon oxi-nitride film is in a range of Si:O:N:C=100:60 to 90:60 to 90:20 to 40, a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration is in a range of 820 to 930 cm−1, a film density is in a range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cm3, preferably 3.0 to 3.2 g/cm3, and a distance between grains is 30 nm or less, preferably in a range of 10 to 30 nm, more preferably 10 to 20 nm.
In addition, in a method for manufacturing a barrier film of the present invention, film making may be performed by using a dual magnetron sputtering method as a sputtering method and using silicon having an electric resistivity of 0.1 Ωcm or less as a target in the presence of an oxygen gas and a nitrogen gas. By rendering an electric resistivity of a target 0.2 Ωcm or less, it becomes possible to form a compact silicon oxi-nitride film. In addition, since film making is reactive film making, it is easy to control an oxidation degree and a nitriding degree, further, by rendering adequate a distance between a target and a material on which a film is to be formed, and an input electric power, adequate etching is produced in a material on which a film is to be formed at film making, and a silicon oxi-nitride film can be made at the high adherability. And, a material and filmmaking conditions to be used are selected so that an atomic ratio of a silicon oxi-nitride film to be formed is in a range of Si:O:N:C=100:60 to 90:60 to 90:20 to 40, a maximum peak of infrared absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration is in a range of 820 to 930 cm−1, a film density is in a range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cm3, preferably 3.0 to 3.2 g/cm3, and a distance between grains is 30 nm or shorter, preferably in a range of 10 to 30 nm, more preferably 10 to 20 nm.
In addition, in the case of the above-mentioned barrier films 11 and 21 provided with a resin layer as shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, formation of a resin layer can be performed by a dry forming method by a physical deposition method such as previously known vacuum deposition, sputtering, ion plating and the like, a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method and the like, or a wet forming method of coating by a coating method such as roll coating, gravure coating, knife coating, dipping coating, spray coating and the like, thereafter, drying to remove a solvent and a diluent. A forming method can be appropriately selected depending on a material to be used. Still more, by forming a resin layer by a sputtering method, formation of a barrier layer and formation of a resin layer may be performed by in-line in the same film manufacturing apparatus.
Laminated Material
Next, a laminated material of the present invention will be explained.
FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a laminated material of the present invention using the above-mentioned barrier film 1 of the present invention. In FIG. 4, a laminated material 31 is provided with a barrier film 1 which is provided with a barrier layer 3 on one surface of a substrate film 2, and a heat sealable resin layer 33 formed on a barrier layer 3 of this barrier film 1 via an anchor coating agent layer and/or an adhesive layer 32.
An anchor coating agent layer 32 constituting a laminated material 31 can be formed, for example, by using an organic titanium series anchor coating agent such as alkyl titanate and the like, an isocianate series anchor coating agent, polyethyleneimine series anchor coating agent, a polybutadiene series anchor coating agent or the like. An anchor coating agent layer 32 can be formed by coating the above-mentioned anchor coating agent, for example, by the known coating method such as roll coating, gravure coating, knife coating, dipping coating, spray coating and the like, and drying to remove a solvent, a diluent and the like. As an amount of the above-mentioned anchor coating agent to be coated, around 0.1 to 5 g/m2 (dry state) is preferable.
In addition, an adhesive layer 32 constituting a laminated material 31 can be formed, for example, by using various laminating adhesives such as solution type, aqueous type, non-solvent type and heat melting type which contain, as a main component, a vehicle such as polyurethane series, polyester series, polyamide series, epoxy series, poly(meth)acrylic series, polyvinyl acetate series, polyolefin series, casein, wax, ethylene-(meth)acrylic acid copolymer, polybutadiene series and the like. An adhesive layer 32 can be formed by coating the above-mentioned laminating adhesive, for example, by a coating method such as roll coating, gravure coating, knife coating, dipping coating, spray coating and the like, and drying to remove a solvent, a diluent and the like. As an amount of the above-mentioned laminating adhesive to be coated, around 0.1 to 5 g/m2 (dry state) is preferable.
Examples of a heat sealable resin used in a heat sealable resin layer 33 constituting a laminated material 31 include resins which are melted by heat and can be anastomosed to each other. Specifically, acid denaturated polyolefin resins, polyvinyl acetate series resins, poly(meth)acrylic resins, polyvinyl chloride series resins and the like obtained by denaturating polyolefin series resins such as low density polyethylene, intermediate density polyethylene, high density polyethylene, straight chain (linear) low density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ionomer resin, ethylene-acrylic aid copolymer, ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymer, ethylene-methyl methacrylate copolymer, ethylene-propylene copolymer, methylpentene polymer, polybutene polymer, polyethylene, polypropylene and the like with unsaturated carboxylic acid such as acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, maleic acid, maleic anhydride, fumaric acid, itaconic acid and the like can be used. The heat sealable resin layer 33 may be formed by coating the above-mentioned heat sealable resin, or may be formed by laminating a film or a sheet comprising the above-mentioned heat sealable resin. A thickness of such the heat sealable resin layer 33 can be set in a range of 5 to 300 μm, preferably 10 to 100 μm.
FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a laminated material of the present invention using the above-mentioned barrier film 11 of the present invention. In FIG. 5, a laminated material 41 is provided with a barrier film 11 which is provided with a barrier layer 13 on one surface of a substrate film 12 via a resin layer 14, a heat sealable resin layer 43 formed on this barrier layer 13 of a barrier film 11 via an anchor coating agent layer and/or an adhesive layer 42, and a substrate 44 provided on the other surface (resin layer non-forming surface) of a substrate film 12 of a barrier film 11.
An anchor coating agent layer, an adhesive layer 42 and a heat seal bale layer 43 constituting a laminated material 41 may be the same as the anchor coating layer, the adhesive layer 32 and the heat sealable resin layer 33 constituting the above-mentioned laminated layer 31 and, therefore, explanation thereof will be omitted.
As a substrate 44 constituting a laminated material 41, for example, when a laminated material 41 constitutes a container for wrapping, since a substrate 44 is to be a fundamental material, a film or a sheet of a resin having the excellent mechanical, physical, chemical and other properties, in particular, having the strength and the toughness, and heat resistance can be used. Examples thereof include oriented (monoaxial or biaxial) or non-oriented films or sheets of tough resins such as a polyester series resin, a polyamide series resin, a polyaramid series resin, a polyolefin series resin, a polycarbonate series resin, a polystyrene series resin, a polyacetal series resin, a fluorine series rein and the like. It is desirable that a thickness of this substrate 44 is 5 to 100 μm, preferably around 10 to 50 μm.
In addition, in the present invention, for example, front face printing or rear face printing of a desired printing design such as letter, figure, symbol, design, pattern and the like may be imparted to a substrate 44 by the conventional printing method. Such the letter and the like can be recognized visually through a barrier film 11 constituting a laminated material 41.
FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a laminated material of the present invention using the above-mentioned barrier film 21 of the present invention. In FIG. 6, a laminated material 51 is provided with a barrier film 21 in which a barrier layer 23 and a resin layer 24 are laminated in this order on one surface of a substrate film 22, a heat sealable resin layer 53 formed on a resin layer 24 of this barrier film 21 via an anchor coating agent layer and/or an adhesive layer 52, a substrate 54 which is provided on the other surface (barrier layer non-forming surface) of a substrate film 22 of a barrier film 21, and a heat sealable resin layer 55 formed on this substrate 59.
An anchor coating agent layer, an adhesive layer 52 and heat sealable resin layers 53 and 55 constituting a laminated material 51 may be the same as the anchor coating agent layer, the adhesive layer 32 and the heat sealable resin layer 33 constituting the above-mentioned laminated material 31, and a substrate 54 constituting a laminated material 51 may be the same as the substrate 44 constituting above-mentioned laminated material 41 and, therefore, the explanation thereof will be omitted.
In addition, in the laminated material of the present invention, further, for example, films or sheets of resins having the barrier property to water vapor, water and the like such as low density polyethylene, intermediate density polyethylene, high density polyethylene, straight chain low density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-propylene copolymer and the like, films or sheets of resins having the barrier property to oxygen, water vapor and the like such as polyvinyl alcohol, saponified ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer and the like, or films or sheets of various colored resins having the light shielding property obtained by adding a colorant such as a pigment and the like, and other desired additives to a resin, kneading them, and converting this into a film, may be used.
These materials may be used alone or by combining two or more kinds, and a thickness there of is arbitrary, but is usually 5 to 300 μm, preferably around 10 to 200 μm.
Further, when the laminated material of the preset invention is used in utility of a container for wrapping, since the container for wrapping is usually placed under the physical and chemical severe conditions, the severe wrapping suitability is required also for a laminated material. Specifically, various conditions such as the deformation preventing strength, the falling impact strength, the resistance to pin hole, the resistance to heat, the sealability, the quality preserving property, the workability, the hygiene property and others are required and, for this reason, in the laminated material of the present invention, materials satisfying the above-mentioned various conditions may be arbitrarily selected and used as substrate films 2, 12 and 22, substrates 44 and 54, or other constituent members. Specifically, materials may be used by arbitrarily selecting from films or sheets of the known resins such as low density polyethylene, intermediate density polyethylene, high density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-propylene copolymer, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ionomer resin, ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymer, ethylene-acrylic acid or methacrylic acid copolymer, methylpentene polymer, polybutene series resin, polyvinyl chloride series resin, polyvinyl acetate series resin, poly(meth)acrylic series resin, polyacrylonitrile series resin, polystyrene series resin, acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer (AS series resin), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS series resin), polyester series resin, polyamide series resin, polycarbonate series resin, polyvinyl alcohol series resin, saponified ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, fluorine series resin, diene series resin, polyacetal series resin, polyurethane series resin, nitrocellulose and the like. Besides, for example, films such as cellophane and the like may be used.
As the above-mentioned film or sheet, any films or sheets which are non-oriented, or monoaxially or biaxially oriented may be used. A thickness thereof is arbitrary, but may be selected and used from a range of around a few μm to 300 μm, and a laminating position is not particularly limited. In addition, in the present invention, the above-mentioned film and sheet may be a membrane having any nature such as an extruded membrane, an inflated membrane and coated membrane.
The laminated material of the present invention such as the above-mentioned laminated materials 31, 41 and 51 can be manufactured by using a method for laminating a normal wrapping material, for example, a wet lamination method, a dry lamination method, a non-solvent type dry lamination method, an extrusion lamination method, a T die extrusion molding method, a coextrusion lamination method, an inflation method, a coextrusion inflation method and the like.
Upon the above-mentioned lamination, if necessary, a film can be subjected to pre-treatment such as corona treatment, ozone treatment and the like. In addition, anchor coating agents such as isocyanate series (urethane series), polyethyleneimine series, polybutadiene series, organic titanium series and the like, or the known adhesives such as laminating adhesives such as polyurethane series, polyacrylic series, polyester series, epoxy series, polyvinyl acetate series, cellulose series and the like can be used.
A combination of barrier films of the present invention used in the laminated material of the present invention is not limited to examples shown in the above-mentioned laminated materials 31, 41 and 51, but may be appropriately set depending on intended use of a laminated material.
Container for Wrapping
Next, a container for wrapping of the present invention will be explained.
A container for wrapping of the present invention is obtained by making a bag or a can by heat anastomosing by using the laminated material of the present invention.
Specifically, when a container for wrapping is a soft wrapping bag, container for wrappings having a variety forms relating to the present invention can be manufactured by folding a heat sealable resin layer of a laminated material of the present invention facing to each other, or piling two laminated materials of the present invention, and heat anastomosing a peripheral edge part thereof in the heat seal form such as side sealing type, two-way sealing type, there-way sealing type, four-way sealing type, envelope making sealing type, butt seaming type (pillow sealing type), ribbed sealing type, flat bottom sealing type, square bottom sealing type, and others, to form a sealed part.
In the above case, heat anastomosing can be performed by the known method such as bar sealing, rotating roll sealing, belt sealing, impulse sealing, high frequency wave sealing, ultrasound sealing and the like.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing one embodiment of the above-mentioned container for wrapping of the present invention. In FIG. 7, a container for wrapping 61 is formed by piling one set of laminated materials 31 of the present invention so that the heat sealable resin layers 33 are facing to each other, and performing heat anastomosing to form sealed part 62 in three ways at a peripheral part in this state. This container for wrapping 61 can be filled with the content through an opening 63 formed on remaining one way at a peripheral part. And, after the content is filled therein, the opening 63 is heat anastomosed to form a sealed part, whereby, a container for wrapping in which the content is filled and packed, is obtained.
A container for wrapping of the present invention may be in the form of, for example, a self-supporting wrapping bag (standing pouch) in addition to the above-mentioned form and, further, a tubular container may be manufactured by using a laminated material of the present invention.
In addition, in the present invention, an filling port such as one-piece type, two-piece type and other type, or an opening and closing zipper may be arbitrarily attached to the above-mentioned container for wrapping.
Still more, a container for wrapping of the present invention may be manufactured into container for a liquid such as brick type, flat type and gable top type by making a blank plate for manufacturing a desired container using a laminated material of the present invention, and forming a shell part, a bottom part and a head part employing this blank plate. In addition, as a shape thereof, any shape such as square container, cylindrical can such as round shape, and the like can be manufactured.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing one embodiment of the above-mentioned liquid filling paper container which is a container for wrapping of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a plane view of the blank plate used in the container for wrapping shown in FIG. 8. A blank plate 80 is manufactured by using a laminated material 51 of the present invention shown in FIG. 6 and punching out the material so that the plate is provided with a pressing line m,m . . . for bending processing in formation of a container, shell panels 81, 82, 83 and 84 constituting a shell part 72 of a container 71, top panels 81 a, 82 a, 83 a and 84 a constituting a top part 73 of a container 71, bottom panels 81 b, 82 b, 83 b and 84 b constituting a bottom part 74 of a container 71, and a panel for heat anastomosing 85 for forming a cylinder. This blank plate 80 can be processed into a container for wrapping 71 which liquid is filled and packed bending the plate along a pressing line m, m . . . , heat anastomosing an inner side of an end of a shell panel 81 and an outer side of a panel for heat anastomosing 85 to form a cylinder, thereafter, bending bottom panels 81 b, 82 b, 83 b and 84 b along a pressing line m,m . . . and heat anastomosing the panels, then filling this with liquid through an opening at a top part, bending top panels 81 a, 82 a, 83 a and 84 a along a pressing line m,m . . . and heat anastomosing the panels.
The container for wrapping of the present invention can be used in a variety of goods such as various foods and beverages, chemicals such as adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives and the like, cosmetics, medical supply, miscellaneous goods such as chemical warmer and the like, and others.
Laminated Material
Next, other embodiments of the laminated material of the present invention will be explained by way of examples using the above-mentioned barrier film 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing other embodiment of the laminated material of the present invention. In FIG. 10, a laminated material 91 is provided with a barrier film 1 which is provided with a barrier layer 3 on one surface of a substrate film 2, and a conductive layer 92 formed on a barrier layer 3 of this barrier film 1.
A conductive layer 92 constituting a laminated material 91 may be a transparent conductive film such as indium tin oxide (ITO) film. The ITO film can be formed by a sputtering method, a PVD method, an ion plating method or the like and, in particular, since the ITO film formed by a sputtering method is excellent in the inplane uniformity of the conductivity, it is preferably used.
A film thickness of a conductive layer 92 can be appropriately set depending on a material thereof, use of a laminated material 91 and the like, and is usually set in a range of 100 to 200 nm. In addition, it is preferable that a conductive layer 92 has a surface resistance value of 0 to 50Ω/□ and an overall transmittance of 85% or greater.
Such the conductive layer 92 can be used as a transparent electrode for driving a liquid crystal, for example, in the case of a liquid crystal displaying a device.
Image Displaying Medium
An image displaying medium of the present invention uses the above-mentioned laminated material 91 as a substrate and is provided with an image displaying layer on a conductive layer 92.
Examples of such the image displaying medium include non-light emitting type displays for performing display by shutting out the brightness of backlight to produce gradation as in a liquid crystal displaying apparatus, and self-light emitting type displays for performing display by making fluorescent compounds emit with some energy, such as plasma display panel (PDP), field emission display (FED), and electroluminescence display (EL).
When the image displaying medium of the present invention is a liquid crystal displaying apparatus, the above-mentioned image displaying layer indicates a liquid crystal layer and, when the medium is a self-light emitting type display, a fluorescent compound layer having a fluorescent compound corresponds to above-mentioned image displaying layer.
The present invention is not limited by the above-mentioned respective embodiments.
EXAMPLES
The present invention will be explained in more detail by way of Examples below.
Example 1
Preparation of Barrier Film
A sheet type biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate film (PET film A 4100 manufactured by Toyobo Co., Ltd., thickness 100 μm) having a size of 10 cm×10 cm was manufactured as a substrate film, and this substrate film was placed into a chamber of a batch-type sputtering apparatus (SPF-530H manufactured by Anelva Corporation), using a corona-untreated side of the film as a surface on which a film is to be formed. In addition, silicon (sintered density 90%) as a target material was mounted in a chamber. A distance between this target and a substrate film (TS distance) was set to 50 mm.
Then, an oxygen gas (manufactured by Taiyo Toyo Sanso Co., Ltd. (purity 99.9995% or larger)) and an argon gas (manufactured by Taiyo Toyo Sanso Co., Ltd. (purity 99.9999% or larger)) as a gas to be added at film formation, were manufactured.
Then, a pressure in a chamber was reduced to ultimate vacuum of 2.5×10−3 Pa with an oil-sealed rotary vacuum pump and a cryopump. Then, an oxygen gas at a flow rate of 20 sccm and an argon gas at a flow rate of 20 sccm were introduced into a chamber, and a pressure in a chamber was retained at 0.25 Pa by controlling an opening and closing degree of a valve between a vacuum pump and a chamber, and a barrier layer comprising a silicon oxide film having a thickness of 100 nm was formed on a substrate film at an input electric power of 2 kW by a RF magnetron sputtering method, to obtain a barrier film (Example 1-1). In addition, sccm is an abbreviation of standard cubic centimeter per minute, and is also the same in Examples and Comparative Examples below.
Components of the silicon oxide film formed in the above were measured under the following conditions, and a results are shown in following Table 1.
Measurement of Components of Silicon Oxide Film
Components were measured with ESCA (ESCA LAB 220i-XL manufactured by VG Scientific, England). As a X-ray source, a monochromic Al X-ray source having the Ag-3d-5/2 peak strength of 300 Kcps to 1 Mcps, and a slit having a diameter of about 1 mm were used. Measurement was performed in the state where a detector was set on a normal line of a sample surface to be measured, and adequate electrification correction was made. Analysis after measurement was performed by using software Eclipse version 2.1 attached to the above-mentioned ESCA apparatus and using peaks corresponding to the binding energies of Si:2p, C:1s, O:1s. Upon this, regarding each peak, Shirley's background removal was performed, and sensitivity coefficient correction was performed on each atom (based on C=1, Si=0.817, O=2.930) regarding each peak area, and an atomic ratio was obtained. Regarding the resulting atomic ratio, letting a number of Si atoms to be 100, numbers of O and C atoms which are other components were calculated, and was used as a component ratio.
In addition, a peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration, a film density and a distance between grains of a silicon oxide film formed as described above were measured under the following conditions, respectively, and the results are shown in following Table 1.
Measurement of Infrared Absorbing Spectrum
The spectrum was measured using a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (Herschel FT-IR-manufactured by JASCO Corporation) equipped with a multiple reflection (ATR) measuring apparatus (ATR-300/H manufactured by JASCO Corporation). Measurement was performed using a germanium crystal as a prism at an incident angle of 45°.
Measurement of Film Density
A film density was measured using a X-ray reflectivity measuring apparatus (ATX-E manufactured by Rigaku Corporation) as follows: That is, as a X-ray source, a 18 kW X-ray generating apparatus and CuKa wavelength λ=1.5405 Å of Cu target was used and, as a monochrometer, a parabolic artificial multi-layered film mirror and Ge (220) monochromic crystal were used. In addition, the setting conditions were scanning rate: 0.1000°/min, sampling width: 0.002°, and scanning range; 0 to 4.0000°. Further, a sample was mounted on a substrate folder with a magnet, and 0° positional adjustment was performed by the automatic alignment function of the apparatus. Thereafter, a reflectivity was measured under the above-mentioned setting conditions. The resulting measured reflectivity values were analyzed under the conditions of fitting area: 0.4° to 4.0° using an analysis software (RGXR) attached to the above-mentioned X-ray reflectivity measuring apparatus. Upon this, a ratio of atoms (Si:O=1:2) of a thin film was input as a fitting initial value. A reflectivity was fitted by a non-linear minimum square method to calculate a film density.
Measurement of Distance Between Grains
A distance between grains was measured using an area of 500 nm×500 nm as a surface shape in a tapping mode using Nano Scope III manufactured by Digital Instrument as an atom force microscopy (AFM). After the resulting AFM image was subjected to flat treatment, an arbitral cross-section was observed, regarding two adjacent grains having approximately same peak heights, a distance between those peaks was measured. In addition, in measurement, a uniform irregular region having no remarkable recess or projection was measured using a cantilever in the state where there is no abrasion or stain. The above-mentioned tapping mode is as explained by Q. Zong at al., in Surface Science Letter, 1993, vol. 290, L689-690, and this is a method of performing shaking a cantilever having a probe at its tip in the vicinity of a resonance frequency (about 50-500 MHz) using a piezoshaker, and scanning a sample while slightly touching the surface of a sample intermittently, and a method of measuring a two-dimensional surface shape in which a position of a cantilever was moved in an irregular direction (2 direction) so that a change in a detected amplitude was maintained constant, and a signal based on movement in this Z direction and a signal in a flat plane direction (XY direction). In addition, the above-mentioned flat treatment is to treat correction of a gradient with one-dimensional, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional function for a standard plane regarding two-dimensional data, and waviness of an entire plane was offset by this treatment.
Then, according to the same manner as that of Example 1-1 except that a material and a sintered density of a target, and the film forming conditions (oxygen gas flow rate, TS distance, input electric power) were set as shown in following Table 1, silicon oxide films were formed to manufacture barrier films (Examples 1-2 to 1-5, Comparative Examples 1-1 to 1-10). Regarding silicon oxide films of these barrier films, components, a peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration, a film density and a distance between grains were measured as in Example 1-1, and the results are shown in following Table 1.
(Measurement of Barrier Property)
Regarding the thus manufactured barrier films (Examples 1-1 to 1-5, Comparative Examples 1-1 to 1-10), an oxygen transmission rate and a water vapor transmission rate were measured under the following conditions, and the results are shown in following Table 1.
Measurement of Oxygen Transmission Rate
An oxygen transmission rate was measured under the conditions with Individual Zero Measurement in which background removal measurement was performed, at a temperature of 23° C. and a humidity of 90% RH, using an oxygen gas transmission rate measuring apparatus (OX-TRAM 2/20 manufactured by MOCON).
Measurement of Water Vapor Transmission Rate
A water vapor transmission rate was measured at a temperature of 40° C. and a humidity of 100% RH using a water vapor transmission rate measuring apparatus (PERMATRAN-W 3/31 manufactured by MOCON).
TABLE 1
Barrier property
Film forming conditions
Silicon oxide film
Water
Oxygen
Input
Si—O—Si
Distance
Oxygen
vapor
Target
flow
TS
elec.
peak
Atomic
Film
between
transmission
transmission
Density
rate
distance
power
position
ratio
density
grains
rate
rate
Barrier film
Material
(%)
(sccm)
(mm)
(kW)
(cm−1)
Si:O:C
(g/cm3)
(nm)
(cc/m2/day · atm)
(g/m2/day)
Ex. 1-1
Si
90
20
50
2
1074
100:145:27
2.8
25
0.05
0.05
Ex. 1-2
Si
90
30
50
2
1082
100:167:38
2.8
29
0.06
0.08
Ex. 1-3
SiO
90
5
50
2
1090
100:170:22
2.8
27
0.04
0.09
Ex. 1-4
Si
90
30
50
1.5
1064
100:158:37
2.7
25
0.02
0.06
Ex. 1-5
Si
90
30
75
1.5
1060
100:143:21
2.6
28
0.08
0.08
Comp. Ex. 1-1
Si
70
20
50
2
1054
100:141:25
2.5
29
0.75
0.85
Comp. Ex. 1-2
SiO
70
5
50
2
1070
100:165:42
2.5
28
0.62
0.78
Comp. Ex. 1-3
SiO2
90
0
50
2
1094
100:170:18
2.6
25
0.40
0.93
Comp. Ex. 1-4
SiO2
70
0
50
2
1080
100:168:15
2.4
29
0.35
0.84
Comp. Ex. 1-5
Si
90
40
50
2
1094
100:175:45
2.8
33
0.15
0.67
Comp. Ex. 1-6
Si
90
5
50
2
1050
100:113:21
2.7
22
0.23
0.13
Comp. Ex. 1-7
Si
90
20
25
2
1086
100:160:56
2.9
28
0.15
0.18
Comp. Ex. 1-8
Si
90
20
75
2
1070
100:145:18
2.8
38
0.28
0.63
Comp. Ex. 1-9
Si
90
20
50
2.5
1082
100:173:38
2.9
21
0.11
0.12
Comp. Ex. 1-10
Si
90
20
50
1.5
1068
100:135:23
2.6
35
1.04
1.38
As shown in Table 1, it was confirmed that barrier films (Examples 1-1 to 1-5) provided with, as a barrier layer, a silicon oxide film having an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:C=100:140 to 170:20 to 40, peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration between 1060 to 1090 cm−1, a film density in a range of 2.6 to 2.8 g/cm3, and a distance between grains of 30 nm or shorter have the excellent barrier property (an oxygen transmission rate is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, and a water vapor transmission rate is 0.1 g/m2/day or less).
To the contrary, none of barrier films (Comparative Examples 1-1 to 1-10) provided with, as a barrier layer, a silicon oxide film having at least one of, an atomic ratio, a peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration, a film density and a distance between grains which are outside of the above-mentioned ranges had the excellent barrier property (an oxygen transmission rate is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, a water vapor transmission rate is 0.1 g/m2/day or less).
Example 2
Preparation of Barrier Film
A sheet type biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate film (PET film A 4100 manufactured by Toyobo Co., Ltd., thickness 100 μm) having a size of 10 cm×10 cm was manufactured as a substrate film, and this substrate film was placed into a chamber of a batch-type sputtering apparatus (SPF-530H manufactured by Anelva Corporation), using a corona-untreated side of the film as a surface on which a film is to be formed. In addition, silicon nitride (Si3N4) having sintered density of 90%, as a target material, was mounted in a chamber. A distance between this target and a substrate film (TS distance) was set to 50 mm.
Then, an oxygen gas (manufactured by Taiyo Toyo Sanso Co., Ltd. (purity 99.9995% or larger)), a nitrogen gas (manufactured by Taiyo Toyo Sanso Co., Ltd. (purity 99.9999% or larger)), and an argon gas (manufactured by Taiyo Toyo Sanso Co., Ltd. (purity 99.9999% or larger)) as a gas to be added at film formation, were manufactured.
Then, a pressure in a chamber was reduced to ultimate vacuum of 2.5×10−3 Pa with an oil-sealed rotary vacuum pump and a cryopump. Then, an oxygen gas at a flow rate of 3 sccm and an argon gas at a flow rate of 20 sccm were introduced into a chamber, and a pressure in a chamber was retained at 0.25 Pa by controlling an opening and closing degree of a valve between a vacuum pump and a chamber and a barrier layer comprising a silicon oxi-nitride film having a thickness of 100 nm was formed on a substrate film at an input electric power of 1.202 by a RF magnetron sputtering method, to obtain a barrier film (Example 2-1).
Components of the silicon oxi-nitride film formed in the above were measured under the following conditions, and a results are shown in following Table 2.
Measurement of Components of Silicon Oxi-Nitride Film
Components were measured with ESCA (ESCA LAB 220i-XL manufactured by VG Scientific, England). As a X-ray source, a monochromic Al X-ray source having the Ag-3d-5/2 peak strength of 300 Kcps to 1 Mcps, and a slit having a diameter of about 1 mm were used. Measurement was performed in the state where a detector was set on a normal line of a sample surface to be measured, and adequate electrification correction was made. Analysis after measurement was performed by using software Eclipse version 2.1 attached to the above-mentioned ESCA apparatus and using peaks corresponding to the binding energies of Si:2p, C:1s, O:1s, N:1s. Upon this, regarding each peak Shirley's background removal was performed, and sensitivity coefficient correction was performed on each atom (based on C=1, Si=0.817, O=2.930, N=1.800) regarding each peak area, and an atomic ratio was obtained. Regarding the resulting atomic ratio, letting a number of Si atoms to be 100, numbers of O, N, and C atoms which are other components were calculated, and was used as a component ratio.
In addition, a maximum peak of an infrared-ray absorbing band due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration, a film density and a distance between grains of a silicon oxi-nitride film formed as described above were measured under the following conditions, respectively, and the results are shown in following Table 2.
Measurement of Infrared Absorbing Spectrum
The infrared absorbing spectrum was measured as in example 1.
Measurement of Film Density
A film density was measured as in example 1 except a ratio of atoms (Si:O=1:2) of a thin film was input as a fitting initial value.
Measurement of Distance Between Grains
A distance between grains was measured as in example 1.
Then, according to the same manner as that of Example 2-1 except that a sintered density of a target, and the film forming conditions (oxygen gas flow rate, nitrogen gas flow rate, TS distance, input electric power, and pressure inside the chamber) were set as shown in following Table 2, silicon oxi-nitride films were formed to manufacture barrier films (Examples 2-2 to 2-6, Comparative Examples 2-1 to 8). Regarding silicon oxi-nitride films of these barrier films, components, a maximum peak of an infrared-ray absorbing band due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration, a film density and a distance between grains were measured as in Example 2-1, and the results are shown in following Table 2.
(Measurement of Barrier Property)
Regarding the thus manufactured barrier films (Examples 2-1 to 2-6, Comparative Examples 2-1 to 2-8), an oxygen transmission rate and a water vapor transmission rate were measured under the following conditions, and the results are shown in following Table 2.
Measurement of Oxygen Transmission Rate
An oxygen transmission rate was measured as in example 1.
Measurement of Water Vapor Transmission Rate
A water vapor transmission rate was measured as in example 1.
TABLE 2
Silicon oxi-nitride film
Barrier property
Film making conditions
Si—O/
Oxygen
Water
Si3N4
Oxygen
Input
Si—N
Distance
transmission
vapor
target
flow
Nitrogen
TS
elec.
peak
Atomic
Film
between
rate
transmission
Density
rate
flow rate
distance
power
Pressure
position
ratio
density
grains
(cc/m2/day ·
rate
Barrier film
(%)
(sccm)
(sccm)
(mm)
(kW)
(Pa)
(cm−1)
Si:O:N:C
(g/cm3)
(nm)
atm)
(g/m2/day)
Ex. 2-1
90
3
0
50
1.2
0.25
873
100:87:88:37
3.1
23
0.03
0.02
Ex. 2-2
90
0.5
0
50
1.2
0.25
837
100:67:66:23
3.1
28
0.05
0.03
Ex. 2-3
90
0.5
10
50
1.5
0.25
833
100:71:90:33
3.1
29
0.08
0.02
Ex. 2-4
90
3
0
50
1.2
0.30
881
100:85:62:28
2.9
28
0.07
0.09
Ex. 2-5
90
0.5
10
50
1.2
0.20
833
100:79:87:35
3.2
28
0.06
0.03
Ex. 2-6
90
3
10
50
1.0
0.25
930
100:88:75:30
3.0
27
0.04
0.08
Comp. Ex. 2-1
70
3
0
50
1.2
0.25
893
100:65:55:35
2.8
38
0.58
0.51
Comp. Ex. 2-2
90
4
0
50
1.2
0.25
938
100:99:58:43
2.9
43
0.24
0.77
Comp. Ex. 2-3
90
0.5
10
50
1.2
0.25
831
100:73:78:34
3.1
35
0.15
0.13
Comp. Ex. 2-4
90
3
0
25
1.2
0.25
881
100:83:65:53
3.2
33
0.38
0.64
Comp. Ex. 2-5
90
3
0
50
1.5
0.25
843
100:70:73:42
3.2
29
0.46
0.58
Comp. Ex. 2-6
90
3
0
50
1.2
0.4
926
100:93:55:37
2.8
34
1.17
1.53
Comp. Ex. 2-7
90
0.5
0
50
1.5
0.25
833
100:75:88:32
3.3
35
0.93
0.18
Comp. Ex. 2-8
90
0
10
50
1.5
0.25
800
100:61:95:35
3.3
38
0.55
0.89
As shown in Table 2, it was confirmed that barrier films (Examples 2-1 to 2-6) provided with, as a barrier layer, a silicon oxi-nitride film having an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:N:C=100:60 to 90:60 to 90:20 to 40, a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration in a range of 820 to 930 cm−1, a film density in a range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cm3, and a distance between grains of 30 nm or shorter have the excellent barrier property (an oxygen transmission rate is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, and a water vapor transmission rate is 0.1 g/m2/day or less).
To the contrary, none of barrier films (Comparative Examples 2-1 to 2-8) provided with, as a barrier layer, a silicon oxi-nitride film having at least one of, an atomic ratio, a maximum peak of an infrared-ray absorbing band due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration, a film density and a distance between grains which are outside of the above-mentioned ranges had the excellent barrier property (an oxygen transmission rate is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, a water vapor transmission rate is 0.1 g/m2/day or less).
Example 3
Preparation of Barrier Film
A winding up-like biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate film (PET film A4100 manufactured by Toyobo Co., Ltd., thickness 100 μm) of 30 cm width as a substrate film was prepared, and was mounted in a chamber 102 of a winding up format dual cathode-type sputtering apparatus 101 having a construction shown in FIG. 11 so that a corona-untreated surface side of this substrate film was a surface on which a film is to be formed. This sputtering apparatus 101 is provided with a vacuum chamber 102, a supplying roll 103 a for supplying a substrate film arranged in this vacuum chamber 102, a winding up roll 103 b, a coating dram 104, a partitioning plate 109, a film making chamber 105 isolated from a vacuum chamber 102 with 109, a target mounting base 106 arranged in this film making chamber 105, an electric source 107 for applying a voltage to a target, a plasma emitting monitor 108, a vacuum evacuating pump 110 connected to a film making chamber 105 via a valve 111, a gas flow rate controlling apparatus 112 for controlling a flow rate of a nitrogen gas, and valves 113, 114 for adjusting amounts of an oxygen gas and an argon gas to be supplied.
Then, silicon (single crystal, electric resistivity 0.02 Ωcm) as a target material was mounted on a target mounting base 106 in a film making chamber 105. A distance (TS distance) between this target and a substrate film was set at 10 cm.
Then, an oxygen gas (manufactured by Taiyo Toyo Sanso Co., Ltd. (purity 99.9995% or higher)), a nitrogen gas (manufactured by Taiyo Toyo Sanso Co., Ltd. (purity 99.9999% or higher)), and an argon gas (manufactured by Taiyo Toyo Sanso Co., Ltd. (purity 99.9999% or higher)) as a gas to be added at film making, were prepared.
Then, a pressure in a vacuum chamber 102 and a film making chamber 105 was reduced to ultimate vacuum of 2.0×10−3 Pa with a vacuum evacuating pump 110. Then, an oxygen gas at a flow rate of 0.5 sccm, a nitrogen gas at a flow rate of 50 sccm, and an argon gas at a flow rate of 150 sccm were introduced into a filmmaking chamber 105, respectively, a pressure in a filmmaking chamber 105 was retained at 0.3 Pa by controlling an opening and closing degree of a valve 111 between a vacuum evacuating pump 110 and a film making chamber 105, a substrate film was run, and a barrier layer comprising a silicon oxi-nitride film was formed on a substrate film at an input electric power of 5 kW by a dual magnetron sputtering method, to obtain a barrier film (example A). A running rate of a substrate film was set so that a thickness of a silicon oxi-nitride film to be formed became 100 nm.
Then, according to the same manner as that for the above-mentioned example A except that an electric resistivity of a target, and film making conditions (oxygen gas flow rate, TS distance, input electric power, pressure in a chamber) were set as shown in the following Table 2, silicon oxi-nitride films were formed to prepare barrier films (examples B to F, comparative examples A to F). Regarding silicon oxi-nitride films of these barrier films, components, a position of a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration, and a distance between grains were measured as in example 1, and a film density was measured as in example 2. The results are shown in the following Table 3.
Measurement of Barrier Property)
The thus prepared barrier films (examples A to F comparative examples A to F) were measured for an oxygen transmission rate and a water vapor transmission rate under the same conditions as those of example 1, and the results are shown in the following Table 3.
TABLE 3
Silicon oxi-nitride film
Barrier property
Film making conditions
Si—O/
Oxygen
Water
Si target
Oxygen
Input
Si—N
Distance
transmission
vapor
Electric
flow
Nitrogen
TS
elec.
peak
Atomic
Film
between
rate
transmission
resistivity
rate
flow rate
distance
power
Pressure
position
ratio
density
grains
(cc/m2/day ·
rate
Barrier film
(Ωcm)
(sccm)
(sccm)
(cm)
(kW)
(Pa)
(cm−1)
Si:O:N:C
(g/cm3)
(nm)
atm)
(g/m2/day)
Ex. A
0.02
0.5
50
10
5
0.3
833
100:63:80:32
3.1
25
0.03
0.04
Ex. B
0.02
10
50
10
5
0.3
873
100:75:78:38
3.1
28
0.05
0.07
Ex. C
0.30
0.5
50
10
5
0.3
833
100:61:75:36
2.9
29
0.09
0.08
Ex. D
0.02
10
10
10
5
0.3
930
100:83:65:28
2.9
27
0.07
0.08
Ex. E
0.02
20
20
10
5
0.3
926
100:88:74:31
3.0
26
0.06
0.03
Ex. F
0.02
0.5
10
10
5
0.3
845
100:68:62:22
3.2
27
0.05
0.06
Comp. Ex. A
0.5
20
50
10
5
0.3
938
100:95:62:47
3.0
33
0.27
0.30
Comp. Ex. B
0.5
0.5
50
10
7
0.3
829
100:68:85:49
3.2
29
0.55
0.42
Comp. Ex. C
0.5
0.5
50
10
5
0.5
885
100:62:76:35
2.8
38
1.52
2.18
Comp. Ex. D
0.5
0.5
50
10
5
0.3
837
100:65:77:24
2.8
27
0.79
0.85
Comp. Ex. E
0.5
0.5
50
10
7
0.3
833
100:71:72:39
3.0
41
0.53
0.56
Comp. Ex. F
0.5
0
50
4
7
0.3
810
100:62:92:35
3.1
25
0.29
0.75
As shown in Table 3, it was conformed that barrier films (examples A to F) provided with, as a barrier layer, a silicon oxi-nitride film having an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:N:C=100:60 to 90:60 to 90:20 to 40, a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration in a range of 820 to 930 cm−1, a film density in a range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cm3, and a distance between grains of 30 nm or shorter have the excellent barrier property (an oxygen transmission rate is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, and a water vapor transmission rate is 0.1 g/m2/day or less).
To the contrary, none of barrier films (comparative examples A to F) in which at least one of, an atomic ratio, a position of a maximum peak due to Si—O stretching vibration and SI—N stretching vibration, a film density and a distance between grains is outside the above ranges have the excellent barrier property (an oxygen transmission rate is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, and a water vapor transmission rate is 0.1 g/m2/day or less).
1. A barrier film provided with a barrier layer on at least one surface of a substrate film, wherein
the barrier layer is a silicon oxide film, and the silicon oxide film has an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:C=100:140 to 170:20 to 40, peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration between 1060 to 1090 cm−1, a film density in a range of 2.6 to 2.8 g/cm3, and a distance between grains of 30 nm or shorter.
2. The barrier film according to claim 1, wherein the barrier layer is provided on the substrate film via a resin layer.
3. The barrier film according to claim 1, wherein a resin layer is provided on the barrier layer.
4. The barrier film according to claim 1, wherein an oxygen transmission rate thereof is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, and a water vapor transmission rate thereof is 0.1 g/m2/day or less.
5. A laminated material, wherein a heat sealable resin layer is provided on at least one surface of the barrier film according to claim 1.
6. A container for wrapping, wherein the container is obtained by making a bag or a can by heat anastomosing the heat sealable resin layer using the laminated material according to claim 5.
7. A laminated material, wherein a conductive layer is provided on at least one surface of the barrier film according to claim 1.
8. An image displaying medium, wherein an image displaying layer is provided on the conductive layer using the laminated material according to claim 7 as the substrate.
9. A method for manufacturing a barrier film, comprising forming, as a barrier layer, a silicon oxide film having an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:C=100:140 to 170:20 to 40, peak position of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O—Si stretching vibration between 1060 to 1090 cm−1, a film density in a range of 2.6 to 2.8 g/cm3 and a distance between grains of 30 nm or shorter, on a substrate film, using either of silicon having a sintered density of 80% or higher or silicon monoxide having a sintered density of 80% or higher as a target, in the presence of an oxygen gas by a sputtering method.
10. The method for manufacturing a barrier film according to claim 9, wherein the sputtering method is any of a RF sputtering method and a dual magnetron sputtering method.
11. The method for manufacturing a barrier film according to claim 9, wherein a resin layer is provided on the substrate film in advance, and the barrier layer is formed on the resin layer.
12. A barrier film provided with a barrier layer on at least one surface of a substrate film, wherein
the barrier layer is a silicon oxi-nitride film, and the silicon oxi-nitride film has an atomic ratio in a range of Si:O:N:C=100:60 to 90:60 to 90:20 to 40, a maximum peak of infrared-ray absorption due to Si—O stretching vibration and Si—N stretching vibration is in a range of 820 to 930 cm−1, a film density in a range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cm3, and a distance between grains of 30 nm or shorter.
13. The barrier film according to claim 12, wherein the barrier layer is provided on the substrate film via a resin layer.
14. The barrier film according to claim 12, wherein a resin layer is provided on the barrier layer.
15. The barrier film according to claim 12, wherein an oxygen transmission rate thereof is 0.1 cc/m2/day·atm or less, and a water vapor transmission rate thereof is 0.1 g/m2/day or less.
16. A laminated material, wherein a heat sealable resin layer is provided on at least one surface of the barrier film according to claim 12.
17. A container for wrapping, wherein the container is obtained by making a bag or a can by heat anastomosing the heat sealable resin layer using the laminated material according to claim 16.
18. A laminated material, wherein a conductive layer is provided on at least one surface of the barrier film according to claim 12.
19. An image displaying medium, wherein an image displaying layer is provided on the conductive layer using the laminated material according to claim 18 as the substrate.
| 2009-12-07 | en | 2010-03-25 |
US-76217210-A | Semiconductor Devices and Methods of Manufacture Thereof
ABSTRACT
Semiconductor devices and methods of manufacture thereof are disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, a semiconductor device includes a workpiece and a trench formed within the workpiece. The trench has an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion having a first width and the lower portion having a second width, the second width being greater than the first width. A first material is disposed in the lower portion of the trench at least partially in regions where the second width of the lower portion is greater than the first width of the upper portion. A second material is disposed in the upper portion of the trench and at least in the lower portion of the trench beneath the upper portion.
This is a divisional application of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/805,232, entitled “Semiconductor Devices and Methods of Manufacture Thereof,” which was filed on May 22, 2007 and is incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates generally to the fabrication of semiconductor devices, and more particularly to the formation of isolation structures in semiconductor devices.
BACKGROUND
Semiconductor devices are used in a variety of electronic applications, such as personal computers, cell phones, digital cameras, and other electronic equipment, as examples. Semiconductor devices are typically fabricated by sequentially depositing insulating or dielectric layers, conductive layers and semiconductive layers of material over a semiconductor substrate or workpiece, and patterning the various layers using lithography to form circuit components and elements thereon.
Isolation regions are used in semiconductor devices to electrically isolate active areas and electrical components from other active areas and components. Isolation regions are typically formed by forming holes or trenches in a semiconductor workpiece, and filling the holes with an insulating material.
In some semiconductor devices, trenches for isolation regions may form in a retrograde shape, being wider at lower portions than at upper portions of the trenches. When these retrograde trenches are filled with an insulating material, air gaps or voids tend to form in the larger, lower portion of the trenches, which results in a degradation of the isolation properties of the isolation regions in some semiconductor applications.
Thus, what are needed in the art are improved methods of filling retrograde isolation regions and structures thereof.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
These and other problems are generally solved or circumvented, and technical advantages are generally achieved, by preferred embodiments of the present invention, which provide novel methods of forming semiconductor devices and isolation regions and structures thereof.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a semiconductor device includes a workpiece and a trench formed within the workpiece. The trench has an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion having a first width and the lower portion having a second width, the second width being greater than the first width. A first material is disposed in the lower portion of the trench at least partially in regions where the second width of the lower portion is greater than the first width of the upper portion. A second material is disposed in the upper portion of the trench and at least in the lower portion of the trench beneath the upper portion.
The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of embodiments of the present invention in order that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of embodiments of the invention will be described hereinafter, which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures or processes for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a more complete understanding of the present invention, and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIGS. 1 through 7 show cross-sectional views of a semiconductor device at various stages of manufacturing in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein isolation regions are formed in retrograde trenches by partially filling the trenches using a conformal insulating material, etching the conformal insulating material to remove it from sidewalls of the upper portion of the trenches, and then filling the remainder of the trenches with an insulating material;
FIG. 8 shows a top view of the isolation structure shown in FIG. 7, wherein the isolation structures extend lengthwise across a workpiece in lines or trenches;
FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an isolation structure shown in FIG. 7, wherein the isolation structure comprises a relatively round hole, such as in deep trench (DT) isolation;
FIGS. 10 and 11 show an embodiment of the present invention wherein the conformal insulating material only partially fills a region of the lower portion of the trench having a greater width than the width of the upper portion of the trench;
FIGS. 12 and 13 show an embodiment of the present invention wherein the conformal insulating material completely fills the region of the lower portion of the trench having a greater width than the width of the upper portion of the trench, and also wherein an optional additional liner is formed in the trench before an etch-stop liner is formed; and
FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of the present invention wherein the novel retrograde isolation structures of embodiments of the present invention are implemented as an isolation region between two transistors of a CMOS device.
Corresponding numerals and symbols in the different figures generally refer to corresponding parts unless otherwise indicated. The figures are drawn to clearly illustrate the relevant aspects of the preferred embodiments and are not necessarily drawn to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
The making and using of the presently preferred embodiments are discussed in detail below. It should be appreciated, however, that the present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts that can be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the invention, and do not limit the scope of the invention.
The present invention will be described with respect to preferred embodiments in a specific context, namely, in the formation of shallow trench isolation (STI) regions or structures for CMOS transistors. The invention may also be applied, however, to other isolation structures and methods of forming thereof for semiconductor devices, such as deep trench (DT) isolation structures used in memory products and other isolation structures, for example. Embodiments of the present invention may also be implemented in conductive retrograde structures, to be described further herein.
U.S. patent publication number 2007/0059897 A1, entitled, “Isolation for Semiconductor Devices,” published on Mar. 15, 2007, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, describes methods of forming isolation structures wherein trenches of the isolation structures are wider at the bottom than at the top. However, the methods described therein may result in the formation of voids in the bottom portion of the trenches when the trenches are filled with insulating material, which may be disadvantageous in some semiconductor device applications, for example.
Trench formation for isolation regions may be intentionally formed to be retrograde-shaped, as described in U.S. patent publication number 2007/0059897 A1 or using other methods, or the retrograde shape may inadvertently form as a result of certain etch and patterning processes, for example. Retrograde trenches may comprise inverse-T shaped trenches that are difficult to fill with insulating materials.
Attempting to use a conformal fill process, such as a high aspect ratio fill process (such as HARP™ by Applied Materials, Inc.), for example, may result in a fill void being created in the lower part of the STI trenches. One potential risk of the void formation is that the fill voids may extend to the STI surface in subsequent annealing processes, for example.
Using other types of fill processes and materials to fill retrograde shaped trenches may present other drawbacks. For example, materials such as spin-on glass (SOG) and FlowFill™ by Trikon tend to have high etch rates and may require a high density plasma (HDP) oxide or HARP™ capping layer. The use of these materials may also result in different etch rates for different trench sizes and may also result in the formation of buried voids during subsequent anneal processes due to material shrinkage, as examples.
Embodiments of the present invention provide novel methods of forming retrograde isolation regions that have improved fill properties. A first insulating material is first formed in wider, e.g., retrograded, areas of the lower portions of trenches. The first insulating material is removed from sidewalls of the upper portions of the trenches. A second insulating material is then used to fill the remainder of the trenches, which can advantageously be accomplished without forming voids, due to the reduction or elimination of the retrograde shape of the recess left remaining to be filled.
A method of manufacturing an isolation region of a semiconductor device will next be described with reference to FIGS. 1 through 7, which show cross-sectional views of a semiconductor device 100 at various stages of manufacturing in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Referring to FIG. 1, first, a workpiece 102 is provided. The workpiece 102 may include a semiconductor substrate comprising silicon or other semiconductor materials covered by an insulating layer, for example. The workpiece 102 may also include other active components or circuits, not shown. The workpiece 102 may comprise silicon oxide over single-crystal silicon, for example. The workpiece 102 may include other conductive layers or other semiconductor elements, e.g., transistors, diodes, etc. Compound semiconductors, GaAs, InP, Si/Ge, or SiC, as examples, may be used in place of silicon. The workpiece 102 may comprise a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrate, for example.
A pad oxide 104 is formed over the workpiece 102. The pad oxide 104 may comprise about 4 nm of silicon dioxide (SiO2), for example, although the pad oxide 104 may alternatively comprise other materials and dimensions. A pad nitride 106 is formed over the pad oxide 104. The pad nitride 104 may comprise about 100 nm of silicon nitride (SixNy), for example, although the pad nitride 104 may alternatively comprise other materials and dimensions.
The semiconductor device 100 may comprise a first region 108 and a second region 110, for example, wherein the first region 108 comprises a region where narrow isolation regions such as STI regions will be formed, and wherein the second region 110 comprises a region where wider isolation regions will be formed, for example. For example, trenches in the first region 108 may comprise a width or dimension d1A in an upper portion of the trenches of about 80 nm or less, and an upper portion of trenches in the second region 110 may comprise a width or dimension d1B of about 500 nm or greater in the cross-sectional view shown. Alternatively, the trenches in the first and second regions 108 and 110 may comprise other dimensions, or the trenches across the entire surface of the semiconductor device 100 may comprise the same widths, for example, not shown.
Retrograde trenches 112A and 112B are formed in the pad nitride 106, pad oxide 104, and the workpiece 102, e.g., using a method such as one described in U.S. patent publication number 2007/0059897 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference. However, alternatively, other methods may be used to form the retrograde trenches 112A and 112B having a larger width in the lower portion than in the upper portion.
The trenches 112A and 112B may extend lengthwise, e.g., in and out of the paper as shown in FIG. 1, by several hundred nm to 1 μm or greater, for example, as shown in a top view in FIG. 8. The trenches 112A and 112B may extend lengthwise in lines as shown in FIG. 8, or they may comprise arbitrary shapes or paths, e.g., they may be cornered or meandering. The trenches 112A and 112B may comprise an L-shape, an S-shape, or other shapes across a surface of the workpiece 102. Long trenches 112A and 112B are often used in STI structures, for example. Alternatively, the trenches 112A and 112B may comprise substantially round holes, e.g., for use in deep trench (DT) isolation structures, as shown in a perspective view in FIG. 9.
The trenches 112A and 112B are wider in lower portions than in upper portions. For example, after the formation of the retrograde trenches 112A and 112B in the first region 108 and the second region 110, respectively, the width of the upper portion of the trenches 112A and 112B comprise widths or dimensions d1A and d1B, respectively. The widths d1A and d1B of the upper portion of the trenches 112A and 112B are also referred to herein as first widths, for example. The first widths d1A and d1B comprise the diameter of the trenches 112A and 112B, respectively, in the upper portion, for example. The first widths d1A and d1B preferably comprise a dimension d1A and/or d1B of about 100 nm or less in some embodiments, for example. The upper portion of the trenches 112A and 112B extends into the pad nitride 106 and the pad nitride 104. The upper portion of the trenches 112A and 112B also extends into the workpiece 102 by a depth or dimension d2, which may comprise about 200 nm or less, as an example. Alternatively, the dimension d2 may comprise other dimensions, for example.
The lower portions of the trenches 112A and 112B are preferably wider than the upper portions of the trenches 112A and 112B on each side by a dimension d4, as shown. For example, each lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B comprises a first region having a greater width than the first width of the upper portion of the trenches. The first region extends outwardly beneath portions of the workpiece 102 proximate the upper portion of the trenches and beneath the pad oxide 104 and the pad nitride 106 by a dimension d4 on at least two sides. For example, the first region of the lower portion is shown extending outwardly away from a center of the trenches 112A and 112B, e.g., beyond the first widths d1A and d1B, by a dimension d4 on the left side and the right side of the trenches 112A and 112B in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2.
The cross-section of the first region of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B comprises a toroid or doughnut-like shape, wherein the inner wall comprises a substantially vertical wall, e.g., if the trenches 112A and 112B are round. If the trenches 112A and 112B comprise extended lines or arbitrary shapes across the workpiece 102, the cross-section of the first region of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B comprises an extended (e.g., lengthened from side-to-side) toroid or doughnut-like shape, for example. The amount of dimension d4 of the first region of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B is preferably about 20 nm or greater on each side, for example, although alternatively, dimension d4 may comprise other dimensions.
Note that the dimension d4 of the first regions of the trenches 112A and 112B may comprise the same dimension d4 for the trenches 112A and 112B regardless of the trench size. Alternatively, the dimension d4 may vary with different etch chemistries and trench structures, for example, not shown.
Each of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B also comprises a second region, the second region being disposed immediately beneath the upper portion, e.g., beneath the first width d1A and d1B of the upper portion of the trenches 112A and 112B. The second region of the lower portion comprises a central region of the lower portion of the trench that has a cylindrical shape, in the case of DT isolation as shown in a perspective view in FIG. 9. The second region of the lower portion may comprise a central region of the lower portion of the trench that has an extended cylindrical shape, in cases wherein the trenches extend lengthwise in lines or arbitrary shapes across a surface of the workpiece 102, as shown in FIG. 8 in a top view. The cylindrical or extended cylindrical second region is surrounded by the substantially toroid-shaped or extended toroid-shaped first region in a cross-sectional view. The second regions of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B comprise widths or dimensions d3A and d3B, respectively, that are defined to be substantially the same widths as the first widths d1A and d1B of the upper portion of the trenches 112A and 112B in some embodiments, as shown.
Thus, the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B comprises a dimension or width (d3A+2*d4) and (d3B+2*d4), respectively. The dimensions (d3A+2*d4) and (d3B+2*d4) defining the width of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B are also referred to herein as second widths of the trenches 112A and 112B. The second widths (d3A+2*d4) and (d3B+2*d4) may comprise the diameter of the trenches 112A and 112B in the lower portion, for example, if the trenches 112A and 112B comprise round holes. The second widths (d3A+2*d4) and (d3B+2*d4) preferably comprise a dimension of about 150 nm or less in some embodiments, for example. The dimensions d3A and d3B of the second region of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B are also referred to herein as third widths, the third widths being the same as the first widths d1A and d1B, for example. The second width (d3A+2*d4) of trench 112A is preferably greater than the first width d1A of trench 112A by about (2*d4) or greater, or about 40 nm or greater in some embodiments (i.e., in embodiments wherein dimension d4 of the first region of the lower portion is preferably about 20 nm or greater), for example, although alternatively, the second widths (d3A+2*d4) and (d3B+2*d4) may be greater than the first widths d1A and d1B by other dimensions.
In some embodiments, the upper part of the trenches 112A and 112B may be tapered inwardly, comprising a wider opening near the top of the workpiece 102 than a lower part beneath the wider opening, before the retrograded shape of the trench begins to round out (not shown in the drawings). For example, the upper portion of the trench 112A may comprise a range of first widths d1A, the range of first widths d1A of the upper portion being larger at the top and being smaller near the center of the trench 112A near the retrograded lower portion, for example. In this case, portions of the second width of the trench 112A may be greater than the range of first widths d1A of trenches 112A by less than (2*d4), for example. Likewise, trench 112B may also be tapered inwardly in the upper portion, also not shown in the drawings.
The lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B preferably extends into the workpiece by a depth or dimension d5 as shown, wherein dimension d5 may be about the same as, or less than, dimension d2 of the upper portion of the trenches 112A and 112B, for example. Alternatively, dimension d5 may be greater than dimension d2, as another example.
Next, after forming the retrograde trenches 112A and 112B, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a liner 114 is formed over the workpiece 102, e.g., over the sidewalls and bottom surface of the trenches 112A and 112B, and optionally also over exposed portions of the pad nitride and pad oxide, as shown in FIG. 3. The liner preferably comprises a first insulating material, for example. The liner 114 preferably comprises a single layer of silicon dioxide in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the liner 114 preferably comprises a first layer of silicon dioxide and a second layer of silicon nitride disposed over the first layer of silicon dioxide, to be described further herein. The liner 114 preferably comprises a thickness of about 25 nm or less, although alternatively, the liner 114 may comprise other dimensions, for example. The liner 114 is preferably substantially conformal, having the same thickness over all surfaces of the trenches 112A and 112B, as shown.
Next, a spacer material 116 is formed over the liner 114, as shown in FIG. 4. The spacer material 116 is also referred to herein as a first material or a second insulating material, for example. The spacer material 116 preferably comprises a material that is etchable selective to the first insulating material of the liner 114, for example. If the liner 114 comprises silicon dioxide, the spacer material 116 preferably comprises silicon nitride, as an example. If the liner 114 comprises a top layer of silicon nitride, the spacer material 116 preferably comprises silicon dioxide, as another example. Alternatively, the spacer material 116 and the liner 114 may comprise other etch-selective materials wherein the spacer material 116 may be etched away selective to the liner 114, while the liner 114 protects the underlying workpiece 102 from being damaged, etched away, or altered by the etch process for the spacer material 116. The spacer material 116 preferably comprises a thickness of about 50 nm or less, and more preferably comprises a thickness of about 20 to 40 nm in some embodiments, although alternatively, the spacer material 116 may comprise other dimensions.
The spacer material 116 preferably comprises a material that is conformal as deposited, having substantially the same thickness on all surfaces it is formed on, as shown in FIG. 4. The spacer material 116 is also referred to herein (e.g., in the claims) as a first material, for example. The spacer material 116 preferably comprises silicon dioxide deposited using a HARP™, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), or low-pressure CVD (LPCVD), as examples, although alternatively, other deposition methods may also be used.
An etch process 118 is used to remove the spacer material 116 at least from the sidewalls of the trenches 112A and 112B, as shown in FIG. 5. Preferably the etch process 118 comprises an anisotropic etch process, e.g., using a dry etch process. The etch process 118 may comprise a reactive ion etch (RIE) that is adapted to etch the material of the spacer material 116, e.g., silicon nitride or silicon oxide, selective to the material of the liner 114. The etch process 118 is preferably anisotropic, e.g., it is preferably etches directionally preferentially normal to the top surface of the workpiece 102. The etch process 118 may continued for a predetermined period of time, or may be continued until a desired amount of the spacer material 116 is removed from the bottom surface of the trenches 112A and 112B, for example.
The spacer material 116 that extends beneath the workpiece 102 overhangs in the first region of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B is preferably not removed during the etch process 118 for the spacer material 116, so that the spacer material 116 is left in at least a portion of the wider first region of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B, as shown in FIG. 6. The spacer material 116 is preferably completely removed from the sidewalls of the trenches 112A and 112B, as shown. The spacer material 116 may also be completely removed from the top surface of the liner 114 and from the bottom surface of the trenches 112A and 112B, extending completely along the first widths d1A and d1B and the third widths d3A and d3B of the trenches 112A and 112B, respectively, for example, also shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the spacer material 116 may be left partially remaining on the bottom surface of the trenches 112A and 112B, not shown.
The etch process 118 is preferably performed without the use of a lithography mask, e.g., without requiring a layer of photoresist and/or hard mask to pattern the spacer material 116, for example. Rather, the retrograde shape of the trenches 112A and 112B and the anisotropic nature of the etch process 118 result in leaving behind a portion of the spacer material 116 in the first regions of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B.
The liner 114 advantageously functions as an etch stop for the partial removal of the spacer material 116 using the etch process 118, for example.
The spacer material 116 within the first region of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B makes the shape of the remaining opening in the trenches 112A and 112B, which are now partially filled with the spacer material 116 in the lower portion, less retrograde, by filling at least a portion of the first regions of the lower portions of the trenches 112A and 112B. In some preferred embodiments of the present invention, for example, the first regions of the lower portions of the trenches are entirely filled with the spacer material 116, completely eliminating the retrograde shape of the trenches 112A and 112B, as shown in FIG. 6, so that the remaining trench portions that need to be filled (namely, the upper portion of the trenches and the second region of the lower portion of the trenches) have substantially vertical sidewalls along the entire lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B.
Next, a fill material 120 is deposited over the semiconductor device 100 to fill the remainder of the trenches 112A and 112B, as shown in FIG. 7. The fill material 120 is also referred to herein as a second material or a third insulating material, for example. Advantageously, the spacer material 116 residing in the first regions of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B makes the filling of the remainder of the trenches 112A and 112B easier and results in a more successful fill process, resulting in a void-free fill of the trenches 112A and 112B in some preferred embodiments of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 7. The fill material 120 preferably completely fills the remainder of the trenches 112A and 112B, as shown, without the formation of voids in the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B, in some embodiments.
The fill material 120 preferably comprises a different material than the spacer material 116 in some embodiments, for example. In other embodiments, the fill material 120 may comprise the same material as the spacer material 116, as another example. If the fill material 120 is the same material as the spacer material 116, in some embodiments, an optional interface region may form at the junction of the spacer material 116 and the fill material 120, e.g., due to processing parameter differences between the spacer material 116 and the fill material 120 deposition processes.
The fill process may comprise depositing SOG or an insulator such as tetra ethyl oxysilane (TEOS), using a spin-on process or a HARP™, respectively, as examples. The fill material 120 preferably comprises a dielectric material typically used for STI in semiconductor devices 100, for example, such as silicon dioxide. However, alternatively, other processes and insulating materials may be used to fill the trenches 112A and 112B. The fill material 120 preferably fills the upper portion of the trenches 112A and 112B and also the second region of the lower portion of the trenches 112A and 112B, as shown.
Because the liner 114 that is formed on the sidewalls of the trenches 112A and 112B is very thin, e.g., about 25 nm or less, advantageously, the liner 114 does not impede the filling of the trenches 112A and 112B with the fill material 120, in accordance with preferred embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, the liner 114 may be removed prior to the trench fill process with the fill material 120, so that the liner 114 does not affect the fill process at all, for example (not shown in the drawings).
Processing of the semiconductor device 100 is then continued. For example, a chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) process may be used to remove excess fill material 120 from over the top surface of the workpiece 102, and the liner 114, pad nitride 106, and pad oxide 104 may also be removed. Active areas may be formed in the workpiece 102, e.g., before or after the processing steps described herein.
Novel isolation regions 122A and 122B are formed by the manufacturing methods described herein, as shown in FIG. 7, wherein the isolation regions 122A and 122B comprise the trenches 112A and 112B, the liner 114, the spacer material 116, and the fill material 120. The isolation regions 122 a and 122B may comprise STI regions, e.g., having a depth within the workpiece 102 of about 500 nm or less, for example. The isolation regions 112A and 112B may alternatively comprise DT isolation regions, e.g., having a depth of about 500 nm or greater, or field oxide regions, as examples.
Active areas may be disposed on either side of the trench, e.g., trench 112A or 112B. For example, a first active area may be disposed on a first side of trench 112A and a second active area may be disposed on a second side of the trench 112A opposite the first side. The isolation region 122A electrically isolates the first active area from the second active area. The first active area and the second active area may comprise transistors, diodes, capacitors, memory devices, other circuit elements, and/or combinations thereof, as examples.
FIG. 8 shows a top view of the isolation structures 122A and 122B shown in FIG. 7, where the isolation structures 112A and 112B are formed in trenches having patterns that extend lengthwise in the shape of a line across a surface of the workpiece 102, such as in STI structures. FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an isolation structure (represented by 122) comprising a substantially round pattern, such as in DT isolation structures. The greater second width of the lower portion of the trenches of the isolation structure 122 is filled with the spacer material 116, compared to the thinner first width of the upper portion of the trenches filled with the fill material 120, which may be seen in FIG. 8 in phantom and in FIG. 9, for example.
FIGS. 10 and 11 show an embodiment of the present invention in a cross-sectional view, wherein the conformal insulating material of the spacer material 216 only partially fills a region of the lower portion of a trench 212 having a greater width than the width of the upper portion of the trench 212. Like numerals are used for the various elements that were described in FIGS. 1 through 9. To avoid repetition, each reference number shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 is not described again in detail herein. Rather, similar materials x02, x04, x06, x08, etc. . . . are preferably used for the various material layers shown as were described for FIGS. 1 through 9, where x=1 in FIGS. 1 through 9 and x=2 in FIGS. 10 and 11. As an example, the preferred and alternative materials and dimensions described for the liner 114 and spacer material 116 in the description for FIGS. 1 through 9 are preferably also used for the liner 214 and spacer material 216 shown in FIG. 10.
In this embodiment, the spacer material 216 is deposited in a thickness to only partially fill or line the first region (e.g., wherein the width is wider than the width of the upper portion of the trenches) of the lower portion of the trenches. For example, the spacer material 216 comprises a thickness such that a dimension d6 of the first regions of the lower portion of the trench is greater than zero. Thus, the remaining trench opening within the lower portion still comprises a retrograde shape, after the anisotropic etch to remove the spacer material 216 from the sidewalls of the upper portion of the trench 212, as shown in FIG. 11. Thus, when the fill material 220 is deposited, a portion 223 of the fill material 220 may also be formed in the first regions of the lower portion of the trench 212, as shown in FIG. 11.
Although the trench 212 still has a retrograde shape after the formation of the spacer material 216 and the anisotropic etch process, the retrograde shape has been decreased, so that the overall width of the space to be filled in the lower portion has been decreased, thus making the trench 212 easier to fill and less likely to form voids. The overall width (e.g., the second width of the lower portion of the trench) is decreased by an amount equal to twice the thickness of the spacer material 216 in this embodiment, for example. Thus, in this embodiment, filling the upper portion and the second region of the lower portion of the trench 222 with the fill material or second material 220 may further comprise filling a portion of the first region of the lower portion of the trench 212 with the fill material or second material 220, as shown.
In other embodiments, a void may form in the lower part of the trench 212 between the spacer material 216 (the second insulating material) and the fill material 220 (the third insulating material), not shown in the drawings. The novel liner 214 and spacer material 216 of embodiments of the present invention disposed in the first region of the lower portion of the trench 212 decreases the size of the voids. The voids are reduced in size and are much smaller than they would be without the presence of the novel liner 214 and spacer material 216 of embodiments of the present invention in the lower portion of the trench 212, for example. The voids may form having a width of dimension d6 and occupying the space where the portion 223 of the fill material 220 is shown in FIG. 11 in the first region of the lower portion of the trench 212, for example.
FIGS. 12 and 13 show an embodiment of the present invention in a cross-sectional view, wherein the spacer material 316 comprising a conformal insulating material completely fills the first region of the lower portion of the trench 312 having a greater width than the width of the upper portion of the trench 312. Again, like numerals are used to describe FIGS. 12 and 13 that were used to describe the previous drawings, and to avoid repetition, each element shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 is not described in detail herein again.
In this embodiment, the thickness of the spacer material 316 is preferably selected to ensure that the first regions of the lower portion of the trenches 312 (e.g., the regions that extend beneath the workpiece 302 areas proximate the upper portion of the trenches 312) are completely filled with the spacer material 316. A portion of the second region of the lower portion of the trenches 312 may be filled with the spacer material 316 in this embodiment, e.g., by a dimension d7, as shown in FIG. 12. The excess spacer material 316 is then removed during the anisotropic etch process to remove the spacer material 316 from the sidewalls of the upper portion of the trench, as shown in FIG. 13.
Note that a recess is shown in the fill material 320, e.g., which may be formed during the CMP process to remove the excess fill material 320 from the top surface of the liner 314, in FIG. 13.
Also shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 is an optional liner 324 that may be formed within the trench 312 before the etch-stop liner 314 is formed. The optional liner 324 may comprise a first liner, and the liner 312 may comprise a second liner, in this embodiment. The liner 324 provides an improved interface between the STI fill material 320 and the silicon substrate 302. The liner 324 preferably extends along the entire surface of the trench 312. The liner 324 may be intentionally formed or deposited, to assist in the formation of the retrograde trenches 312, for example. Alternatively, the liner 324 may form as a part of the formation of the trenches 312 or the liner 324 may be formed using an oxidation step, by heating the workpiece 302 in the presence of an oxygen-containing gas, as another example.
The optional first liner 324 preferably comprises a thickness of about 25 nm or less, and more preferably comprises a thickness of about 5 nm or less. The first liner 324 preferably comprises silicon dioxide or silicon oxynitride, as examples, although other materials may also be used. Alternatively, the optional first liner 324 may comprise other dimensions and materials. The second liner 314 is formed over the first liner. The second liner 314 preferably comprises silicon nitride in this embodiment, for example.
Note that in some embodiments, the optional liner 324, liner 314, spacer material 316, and fill material 320 may comprise conductive materials, semiconductive materials, combinations or multiple layers thereof, or combinations and multiple layers thereof with insulating materials, as examples. The optional liner 324, liner 314, spacer material 316, and fill material 320 may be used to form conductive features such as vias, conductive plugs, or contacts, e.g., by forming the liner 324, liner 314, spacer material 316, and fill material 320 in an insulating material formed over a workpiece 302, for example, not shown.
FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a novel retrograde isolation structure of an embodiment of the present invention is implemented as an isolation region 422 between two transistors 430 and 440 of a CMOS device. One transistor 430 may comprise an n channel metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS) transistor 430, wherein source and drain regions 434 are n doped and are formed in a p well 432 formed in the workpiece 402. The NMOS transistor 430 includes a gate dielectric 436 and a gate electrode 438, as shown. Likewise, the CMOS device may include a p channel metal oxide semiconductor (PMOS) 440 transistor having source and drain regions 444 that are p doped and that are formed in an n well 442 formed in the workpiece 402. The PMOS transistor 440 includes a gate dielectric 446 and a gate electrode 448, as shown.
An isolation region 422 of embodiments of the present invention may be used for isolation between the NMOS transistor 430 and the PMOS transistor 440, as shown. The isolation region 422 includes the liner 414 and a cylindrical (or extended cylindrical, if the trenches comprise extended lines across the workpiece 402 surface) plug of the fill material 420 in the upper portion of the trench 412 and at least in a portion of the lower portion of the trench 412. The fill material 420 may optionally also fill a portion of the first region of the lower portion of the trench 412 where the lower portion is wider than the upper portion of the trench 412, as shown in phantom in FIG. 14 at 423.
Advantageously, the novel spacer material 116, 216, 316, and 416 may be used to partially or completely fill the first regions of the lower portion of the trenches 112A, 112B, 212, 312, and 412 where the lower portion is wider than the upper portion of the trenches 112A, 112B, 212, 312, and 412, making the subsequent deposition process of the fill material 120, 220, 320, and 420 easier and improving the second fill process (e.g., the deposition of the fill material 120, 220, 320, and 420, resulting in the formation of smaller voids, or resulting in no formation of voids at all, in some embodiments of the present invention, for example.
Novel methods of embodiments of the present invention involve using a two step deposition process (of the spacer material 116, 216, 316, and 416 and the fill material 120, 220, 320, and 420) with one etchback process (e.g., the anisotropic etch process 118 for the spacer material 116, 216, 316, and 416), to achieve an improved fill process for retrograde trenches 112A, 112B, 212, 312, and 412. Advantageously, the use of a subsequent HDP oxide cap is not required, because the fill material 120, 220, 320, and 420 completely fills the trenches 112A, 112B, 212, 312, and 412.
In some embodiments, both the spacer material 116, 216, 316, and 416 and the fill material may comprise a high quality oxide formed by a HARP™ or other process, avoiding moisture formation problems in the trenches 112A, 112B, 212, 312, and 412 and preventing excessive shrinkage of the fill material (e.g., of the spacer material 116, 216, 316, and 416 and the fill material 120, 220, 320, and 420), as examples.
The retrograde shape of the novel STI regions 122A, 122B, 122, 222, 322, and 422 allows a further reduction in semiconductor device 100, 200, 300, and 400 size. Active regions proximate the upper surface of the workpiece 102, 202, 302, and 402 may be placed closer together and may be separated by the upper portion of the trenches, while the wider regions of insulating material in the lower portion of the trenches 112A, 112B, 212, 312, and 412 provide improved isolation.
Advantageously, in some embodiments, the lower portion of the trenches 112A, 112B, 212, 312, and 412 have smaller voids or do not contain any voids or air gaps, further providing improved isolation properties for the isolation regions 122A, 122B, 122, 222, 322, and 422.
Although embodiments of the present invention and their advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. For example, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that many of the features, functions, processes, and materials described herein may be varied while remaining within the scope of the present invention. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure of the present invention, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed, that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized according to the present invention. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.
1. A method of fabricating a semiconductor device, the method comprising:
forming a trench in a workpiece, the trench comprising an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion comprising a first width, the lower portion comprising a second width, the second width being greater than the first width, the lower portion comprising a first region that extends beyond the first width of the upper portion, the lower portion comprising a second region comprising a third width, the second region being disposed beneath the first width of the upper portion; filling at least a portion of the first region of the lower portion of the trench with a first material; and filling the upper portion and the second region of the lower portion of the trench with a second material, wherein a portion of the second material is disposed under the first material in a region of the lower portion of the trench.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein filling at least a portion of the first region of the lower portion of the trench with the first material comprises forming the first material over sidewalls and a bottom surface of the trench, partially filling the trench, and removing the first material from at least the sidewalls of the upper portion of the trench.
3. The method according to claim 1, wherein filling the upper portion and the second region of the lower portion of the trench with the second material comprises forming a material different than the first material.
4. The method according to claim 1, wherein filling the upper portion and the second region of the lower portion of the trench with the second material comprises forming the same material as the first material.
5. The method according to claim 1, wherein filling the at least a portion of the first region of the lower portion of the trench with a first material comprises completely filling the first region of the lower portion of the trench with the first material.
6. The method according to claim 1, wherein filling the at least a portion of the first region of the lower portion of the trench further comprises filling a portion of the second region of the lower portion of the trench with the first material.
7. The method according to claim 1, wherein filling the upper portion and the second region of the lower portion of the trench with the second material further comprises filling a portion of the first region of the lower portion of the trench with the second material.
8. A method of forming an isolation structure for a semiconductor device, the method comprising:
forming a trench in a workpiece, the trench comprising an upper portion, a lower portion, a bottom surface, and sidewalls, the upper portion comprising a first width, the lower portion comprising a second width, the second width being greater than the first width in a cross-section of the trench; forming a first material over the sidewalls and the bottom surface of the trench, partially filling the trench with the first material; removing the first material from at least the sidewalls of the upper portion of the trench; and forming a second material over at least the first material and the sidewalls of the upper portion of the trench, completely filling the trench.
9. The method according to claim 8, wherein removing the first material from at least the sidewalls of the upper portion of the trench comprises an anisotropic etch process.
10. The method according to claim 8, wherein removing the first material from at least the sidewalls of the upper portion of the trench comprises removing at least a portion of the first material from the lower portion of the trench.
11. The method according to claim wherein removing the first material from at least the sidewalls of the upper portion of the trench comprises completely removing the first material from the lower portion of the trench in a region of the lower portion disposed beneath the upper portion of the trench.
12. The method according to claim 8, wherein forming the trench in the workpiece comprises forming at least one trench wherein the second width is greater than the first width by about 40 nm or greater.
13. A method of filling a trench of a semiconductor device, the method comprises:
forming a liner over a trench, the liner comprising a first insulating material, wherein the trench comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the trench comprises a retrograde shape, and wherein the upper portion comprises a first width, the lower portion comprises a second width, the second width being greater than the first width; forming a spacer comprising a second insulating material over the liner; and filling the trench with a third insulating material.
14. The method according to claim wherein the second insulating material of the spacer comprises a material that is etchable selective to the first insulating material of the liner.
15. The method according to claim 13, wherein forming the liner comprises forming silicon dioxide, and wherein the second insulating material comprises silicon nitride.
16. The method according to claim 13, wherein forming the liner comprises forming a first liner of silicon dioxide or silicon oxynitride and forming a second liner of silicon nitride over the first liner of silicon dioxide or silicon oxynitride, and wherein forming the spacer comprises depositing silicon dioxide.
17. The method according to claim 13, wherein forming the liner comprises forming a layer comprising a thickness of about 25 nm or less, and wherein forming the spacer comprises forming a layer comprising a thickness of about 50 nm or less.
18. The method according to claim 13, wherein forming the spacer comprises:
forming a spacer material over the liner, the spacer material comprising the second insulating material; and using an anisotropic etch process, removing the spacer material from sidewalls of the trench in the upper portion and at least a bottom surface of the trench in the lower portion, and leaving the spacer material adjacent the sidewalls of the trench in the lower portion.
19. The method according to claim 18, wherein forming the spacer material comprises forming a conformal material layer.
20. The method according to claim 13, wherein forming the spacer comprises:
forming a spacer material over the liner, the spacer material comprising the second insulating material; and removing the spacer material from sidewalls of the trench in the upper portion, and leaving the spacer material adjacent the sidewalls of the trench in the lower portion and at least a bottom surface of the trench in the lower portion.
21. The method according to claim 13, further comprising removing the liner, before filling the trench with the third insulating material.
| 2010-04-16 | en | 2010-08-05 |
US-6866708-A | Boundary layer propulsion airship with related system and method
ABSTRACT
Systems, method, devices and apparatus are provided for reducing drag and increasing the flight efficiency characteristics of aircraft and airships including hybrid aircraft utilizing distributed boundary layer control and propulsion means. Boundary layer control includes passive systems such as riblet films and boundary layer propulsion means includes a divided and distributed propulsion system disposed in the curved aft sections of aircraft and airships including hybrid aircraft susceptible to boundary layer drag due to degree of curvatures, speed and density of the surrounding air. Distributed propulsion propulsion means includes constructing propellers and riblets from shape memory alloys, piezoelectric materials and electroactive polymer (EAP) materials to change the shape and length of the distributed propulsion means.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
Not applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
Not applicable.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON COMPACT DISC
Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO A “MICROFICHE APPENDIX”
Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The invention pertains to drag reduction in the operation of aircraft and airships by boundary control propulsion and boundary layer control propulsion systems. More particularly, the invention relates to control and flight operation of airship movement using a novel propulsion system having a cluster or array of micro propellers, moveable riblets or a combination of micropropellers and riblets operating within the boundary layer of air around the airship fuselage when in flight. The invention includes a boundary layer propulsion system having micro propellers, riblets or a combination of micro propellers and moveable riblets composed of electroactive polymer (EAP) materials mounted on the airship fuselage in the area of boundary air layer separation to not only reduce drag but also provide maneuvering control over the three flight axis of pitch, yaw and roll of an airship.
2. Description of Related Art Including Information Disclosed Under 37 C.F.R. 1.97 and 1.98.
The basic concept of a propeller can be dated back to the time of Archimedes (287-212 BC), whose work on ship propulsion has earned him the credit for the invention of the screw propeller. Modern propellers still behave in a manner analogous to rotating a screw or auger through a solid, just as is in Archimedes' time. The thin twisted blades of the modern propellers resemble an airfoil far more than they resemble a screw. An airfoil generates lift by producing a pressure imbalance when air moves around a propeller. Rotating propeller airfoils generate pressure imbalance through the relative movement of air over the curvature of the rotating blade surfaces. A helicopter propeller works the same way as that of an aircraft propeller, the only difference being that the helicopter propeller rotates around a nearly vertical axis whereas an aircraft propeller rotates around the longitudinal axis.
Propeller design has been largely based on the theory of optimum propeller as developed by Betz, Prandtl and Glauert. According to theory, when designing a propeller driven aircraft only a few initial parameters need to be specified when consider the propeller and propulsion system which has generally omitted considerations of boundary layer control and flight control of the aircraft using boundary layer modifications. Instead the prior art has focused upon the optimum propeller design as being a function of: 1) the diameter of the propeller, 2) the axial velocity of the flow, 3) the number of blades, 4) the selected distribution of propeller blade lift and drag coefficients along the radius, 5) the desired thrust of the available shaft power, and 6) the density of the fluid medium. Of all these parameters, the diameter of the propeller has been considered in the prior art to the greatest individual impact on the performance of the propeller.
As a result the largest propeller with the most slender blade is considered to be the most efficient, which is the length by the rotational speed of the propeller to prevent the tip of the propeller from exceeding the speed of sound to avoid energy consuming sonic shock formation. A larger propeller captures more incoming fluid or air and distributes its power and thrust on a larger fluid volume, creating a small pressure imbalance, which is compensated by having a larger area for the pressure imbalance. The small pressure imbalance is a direct consequence of the relative axial velocity (the slippage velocity between the blade surface and the air). The lower the relative slippage velocity, the more aerodynamically efficient is the propeller.
Also known in the prior art is the use of variable pitch control of the propeller in larger and more sophisticated aircraft. Variable pitch control of the propeller blade provides rotational control over the longitudinal axis of the propeller at the propeller hub to provide increased lift on takeoff and reduce drag in flight and accommodate variation in the density of air at different flight attitudes. Variable pitch propellers are located in the same locations as ordinary propellers and hence do not involve boundary control propulsion or boundary layer control for modifying the pitch, roll and yaw flight axis of flight. Variable pitch propellers also have not been made of electroactive polymer (EAP) materials to control the length or specific shape of the propeller itself.
In the prior art various propeller design principles promote the use of larger and slimmer propeller blades. It is impractical to place a propeller having large blades near the boundary layer flow near the surface of an aircraft fuselage. The advantage of operating a propeller well inside the boundary layer is that the air flow inside the turbulent boundary layer tends to have much smaller air speed relative to that of the free streaming air around it from the perspective of the aircraft. A physically equivalent view is to view it from the perspective of the standing air where the boundary layer air acquires forward momentum as it travels close to the frame of the aircraft.
Theoretically, a boundary layer propeller can recapture some of the momentum “stolen” by the turbulent boundary layer air that is responsible for the parasitic drag experienced by the aircraft which increases with speed at a given altitude. However, at low altitudes, i.e. below the stratosphere, the boundary layer surrounding the frame of an aircraft is typically very small at the fore of the body, and gradually increasing toward the aft of the body for a fully streamlined body. This gradual thickening of the boundary layer is typically followed by an abrupt fluid separation right after it passes the mid-plane, where a portion of the boundary layer air flow splits off from the body frame with consequent vortex formation and turbulence. Since the boundary layer only begins to rapidly broaden after the aforementioned fluid separation, and since there would have no advantage to operate the propeller within the turbulent wake, a single large propeller quite simply can not take advantage of the additional proportion force carried by the forward-momentum rich boundary layer air.
One area of boundary layer control recognized in the prior art is the use of boundary layer control to improve fuel efficiency of the aircraft. Boundary Layer Control, BLC, is a generic term used to describe various methods used to reduce the skin friction drag by controlling the turbulent transition, the development of full turbulent flows, and the fluid separation. Among those is boundary layer suction, which is currently being used on aircraft wings to prevent laminar and turbulent fluid separation by removing the innermost sub-layer of the boundary layer to reduce the boundary layer thickness. One method utilizes a suction pump to such boundary layer air from closely spaced transversal slots. Since both laminar-to-turbulent transition and fluid flow separation require boundary layer of a certain thickness, this method is effective in the laboratory where it was shown that fully laminar flow is possible even for Reynolds numbers far exceeding such transition thresholds. However, the development of a boundary layer suction system is complicated by considerations of optimum slot placement, structural modifications, power systems, and amount of suction needed.
Examples of prior art boundary layer suction systems are described in Stewart, et al. GB 479598A, Thwaites, et al GB 6106222A and Anxionnaz U.S. Pat. No. 3,951,360. There are indications also that very little actual gain in power efficiency is possible as the reduction in skin friction is largely balanced by the large suction needed to maintain the laminar flow.
Another popular method is tangential slot injection. This is exactly the opposite of the suction method in that a high-speed air is injected through a backward pointing slot. One prior art example is Mayer, Jr. U.S. Pat. No. 3,779,199. The sudden nozzle acceleration as a result of the pushing of the high-speed jet on the slower moving boundary layer flow can delay the onset of boundary layer flow separation. Again here the gain in the drag reduction must be weighted against the added power needed for pumping the ducted air to the tangential slots at high-speed. A very similar method is boundary layer blowing, which is primarily used to provide temperature control of high temperature components. Wall cooling has also been proposed for the same purpose and for skin friction reduction by damping the Tollmien-Schlichtling instability to delay the laminar-to-turbulent transition. Here again the amount of cooling power may make such drag force saving impractical.
Yet another popular method is passive surface modification. Examples of such passive surface modification include Mabel GB 881570A which employs a resilient coating, Herbert, et al GB 1019359A which utilizes embossing ridges and Battelle Development Corp. GB 1281899A which utilize a plurality of concave regions. The most popular being the application of flow-aligned miniature ribs, or riblets, to control the growth of small eddies in the near wall boundary structure of the layer.
Both dolphins and sharks have natural riblet-like skins which seem to enhance their ability to swim fast. An average drag reduction of about 6% has been widely reported even though some report as high as an 11% reduction. As there is no additional power required, which is in sharp contrast to the above mentioned suction or jet injected method or skin cooling, riblet-based approaches seem to offer the best chance of providing real-world drag reduction. Riblets are simple to apply too, since companies such as 3 M have manufactured riblet films with riblet heights ranging from 20 microns to 100 microns for lower altitude flights. Higher riblets would increase the wetted area significantly, thereby increasing the laminar skin drag. Riblets are also relatively insensitive to an adverse Bernoulli pressure gradient. However, the drawback of using non moveable riblets is that when the flow is no longer aligned with the longitudinal direction of the riblets, the performance of riblets deteriorates rapidly.
Lastly, diffusers have been used in confined air flow as that within a ducted propeller to reduce the drag. The diffuser increases the coupling between the turbulent channel flow with the slower moving (in the frame of reference of the channel wall) boundary layer flow. The diffuser is only useful for channeled flow which is diverging since a diverging channel flow is aerodynamically highly unstable as the air is flowing against the Bernoulli pressure gradient. Diffuser offers no substantial value to external or open fluid flow.
None of the aforementioned methods has yet been proven to be capable of reducing the actual propulsion power in a significant way with the possible exceptions of tangential slot injection and the riblet modified skin. The former is capable of significantly reducing the overall propulsion power requirement even through a large, inefficient internal pump is needed to inject the high-speed air jet because of its ability to postpone the onset of flow separation. A separated boundary layer air flow can create a large stagnant vortex wake that drastically increases the pressure drag in a direct proportion to the cross-sectional area of the wake. Riblets are capable of delaying the onset of turbulent boundary layer flow at the expense of smaller increases in the wetted area, and therefore the Blasius skin drag.
Since the onset of turbulent boundary layer vortices is greatly accelerated by the presence of adverse Bernoulli pressure gradient, and since the working of a propeller can be described by the disk actuation theory (momentum theory), which explains the action in terms of the generation of a pressure discontinuity, it would be possible for propellers working close to the boundary layers (more specifically, to be inside the buffer layer and the viscous sub-layer) to, in effect, reverse the pressure gradient. This is substantially similar to the action of a tangentially injected air jet through a slot in that both can provide a local reversal of adverse pressure gradient. However, tangential slot injection also introduces unwanted additional air into the boundary layer, which offsets much of its benefits.
Fluid flow separation can also be understood in terms of the combined effects of adverse pressure gradients and viscosity. Removal of the adverse pressure gradients can move the separation point further downstream, or eliminate its occurrence altogether. Again this can be accomplished by the introduction of propulsion means within the boundary layer to accelerate the boundary layer fluid, leading to the reattachment of the fluid flow, and thinning the boundary layer in the process.
Some Applications of the above principles to aircraft include Platzer U.S. Pat. No. 5,975,462 which provides for a flapping foil propulsion system for reducing drag. Platzer U.S. Pat. No. 5,975,462 describes many of the boundary layer devices previously discussed and indicates that “the use of small propellers would pose an extremely complicated mechanical installation problem.” Other prior art employing a cluster or array of propellers such as Hughey Pub. No. U.S. 2006/026681 A1 pertains to a vertical takeoff and landing aircraft using a redundant array of propellers. This prior art does not involve boundary layer control BLC for propulsion or control of the various flight axis of pitch, yaw and roll.
Boundary layer control BLC has also been applied to lighter than air aircraft. For example, Whitnah U.S. Pat. No. 3,079,106 utilizes at least one constricted area in the envelope covered by a porous material to provide an air pressure differential across the porous material to reduce drag. Similarly, Sonstegaard U.S. Pat. No. 3,488,019 utilizes a fine shield that allows preferential leakage with a bow and amidships suction and stem blowing and placement of the ballast tanks along streamlines to reduce drag. These boundary layer control devices applied to lighter than air aircraft all use a standard propeller for propelling the airship along with BLC. These prior art airships do not use an array or cluster of micro propellers disposed in the boundary layer. Further such prior art does not employ an array or cluster of micro propellers to control pitch, yaw and roll characteristics of the airship utilizing boundary layer control.
It thus follows that boundary layer propulsion (surface propulsion) can simultaneously provide propulsion force, stabilize the growth of the boundary layer, and suppress or delay the onset of turbulence as well as fluid flow separation. Boundary layer propulsion also steepens the velocity gradient considerably within the near wall, thereby increasing the viscous drag through an increase of the shear stress adjacent to the wall. Boundary layer control can also be used to control the flight path of an aircraft or an airship in the roll pitch and yaw axis of flight more efficiently than conventional control surfaces of aircraft which operate by increasing drag.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
From the foregoing it can be seen that propeller design in the prior art has largely ignored boundary layer separation around the various surfaces of an aircraft or an airship in relation to overall drag reduction on surfaces of the airship or aircraft far removed from the propeller. From the foregoing it is clear that boundary layer separation and propulsion have been ignored in relation to the control of the various flight axis of yaw, pitch and roll in the control of the flight characteristics of an airship or an aircraft.
An object of the invention is to utilize a plurality of small or micro propellers in the boundary separation layer alone or in combination with a conventional propulsion system to reduce drag. As used herein a conventional propulsion system can include one or more conventional propellers, jet engines or other propulsion means disposed outside of the boundary layer. As used herein distributed boundary layer propulsion means utilizing all or a portion of the conventional propulsion means and distributing all or a portion of the conventional propulsion means in the boundary separation area to reduce drag.
Another object of the invention is to utilize a plurality of moveable riblets alone or in combination with the plurality of micropropellers in a boundary separation layer area to reduce drag.
Another object of the invention is to utilize a plurality of stationary riblets alone or in combination with a plurality of micropropellers or moveable riblets in a boundary separation layer area to reduce drag.
Another object of the invention is to construct the plurality of micropropellers and/or riblets from shape memory alloys, piezoelectric materials or an electroactive polymer (EAP) to control the size and configuration of the novel boundary layer propulsion components.
Another objection of the invention is to control EAP boundary layer propulsion components using a computer and pressure sensors disposed in the skin of an aircraft or airship.
Another object of the invention is to control EAP boundary layer propulsion components using a computer and pressure strain sensors embedded in the EAP together with non moveable riblets in an aircraft or airship skin.
Another object of the invention is to utilize a plurality of micro propellers in a boundary separation layer area to control one or more of the flight axis of pitch, roll and yaw to control the flight characteristics of an airship or an aircraft using boundary layer air.
A further object of the invention is to provide a clustered micro-propeller based and/or a plurality of moveable riblets distributed boundary layer propulsion system that is capable of significant weight and stress reduction.
Another object of the invention is to provide a clustered micro-propeller based and/or a plurality of moveable riblets distributed boundary layer propulsion system that can drastically cut down on the noise and vibration generation.
Another object of the invention is to provide a clustered micro-propeller based and/or a plurality of moveable riblets distributed boundary layer propulsion system that provides a distributed propulsion load which minimizes the need for load supporting elements.
A further object of the invention is to provide a clustered micro-propeller based and/or a plurality of moveable riblets distributed boundary layer propulsion system that is capable of operating inside the boundary layer of an aircraft skin to delay the laminar-to-turbulent transition, thereby reducing the overall drag force.
A still further object of the invention is to postpone the onset of boundary layer flow separation for additional pressure drag reduction.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a system and method for propelling and controlling the flight characteristics of an airship or an aircraft utilizing a plurality of moveable riblets and/or cluster of small fast spinning propellers to provide improved efficiency, reduced weight, reduced attendant structural support for the propulsion system, lower noise and lower vibration compared with a single large propeller having the same propulsion power.
In one embodiment of the invention the single large propeller and propulsion power system of the prior art is divided into a plurality of micro propellers that also provides greater rotational balance, quicker response to wind shear and other abrupt environmental changes, and better load and stress distribution compared to a conventional design for a propulsion system not associated with boundary layer propulsion. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the plurality of micropropellers are constructed of an electroactive polymer material to change the shape and length of each propeller in response to a computer and sensors that provide boundary flow data.
In another embodiment of the invention the single large propeller is replaced by a plurality of piezoelectric riblets and/or fins or riblets constructed of an EAP disposed in the boundary layer close to the exterior skin of the aircraft or airship. The distribution of the propulsion means of micropropeller and/or riblets collectively referred to as micro propulsion means is designed to facilitate the balancing of the propulsion load and endure greater redundancy against single point failure. These propulsion components are designed to minimize the use of support structure to sustain the mechanical strains created by the propulsion force. The micro propulsion means preferably operates within the slipstream or the boundary layer of the moving aircraft or airship so as to recover a fraction of the momentum lost by the skin of the aircraft or airship. It is also desirable for the individual propulsion means to minimize the slippage velocity of the incoming air stream in order to maximize propulsion efficiency.
The invention further provides for controlling of one or more of the flight control axis of yaw, pitch and roll of an aircraft or airship by the sculpting of the boundary layer fluid flow with the micro propulsion means operating preferably within the buffer layer away from the viscous sub-layer of the boundary layer flow and in the adverse pressure gradient region. The axial propulsion speed of an individual small propeller or riblet in micro-propulsion means, for example, can be controlled so as to nearly cancel out the momentum lost at the inner boundary layer. This ensures that the effect of the adverse pressure gradient is minimized, thereby postponing the onset of the laminar-to-turbulence transition. The lessening of the effect of adverse pressure gradient also discourages flow detachment immediately downstream. The best mode of the invention is the application of the invention to an airship which term as used herein refers to a craft that utilizes a lift gas for buoyancy and includes lighter-than-air craft (LTA) as well as hybrid aircraft which are heavier than air aircraft which utilize a lift gas for only a portion of their lift. In the best mode micropropulsion means is disposed in an area of rapidly decreasing cross section such as for example at the tail end of a conventionally shaped LTA together with a smaller conventional propeller disposed in the aft section of the airship.
The invention is addition to providing a reduction in drag also provides for the vectoring of an airship or aircraft for steering as well as pitch, yaw and roll control by selectively activating one or more of the areas of the micro-propulsion means situated on the skin surfaces in the boundary separation layer of the airship or aircraft. The novel boundary layer propulsion system provides a reduction in weight and power required for operation in reducing drag and the weight and complexity of the flight control system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Various other objects, features and attendant advantages of the invention will become further appreciated when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which the reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the load distribution of a conventional prior art two blade propeller;
FIG. 2 A and 2B are schematic side views of two prior art propeller blades of identical shape but different sizes;
FIG. 3 A and 3B are perspective views of two prior art propulsion arrangements having different numbers of propellers with identical net thrusts;
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an operating single small or micro propeller;
FIG. 4B is a perspective top plan view of a distributed operating micro propeller cluster system according to the invention;
FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of the boundary layer air flow around a prior art streamlined body representing an airship which includes a view of the detached flows and the turbulent wake;
FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of a prior art boundary layer air flow around a streamlined body of a more fuseform shape such as a prior art airship showing the outward displacements of the boundary layer owing to the presence of turbulent vortices as well as the flow separation;
FIG. 7 is a close-up cross sectional view of the boundary layer air flow showing the effect of one embodiment of the novel boundary layer propulsion means in reducing the downstream boundary layer thickness around a surface of an aircraft or skin of an airship;
FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view showing the effect of one embodiment of the novel distributed boundary layer micro propulsion system on the boundary layer air flow around a lifting surface of an aircraft or the skin of an airship;
FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of one distributed boundary layer propulsion means of the invention and its effect on the boundary layer air flow around an airship constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 10A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of another distributed boundary layer propulsion means of the invention;
FIG. 10B is a perspective view of a cluster of an alternative distributed boundary layer propulsion means of FIG. 10A according to an alternative embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 10C illustrates the deployment of an alternative distributed boundary layer propulsion means utilizing a propulsion rib cluster of FIG. 10B;
FIG. 11A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a novel airship constructed in accordance with the invention similar to FIG. 9 illustrating a deployment of an array of a propeller cluster system in combination with a stationary riblet skin and moveable riblets providing a distributed boundary layer propulsion means in accordance with the best mode of the invention;
FIG. 11B is a side elevational view of one of the micro-propellers similar to FIG. 7 illustrating a rotational axis;
FIG. 11C is a perspective view similar to FIG. 11A illustrating a further embodiment of a novel airship having a distributed boundary layer propulsion means utilizing a propeller cluster system;
FIG. 12A is a cross sectional view taken along the line 12-12 of FIG. 11A illustrating straight and level flight control utilizing one form of distributed boundary layer propulsion;
FIG. 12B is a cross sectional view taken along the line 12-12 of FIG. 11A illustrating a right turn utilizing distributed boundary layer propulsion around the yaw axis;
FIG. 12C is a cross sectional view taken along the line 12-12 of FIG. 11A illustrating a left turn utilizing distributed boundary layer propulsion around the yaw axis;
FIG. 12D is a cross sectional view taken along the line 12-12 of FIG. 11A illustrating a nose down or descent attitude utilizing distributed boundary layer propulsion around the pitch axis;
FIG. 12 E is a cross sectional view taken along the line 12-12 of FIG. 11A illustrating a nose up or accent attitude utilizing distributed boundary layer propulsion around the pitch axis;
FIG. 12F is a cross sectional view taken along the line 12-12 of FIG. 11A illustrating a roll to the left utilizing distributed boundary layer propulsion around the roll axis;
FIG. 12 G is a cross sectional view taken along the line 12-12 of FIG. 11A illustrating a roll to the right utilizing distributed boundary layer propulsion around the roll axis;
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a distributed boundary layer propulsion means similar to FIG. 10A constructed of an electroactive polymer (EAP);
FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of the EAP distributed boundary layer propulsion means consisting of an EAP fin constructed in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 15 is a schematic side view of an EAP illustrating the deformations along the XY and Z axis of the EAP utilized in changing the shape configuration and length of riblets and propellers utilized in the distributed boundary layer propulsion means of the invention;
FIG. 16 is a schematic side elevational view of an EAP having a pressure sensing layer incorporated into the EAP distributed boundary layer propulsion means constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
FIGS. 17 A and B are side elevational views of the operation of an electroactive polymer artificial muscle (EPAM) provided by an EAP distributed boundary layer propulsion means constructed in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an EAP adaptive propeller blade capable of expanding in the XY and Z axis to provide a distributed boundary layer propulsion means; and
FIG. 19 is a schematic side elevational view illustrating an embodiment for the placement of the novel distributed boundary layer propulsion means in relation to the degree of curvature of the airship skin in relation to the boundary layer thickness.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS INCLUDING THE BEST MODE
In the following detailed description of the invention, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a through understanding of the invention. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be practiced without utilizing every one of the specific details in a particular application of the invention. In addition, well-known methods, procedures, materials, components and circuitry have not been described in elaborate detail to avoid an unnecessary obscuring of the novel aspects of the invention. The detailed description is presented largely in terms of simplified two dimensional drawings. These simplified drawings in absence of the ability to present a working model are deemed the best way to concisely convey the substance of the invention to those skilled in the art.
Reference herein to “one embodiment” or an “embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Further, the order of process flow representing one or more embodiments of the invention do not inherently indicate any particular order or impart limitations to the invention.
Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a load distribution on a prior art conventional fixed blade propeller 1. The blade body 12 has a curved airfoil surface 6 to produce an aerodynamic force in a manner similar to the wing of an airplane. Consequently the blades 9 are subject to both the main lift force 13 which produces the thrust T represented by arrow 5 in a parallel direction on the axis of the shaft 10 that is attached to the hub 15, as well as the drag D represented by arrow 7 in an opposite direction to the thrust T. There are additional parasitic force that arise from the fact that the flight path of any blade section is helical, which generates a swirl component to its outflow, or wake, and its attendant reaction torque, as well as a centrifugal force. The swirl typically causes a 1% to 5% power loss, more for poorly designed propeller blades. Other forces include Coriolis force that occurs when the shaft axis of the propeller is changing its direction.
The Thrust T as illustrated in FIG. 1, and the efficiency of a propeller can best be understood from momentum considerations. The theory based on such considerations is called the disk actuator theory. According to this theory, for a given thrust, the ideal propeller efficiency improves when the diameter D of the propeller, or more precisely, the disk area A (the area swept by the blade in one complete revolution), increases. The reason is that the smaller the disk loading, which is defined as the thrust divided by the disk area, or T/A, the smaller the additional outflow velocity over the velocity of the incoming flow caused by the propeller. Thus the conventional wisdom for a given propulsion power and the relative speed of the incoming air is always to use the largest possible propeller diameter limited only by mechanical restriction, or by the weight of the propeller as well as propeller tip speed velocity. This explains why human or solar powered aircrafts employ large, slowly turning propellers.
The problem with conventional wisdom is that for a single propeller based system, the disk loading is indeed proportional to T/D2, and hence the larger the diameter D, the more efficient the propeller. The same rationale does not apply to a system with a plurality of propellers. Referring now to prior art FIG. 1, FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B by way of example, consider a system having N identical smaller propellers, each with a thrust of T/N. As long as the total disk area of the sum of plurality of propellers A1, A2 and A3 (FIG. 3B) is equal to A (FIG. 3A) and remains the same, meaning that the diameter D′ of the individual propeller is smaller than D by the square root of N, or D′=D/√{square root over ( )}N, then the disk loading for each of the individual propellers in the multi-propeller system is exactly the same as that of the big propeller of the single propeller system since T/N(D′)2=T/D2. Where the efficiency of a propeller is only a function of its disk loading, there is no difference in propulsion efficiency between the single propeller system and the multi-propeller system as long as the total disk area of one system is the same as the other. Thus the distributed propeller system can be just as efficient as that of a single large propeller system where the total weight of the large propeller 1 is distributed among the multi propeller system of propellers 16, 18 and 20. The forgoing analysis can be easily extended to the case where the propellers are of unequal size but identical shape
The real mechanical advantage to using a distributed propulsion system comes from the fact that the maximum mechanical strain which is typically concentrated at the root of the blade of the single propulsion system is the same but is distributed among propellers 16, 18 and 20 in the multi-propeller system. This follows directly from the scaling law of the Euler Bernoulli beam equation. Prior art FIGS. 2A and 2B depicts two identically shaped propellers 1 and 11, each of which is subjected to a distributed load 13 with an identical disk loading factor. Although the smaller propeller 11 has a proportionally thinner and narrower blade 12, the total moment load force at the root of the blade 12 is also proportionally smaller. In fact, it can be shown that the force moment is proportional to the length D′/2 of the blade cubed, the rigidity of the blade, which is related to the area moment of inertia of the blade section, is proportional to the fourth power of the blade length, wherein the strain of the blade, which is equal to the second lengthwise derivative of the bending force moment multiplied by the distance from the neutral axis of the blade section, is independent of the blade length. In other words, as long as both propellers have the same disk loading per unit of area, the maximum strain in both of them are theoretically identical. Using the well known stress-strain relationship, it follows that as long as the same blade material is used, both the single propeller system and the multi-propeller system can provide the same safety factor for identical thrusts. It can thus be said that both systems are mechanically equal. However, in practice the small multi-propeller system in comparison weighs a lot less that that of the single large propeller system.
Returning to the example of a system of N identical propellers, the total volume of all N propellers is proportional to the diameter D′ of the propeller cubed, multiplied by N, or D3/N1/2. This means, for example, if one replaces a single propeller with 100 identical small propellers that can provide the same net thrust; a factor-of-10 reduction in weight can be realized.
The weight advantage of the multi-propeller system naturally has to be weighed against the added complexity and cost of assembling a multitude of small propellers. Considering the fact though that the tooling costs of making small propellers and the economy of scale of producing the same may far outweigh the additional cost of installing a large number of small propellers over that of a single large propeller. A further advantage of the multi-propeller system accrues from the fact that the aerodynamic load is by nature of a distributed characteristic, whence the weights of the support structures can be profitably minimized if the load distribution of the multitude of propellers can be made to match that of the aerodynamic forces.
A perspective view of two propulsion arrangements having different numbers of prior art propellers 1 and 11 with identical net thrusts is illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B. FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a single propeller system 2 and FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a novel propeller cluster system 3 constructed in accordance with the invention, wherein the single propeller system 2 has the same disk area 21 as the sum of each of the disk areas 31 of the novel multi-propeller system 3. FIG. 4 also illustrates a cabling system 32 that is employed to provide mechanical support structure for the plurality of propellers in the multi-propeller system 3 in an exemplary embodiment of the invention, in which the relative advantage of a distributed load of the multi-propeller system 3 is evident.
Another added benefit of the distributed system 3 stems from its ease to have equal numbers of co-rotating and counter-rotating propellers to balance out the torque force between adjacent pairs of propellers as well as to minimize the loss of propulsion power due to aforementioned swirl. In a co-rotating multi-propeller system, the swirl components from the individual propellers merge to form a single large swirl further down wake, whereas in the counter-rotating multi-propeller system, the individual swirls inhibit and cancel one another and no large scale swirl component or wake is formed.
A multi-propeller system conceptually similar to that depicted in FIG. 4B can further be employed to generate vectored thrust to control the flight path of an aircraft about its pitch, roll and yaw axis. One exemplary embodiment of a vectored thrust generator is to utilize reversible propellers and to have half of the propellers generating positive thrust and the other half generating lower positive or even negative thrust through reverse spinning of the propeller shafts.
The resultant thrust vector determines the direction of the flight as well as to provide pitch, roll and yaw control. It is therefore possible to utilize the principles of the invention to design a helicopter based without the need of a complex mechanical linkage to vary the pitch of rotor blades for directional control. Such a system could eliminate the yaw propeller on a helicopter and its attendant control mechanism to reduce weight, cost, and improve reliability. The propulsion efficiency and safety can be additionally improved by employing a plurality of individually shrouded propellers with the shrouds as safety protection elements as well as aerodynamic and structural elements. A shrouded multi-propeller system can form the basis for a light-weight, compact and highly maneuverable personal aircraft vehicle that could be parked in an ordinary car garage.
The novel distributed propulsion system in the best mode of the invention is employed to provide distributed boundary layer flow control for propulsion. Distributed boundary layer flow control propulsion is generally of minor significance in airplanes that travel at speeds of over 200 miles/hour and is less that 10 m in length. For such aircrafts, the boundary layer thickness is in the millimeter to low centimeter range, and as such would require each individual propeller in the array to have a diameter of a centimeter of less, making boundary layer flow control with propellers impractical.
On the other hand airships, hybrid airships and in particular high altitude airships tend to be well over 100 m in length and typically do not travel at over 100 m/s. For such airships, the boundary layer thickness can be as high as 30 cm or more, making a boundary layer propulsion system particularly advantageous.
FIGS. 5 and 6 are prior art side views of the boundary layer flow 42 around an airship 40 and its body 41 as well as a stratospheric airship 4 (FIG. 6). The detached air flow 43 and the turbulent wake 46 (FIG. 6) resulting in drag are shown. Also shown are the onset 45 of the turbulent boundary layer flow and the turbulent boundary layer flow 44 itself all of which contribute to drag on the airships 4 and 40. The boundary layer thickness normally increases monotonically as a distance from the foremost portion of the airship along its body 41. At the nose the boundary layer thickness is negligible. As long as the airship body is sufficiently smooth and devoid of a strong temperature gradient, the boundary layer flow 42 is typically laminar in the favorable pressure gradient region of the fore section of the airship where the cross-section is rapidly expanding. The boundary layer thickness thickens slowly and usually does not exceed a few centimeters before the onset 45 of boundary layer turbulence. However, in the neutral and adverse pressure region along the body, the growth of the boundary layer quickens and inevitably becomes less stable and ultimately develops into an unstable flow pattern, marking the onset of turbulent flow 44. The process in known as boundary layer transition. The transition can occur in the neutral region as well as the adverse pressure gradient region as the pressure begins to recover over the aft section of the body. Boundary layer thickens rapidly after the transition and normally separates from body near the tail region.
The effect of the boundary layer on the drag can be seen as follows, first, the boundary layer adds to the thickness of the body in the form of displacement thickness, which increases the pressure drag, and the shear stress at the surface of the airship body 41 creates skin friction drag. The pressure drag is further enhanced by the lack of closure of the boundary layer, especially after the detachment of the flow, which prevents the surface pressure to fully recover. Clearly, it is highly desirable to postpone or eliminate the transition to turbulence in order to minimize the pressure drag which is typically at least an order of magnitude larger than the skin friction drag. At low Reynolds numbers, which would correspond to an air speed of well under 1 m/s, it is relatively easy to maintain laminar flow. However, at normal air speed, laminar flow can only be dealt with through various prior art boundary layer modification techniques as heretofore discussed such as boundary layer suction, boundary layer blowing or changing the shape of the skin of the airship. The majority of such techniques are impractical owing to mechanical complexities and increased weight.
A laminar boundary layer also has a stronger tendency to separate from the body in the strongly adverse pressure region because of the lack of sufficient forward momentum of the laminar boundary layer flow hinders its ability to overcome the negative gradient. Such a separation results in a drastic increase in the pressure drag owing to the large jump in the effective boundary layer thickness as well as the flattening of the pressure recovery. In order to delay flow detachment, it is often advantageous to deliberately trip the boundary layer into turbulence even at the expense of increasing the skin friction drag. The richer flow profile of the turbulent boundary layer enables it to resist the adverse pressure gradient much more effectively.
Boundary layer propulsion provides a more effective way to revitalize and replenish the fatigued boundary layer in the neutral and adverse pressure regions in the mid and aft sections of an airship. FIG. 7 is a close-up side view of the boundary layer air flow 42 around a streamlined body 51 at or near the transition to turbulence area 42A of FIGS. 5 and 6 showing the effect of a modification of a prior art airship by utilizing a boundary layer micro-propulsion means 53 in reducing the thickness of the downstream boundary layer 55. According to the momentum theory, the net effect of the micro-propulsion means 53 is to accelerate the flow in such a way that half of the momentum increment takes place just upstream 52 of the micro-propulsion means 53 and the remaining half occurs in the immediate downstream region 55. A consequence of mass conservation means that any increase in flow velocity (or momentum) leads to a corresponding thinning of the boundary layer, as shown in FIG. 7.
The reenergized boundary layer flow is much better able to handle a strong negative pressure gradient, at least for a short distance. The distance can be approximately determined from the ratio of the gain in the kinetic energy density of the boundary layer flow from the micro-propulsion means 53 to the negative pressure gradient. If the micro-propulsion means 53 are arranged in tandem as illustrated in FIG. 8 such that their separation distances are smaller than the distances computed above, then the boundary layer can be prevented from thickening any further, and since there is always enough downstream momentum (or kinetic energy) of the boundary layer flow to surmount the adverse pressure gradient in the rear section of the airship, as a result the precondition for the occurrence of the flow separation no longer exists. This is depicted in FIG. 8, which illustrates a similar side view showing the effect of a distributed boundary layer propulsion system utilizing a plurality of surface micro-propulsion means 53 on the boundary layer air flow 42 around and along the length a streamlined body 41 in the areas where boundary layer separation would otherwise occur. FIG. 9 is a close-up cutaway view of the distributed boundary layer propulsion system 53 and its effect on the boundary layer air flow 42 around a streamlined body 41. It is seen that a nearly constant boundary layer thickness can be maintained throughout the adverse gradient region in the aft section of the airship. This efficiency in maintaining the constant boundary layer thickness is maintained by the reduced in size prior art propeller 63.
For maximum propulsion efficiency, the micro-propulsion means 53 preferably accelerates the boundary layer flow 42 only just enough to overcome the local adverse pressure gradient for a very short distance. This, however, would require a great number of low power micro-propulsion means 53 to achieve the same net thrust, which is clearly impractical, thus a tradeoff between absolute propulsion efficiency and implementation complexity must be considered. Another trade that is worthy of consideration is the choice between small boundary layer thickness and moderate boundary layer thickness. If a sufficient number of micro-propulsion means 53 are employed, it is possible to reduce the boundary layer thickness so that a laminar flow can be maintained throughout the surface area of the airship body 41. This follows from the fact that at small boundary layer thickness, the velocity gradient of the flow perpendicular to the boundary layer flow 42 becomes so large that the flow is no longer unstable and instead is dominated by shear viscosity, which results in a large increase in the skin friction drag; whereas at large boundary layer thickness, the velocity shear is small, and although the downstream momentum of the flow propelled by the micro-propulsion means 53 is sufficient to counter the negative effect of the adverse pressure gradient, it is not sufficient to prevent the flow itself from being mildly unsteady, the resulting weak eddy nature of the weakly turbulent flow does introduce some local increase in the velocity shear, which also increases the skin friction drag. The most optimum choice of the boundary layer thickness is the one that would lead to a neutral boundary layer flow since it neither contains large perpendicular velocity shear nor introduces localized vortex structures which enhance velocity shear in random directions.
In airships and particularly in high altitude airships, the typical boundary layer thickness in the laminar and mildly turbulent regions are of the order of a fraction of a meter. In high altitude airships it is advantageous to use a plurality of small propellers as the micro-propulsion means 53 to provide a distributed boundary layer propulsion means. However, micro-propellers are not the only choice to provide a distributed boundary propulsion means. An alternative preferred embodiment of the micro-propulsion means 53 is the application of a plurality of micro-, or small, piezoelectric biomorph fins 8 mounted the surface of the airship as depicted in FIGS. 10A and 10B. The first end 81 of each micro-biomorph piezoelectric fin 8 is attached to the airship body 41 FIG. 10C and is in communication with an electric power source of the airship through an electrical harness (similar to the one illustrated in FIG. 13) that passes through the skin of the airship to actuate the piezoelectric fin 8. Upon receiving a sinusoidal driving voltage, the cantilevered portion of the micro-fin 54 is periodically deformed to execute a wave-like motion owing to its bimorph construction. A proper adjustment of the sinusoidal driving frequency of the piezoelectric bimorph fin 8, together with the free end nature of its second end 81, results in a wavy movement of the biomorph fin 8 to become predominantly backward traveling wave which propels a portion of the air backward, accelerating it in the process. By arranging the piezoelectric fins into a two dimensional array as shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, a distributed propulsion system is provided that is capable of modifying boundary layer flow characteristics. Although the distributed piezoelectric fin propulsion system increases the wetted area which results in a higher skin friction drag, it is more than compensated by the reduction of the turbulent eddies and the elimination of the separated flow.
The micro-piezoelectric biomorph propulsion fins 8 can be further optimized to enhance the propulsion efficiency by more closely matching the speed distribution of the backward traveling wave with the sheared velocity profile of the local boundary layer. Since the velocity profile of the boundary layer varies from zero at the surface of the airship body to the free streaming velocity at the flow boundary, the backward traveling wave must likewise have a wavelength which varies from zero at the surface to its maximum value at the flow boundary. Another consideration is that since the flow velocity must be zero at the surface due to the no-slip condition, there is no point in wasting any extra energy to propel the air close to the surface, hence the amplitude of the backward traveling wave of the fin should ideally increase from zero at the surface to a maximum value at its maximum height. Both these objectives can be realized by varying the thickness of the bimorph layer of the fin as a decreasing function of the height and by attaching the bottom edge of the fin to the body. An added benefit of this embodiment is the potential reduction of the Tollmien-Schlichtling motion similar to the effect that a riblet may have. This can delay the onset of turbulence as well as reducing the strength of the turbulence after the onset.
The piezoelectric biomorph propulsion fin system is particularly advantageously employed in stratospheric airships for the novel distributed boundary layer propulsion means in the thin stratospheric air and where the radius of curvature of the surface of the airship does not result in a boundary layer thickness of about 1 to 10 centimeters. In such applications a piezoelectric biomorph propulsion fin system makes it possible to provide a stratospheric airship with reduced power requirements for station keeping, telecommunications and other applications requiring a high altitude in a substantially geostationary position.
Referring now to FIG. 11A an airship constructed in accordance with the best mode is illustrated. The novel airship 70 includes a passive riblet film 62 disposed on the curved airship skin at or near the beginning of the boundary separation layer. The passive riblet film 62 can, depending upon weight consideration, can cover all or part of airship 70 and is particularly advantageously applied to the aft portion of airship 70. A distributed boundary propulsion means in the form of a plurality of piezoelectric biomorph fins 8 or EAP riblets as will be later discussed are disposed on the surface of the novel airship 70 where the boundary separation layer is in the range of about 2 to 10 centimeters high as calculated based on the density of the air, speed of the airship and degree of curvature of the novel airship 70.
In the further aft positions of the airship where the boundary layer thickness approaches about 10 centimeters a second distributed boundary propulsion means in the form of a plurality of micropropellers propulsion means 53 are provided to maintain the flow of the boundary layer as illustrated in FIGS. 8, 9 and 11A. The flow of the boundary air is further assisted by a propeller 63 disposed at the aft end of the novel airship 70.
The speed of each propeller 72 (FIG. 11B) is controlled by a computer 74 to maintain the flow of boundary layer air uniform for straight and level flight as illustrated in FIGS. 8, 9 and 11A as well as the activation and operation of the plurality of piezoelectric biomorph fins. Computer 74 obtains data from a plurality of pressure sensors 68 distributed along the surface of the skin of airship 70. Solar cell panel 64 preferably constructed of flexible solar cells is provided to supply power to the plurality of miniature electric motors 76 for operating the novel distributed boundary layer propulsion system for airship 70.
Preferably each of the miniature electric motors 76 are pivotally attached to the skin of the airship 70. Each miniature electric motor has a pivot to pivot as illustrated by arrow 88 (FIG. 11B). The pivot is controlled by computer 74 to provide control over the profile of the boundary layer in the novel distributed boundary layer propulsion system. Computer 74 also controls the speed and direction of rotation of each propeller 72 in the distributed boundary layer propulsion means.
An alternative embodiment of the airship 70 is illustrated in FIG. 11C. As previously discussed boundary layer separation and turbulence increases at the rear section of the airship. In the novel airship 70 propeller 63 along with the plurality of the micro-propeller propulsion means 53 are employed to minimize boundary layer separation. In airship 80 in FIG. 11C propeller 63 is removed leaving a blunt end 77 on airship 80.
In airship 80 the last row 82 of the micro-propeller propulsion means 53 maintains boundary layer control of 10 centimeters or less past blunt end 77 to prevent boundary layer separation and the induction of drag past the blunt end 77 of airship 80.
As heretofore discussed the flight of novel airships having a distributed boundary layer control means can be controlled by controlling the speed and direction of rotation of individual propellers 72 in the plurality of the micro-propeller propulsion means 53. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 12A, when all of the plurality of micro propellers 3 are controlled by computer 74 to turn at the same speed and direction straight and level flight is achieved for a symmetrical airship in no wind conditions. Computer 74 is also designed to control airship 70 taking into account wind conditions by varying the speed of the propellers or by having the length, shape and speed of the individual propellers as will be discussed hereinafter in greater detail with respect to electroactive polymers (EAP) and distributed boundary layer propulsion means constructed of Electroactive Polymer Artificial Muscle (EPAM) materials.
In operation of the novel airship 70 computer 74 can operate micro propellers 94 on the left side of the airship FIG. 12B at a faster rate of speed than propellers 3 or reverse propellers 3 on the right side of the airship to provide a right turn while maintaining boundary control. In a left turn the micro propellers 96 on the right side can be operated by computer to turn faster than the other micro propellers 3 and particularly the propellers 3 on the left side of the airship to provide a left turn as illustrated in FIG. 12C. Computer 74 can also control micro propellers 98 to spin faster than the remaining propellers 3 resulting in a nose down or a descent of airship 70 as indicated in FIG. 12D. Similarly computer 74 can cause micro propellers 99 to turn faster than the remaining micro propellers 3 to provide a nose up or climb configuration for airship 70 while maintaining boundary layer control and distributed boundary layer propulsion as indicated in FIG. 12E. Roll control or control over the roll axis can be controlled by computer 74 by operating propellers 103 faster than the remaining propellers 3 as indicated in FIG. 12F to provide a roll to the left. Similarly a roll to the right can be controlled by computer 74 by operating micro propellers 105 faster than the remaining micro propellers 3 as indicated in FIG. 12G.
The control of the three axis of flight of airship 70 can also be controlled by the computer control of fins 8 in FIG. 11A especially where the fins are composed of an electroactive polymer material (EAP) that can change in shape and length. EAP materials such as elastomer silicones and acrylic elastomers and particularly acrylic elastomers such as VHB4910 which is commercially available form 3 M can be used in the construction of EAP fins 120 (FIG. 13) or riblets 130 (FIG. 14) disposed in the boundary layer to provide an additional or alternative distributed boundary layer propulsion means. An EAP fin 120 is illustrated in FIG. 13 having a rigid base 122 and an electroactive polymer body 123 which has the ability to change length and shape upon activation by EAP controller 124. EAP fin 120 is attached to and through airship skin 41 to the EAP controller 124. EAP controller 124 is electrically connected to an EAP power supply and control circuit 126 through leads 128. Each EAP power supply 124 and control circuit 126 is connected to computer 74 (FIG. 11A) to provide for the coordination and operation of each of the EAP fins 120. However due to the electroactive polymer body of EAP fin 120 each EAP fin 120 can change shape and length to provide a greater control over boundary layer air than piezoelectric fins 8. The shape and length of each EAP fin 120 is determined by computer 74 based on boundary layer air flow detected by pressure sensor 68 in the airship skin 41.
In addition to EAP fin 120 an EAP riblet 130 (FIG. 14) and an EAP propeller 200 (FIG. 19) can be formed out of an electroactive polymer material and be controlled by computer 74 to change shape and length in providing the distributed boundary layer propulsion means in controlling novel airships constructed in accordance with the invention. Propeller 200 can also be created from various types of shape memory alloy materials known to those skilled in the art of alloys.
Referring now to FIG. 14 one of the EAP riblets 130 is illustrated. EAP riblet 130 includes a rigid base 132 connected to and through the aircraft skin to an EAP controller and an EAP power supply and to a computer 74. EAP riblet 130 includes an elastomer substrate 134 and electroactive polymer artificial muscle (EPAM) biomorph layers 136, 138 and 140. The EPAM biomorph layers 136, 138 and 140 provide an elastic conductor EAP sandwich each layer of which is separately activated by electrical leads 142, 144 and 146 to result in the change of the shape and length of EAP riblet 130. An electro mechanical tubular conduit 148 connects EAP riblet to and through the airship skin to an EAP controller and power supply as was previously discussed with respect to EAP fin 120.
The ability of EAP materials to change shape and length along the X, Y and Z axis is illustrated in FIGS. 15, 16 and 17. As illustrated in FIG. 15 by employing multiple conducting strips 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157 and 158 which are separately controlled by electrical impulses from the corresponding leads 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165 and 166 in electrical harness 168 a variable bending of the EAP biomorph layers 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 178 and 179 is provided. In FIG. 17 only the Z-axis is illustrated. The variation in the X-axis can be equally employed. The X-variation allows a traveling wave to be formed and the variation in the Z-direction allows the amplitude as well as the speed of the backward traveling waveform to vary in the Z-direction to match the boundary layer vector profile. Such actuators are referred to as EAP diaphragm actuators. A diaphragm actuator is made in a planar construction and then is biased in the Z-axis to produce an out of plane motion.
The separate activation of each layer of the EAP material is illustrated in FIGS. 17A and 17B. The conducting strips 151-158 (FIG. 15) and for example strips 151 and 152 and biomorph layers 170-179 (FIG. 15) and for example biomorph layers 170, 171 and 172 in FIG. 17A provide for the separate expansion of an expansion layer 151 and the contraction of a corresponding contraction layer 152 to provide for the change in shape of a distributed boundary layer propulsion means such as micropropeller 200 (FIG. 19).
The advantages of using EAP materials is further illustrated in FIG. 16. In FIG. 16 the conducting strips 151-155 and biomorph layers 171-175 are employed. However on the outermost layer 180 a pressure/stress sensing layer is provided. Pressure/stress sensing layer 180 eliminates the requirement for a separate sensors 68 in the skin of the airship (FIG. 13). Pressure sensing layer provides for the direct measurement of the flow of boundary layer air from the distributed boundary layer propulsion means.
The shape and length of propeller blades can be modified when constructed of an EAP material. Referring now to FIG. 18 a cross section of a propeller along the longitudinal length of a section of the micro propeller 200 is illustrated. An electromechanical guide tube 202 is disposed inside the longitudinal length of propeller 200 to carry the electrical leads similar to electromechanical conduit 148 in FIG. 13. The curved upper surface 204 creates a curved airfoil surface of the propeller and is composed of a plurality of individual EAP sections 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214 N which connected together form the micro propeller blade 200. Each section of the propeller blade 206-214 N is individually controlled by computer 74 to expand longitudinally to extend the length of micro propeller blade 200 as well as transversely to change the pitch as well as the profile of micro propeller blade 200 along the X, Y and Z axis.
The EAP-based adaptive micro propeller section includes rigid sections 216, 218, 220, 224 and 226 N for the leading edge of the micropropeller which is preferably constructed of a high density plastic material and may include embedded electrical heating wires 228 and heating elements 230 to remove ice from the leading edge of the micropropeller 200. The rigid sections 216, 218, 220, 224 and 226 N are utilized to maintain the shape of at least a portion of the leading edge of micropropeller 200 while the remaining EAP sections are utilized to change the pitch of the micro propeller 200 through one set of EAP actuators. A second set of EAP actuators are designed to expand in the Z direction to change the length of the propeller. Both types of subsections are designed to glide along the guide tube 202.
In a further embodiment of the invention guide tube 202 may also be constructed of an EAP material and in particular a cylindrical EAP actuator so that guide tube 202 expands and contracts together with each of the sections 206 to 214 N in which case the rigid sections 216 to 226 N are of a size less than the full length of micro propeller 200. In addition where guide tube 200 is constructed of an EAP material the leads inside tube 202 are constructed of a conductive and expandable material such as graphite powder, silicon oil/graphite mixtures as well as other elastomeric conductive materials known to those skilled in the art.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18 each of the EAP sections 206 to 214 N are mechanically constrained from rotating around the Z axis in the area of guide tube 202. Guide tube 202 may also be of a multi tube telescopic construction or an EAP material to prevent the tube from protruding beyond the blade tip. The hollow guide tube 202 allows power and control harnesses to be connected to each section 206 to 214 N. Each EAP subsection can include one or more EAP or non EAP based sensors as illustrated and discussed with respect to FIG. 16 and sensor 180. The entire blade is preferably covered with an elastomeric film to smooth out any discontinuity between the adjoining subsections and to improve the aerodynamic efficiency of the micro propeller blade 200. Adaptive distributed boundary layer propellers constructed in accordance with the invention can expand up to more than double its rest length and can vary its blade pitch as a function of the blade radius on the fly.
Referring now to FIG. 19 a schematic diagram illustrates a placement of an EAP fin 120 and an EAP propeller 200 and micro-propeller motor 76 in relation to the boundary layer thickness to the airship skin 41. As previously discussed the boundary layer thickness depends upon a number of parameters the most important of which is the degree of curvature of the airship skin. In addition to the curvature of the skin the density of the air at the deployed altitude has to be taken into account as well as the operating speed of the airship in determining the placement of the novel distributed boundary control means of the invention.
As illustrated in FIG. 19 the placement of the novel distributed boundary layer control means is determined by the boundary layer thickness in the aft section of the novel airship 70 (FIG. 11A). Where the boundary layer separation thickness is about 1 to 10 centimeters biomorph fins 8 and preferably EAP fins 120 are disposed to provide the distributed boundary layer control means as represented by arrow 250 representing the distance between the airship skin 41 and the boundary laminar-to-turbulent transition line 252. Where the boundary layer thickness increases to 10 centimeters or greater represented by arrow 254 the plurality of micropropellers 200 are disposed on the airship skin 41. Micropropellers 200 and EAP controller 124 are controlled by computer 74 as heretofore discussed and the micropropeller blades are preferably constructed of an EAP material to provide further expansion outside the 10 centimeter line 256 to provide control over and provide propulsion in boundary layer air disposed between turbulent transition line 252 and line 256.
As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art the length of the micro propeller array will vary depending upon curvature of the aircraft or airship and density of the air and speed of the aircraft or airship. In the stratospheric application of the invention the length of typical micro propellers will be about 2 to 15 centimeters in diameter and preferably be constructed of an EAP material to provide at least a doubling of the length of the propeller as well as a change in the pitch and shape of the airfoil forming the propeller.
It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that the invention can be implemented in a number of different ways to provide distributed boundary layer propulsion. As used herein the term distributed boundary layer propulsion means distributing the propulsion means within the boundary layer air that would otherwise cause drag on the aircraft or airship. The term boundary layer air propulsion means includes various types of miniature propulsion engines and propellers and fins used to provide for the propulsion of an aircraft or airship utilizing air that would otherwise contribute to drag. The use of the term boundary propulsion means does not exclude the use of conventional propulsion engines on other parts of the aircraft or airship as was discussed with respect to FIG. 11A.
Those skilled in the art will further recognize the invention may be implemented in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the invention. It will be recognized further that not all aspects of the invention must be utilized in each and every application of the invention. For example some airships and aircraft may use only use fins, micropropellers, riblets or such components constructed from traditional metal alloys or from metallic and non metallic shape memory materials including components made from EAP materials. It will also be understood that such components may or may not include separate sensors and that airships and aircraft constructed in accordance with the invention may or may not include other flight control surfaces to control the flight of the airship or airship without using boundary layer air to control one or more of the three axis of flight of pitchs, roll and yaw.
It will be recognized the invention is capable of numerous changes and modifications by those skilled in the art. The airship may be modified to operate at various altitudes and the shape may be modified significantly while maintaining the principles of boundary layer control propulsion. The chemical compositions of polymers used for the distributed boundary layer propulsion means may be changed and modified by those skilled in the art. Further the size, shape and disposition of the propulsion means may be modified by those skilled in the art in relation to the shape of the aircraft or airship to maintain boundary layer control over the pitch, roll and yaw axis of flight. These and such other variations are intended to be included in the scope of the appended claims.
The terms airship and aircraft have been used herein and in the claims and the term airship contemplates a lighter-than-air aircraft utilizing in whole or in part a lifting gas to generate lift and as previously discussed includes hybrid aircraft. The term aircraft as used herein and in the claims contemplates a heavier than air vehicle that requires a wing along with a propulsion system to provide or maintain flight without relying upon a supplemental lifting gas. As such the invention pertains to aircraft having a convention propulsion system utilizing propellers or jet engines as well as airships with or without such conventional propulsion systems.
As used herein and in the following claims, the words “comprising” or “comprises” is used in its technical sense to mean the enumerated elements included but do not exclude additional elements which may or may not be specifically included in the dependent claims. It will be understood such additions, whether or not included in the dependent claims, are modifications that both can be made within the scope of the invention. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that a wide range if changes and modification can be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.
Terminology and Designated Numbers
Conventional Fixed Blade Propeller 1
System 2
Micro Propellers 3
Stratospheric Airship 4
Arrow (Thrust) 5
Curved Airfoil Surface 6
Arrow 7
Fins 8
Blades 9
Shaft 10
Propeller 11
Blade 12
Lift Force 13
Hub 15
Propellers 16
Propellers 18
Propellers 20
Propeller Cluster 31
Cabeling System 32
Airship 40
Airship Skin or Body (of Airship) 41
Boundary Layer Flow 42
Turbulence Area 42A
Detached Air Flow 43
Turbulent Boundary Layer Flow 44
Onset 45
Turbulent Wake 46
Streamlined Body 51
Upstream 52
Micropropulsion Means
Micropropeller propulsion
Means 53
Micro Fin 54
Downstream Boundary Layer 55
Passive riblet film 62
Propeller 63
Solar cell panel 64
Sensor 68
Airship 70
Propeller 72
Computer 74
Miniature electric motor 76
Blunt End 77
Airship 80
Second End 81
Last Row 82
Micro propellers 94
Micro propellers 96
Micro propellers 98
Micro propellers 99
Propellers 103
Micro propellers 105
EAP fin 120
Rigid base 122
Electroactive Polymer Body 123
EAP controller 124
EAP power supply
And control circuit 126
Leads 128
EAP riblet 130
Rigid base 132
Elastomer substrate 134
Electroactive polymer
Artificial muscle (EPAM)
Biomorph layers 136, 138 and 140
Electrical leads 142, 144, 146
Electro mechanical conduit 148
Expansion layer 150
Contraction layer 152
Multiple conducting strips 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157 and 158
Leads 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166
Electrical harness 168
EAP biomorph layers 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 178, 179
Outermost layer 180
Pressure/stress sensing
Layer
EAP propeller 200
or
Micropropeller 200
Micropropeller blade
Electromechanical guide
Tube 202
or Guide tube
Curved upper surface 204
EAP sections 206, 208, 210, 212 and 214 n
Or propeller blade
Rigid sections 216, 218, 220, 224 and 226 n
Embedded electrical
Heating wires 228
Heating element 230
Arrow 250
Boundary laminar-to-
Turbulent transition line 252
Boundary layer thickness
Increase to 10 cm 254
Expansion beyond 10 cm
Line
1. A boundary layer propelled airship comprising:
(a) a curved airship skin having a fore section and a curved aft section; and (b) a distributed boundary layer propulsion means disposed in said curved aft section having at least one member of said distributed boundary layer propulsion means selected from the group consisting of:
a plurality of micropropellers;
a plurality of piezoelectric biomorph fins;
a plurality of electroactive polymer propellers; and
a plurality of electroactive polymer riblets.
2. The boundary layer propelled airship of claim 1 further comprising a passive riblet film disposed on said curved airship skin.
3. The boundary layer propelled airship of claim 1 wherein said passive riblet film is disposed on said curved aft section of the airship skin.
4. The boundary layered propelled airship of claim 3 wherein said boundary layer propulsion means is disposed aft of said passive riblet film.
5. The boundary layer propelled airship of claim 3 wherein said boundary layer propulsion means is a plurality of electroactive polymer riblets disposed aft of said passive riblet film.
6. The boundary layer propelled airship of claim 5 wherein said boundary layer propulsion means further comprises a plurality of electroactive polymer propellers disposed aft of said plurality of electroactive polymer riblets.
7. The boundary layer propelled airship of claim 6 wherein said aft section terminates in a propeller.
8. The boundary layer propelled airship of claim 6 wherein said aft section terminates in a blunt end.
9. A boundary layer propulsion device comprising:
(a) an airfoil having a leading edge and a trailing edge; (b) a substantially hollow guide tube disposed inside said airfoil intermediate said leading edge and said trailing edge; (c) a layered electroactive polymer disposed between said leading edge and said trailing edge and substantially surrounding said guide tube; and (d) electrical contacts connecting said electroactive polymer to said substantially hollow guide tube.
10. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 9 further comprising an electroactive polymer controller connected to said electrical contacts through said substantially hollow guide tube.
11. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 11 further comprising an electroactive polymer power supply and control circuit connected to said electrical contacts.
12. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 10 wherein said substantially hollow guide tube is composed of an electroactive polymer material.
13. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 12 wherein said electrical contacts are composed of an elastomeric material containing graphite powder.
14. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 9 further comprising an outer layer of an electroactive polymer pressure/stress sensing layer disposed on said airfoil.
15. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 9 wherein said boundary layer control device is an electroactive polymer fin.
16. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 9 wherein said boundary layer control device is an electroactive polymer riblet.
17. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 9 further comprising a plurality of airfoils having a leading edge and trailing edge and a layer electroactive polymer material disposed therebetween and also disposed on said substantially hollow guide tube.
18. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 17 wherein said plurality of airfoils are covered by an elastomeric covering.
19. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 18 wherein said boundary control device is a propeller.
20. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 19 wherein one layer of said layered electroactive polymer includes a polymer pressure/stress sensing layer disposed on said propeller.
21. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 17 wherein each segment of said plurality of airfoils includes electrical contacts connecting said each segment to said substantially hollow guide tube.
22. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 21 wherein said guide tube is composed of an electroactive polymer material.
23. The boundary layer propulsion device of claim 21 wherein said guide tube is capable of telescoping.
24. A boundary layer propulsion apparatus comprising:
(a) curved aircraft surface having a boundary layer separation area of at least one centimeter; (b) a distributed boundary layer propulsion device disposed on said curved aircraft surface in said boundary layer separation area wherein said distributed boundary layer propulsion device is at least one member selected from the group consisting of;
a plurality of small propellers;
a plurality of piezoelectric biomorph fins;
a plurality of electroactive polymer propellers; and
a plurality of electroactive riblets.
25. The boundary layer aircraft propulsion system of claim 24 further comprising a passive riblet film disposed on said curved aircraft surface.
26. The boundary layer aircraft propulsion system of claim 25 wherein said riblet film has riblets ranging from about 1 microns to 100 microns.
27. The boundary layer aircraft propulsion system of claim 24 wherein said distributed boundary layer propulsion device is controlled by a computer.
28. The boundary layer aircraft propulsion system of claim 24 wherein said distributed boundary layer propulsion device is a plurality of electroactive polymer propellers and said curved aircraft surface has a passive riblet film.
29. The boundary layer aircraft propulsion system of claim 24 wherein said distributed boundary layer propulsion device is a plurality of electroactive riblets and said curved aircraft surface has a passive riblet film.
30. A method of reducing drag and controlling the flight of an airship comprising:
(a) utilizing an airship body having a curved surface; (b) calculating the boundary layer separation profile for said curved surface of said airship body in the aft portion of said airship body; (c) applying a plurality of boundary layer propulsion devices around the curved surface of said airship body; and (d) utilizing a computer to control the operation of said plurality of boundary layer propulsion devices.
31. The method of claim 30 further comprising the step of applying a passive riblet film to at least a portion of said curved surface of said airship body.
32. The method of claim 30 wherein said plurality of boundary layer propulsion devices have at least one device selected from the group consisting of:
a. a plurality of small propellers; b. a plurality of piezoelectric biomorph fins; c. a plurality of electroactive polymer propellers; and d. a plurality of electroactive riblets.
33. The method of claim 32 wherein said plurality of boundary layer propulsion devices are a plurality of small propellers.
34. The method of claim 33 wherein said plurality of small propellers are placed in the aft portion of said airship body where a calculated boundary separation profile is about 10 centimeters or greater.
35. The method of claim 32 wherein said plurality of boundary layer devices are a plurality of piezoelectric biomorph fins.
36. The method of claim 35 wherein said plurality of piezoelectric biomorph fins are placed in the aft portion of said airship body where a calculated boundary separation is less than 10 centimeters.
37. The method of claim 32 wherein said plurality of propellers are composed of a shape memory alloy.
38. The method of claim 32 wherein said plurality of boundary layer devices are a plurality of electroactive polymer propellers.
39. The method of claim 38 wherein said plurality of electroactive polymer propellers are placed in the aft portion of said airship body where a calculated boundary separation profile is about 10 centimeters.
40. The method of claim 32 wherein said plurality of boundary layer devices are a plurality of electroactive riblets.
41. The method of claim 32 wherein said plurality of boundary layer devices are a combination of a plurality of electroactive polymer propellers and a plurality of electroactive riblets.
42. The method of claim 41 further comprising the step of applying a passive riblet film to at least a portion of said curved surface of said airship body.
| 2008-02-08 | en | 2009-08-13 |
US-47253106-A | Base for an escalator or moving walkway
ABSTRACT
An arrangement for a base region of an escalator or moving walkway includes an external covering element for being attached in the base region of the escalator or moving walkway. A substructure includes a profile, a support element extending from the profile and a magnet disposed on the support element. The external covering element is detachably mounted to the substructure in a region of the profile and in a region of the magnet.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of International Patent Application No. PCT/DE2004/002655, filed Dec. 3, 2004, designating the United States and claiming priority from German Application No. 10360377.8, filed Dec. 22, 2003. The subject matter of the foregoing applications and each and every U.S. and foreign patent and patent application mentioned below is incorporated herein by interest.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a device for attaching a base end element, in particular an external covering element in a base zone of an escalator or moving walkway.
German patent document DE-A 199 37 618 discloses a balustrade for a passenger transport installation which comprises a substructure that receives the lower part of the balustrade as well as a covering that is provided on the side of the base and is eventually composed of single segments. The substructure comprises profiles in the region of which the covering or the segments forming the covering is or are provided in a detachable manner by slipping the covering or segments forming the covering on the profiles. The substructure disclosed in this German patent document is relatively complex. In case of a frequent exchange of the coverings it can happen that a new alignment of the coverings becomes necessary due to changes of the tolerances, whereby the time required for maintenance and repair will be increased.
A similar base construction is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,542,522, wherein a plurality of profiles forming the substructure is used and the end elements can be displaced with respect to the substructure on the side of the base by means of a clip connection.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide an attachment of base end elements, in particular external covering elements, without any screws and any adhesive in the base region of an escalator or moving walkway, which requires a short time for the assembly/disassembly and wherein in the field of maintenance, a replacement of damaged base end elements, in particular external covering elements, can be quickly realised without any problems and with low costs.
The above and other objects are accomplished by the provision of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein there is provided an arrangement for a base region of an escalator or moving walkway, comprising: an external covering element for being attached in the base region of the escalator or moving walkway; and a substructure including a profile, a support element extending from the profile and a magnet disposed on the support element, wherein the external covering element is detachably mounted to the substructure in a region of the profile and in a region of the magnet.
An advantage with respect to known constructions of this type mentioned above is the simpler structure of the entire substructure. The base end elements, in particular the external covering elements, can be attached and retained by magnetic force. This leads to the advantage of extremely reduced time consumption for assembly and disassembly. Further, in the case of a recurrent exchange of base end elements, in particular external covering elements, the receiving elements will not be damaged, so that equivalent assembly situations can be achieved. Furthermore, competitive advantages can be obtained in those countries in which a screwing or gluing of base end elements, in particular external covering elements in the base region of escalators or moving walkways, is not desired or not allowed. The attachment of the base end elements, in particular the external covering elements, essentially only comprises the quasi-horizontal support elements, the magnets and the sheet metal parts to be edged, which can be eventually provided.
The sheet metal parts desirably have a hook-shaped edge which serves as an additional safety element. Seen in the direction of assembly of the base end element, in particular the external covering element, the hook-shaped edge engages on the side of the magnet facing the profile, such that unauthorized persons can only remove the respective base end element, in particular the external covering element, from its position with great difficulty.
The device according to the invention additionally enables the provision magnets both on the side of the profiles and in the free end region of the support elements.
It is furthermore possible to insert the external covering elements on the side of the base into an end receiving element and to provide magnets only in the free end region of the support elements. A person skilled in the art will adapt the respectively desired design to a particular application.
According to another aspect of the invention, the magnets can be attached with glue or alternatively by screws to the support element in the regions of the support element mentioned above.
The support element may have one or more bracket-like shoulders for receiving connection elements, for example, hammer-head bolts, that engage in a longitudinal grove provided in the profile, so that the position of the support element may be adjusted in relation to profile. The bracket-like shoulder may include a punched out segment that is directed in the direction of the receiving groove of the hammer-head bolts. Such punched out segment engages in the longitudinal groove and thus excludes a vertical reset or a vertical alignment of the support element. The support element is thus attached exclusively by the connection elements to the vertical profile, which may be made, for example, of aluminium. After the pre-assembly of the support element and the magnet and the sheet metal part that is provided if necessary, the respective external covering element, may be inserted with a pre-determinable angle with one end thereof into the receiving element of the profile and will be afterwards pressed on the magnet at the other end thereof.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The subject of invention is represented by an exemplary embodiment and is described as follows in conjunction with the drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view from the top right side of the device shown in FIG. 2;
FIG. 2 is an end elevation of the device according to the invention; and
FIG. 3 is a perspective view from the bottom right of the device shown in FIG. 2.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown an exemplary embodiment of a base region 1 for an escalator or a moving walkway, neither of which is shown. The base region 1 comprises a substructure 2 composed of vertical profiles 3 made of aluminium. Profiles 3 are in active relation with support elements 4 that are approximately orthogonal to vertical profiles 3. A base end element, which in this example is an external covering element 5, is fixed without any screws or any adhesive in the base region 1. The support element 4 is connected to the profile 3 via detachable connection elements 6. Magnets 8, which are preferably permanent magnets, are provided in a free end region 7 of the support element 4. In the region on the side of the external covering of profile 3, a receiving element 9 is provided that serves for receiving the free end region 10 of the external covering element 5 in this example. Alternatively, it is also possible to provide magnets 8 in the region on the profile side of the respective support element 4.
Like the external covering element 5, the support element 4 is provided as an angle section. Furthermore, the external covering element 5 has a sheet metal part 12 provided with a hook 11, which is in this example, is provided on the side of the magnet. The receiving element 9 includes a slot 13 on the side of the covering, into which slot the free end 10 of the external covering element 5 is introduced. FIG. 1 shows the assembly, in which the free end region 10 of the external covering element 5 is introduced into the slot 13 of the receiving element 9. Herein, the hook 11 is still above the magnet 8.
FIGS. 2 and 3 show different views of the external covering element in an already assembled state 5. Shown are the profile 3, the receiving element 9 formed as a trimming profile, the support element 4, the sheet metal part 12 including hook 11, the magnet 8 as well as a screw 14 connecting the magnet 8 to the free end 7 of the support element 4. The profile 3 includes at least one groove 15 extending in a longitudinal direction thereof, which groove serves for receiving a connection element 6 that is here a hammer-head bolt. The free end 10 of the external covering element 5 is inserted into the slot 13 of the receiving element 9, wherein the hook 11 of the sheet metal part 12 is placed in front of the magnet 8 on the profile side. A removal of the external covering element 5 due to vandalism can thus only be realized with strong forces by a person not skilled in the art. In the assembled state, the 90° offset part 16 of the support element 4 is essentially adjacent in a flush manner to the 90° offset part 17 of the external covering element 5. The support elements 4 have bracket-like shoulders 18, on which the connection elements 6 are guided and displaced in the region of the respective groove 15. Furthermore, punched out segments 19 that are bent in the direction of groove 15 are provided on each bracket-like shoulder 18. Since the segments 19 at least partially project into the groove 15, a vertical reset/vertical alignment of the support element 4 will be excluded. The support element 4 is exclusively fixed via the connection elements 6. The sheet metal part 12 is connected to the external covering element 5 preferably by gluing or by spot welding. Herein, the length of the sheet metal part 12 can be variable. The shorter it is, the more precisely it has to be adapted to the position of the magnet 8, seen in the longitudinal direction of the external covering element 5. The sheet metal part 12 is mounted on the external covering element 5 such that the hook 11 is directed in parallel to, but against the direction of assembly of the external covering element 5 and after the assembly of the external covering element 5 hook 11 engages behind the magnets 8 on the profile side. The sheet metal part 12 serves for forming the contact surface with the magnets 8 on the one hand and for preventing, together with the hook 11, a detachment of the external covering element 5 (direction of motion against the receiving element 9). Dependent on the length of the respective external covering element 5, the support elements 4 are advantageously positioned in the end regions 20 of the profile 3, wherein they overlap a pre-determinable length I of the respective external covering element 5. If the external covering elements are especially long, additional support elements 4 may be provided within the longitudinal extension of the respective external covering elements 5, in order to act against an undesired deflection of the respective external covering element 5.
The invention has been described in detail with respect to referred embodiments, and it will now be apparent from the foregoing to those skilled in the art, that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects, and the invention, therefore, as defined in the appended claims, is intended to cover all such changes and modifications that fall within the true spirit of the invention.
1. An arrangement for a base region of an escalator or moving walkway, comprising:
an external covering element for being attached in the base region of the escalator or moving walkway; and a substructure including a profile, a support element extending from the profile and a magnet disposed on the support element, wherein the external covering element is detachably mounted to the substructure in a region of the profile and in a region of the magnet.
2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the profile is vertical and the support element is essentially orthogonal thereto and is detachably connected to the profile.
3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the support element is detachably connected to the profile by screw connections.
4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the support element has an end adjacent the profile that includes a bracket, and further comprising a connection element to connect the bracket to the profile.
5. The device according to claim 4, wherein the connection element is a hammer-head screw.
6. The device according to claim 1, and further including a receiving element disposed on an external end of the profile to receive and support a free end of the external covering element.
7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the permanent magnet is disposed in an end region of the support element opposite the profile.
8. The device according to claim 1, wherein the magnet is disk-shaped and is detachably connected to the support element.
9. The device according to claim 1, wherein the magnet is connected to the support element by glue.
10. The device according to claim 1, and further including a sheet metal part disposed on a side of the external covering element facing the magnet, wherein the sheet metal part includes an edge in a region of the magnet.
11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the sheet metal part is connected to the external covering element by glue or a spot weld.
12. The device according to claim 10, wherein the edge of the sheet metal part is hook-shaped and the hook-shaped edge of the sheet metal part is located on a side of the magnet between the magnet and the profile element.
13. The device according to claim 10, wherein the support element is positioned in an end zone of the external covering element so as to overlap the external covering element by a pre-determined length.
14. The device according to claim 4, wherein the profile includes a groove that receives the connection element that connects the bracket to the profile, and the bracket includes a punched out segment which at least partially projects into the groove of the profile.
| 2006-06-22 | en | 2007-01-11 |
US-202217826717-A | Vehicle headlamp device
ABSTRACT
A vehicle headlamp device to be applied to a vehicle includes a light source, a lens, and a controller. The light source is configured to emit light. Light emitted from the light source is to pass through the lens. The controller is configured to control light distribution patterns for the light. The light distribution patterns include at least a first light distribution pattern and a second light distribution pattern. The first light distribution pattern illuminates an area ahead of the vehicle during running of the vehicle. The second light distribution pattern is projected as a marking at an optical axis adjustment that is performed during manufacturing of the vehicle. The controller causes a part of the light source to emit light so that the second light distribution pattern is formed.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application claims priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-097975 filed on Jun. 11, 2021, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND
The disclosure relates to a vehicle headlamp device, and in particular, relates to a vehicle headlamp device that has an inspection light distribution pattern for optical axis adjustment during vehicle manufacturing and that eliminates inconvenience for a driver by obscuring a light-dark boundary caused by a cut line of a low beam during running of a vehicle.
As an example of an aiming adjustment method for a vehicle lamp in the related art, a method using a low-beam light distribution pattern has been known. A low-beam lamp has a desired light distribution pattern in which an optical axis is directed downward so as not to dazzle an oncoming vehicle. In a case of left hand traffic such as in Japan, the low-beam light distribution pattern has a horizontal cut line in a right region and a cut line inclined toward the upper left in a left region.
An intersection of the horizontal cut line and the oblique cut line is called an elbow point, and it is assumed that the elbow point is a center of the light distribution pattern. In headlight test, it is determined whether the optical axis of the low-beam lamp is oriented in a defined direction by detecting whether the elbow point is within a predetermined range (see, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2007-190986).
SUMMARY
An aspect of the disclosure provides a vehicle headlamp device to be applied to a vehicle. The vehicle headlamp device includes a light source, a lens, and a controller. The light source is configured to emit light. Light emitted from the light source is to pass through the lens. The controller is configured to control light distribution patterns for the light. The light distribution patterns include at least a first light distribution pattern and a second light distribution pattern. The first light distribution pattern illuminates an area ahead of the vehicle during running of the vehicle. The second light distribution pattern is projected as a marking at an optical axis adjustment that is performed during manufacturing of the vehicle. The controller causes a part of the light source to emit light so that the second light distribution pattern is formed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate an example embodiment and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a vehicle headlamp device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle headlamp device according to the embodiment of the disclosure.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle headlamp device according to the embodiment of the disclosure.
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an optical axis adjustment process of the vehicle headlamp device according to the embodiment of the disclosure.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating light distribution patterns of the vehicle headlamp device according to the embodiment of the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
An aiming adjustment method for a vehicle lamp in the related art detects whether an elbow point is within a predetermined range. To this end, a light-dark boundary generated by the horizontal cut line and inclined cut line of the low-beam light distribution pattern is highlighted, so that the elbow point is made clear and the accuracy of the determination is improved. That is, the aiming adjustment method for a vehicle lamp in the related art highlights the light-dark boundary, which is generated by the cut lines of the low-beam light distribution pattern.
However, when the light-dark boundary generated by the cut lines is highlighted, the following situation may occur. If a road surface or a preceding vehicle is illuminated with light of the low-beam light distribution pattern during normal running of a vehicle, the light-dark boundary generated by the cut lines is too clearly visible to a driver, so that it becomes difficult for the driver to look ahead of the vehicle, which is inconvenient for the driver.
In particular, immediately before a running vehicle approaches a climbing lane on a slope, more light of the low-beam light distribution pattern is projected on a road surface than a down lane or a flat lane, and the light-dark boundary is too clearly visible to the driver . Thus, it becomes difficult for the driver to look ahead of the vehicle, and the driver is likely to feel uneasy.
Since a blurred region of the light of the low-beam light distribution pattern is reduced, an illuminated region of the road surface during the normal running of the vehicle is reduced, which deteriorates the field of vision of the driver.
It is desirable to provide a vehicle headlamp device that has an inspection light distribution pattern for optical axis adjustment during vehicle manufacturing and that eliminates inconvenience for a driver by obscuring a light-dark boundary caused by a cut line of a low beam during running of a vehicle.
In the following, an embodiment of the disclosure is described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following description is directed to an illustrative example of the disclosure and not to be construed as limiting to the disclosure. Factors including, without limitation, numerical values, shapes, materials, components, positions of the components, and how the components are coupled to each other are illustrative only and not to be construed as limiting to the disclosure. Further, elements in the following example embodiment which are not recited in a most-generic independent claim of the disclosure are optional and may be provided on an as-needed basis. The drawings are schematic and are not intended to be drawn to scale. Throughout the present specification and the drawings, elements having substantially the same function and configuration are denoted with the same numerals to avoid any redundant description.
First, a vehicle headlamp device 10 according to the embodiment of the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, an up-down direction represents a height direction of a vehicle 11, a left-right direction represents a vehicle width direction of the vehicle 11, and a front-rear direction represents a longitudinal direction of the vehicle 11.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the vehicle headlamp device 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a headlamp unit 12 of the vehicle headlamp device 10 according to the present embodiment, taken along the height direction of the vehicle 11. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the headlamp unit 12 of the vehicle headlamp device 10 according to the present embodiment, taken along the vehicle width direction of the vehicle 11.
As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the vehicle headlamp device 10 mainly includes the headlamp units 12 disposed at a front end of the vehicle 11, an optical axis adjustment unit 13 that is disposed in the headlamp units 12 and adjusts optical axes of the headlamp units 12, and a controller 14 that controls light sources 21 (see FIG. 2 ) of the headlamp units 12.
The controller 14 includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and the like. The controller 14 is an electronic control unit (ECU) that executes various calculations and the like for controlling the vehicle headlamp device 10. A plurality of light distribution patterns that are emitted from the headlamp unit 12 are stored in advance in a storage unit of the controller 14. Examples of the stored light distribution patterns include a low-beam light distribution pattern 44 (see FIG. 5 ), a high-beam light distribution pattern 45 (see FIG. 5 ), and a light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment (see FIG. 5 ). The controller 14 may appropriately generate the light distribution patterns by the calculations. In one embodiment, the low-beam light distribution pattern 44 and the high-beam light distribution pattern 45 may serve as a first light distribution pattern, and the light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment may be referred to as a “second light distribution pattern”.
The controller 14 controls the light source 21 (see FIG. 2 ), and causes all of a plurality of light emitting diodes serving as the light source 21 to emit light simultaneously or causes the plurality of light emitting diodes serving as the light source 21 to selectively emit light, according to the light distribution patterns. Light having a desired light distribution pattern is emitted from the headlamp unit 12 to illuminate an area ahead of the vehicle 11. The controller 14 can also adjust the brightness of the light emitting diodes according to the light distribution patterns.
As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the headlamp unit 12 mainly includes the light source 21, a lens 22, a housing 23 that supports the light source 21 and the lens 22, an outline member 24 that supports the optical axis adjustment unit 13, and a front cover 25 disposed on a front surface of the outline member 24.
As the light source 21, for example, the plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are used, and the light emitting diodes are arranged in a matrix with respect to a circuit board (not illustrated). The circuit board is fixed at a desired position inside the housing 23, so that the light emitted from the light source 21 travels on a defined optical axis toward a front side of the vehicle 11 (see FIG. 1 ).
In the vehicle headlamp device 10 (see FIG. 1 ), the controller 14 selectively causes the plurality of light emitting diodes serving as the light source 21 to emit light, to thereby perform an adaptive driving beam (ADB) control. Then, under the control of the controller 14, all of the plurality of light emitting diodes are simultaneously selected to emit light or a part of the plurality of light emitting diodes are appropriately selected to emit light, according to the light distribution patterns.
The lens 22 is disposed in front of the light source 21, and closes a front opening of the housing 23. The lens 22 is, for example, a transparent resin lens. A surface of the lens 22 on the light source 21 side is a planar lens surface 22A, and a surface of the lens 22 on the opposite side is a convex lens surface 22B. With this structure, the light emitted from the light source 21 directly enters the lens 22 from the planar lens surface 22A, is diffused when passing through the convex lens surface 22B, and then illuminates an area ahead of the vehicle 11 as light having a desired light distribution pattern.
The housing 23 is, for example, made of a metal and has a cylindrical shape. The housing 23 opens on the front side of the vehicle 11. A vehicle rear side of the housing 23 is fixed at a desired position to a support plate 13A of the optical axis adjustment unit 13. Then, the housing 23 is movable integrally with the support plate 13A. The optical axis adjustment of the light emitted from the light source 21 is performed by finely adjusting an orientation of the support plate 13A.
The outline member 24 is, for example, formed by injection molding of a resin material, and constitutes an outline of the headlamp unit 12. Four main struts 13B and 13C of the optical axis adjustment unit 13 are assembled to the outline member 24, and the outline member 24 movably supports the optical axis adjustment unit 13. Then, the headlamp unit 12 is fixed to the vehicle 11 by assembling the outline member 24 to a vehicle body at the front end of the vehicle 11.
The front cover 25 is made of a transparent resin and is assembled so as to close the front surface of the outline member 24. The front cover 25 is processed into a desired shape according to a shape of the front end of the vehicle 11, and constitutes a design surface of the vehicle 11. The illumination light emitted from the light source 21 passes through the lens 22 and the front cover 25, and illuminates an area ahead of the vehicle 11.
As illustrated, the optical axis adjustment unit 13 mainly includes the support plate 13A that supports the housing 23, and the four main struts 13B and 13C that are fixed to the outline member 24 so as to be slidable in the front-rear direction of the vehicle 11. The main struts 13B and 13C each include, for example, a bolt and a nut, and are fixed to a rear end 24A of the outline member 24.
In each of the main struts 13B and 13C, a tip of the bolt advances to the front of the vehicle 11 when the nut is rotated in one direction, whereas the tip of the bolt retracts to the rear of the vehicle 11 when the nut is rotated in the opposite direction. As will be described in more detail later, in an optical axis adjustment process during vehicle manufacturing, an operator operates the nuts to tilt the support plate 13A in the front-rear direction and the vehicle width direction of the vehicle 11, so that an angle of the housing 23 is adjusted and the optical axis adjustment of the light emitted from the light source 21 is performed.
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the optical axis adjustment process of the vehicle headlamp device 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the light distribution patterns of the vehicle headlamp device 10 according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 4 illustrates how to implement the optical axis adjustment process of the headlamp unit 12 in a manufacturing factory of the vehicle 11. As illustrated, an inspection screen 31 is fixed at a defined position with respect to a manufacturing line, and the optical axis adjustment of the headlamp unit 12 is performed with respect to the vehicle 11 that is conveyed on the manufacturing line.
The vehicle 11 is in front of the inspection screen 31 and is stopped at an inspection position of the manufacturing line. The operator performs various settings for the vehicle 11 based on inspection conditions for the optical axis adjustment, and couples an optical axis diagnostic apparatus (not illustrated) to the controller 14. The optical axis diagnostic apparatus controls the light sources 21 (see FIG. 2 ) via the controller 14, and causes the plurality of light emitting diodes constituting the light sources 21 to selectively emit light based on the light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment (see FIG. 5 ). The operator checks marking light 32 for optical axis adjustment which is projected on the inspection screen 31, and performs the optical axis adjustment such that the marking light 32 matches a target (not illustrated) on the inspection screen 31.
Here, in the present embodiment, the light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment is, for example, a cross-shaped light distribution pattern. As illustrated, the plurality of light emitting diodes constituting the light source 21 are arranged in a grid pattern. The controller 14 selects four light emitting diodes from the plurality of light emitting diodes and causes the selected light emitting diodes to emit light, so that the cross-shaped marking light 32 is projected on the inspection screen 31.
As described above, while checking the marking light 32 projected on the inspection screen 31, the operator operates the main struts 13B and 13C of the optical axis adjustment unit 13 (see FIG. 2 ) to tilt the support plate 13A in the front-rear direction or the vehicle width direction of the vehicle 11, so that the angle of the housing 23 is adjusted, and the optical axis of the light emitted from the light source 21 is adjusted.
The light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment is not limited to the cross shape, but may have, for example, a rectangular shape or a square shape. The design of the light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment may be changed to any shape according to a combination of light emitting diodes.
In FIG. 5 , a frame with a solid line 41 indicates an example of the low-beam light distribution pattern 44, and a frame with a solid line 42 indicates an example of the high-beam light distribution pattern 45. The cross-shaped light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment is formed in the high-beam light distribution pattern 45. The light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment also may be provided in, for example, the low-beam light distribution pattern 44.
Since the vehicle headlamp device 10 according to the present embodiment forms the light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment using a part of the light sources 21 for the high-beam light distribution pattern 45, it is not necessary to highlight a light-dark boundary of a cut-off line 44A of the low-beam light distribution pattern 44. That is, in the low-beam light distribution pattern 44, the light-dark boundary around the cut-off line 44A can be set to a blurred state.
As a result, the light of the low-beam light distribution pattern 44 is emitted from the headlamp unit 12 during normal running of the vehicle 11, but the light at the cut-off line 44A and a neighboring region thereof is in an unclear state. Since a sudden change portion is reduced where brightness on a road surface is suddenly changed due to the light of the low-beam light distribution pattern 44, the driver is less likely to feel inconvenience caused by seeing the light-dark boundary too clearly due to the sudden change portion from the road surface while driving.
Further, immediately before the vehicle 11 reaches a climbing lane on a slope during the normal running, in particular, much of illumination light of the cut-off line 44A of the low-beam light distribution pattern 44 is projected on the road surface of the climbing lane, and the light-dark boundary is too clearly visible to the driver. However, as described above, in the present embodiment, the light at the cut-off line 44A and the neighboring region thereof is set to the unclear state. Thus, the driver is less likely to feel anxiety and inconvenience caused by seeing the light-dark boundary on the road surface ahead of the vehicle 11 too clearly.
In addition, it is not necessary to reduce a blurred region of the light of the low-beam light distribution pattern 44 too much, the illuminated region of the road surface during the normal running of the vehicle 11 is secured and the field of vision of the driver is secured, so that running safety of the vehicle 11 is improved.
Meanwhile, the light of the high-beam light distribution pattern 45 illuminates a space diagonally above the vehicle 11 during the normal running of the vehicle 11, and thus a less amount of light of the high-beam light distribution pattern 45 is projected on the road surface than that of the low-beam light distribution pattern 44. Even when the light-dark boundary of the light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment is clearly highlighted, a projection direction of the high beam prevents the light-dark boundary on the road surface in front of the vehicle 11 from being seen too clearly, and prevents the driver from feeling inconvenience.
As a result, the light-dark boundary of the light of the light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment that forms the marking light 32 is clearly highlighted, so that in the optical axis adjustment process of the headlamp unit 12, the operator can easily recognize the marking light 32 which is clearly projected on the inspection screen 31, which can improve the work efficiency of the optical axis adjustment and improve the accuracy of the optical axis adjustment.
In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2 , a region indicated by a circle 26 on the convex lens surface 22B of the lens 22 may be subjected to a transmission process for enabling the convex lens surface 22B to transmit the light of the light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment. In the case of this structure, when the light of the light distribution pattern 43 for optical axis adjustment passes through the region subjected to the transmission process, the light is transmitted without being diffused, the marking light 32 having the clearly highlighted light-dark boundary is projected on the inspection screen 31 (see FIG. 3 ) . As a result, the operator can easily recognize the marking light 32 clearly projected on the inspection screen 31, which can improve the work efficiency of the optical axis adjustment and improve the accuracy of the optical axis adjustment. At this time, the region subjected to the transmission process is provided on the convex lens surface 22B of the region through which the light of the high-beam light distribution pattern 45 passes, which prevents the driver from feeling inconvenience during normal driving. Various other modifications and alterations may be made without departing from the gist of the disclosure.
In the vehicle headlamp device according to the embodiment of the disclosure, the second light distribution pattern for optical axis adjustment is different from the first light distribution pattern during the running of the vehicle. Thus, the light-dark boundary of the second light distribution pattern is highlighted, and the accuracy of the inspection is improved. Since the light-dark boundary of the first light distribution pattern is relaxed, a sudden change portion where illuminance on a road surface is suddenly changed does not occur when low-beam is turned on, so that the inconvenience for the driver is eliminated.
1. A vehicle headlamp device to be applied to a vehicle, the vehicle headlamp device comprising:
a light source configured to emit light; a lens through which the light is to pass; and a controller configured to control a light distribution patterns for the light, wherein the light distribution patterns include at least
a first light distribution pattern that illuminates an area ahead of the vehicle during running of the vehicle, and
a second light distribution pattern that is to be projected as a marking at an optical axis adjustment that is performed during manufacturing of the vehicle, and
the controller causes a part of the light source to emit light so that the second light distribution pattern is formed.
2. The vehicle headlamp device according to claim 1, wherein
the first light distribution pattern includes a high-beam light distribution pattern, and the second light distribution pattern is formed in the high-beam light distribution pattern.
3. The vehicle headlamp device according to claim 1, wherein
the lens comprises a planar lens surface and a convex lens surface, the planar lens surface being located closer to the light source than the convex lens surface, and a light transmission process is applied to a region of the convex lens surface through which the light of the second light distribution pattern passes.
4. The vehicle headlamp device according to claim 2, wherein
the lens comprises a planar lens surface and a convex lens surface, the planar lens surface being located closer to the light source than the convex lens surface, and a light transmission process is applied to a region of the convex lens surface through which the light of the second light distribution pattern passes.
| 2022-05-27 | en | 2022-12-15 |
US-201415116350-A | Surgical end effectors and pulley assemblies thereof
ABSTRACT
An end effector of a surgical tool includes a first jaw and a second jaw rotated by a driving pulley. A first driven pulley is attached to the first jaw and a second driven pulley is attached to the second jaw. A first end portion of a first cable is connected to a first radial side of the first driven pulley, a second end portion of the first cable is connected to a second radial side of the second driven pulley, and an intermediate portion of the first cable is connected to the driving pulley. A first end portion of a second cable is connected to a first radial side of the second driven pulley, a second end portion of the second cable is connected to a second radial side of the first driven pulley, and an intermediate portion of the second cable is connected to the driving pulley.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a U.S. National Stage Application filed under 35 U.S.C. §371(a) of International patent application Ser. No. PCT/US2014/064009, filed Nov. 5, 2014, which claims the benefit of each of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/938,728, filed Feb. 12, 2014, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/938,732, filed Feb. 12, 2014, the entire disclosure of each of which are incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND
Robotic surgical systems have been used in minimally invasive medical procedures. Some robotic surgical systems included a console supporting a robot arm, and at least one end effector such as forceps or a grasping tool including jaws for capturing tissue therebetween. The at least one end effector was mounted to the robot arm. During a medical procedure, the end effector was inserted into a small incision (via a cannula) or a natural orifice of a patient to position the end effector at a work site within the body of the patient.
Cables extended from the console, through the robot arm, and connected to the end effector. In some instances, the cables were actuated by means of motors that were controlled by a processing system including a user interface for a surgeon or clinician to be able to control the robotic surgical system including the robot arm and/or the end effector. The cables connected to a pulley assembly that transferred torque to drive the actuation of the end effector.
In some instances, surgical procedures may require fine control of the end effector to grasp tissue for dissection and/or to spread tissue surfaces for deep tissue access. Accordingly, there is a need for surgical tools that are able to provide precisely controlled forces applied by jaws of an end effector of a robotic surgical system.
SUMMARY
Jaws at the end of surgical robotics tools, such as forceps or scissor cutting tools, may be driven by a pulley assembly including pulleys and cables. In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, an end effector of a surgical tool comprises a first jaw and a second jaw each being rotatable about a first axis. A first driven pulley is attached to the first jaw and a second driven pulley is attached to the second jaw. The first and second driven pulleys are rotatable about the first axis. Each driven pulley includes a first radial side and a second radial side. A driving pulley is rotatable about a second axis. A first cable has a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion. The first end portion is connected to the first radial side of the first driven pulley. The second end portion is connected to the second radial side of the second driven pulley. The intermediate portion is connected to the driving pulley. A second cable has a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion. The first end portion is connected to the first radial side of the second driven pulley. The second end portion is connected to the second radial side of the first driven pulley. The intermediate portion is connected to the driving pulley. A rotation of the driving pulley about the second axis rotates the driven pulleys in opposite directions about the first axis to open or close the jaws.
In some embodiments, a rotation of the driving pulley in a first direction about the second axis may rotate the first and second driven pulleys via the first cable. A rotation of the driving pulley in a second direction, opposite the first direction, may rotate the first and second driven pulleys via the second cable.
In aspects of the present disclosure, during rotation of the driving pulley in the first direction, the first cable may be in a tensioned condition and the second cable may be in a slack condition. During rotation of the driving pulley in the second direction, the first cable may be in a slack condition and the second cable may be in a tensioned condition.
In another aspect of the present disclosure, the intermediate portions of the first and second cables may be connected to a common point of the driving pulley or may be connected to different points of the driving pulley. It is contemplated that the intermediate portions of the first and second cables may be crimped to the driving pulley.
In some instances, the first end portion of the first cable and the second end portion of the second cable may be parallel, and in other instances the first end portion of the second cable and the second end portion of the first cable may cross. In other instances the respective end portions of the cables may be perpendicular instead of parallel or may be positioned at different angles that are neither parallel nor perpendicular.
In some embodiments, a proximal end of the first jaw may be fixedly attached to a circumferential edge of the first drive pulley and a proximal end of the second jaw may be fixedly attached to a circumferential edge of the second drive pulley.
In aspects of the present disclosure, the first and second jaws may be in flush engagement with one another. It is contemplated that the first axis may be spaced a lateral distance from the second axis. It is further contemplated that the first and second cables may be connected to the driving pulley at a location off-set a radial distance from the second axis.
In embodiments, the driving pulley may support an anchor member, and the intermediate portions of the first and second cables may each be looped through the anchor member of the driving pulley. The anchor member may include a hook that can be attached to a circumferential edge of the driving pulley.
In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a pulley assembly for actuating a first jaw and a second jaw is provided. The pulley assembly comprises a first driven pulley configured to be attached to the first jaw and a second driven pulley configured to be attached to the second jaw. The first and second driven pulleys are rotatable about a first axis. Each driven pulley includes a first radial side and a second radial side. A driving pulley is rotatable about a second axis. A first cable has a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion. The first end portion is connected to the first radial side of the first driven pulley. The second end portion is connected to the second radial side of the second driven pulley. The intermediate portion is connected to the driving pulley. A second cable has a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion. The first end portion is connected to the first radial side of the second driven pulley. The second end portion is connected to the second radial side of the first driven pulley. The intermediate portion is connected to the driving pulley. A rotation of the driving pulley about the second axis rotates the first and second driven pulleys in opposite directions about the first axis.
In aspects of the present disclosure, a rotation of the driving pulley in a first direction about the second axis may rotate the first and second driven pulleys via the first cable. A rotation of the driving pulley in a second direction, opposite the first direction, may rotate the first and second driven pulleys via the second cable. In embodiments, during rotation of the driving pulley in the first direction, the first cable may be in a tensioned condition and the second cable may be in a slack condition. During rotation of the driving pulley in the second direction, the first cable may be in a slack condition and the second cable may be in a tensioned condition.
In some of these aspects, the intermediate portions of the first and second cables may be connected to a common point of the driving pulley or may be connected to different points of the driving pulley. In some instances, the first and second cables may be crimped to the driving pulley.
In some of the aforementioned aspects, the first end portion of the first cable and the second end portion of the second cable may be parallel, and the first end portion of the second cable and the second end portion of the first cable may cross. In other instances the respective end portions of the cables may be perpendicular instead of parallel or may be positioned at different angles that are neither parallel nor perpendicular.
In accordance with yet another aspect of the present disclosure, another pulley assembly for actuating a first jaw and a second jaw is provided. The pulley assembly may include at least two driven pulleys. Each driven pulley may be coupled to a respective jaw and each driven pulley may include at least two radial sides.
The pulley assembly may also include a driving pulley rotatable about a different axis from the driven pulleys and at least two cable sections. Each cable section may couple different radial sides of each driven pulley to the driving pulley. A directional change in rotation of the driving pulley may relieve a tension in at least two first cable sections coupled to different radial sides of at least two of the driven pulleys and may apply a tension to at least two second cable sections coupled to opposite radial sides of the driven pulleys than the first two cable sections.
In some instances, a first cable section may be coupled between a first radial side of a first driven pulley and the driving pulley. A second cable section may be coupled between a second radial side of the first driven pulley and the driving pulley. A third cable section may be coupled between a first radial side of a second driven pulley and the driving pulley. A fourth cable section may be coupled between a second radial side of the second driven pulley and the driving pulley.
The first and the fourth cable sections may be tensioned and the second and the third cable sections may be slackened when the driving pulley is rotated in a first direction. The first and the fourth cable sections may be slackened and the second and the third cable sections may be tensioned when the driving pulley is rotated in a second direction. In some instances, at least two of the cable sections may be part of a single continuous cable.
The first and the second cable sections may be part of a first single continuous cable and the third and the fourth cable sections may be part of a second single continuous cable. The first and the fourth cable sections may be part of a first single continuous cable and the second and the third cable sections may be part of a second single continuous cable. In other instances, each of the cable sections may be a separate cable from the other cable sections. In other instances, two of the cable sections may be part of a single continuous cable and two of the cable sections may be separate cables.
Further details and aspects of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described in more detail below with reference to the appended figures.
As used herein, the terms parallel and perpendicular are understood to include relative configurations that are substantially parallel and substantially perpendicular, such as up to about + or −10 degrees from true parallel and true perpendicular.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of a medical work station and operating console in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIG. 1B is a schematic, perspective view of a motor of a control device of the medical work station of FIG. 1A, having a cable connected thereto;
FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view, with parts separated, of a surgical end effector, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating jaws and a pulley assembly thereof;
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the pulley assembly of the end effector shown in FIG. 2;
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of an alternate pulley assembly to that shown in FIG. 3A;
FIG. 4 is a perspective, cutaway view of the end effector shown in FIG. 2 with the jaws disposed in a closed configuration;
FIG. 5 is a perspective, cutaway view of the end effector shown in FIG. 2 with the jaws disposed in an open configuration; and
FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view, with parts separated, of a surgical end effector, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating jaws and a pulley assembly thereof.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Embodiments of the presently disclosed surgical end effectors and methods of actuating the same are described in detail with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the several views. As used herein the term “distal” refers to that portion of the jaws and/or pulley assembly that is closer to a surgical site, while the term “proximal” refers to that portion of the jaws and/or pulley assembly that is farther from the surgical site.
Referring initially to FIGS. 1A and 1B, a medical work station is shown generally as work station 1 and may include one or more robot arms 2, 3; a control device 4; and an operating console 5 coupled with control device 4. Operating console 5 includes a display device 6, which is set up in particular to display three-dimensional images and/or video; and manual input devices 7, 8, by means of which a person (not shown), for example a surgeon, is able to telemanipulate robot arms 2, 3 in a first operating mode, as known in principle to a person skilled in the art.
Each of the robot arms 2, 3 includes an attaching device 9, 11, to which may be attached, for example, a surgical tool “ST” supporting an end effector 100, in accordance with any one of several embodiments disclosed herein, as will be described in greater detail below.
Robot arms 2, 3 may be driven by electric drives (not shown) that are connected to control device 4. Control device 4 (e.g., a computer) is set up to activate the drives, in particular by means of a computer program, in such a way that robot arms 2, 3, their attaching devices 9, 11 and thus the surgical tool (including end effector 100) execute a desired movement according to a movement defined by means of manual input devices 7, 8. Control device 4 may also be set up in such a way that it regulates the movement of robot arms 2, 3 and/or of the drives.
Medical work station 1 is configured for use on a patient 13 lying on a patient table 12 to be treated in a minimally invasive manner by means of end effector 100. Medical work station 1 may also include one or more robot arms 2, 3, the additional robot arms likewise being connected to control device 4 and being telemanipulatable by means of operating console 5. A medical instrument or surgical tool (including an end effector 100) may also be attached to the additional robot arm. Medical work station 1 may include a database 14, in particular coupled to with control device 4, in which are stored for example pre-operative data from patient 13 and/or anatomical atlases.
Reference may be made to U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0116416, filed on Nov. 3, 2011, entitled “Medical Workstation,” the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference, for a detailed discussion of the construction and operation of medical work station 1.
Control device 4 may control a plurality of motors (Motor 1 . . . n) with each motor configured to wind-up or let out a length of cable “C” (FIG. 1B) extending to end effector 100 of the surgical tool. The distal end of each cable “C” is wrapped around a driving pulley 140 of end effector 100 in the manner of a capstan to drive a rotation of driving pulley 140 as shown, for example, in FIG. 2. In use, as cables “C” are wound-up and let out, cables “C” effect operation and/or movement of each end effector 100 of the surgical tool via pulley assembly 120, as described in further detail herein below. It is contemplated that control device 4 coordinates the activation of the various motors (Motor 1 . . . n) to coordinate a winding-up or letting out a length of a respective cable “C” in order to coordinate an operation and/or movement of a respective end effector. Although FIG. 1B shows a single cable “C” that is wound up or let out by a single motor, in some instances two or more cables or two ends of a single cable may be wound up or let out by a single motor. For example, in some instances, two cables or cable ends may be coupled in opposite directions to a single motor so that as the motor is activated in a first direction, one of the cables winds up while the other cable lets out. Other cable configurations may be used in different embodiments.
Turning now to FIGS. 2-5, an end effector in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is generally designated as 100. End effector 100 includes a first jaw 102 a and a second jaw 102 b. First and second jaws 102 a, 102 b are each rotatable or pivotable relative to one another. Each jaw 102 a, 102 b has a respective proximal end 104 a, 104 b and a respective distal end 106 a, 106 b. Each proximal end 104 a, 104 b is fixedly attached to first and second driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b, respectively, as described in further detail herein below. Each proximal end 104 a, 104 b of jaws 102 a, 102 b can be integrally connected to and/or monolithically formed with a circumferential edge of driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b, respectively. Each distal end 106 a, 106 b of jaws 102 a, 102 b defines a respective grip or toothed portion 108 a, 108 b in juxtaposed relation to one another. In use, as will be described in greater detail below, as driving pulley 140 is rotated in one of a clockwise and counter clockwise direction, jaws 102 a, 102 b will be caused to rotate, moving jaws 102 a, 102 b from a first, open configuration in which jaws 102 a, 102 b may receive tissue therebetween to a second, closed configuration in which jaws 102 a, 102 b may grasp tissue.
End effector 100 includes a pulley assembly 120 disposed therein for actuating jaws 102 a, 102 b of end effector 100. Pulley assembly 120 includes a first driven pulley 122 a, a second driven pulley 122 b, a driving pulley 140, a first cable “C1,” and a second cable “C2.” In FIG. 3A, cables C1 and C2 are each continuous cables that may have different cable sections, such as section S1 on cable C1 running from anchor member 180 a on driven pulley 122 a to anchor member 150 on driving pulley 140 and section S2 on cable C1 running from anchor member 150 to anchor member 180 b on driven pulley 122 b. Cable C2 may include cable sections S3 running from anchor member 182 b on driven pulley 122 a to anchor member 150 and section S4 running from anchor member 150 to anchor member 182 a on driven pulley 122 b.
In another embodiment that is a variation of that shown in FIG. 3A, cables C1 and C2 may also be continuous cables that may be attached to pulleys 122 a, 122 b, and 140 in a different manner. For example, continuous cable C1 may include a first section running from anchor member 180 a on driven pulley 122 a to anchor member 150 on driving pulley 140 (similar to section S1 in FIG. 3A) and a second section running from anchor member 150 to anchor member 182 a on driven pulley 122 b (similar to section S4 in FIG. 3A). Continuous cable C2 may include a first section running from anchor member 180 b on driven pulley 122 b to anchor member 150 (similar to section S2 in FIG. 3A) and a second section running from anchor member 150 to anchor member 182 b on driven pulley 122 a (similar to section S3 in FIG. 3A).
This configuration may result in a tensioning of a first section of cables C1 and C2 during a rotation of the driving pulley 140 in a first direction as well as a slacking of the other second section of cables C1 and C2. A tensioning of the second sections of cables C1 and C2 and a slacking of the first sections of cables C1 and C2 may occur when rotating the driving pulley 140 in the opposite direction. Other cable routings may be possible in different embodiments.
FIG. 3B shows another embodiment in which continuous cables C1 and C2 are replaced with four non-continuous sections of cable S5 to S8. In FIG. 3B, cable section S5 runs from anchor member 180 a on driven pulley 122 a to anchor member 151 on driving pulley 140. Cable section S6 runs from a different anchor member 152 on driving pulley 140 to anchor member 180 b on driven pulley 122 b. Cable section S7 runs from anchor member 182 b on driven pulley 122 a to anchor member 153 on driving pulley 140. Cable section S8 runs from anchor member 153 on driving pulley 140 to anchor member 182 a on driven pulley 122 b. Cables and/or cable sections may be connected to the same or different anchor members on the driving pulley 140 in different embodiments.
In embodiments, jaws 102 a, 102 b may be detachably engaged to driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b via a hinge, clips, buttons, adhesives, ferrule, snap-fit, threaded, and/or other engagement.
Each driven pulley 122 a, 122 b has a central opening 124 a, 124 b formed therein configured for disposal or receipt of a pivot pin (not shown) therein. Central openings 124 a, 124 b of each driven pulley 122 a, 122 b are in coaxial alignment with one another. A first axis “X1” extends through central openings 124 a, 124 b of first and second driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b. First and second driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b are disposed adjacent to one another and are rotatable relative to one another about first axis “X1.” In some embodiments, driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b may be in abutting relation to one another or in spaced apart relation to one another, along first axis “X1.” As mentioned above, first driven pulley 122 a supports jaw 102 a and second driven pulley 122 b supports jaw 102 b such that jaws 102 a, 102 b rotate with driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b about first axis “X1.”
Driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b have a circular configuration and each define a circumferential edge 126 a, 126 b. Circumferential edges 126 a, 126 b each define an arcuate channel or groove 128 a, 128 b extending along a circumference of each driven pulley 122 a, 122 b. Channel or groove 128 a, 128 b is configured for receipt of one of cables “C1,” “C2,” as described in further detail herein below. In embodiments, driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b are variously configured, such as, for example, oval, oblong, tapered, arcuate, uniform, non-uniform and/or variable.
First driven pulley 122 a includes a first radial side 130 a and a second radial side 132 a each defining a semicircular portion of first driven pulley 122 a, as demarcated by dotted line “L1” in FIG. 2. First and second radial sides 130 a, 132 a each include one-half of circumferential edge 126 a of first driven pulley 122 a. Second driven pulley 122 b includes a first radial side 130 b and a second radial side 132 b each defining a semicircular portion of second driven pulley 122 b, as demarcated by dotted line “L2” in FIG. 2. First and second radial sides 130 b, 132 b of second driven pulley 122 b include one-half of circumferential edge 126 b of second driven pulley 122 b.
Pulley assembly 120 further includes a driving pulley 140, similar to first and second driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b described herein above. Driving pulley 140 is spaced a lateral distance from first and second driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b. Cable “C,” connected to motor (Motor 1 . . . n), may be wrapped at least once around driving pulley 140, in the manner of a capstan so as to not interfere with first and second cables “C1,” “C2.” Driving pulley 140 includes a central opening 141 formed therein. A second axis “X2” passes through central opening 141, is spaced a lateral distance from first axis “X1,” and may run parallel to first axis “X1” in some instances. In other instances, the second axis “X2” may be offset from the first axis “X1” so that it runs at other non-parallel angles to the first axis “X1,” such as perpendicular to the first axis.
Driving pulley 140 has a circular configuration and defines a circumferential edge 142. Circumferential edge 142 defines an arcuate channel or groove 144 extending along a circumference of driving pulley 140. Channel or groove 144 is configured for disposal of each of cables “C1,” “C2.” Driving pulley 140 includes a first radial side 146 and a second radial side 148 each defining a semicircular portion of driving pulley 140, as demarcated by dotted line “L3” in FIG. 2. First and second radial sides 146, 148 each include one-half of circumferential edge 142 of driving pulley 140.
Driving pulley 140 supports an anchor member 150 attached to a proximal-most portion of circumferential edge 142. Anchor member 150 secures both cables “C1,” “C2” to drive pulley 140 such that, as driving pulley 140 is rotated, cables “C1,” “C2” move therewith. In embodiments, anchor member 150 may be a hook onto which cables “C1,” “C2” are attached. In other embodiments, anchor member 150 may be a crimp that secures cables “C1,” “C2” to circumferential edge 142 of driving pulley 140.
In use, a rotation of driving pulley 140 about second axis “X2” via motor (Motor 1 . . . n) and cable “C” causes first and second driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b to rotate, via cables “C1,” “C2,” in opposing directions about first axis “X1” to open or close first and second jaws 102 a, 102 b, which are attached thereto.
Pulley assembly 120 may further includes a first cable “C1” and a second cable “C2.” First cable “C1” and second cable “C2” each have a first end portion 160 a, 160 b, a second end portion 162 a, 162 b, and an intermediate portion or looped portion 164 a, 164 b. First and second cables “C1,” “C2” are connected to first and second driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b and driving pulley 140 such that first end portion 160 a of first cable “C1” and second end portion 162 b of second cable “C2” are substantially parallel, and first end portion 160 b of second cable “C2” and second end portion 162 a of first cable “C1” cross, as shown in FIGS. 2-5.
First cable “C1” is secured by anchor member 150 of driving pulley 140 to a proximal-most portion of circumferential edge 142 of driving pulley 140 such that intermediate portion or looped portion 164 a of first cable “C1” is fixedly engaged with a portion of circumferential edge 142 of driving pulley 140. Intermediate portion or looped portion 164 a of first cable “C1” is connected to driving pulley 140 at a location off-set a radial distance from second axis “X2.”
First end portion 160 a of first cable “C1” is connected to a portion of circumferential edge 126 a of first driven pulley 122 a that is disposed on first radial side 130 a of first driven pulley 122 a. Second end portion 162 a of first cable “C1” is connected to a portion of circumferential edge 126 b of second driven pulley 122 b that is disposed on second radial side 132 b of second driven pulley 122 b.
First end portion 160 a of first cable “C1” is connected to first radial side 130 a of first driven pulley 122 a via an anchor member 180 a. Second end portion 162 a of first cable “C1” is connected to second radial side 132 b of second driven pulley 122 b via an anchor member 180 b. Anchor members 180 a, 180 b are similar to anchor member 150 described above. Each anchor member 150, 180 a, 180 b can be the same or may be different. In this way, intermediate portion or looped portion 164 a of first cable “C1” is wrapped around only first radial side 146 of driving pulley 140, as shown in FIGS. 3A, 4, and 5.
Second cable “C2” is secured by anchor member 150 of driving pulley 140 to a proximal-most portion of circumferential edge 142 of driving pulley 140 such that intermediate portion or looped portion 164 b of second cable “C2” is fixedly engaged with a portion of circumferential edge 142 of driving pulley 140. Intermediate portion or looped portion 164 b of second cable “C2” is connected to driving pulley 140 at a location off-set a radial distance from second axis “X2.” In this way, intermediate portions or looped portions 164 a, 164 b of first and second cables “C1,” “C2” are connected to a common point of driving pulley 140.
First end portion 160 b of second cable “C2” is connected to a portion of circumferential edge 126 b of second driven pulley 122 b that is disposed on first radial side 130 b of second driven pulley 122 b. Second end portion 162 b of second cable “C2” is connected to a portion of circumferential edge 126 a of first driven pulley 122 a that is disposed on second radial side 132 a of first driven pulley 122 a.
First end portion 160 b of second cable “C2” is connected to first radial side 130 b of second driven pulley 122 b via an anchor member 182 a. Second end portion 162 b of second cable “C2” is connected to second radial side 132 a of first driven pulley 122 a via an anchor member 182 b. Anchor members 182 a, 182 b are similar to anchor member 150 described above. In this way, intermediate portion 164 b of second cable “C2” is wrapped around only second radial side 148 of driving pulley 140, as shown in FIGS. 3-5.
In one embodiment, first cable “C1” includes two cables each having a first end connected to driving pulley 140 at a common point and a second end connected to first radial side 130 a of first driven pulley 122 a and second radial side 132 b of second driven pulley 122 b, respectively. Second cable “C2” may include two cables each having a first end connected to driving pulley 140 at a common point and a second end connected to first radial side 130 b of second driven pulley 122 b and second radial side 132 a of first driven pulley 122 a, respectively.
In operation, motor (Motor 1 . . . n) is energized to rotate and, in turn, drive a letting out or winding-up or a rotation of cable “C.” As cable “C” is actuated, cable “C” drives the rotation of driving pulley 140 in one of a clockwise and counter-clockwise direction. A rotation of driving pulley 140 in a first direction, indicated by arrow “A1” shown in FIG. 3A, about second axis “X2,” rotates first and second driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b via first cable “C1” about first axis “X1,” in a direction indicated by arrows “A2,” “A3” in FIG. 3A, respectively. During rotation of driving pulley 140 in the first direction, first cable “C1” is in a tensioned condition (shown in FIG. 3A) and second cable “C2” is in a slack condition. For example, as driving pulley 140 is rotated in the first direction, intermediate portion 164 a of first cable “C1” rotates with driving pulley 140 about second axis “X2.” As intermediate portion 164 a of first cable “C1” rotates, first end portion 160 a of first cable “C1” is pulled towards driving pulley 140 and, in turn, drives a rotation of first driven pulley 122 a in the same direction as the direction in which driving pulley 140 is rotating. Second end portion 162 a of first cable “C1” is also pulled towards driving pulley 140 and, in turn, drives a rotation of second driven pulley 122 b in an opposite direction as the direction in which driving pulley 140 is rotating. In this way, jaws 102 a, 102 b, which are attached to driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b, respectively, are opened about first axis “X1.”
A rotation of driving pulley 140 in a second direction, indicated by arrow “B1” shown in FIG. 3A, rotates first and second driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b via second cable “C2” about first axis “X1,” in a direction indicated by arrows “B2,” “B3” in FIG. 3A, respectively. During rotation of driving pulley 140 in the second direction, first cable “C1” is in a slack condition and second cable “C2” is in a tensioned condition (shown in FIG. 3A). For example, as driving pulley 140 is rotated in the second direction, intermediate portion 164 b of second cable “C2” rotates with driving pulley 140 about second axis “X2.” As intermediate portion 164 b of second cable “C2” rotates, first end portion 160 b of second cable “C2” is pulled towards driving pulley 140 and, in turn, drives a rotation of second driven pulley 122 b in an opposite direction as the direction in which driving pulley 140 is rotating. Second end portion 162 b of second cable “C2” is also pulled towards driving pulley 140 and, in turn, drives a rotation of first driven pulley 122 a in the same direction in which driving pulley 140 is rotating. In this way, jaws 102 a, 102 b, which are attached to driven pulleys 122 a, 122 b, respectively, are closed about first axis “X1.”
In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, an end effector 200, similar to end effector 100 described above with regard to FIGS. 2-5, is shown. End effector 200 includes a first jaw 202 a and a second jaw 202 b, similar to jaws 102 a, 102 b described above. First and second jaws 202 a, 202 b are each pivotable about a first axis (not shown). End effector 200 further includes a pulley assembly 220, similar to pulley assembly 120 described above. Pulley assembly 220 is disposed within end effector 200 for actuating jaws 202 a, 202 b of end effector 200.
Pulley assembly 220 includes a first driven pulley 222 a, a second driven pulley 222 b, a driving pulley 240, a first cable “C3,” and a second cable “C4,” similar to first driven pulley 122 a, second driven pulley 122 b, driving pulley 140, first cable “C1,” and second cable “C2,” respectively, described above. In accordance with the present embodiment, first cable “C3” and second cable “C4” may be in the form of a cable loop or the like.
First driven pulley 222 a supports jaw 202 a and second driven pulley 222 b supports jaw 202 b such that jaws 202 a, 202 b rotate with driven pulleys 222 a, 222 b about the first axis. Driven pulleys 222 a, 222 b have a circular configuration and each define a circumferential edge 226 a, 226 b configured for disposal or receipt of first and second cables “C3,” “C4,” respectively.
Driving pulley 240 is spaced a lateral distance from first and second driven pulleys 222 a, 222 b. Cable “C,” connected to motor (Motor 1 . . . n), may be wrapped at least once around driving pulley 240, in the manner of a capstan so as to not interfere with first and second cables “C3,” “C4.” Driving pulley 240 has a circular configuration and defines a circumferential edge 242 configured for disposal or receipt of each of cables “C3,” “C4.”
First cable “C3” is looped or wrapped about circumferential edge 242 of driving pulley 240 and circumferential edge 226 a of first driven pulley 222 a such that, a first half 260 a and a second half 260 b of cable “C3” are in parallel relation to one another. Second cable “C4” is looped or wrapped about circumferential edge 242 of driving pulley 240 and circumferential edge 226 b of second driven pulley 222 b such that, a first half 270 a and a second half 270 b of cable “C4” are in a criss-cross or figure-eight pattern.
In use, a rotation of driving pulley 240 via motor (Motor 1 . . . n) and cable “C” causes first and second driven pulleys 222 a, 222 b to rotate, via cables “C3,” “C4,” in opposing directions to open or close first and second jaws 202 a, 202 b, which are attached thereto.
It will be understood that various modifications may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, while the driven pulleys disclosed herein have been shown and described as being connected to the proximal ends of the jaws, it is contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure, for the driven pulleys to be operatively connected with the distal portion of the jaws. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of various embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended thereto.
What is claimed is:
1. An end effector of a surgical tool, the end effector comprising:
a first jaw and a second jaw each being pivotable about a first axis; a first driven pulley attached to the first jaw and a second driven pulley attached to the second jaw, the first and second driven pulleys being rotatable about the first axis, each driven pulley including a first radial side and a second radial side; a driving pulley rotatable about a second axis; a first cable having a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion, the first end portion connected to the first radial side of the first driven pulley, the second end portion connected to the second radial side of the second driven pulley, and the intermediate portion connected to the driving pulley; and a second cable having a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion, the first end portion connected to the first radial side of the second driven pulley, the second end portion connected to the second radial side of the first driven pulley, and the intermediate portion connected to the driving pulley, wherein a rotation of the driving pulley about the second axis rotates the first and second driven pulleys in opposite directions about the first axis to one of open and close the first and second jaws.
2. end effector as recited in claim 1, wherein a rotation of the driving pulley in a first direction about the second axis rotates the first and second driven pulleys via the first cable, and a rotation of the driving pulley in a second direction, opposite the first direction, rotates the first and second driven pulleys via the second cable.
3. The end effector as recited in claim 2, wherein during rotation of the driving pulley in the first direction the first cable is in a tensioned condition and the second cable is in a slack condition, and during rotation of the driving pulley in the second direction the first cable is in a slack condition and the second cable is in a tensioned condition.
4. The end effector as recited in claim 1, wherein the intermediate portions of the first and second cables are connected to a common point of the driving pulley.
5. The end effector as recited in claim 1, wherein the intermediate portions of the first and second cables are crimped to the driving pulley.
6. The end effector as recited in claim 1, wherein the first end portion of the first cable and the second end portion of the second cable are parallel, and the first end portion of the second cable and the second end portion of the first cable cross.
7. The end effector as recited in claim 1, wherein a proximal end of the first jaw is fixedly attached to a circumferential edge of the first drive pulley and a proximal end of the second jaw is fixedly attached to a circumferential edge of the second drive pulley.
8. The end effector as recited in claim 1, wherein the first and second jaws include a toothed portion.
9. The end effector as recited in claim 1, wherein the first axis is spaced a lateral distance from the second axis.
10. The end effector as recited in claim 1, wherein the first and second cables are connected to the driving pulley at a location off-set a radial distance from the second axis.
11. The end effector as recited in claim 1, wherein the driving pulley supports an anchor member, and the intermediate portions of the first and second cables are each looped through the anchor member of the driving pulley.
12. The end effector as recited in claim 11, wherein the anchor member includes a hook that is attached to a circumferential edge of the driving pulley.
13. A pulley assembly for actuating a first jaw and a second jaw, the pulley assembly comprising:
a plurality of driven pulleys, each coupled to a respective jaw and each including at least two radial sides; a driving pulley rotatable about a different axis from the driven pulleys; a plurality of cable sections, each cable section coupling different radial sides of each driven pulley to the driving pulley, wherein a directional change in rotation of the driving pulley relieves a tension in at least two first cable sections coupled to different radial sides of at least two of the driven pulleys and applies a tension to at least two second cable sections coupled to opposite radial sides of the driven pulleys than the first two cable sections.
14. The pulley assembly as recited in claim 13, further comprising:
a first cable section coupled between a first radial side of a first driven pulley and the driving pulley; a second cable section coupled between a second radial side of the first driven pulley and the driving pulley; a third cable section coupled between a first radial side of a second driven pulley and the driving pulley; and a fourth cable section coupled between a second radial side of the second driven pulley and the driving pulley.
15. The pulley assembly as recited in claim 14, wherein at least two of the cable sections are part of a single continuous cable.
16. The pulley assembly as recited in claim 15, wherein
the first and the fourth cable sections are tensioned and the second and the third cable sections are slackened when the driving pulley is rotated in a first direction, and the first and the fourth cable sections are slackened and the second and the third cable sections are tensioned when the driving pulley is rotated in a second direction.
17. The pulley assembly as recited in claim 16, wherein the first and the second cable sections are part of a first single continuous cable and the third and the fourth cable sections are part of a second single continuous cable.
18. The pulley assembly as recited in claim 16, wherein the first and the fourth cable sections are part of a first single continuous cable and the second and the third cable sections are part of a second single continuous cable.
19. The pulley assembly as recited in claim 14, wherein each of the cable sections is a separate cable from the other cable sections.
20. The pulley assembly as recited in claim 14, wherein two of the cable sections are part of a single continuous cable and two of the cable sections are separate cables.
| 2014-11-05 | en | 2017-01-12 |
US-201113179288-A | High-efficiency heat pumps
ABSTRACT
As discussed herein, a first aspect of the present invention provides a high-efficiency heat pump that includes a frame, as well as a first circuit, a first compressor, a condenser heat exchanger, a first electronic expansion valve, an evaporator heat exchanger, and a controller. The first circuit, the first compressor, the condenser heat exchanger, the first electronic expansion valve, and the evaporator heat exchanger can be supported by the frame. The first compressor, the condenser heat exchanger, the first electronic expansion valve, and the evaporator heat exchanger can be connected to the first circuit. The controller can be in electronic communication with the first electronic expansion valve, and the controller can be configured to control operation of the first electronic expansion valve and/or the second electronic expansion valve.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/607,535, filed Oct. 28, 2009, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to provisional application 61/108,961, filed Oct. 28, 2008, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND
HVAC systems involving water-to-water central heat pumps are becoming more common. In their most basic form, such systems include a heat pump that warms or cools HVAC fluid circulated through pipes within a building. A fan blows air from the conditioned space across warmed or cooled coils connected to the pipes. The temperature of the air blown from the fan across the coil (typically done by a fan coil unit) is thus affected by the temperature-controlled HVAC fluid flowing within the pipes. By controlling the temperature and flow rate of the HVAC fluid within the pipes, the location and configuration of the pipes and fan coil(s), the speed and capacity of the fan coil(s), and the parameters of various additional equipment that may be incorporated into the system, the conditioned space can be maintained at required conditions with relative ease.
Although heat pump HVAC systems are commonly more efficient than conventional HVAC systems, they still consume electrical energy to operate. Differently configured heat pump HVAC systems vary in energy consumption and efficiency. Most systems do not take advantage of various sources of “free” energy. Additionally, most early heat pump HVAC systems were slow to respond to building and space load changes and were more difficult for users to control than conventional HVAC systems. When they thus rely upon backup systems, such as electric duct heaters, they can have relatively high instantaneous electricity demand and overall higher electricity consumption. The distributed small compressors create noise and vibration problems and require continuous HVAC liquid flow rates to stay operational. The total system power consumption can become a significant related expense that devalues the energy and operation cost savings the technology can create.
SUMMARY
In some embodiments, the present invention provides an energy efficient HVAC system that optionally includes a water-to-water heat pump, along with one or more components configured to take advantage of unused energy sources and/or energy sinks, thereby significantly reducing the amount of energy that is potentially required to be added to the system for efficient operation.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides a heat pump including two heat exchangers connected by two or more refrigeration circuits, with each circuit having an expansion valve and a compressor that are optionally in electronic communication with a main controller, thereby permitting relatively precise remote control of the heat pump.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides a group of multi-circuit water-to-water heat pumps connected together in parallel in a modular fashion, with each circuit of each heat pump having a remotely controllable expansion valve and/or compressor, thereby providing a highly flexible and responsive heat pump system.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides multiple individual heat pumps and/or groups of heat pumps connected in parallel (see previous paragraph) that are connected in series in order to achieve a relatively large temperature difference, with each heat pump or heat pump group being configured to operate within its optimal temperature range in incrementally achieving the relatively large temperature difference.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method of operating a multi-circuit heat pump, including (a) receiving instructions concerning what is needed of the heat pump from a main controller based on input from sensors located in various places in the HVAC system and (b) responding to those instructions by activating (or maintaining activation of) or deactivating (or maintaining deactivation of) one or more compressors in a selected sequence and at selected time intervals, provided that such response is not restricted based on the detection of heat pump or HVAC system irregularities.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method of monitoring for irregularities in heat pumps that are either activated or pending activation to prevent premature wear or failure of heat pump components and/or to improve energy efficiency in the heat pumps.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides an energy transfer component that includes an outer tube made of thermally conductive material and a concentric inner tube that can be made of thermally insulative material, with (a) HVAC fluid flowing turbulently through the channel between the inner and outer tubes, optionally guided by a spiraling barrier, such that heat transfer occurs between the turbulently flowing HVAC liquid and the surrounding earth, water, or combination thereof and (b) HVAC fluid flowing laminarly inside the inner tube, thereby minimizing heat transfer between the HVAC fluid flowing between the inner and outer tubes and the HVAC fluid flowing inside the inner tube.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides system components assembled as a modular box, which enables fast and easy installation and replacement of the modular box, thereby permitting assembly and repair of the distribution equipment in a more suitable setting, such as a machine shop.
In some embodiments, the present invention provides a distribution system that optionally accommodates potable water as the HVAC fluid by regularly circulating the potable water through a single coil in a fan box, that optionally includes a controller, that is in electronic communication with a main controller and/or one or more other components of the HVAC system.
Details of several aspects and embodiments of the present invention are provided herein.
Related technology is disclosed in commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/607,930 (filed on Oct. 28, 2009 and titled CONTROLS FOR HIGH-EFFICIENCY HEAT PUMPS); Ser. No. 12/607,760 (filed on Oct. 28, 2009 and titled METHODS AND EQUIPMENT FOR GEOTHERMALLY EXCHANGING ENERGY); Ser. No. 12/607,679 (filed on Oct. 28, 2009 and titled METHODS AND EQUIPMENT FOR HEATING AND COOLING BUILDING ZONES). Each of the applications noted in this paragraph are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
The following drawings are illustrative of particular embodiments of the present invention and therefore do not limit the scope of the invention. The drawings are not to scale (unless so stated) and are intended for use in conjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description. Embodiments of the present invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings, wherein like numerals denote like elements.
FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of a first illustrative HVAC system according to some embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram of a second illustrative HVAC system according to some embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative dual-circuit heat pump according to some embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 3A is a flow diagram of an illustrative method for operation of a heat pump according to some embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 3B is a flow diagram of an illustrative method for protecting against damage to the heat pump stemming from heat pump irregularities according to some embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an illustrative method for assembling a heat pump according to some embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 5A is a schematic side view of an illustrative flow-through heat transfer component according to some embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 5B is a schematic end view of the flow-through heat transfer component of FIG. 5A.
FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of an illustrative ground energy transfer component according to some embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a distribution box with a control system module according to some embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a portion of an HVAC system, including a single coil within a fan box, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
The following detailed description is exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the following description provides practical illustrations for implementing exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Examples of constructions, materials, dimensions, and manufacturing processes are provided for selected elements, and all other elements employ that which is known to those of skill in the field of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many of the examples provided have suitable alternatives that can be utilized.
FIG. 1A shows an illustrative HVAC system for heating and/or cooling two zones 2, 4 within the conditioned space 6 of a building. The illustrative HVAC system includes a heat pump 8, several energy transfer components 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, and distribution boxes 26, 28 (e.g., with control system modules). The illustrative HVAC system also includes a network of pipes and valves for distributing hot and/or cold HVAC fluid to the various components of the system. In many embodiments, the HVAC fluid can be water (e.g., treated water), an antifreeze solution (e.g., glycol mixed with water), or similar fluids. In some embodiments, the HVAC fluid can be domestic potable water. Individual components of the system are discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein.
It should be emphasized that the HVAC system of FIG. 1A is only illustrative. Some buildings include only one zone. Many buildings include more than one zone. Many embodiments of the present invention can be incorporated into large buildings with many zones and/or into groups of buildings with many zones having different embodiments complementing the energy balance. HVAC systems can include any suitable combination of energy transfer components, heat pumps, distribution components, and/or piping/valve distribution systems, based on a variety of design factors. As is discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein, an HVAC system can include suitable energy transfer component(s) with or without a heat pump, with or without distribution component(s), and with or without sections of the illustrated piping/valve distribution system. Similarly, an HVAC system can include one or more suitable heat pumps with or without energy transfer component(s), with or without distribution component(s), and with or without the illustrated piping/valve distribution system. Likewise, an HVAC system can include one or more distribution components with or without energy transfer component(s), with or without a heat pump, and with or without the illustrated piping/valve distribution system. As is discussed elsewhere herein, aspects of the illustrated piping/valve distribution system can be implemented into a variety of HVAC systems. Many embodiments include components other than those shown for taking advantage of sources of “free” energy. Many embodiments include components other than those shown for using transferred and free energy, such as snowmelt, radiant heating, domestic hot water, swimming pools, hot tubs, and so on.
The illustrative HVAC system of FIG. 1A includes a heat pump 8. Shown are four stages of the heat transfer cycle: a compressor 36, a condenser heat exchanger 34 rejecting energy, an expansion valve 32, and an evaporator heat exchanger 38 collecting energy. Heat pump refrigerant (e.g., R22, R134a, R407C, etc.) can cycle through the components of the heat pump 8 to reject and absorb heat from the sink and source HVAC fluids connected to the HVAC fluid side of the condenser and evaporator heat exchangers 34, 38. The heat pump refrigerant can circulate and migrate through the heat pump heat transfer cycle. The cycle can first be activated by starting a compressor 36. The work of the compressor 36 can compress any residual refrigerant liquid or returning vapor (gas) to a gas of higher pressure and temperature and thus motivate the refrigerant through the cycle. The high pressure and high temperature refrigerant can then enter the condenser heat exchanger 34, where the HVAC fluid can cause the refrigerant to condense from gas to liquid as it rejects sensible and latent heat energy to the comparatively cooler hot HVAC fluid. The refrigerant can then enter the expansion valve 32, where the passing refrigerant can be regulated to only an amount which will completely vaporize in the spatial volume of the evaporator heat exchanger 38. The suddenly reduced pressure and increased volume in the evaporator heat exchanger 38 can cause the liquid refrigerant to flash to gas and during its change of phase state to absorb its latent heat energy from the comparatively warmer cold HVAC fluid. The warmed low pressure refrigerant gas can then return to the compressor 36. Changes in the phase state of the heat pump refrigerant caused by pressure and volume changes, combined with temperature changes at the condenser heat exchanger 34 and the evaporator heat exchanger 38, can cause heat energy to be “pumped” from the connected cold HVAC fluid to the hot HVAC fluid.
This energy transfer can simultaneously (a) absorb heat energy into the heat pump refrigerant changing from liquid to gas at the evaporator heat exchanger 38, thereby chilling the HVAC fluid at the evaporator heat exchanger 38, and (b) reject heat from the heat pump refrigerant by temperature difference at the condenser heat exchanger 34, thereby heating the HVAC fluid at the condenser heat exchanger 34. In this way, cooling some HVAC fluid can be the free by-product of heating other HVAC fluid, and vice versa, from the same compressor work.
In heating the conditioned space 6, HVAC fluid can exit the heat pump 8 through heating loop 40 after passing through the condenser heat exchanger 34 and can then enter the conditioned space 6. In cooling the conditioned space 6, HVAC fluid can exit the heat pump 8 through cooling loop 42 after passing through the evaporator heat exchanger 38.
In some embodiments, components of the heat pump 8 can be selected and/or configured according to particular applications. In many embodiments, the heat pump 8 can have two or more refrigerant circuits. FIG. 2 shows an illustrative dual-circuit heat pump 140. The heat pump 140 includes an evaporator heat exchanger 142 and a condenser heat exchanger 144. The evaporator heat exchanger 142 can interact with a chilled HVAC fluid loop 152 and the condenser heat exchanger 144 can interact with a hot HVAC fluid loop 154. In this way, the dual-circuit heat pump 140 can provide a similar interface to HVAC systems as do conventional single-circuit heat pumps. In many embodiments, dual-circuit heat pumps can enable paired compressors within the heat pump frame to have separate isolated heat pump refrigerant circuits (avoiding equalization lines), providing staging and better control of the refrigerant circuit and conditioning of the HVAC fluid.
Inside the heat pump 140, two separate circuits (circuit A and circuit B in FIG. 2) can channel heat pump refrigerant through the condenser heat exchanger 144 and the evaporator heat exchanger 142. Circuit A can have a compressor 146A and an expansion valve 148A, and circuit B can have a compressor 146B and an expansion valve 148B. The heat pump refrigerant and its properties in Circuit A may be different than the heat pump refrigerant and its properties in Circuit B. At any given time, compressors 146A, 146B can both be operational, one of the compressors 146A or 146B can be operational, or neither compressor 146A nor 146B can be operational. In this way, the heat pump 140 can operate at 100% capacity, 50% capacity, or 0% capacity. In this way, the heat pump can be at peak efficiency when at 100% capacity and when at 50% capacity. In some embodiments, one or both of the compressors 146A and 146B can be modulated to provide for greater flexibility in operating capacity percentage. For example, one or both of the compressors 146A or 146B can be separately connected to a variable frequency drive; or one or the other of the compressors 146A, 146B can compress an alternate refrigerant of different properties, or one of the compressors 146A, 146B can experience its refrigerant in a different state as caused by a different tuning of the expansion valve 148A, 148B. Some heat pumps made and/or used according to the present invention provide significant enhancements in energy efficient heating and cooling.
In many embodiments, the evaporator heat exchanger 142 and/or the condenser heat exchanger 144 are plate-and-frame heat exchangers. Heat pump refrigerant and HVAC fluid can be channeled through alternating gaps between the plates. The plates can be made of thermally conductive material in order to facilitate heat transfer between the heat pump refrigerant and the HVAC fluid. Heat transfer can occur according to the design of the heat exchangers 142, 144 and the HVAC system when the heat pump refrigerant and the HVAC fluid are both flowing through the respective gaps between the plates. In many embodiments, such as that of FIG. 2, the heat pump refrigerant and the HVAC fluid flow through the heat exchangers 142, 144 in opposite directions.
For dual-circuit heat pumps, the heat pump refrigerant from one circuit can alternate with the heat pump refrigerant from the other circuit when flowing through the heat exchanger (evaporator 142 or condenser 144). In many embodiments, the heat exchangers can be of the brazed plate type, in which case the heat transfer fluids would flow through gaps between sealed plates. The respective fluids in the heat exchanger gaps would alternate between (a) heat pump refrigerant from circuit A, (b) HVAC fluid, (c) heat pump refrigerant from circuit B, (d) HVAC fluid, (e) heat pump refrigerant from circuit A, and so on. If both of the compressors 146A, 146B were operational, both gaps neighboring the HVAC fluid would have flowing heat pump refrigerant, meaning that the designed heat transfer could occur across each plate. If only one of the compressors 146A, 146B were operational, only one of the gaps neighboring the HVAC fluid would have flowing heat pump refrigerant, meaning that the designed heat transfer could occur across only half of the plates. If neither of the compressors 146A, 146B were operational, neither of the gaps neighboring the HVAC fluid would have flowing heat pump refrigerant, meaning that the designed heat transfer could not occur across any of the plates. By making operational both, either, or neither of the compressors 146A, 146B, the heat pump can operate at 100%, 50%, or 0% capacity.
In some embodiments, the absorption of heat from the HVAC fluid in the evaporator heat exchanger 142 in one or both of the heat pump circuits can be controlled via the expansion valves 148A, 148B. In many embodiments, the expansion valves 148A, 148B can be electronic expansion valves, which can control the superheat from the evaporator heat exchanger 142 across a broad range of valve percentages (e.g., from 0% to 100%). Many electronic expansion valves can react faster and more precisely to changing conditions in the evaporator heat exchanger 142 than a conventional expansion valve. Some electronic expansion valves can be configured to communicate electronically with an operator and/or a controller through a network (e.g., the Internet). In this way, the electronic expansion valves can be monitored and adjusted remotely. Often, the precise control of electronic expansion valves' superheat setting provides significant savings on operational costs. The high range of valve control and internal programming can enable continuous operation over a wider range of conditions from ice making to hot water heating on the same common refrigerant charge.
The performance of the dual-circuit heat pump 140 can be impacted by a variety of factors. As noted above, in some embodiments, the number of compressors 146A, 146B that are operational (along with, in some embodiments, modulation of one or both of the compressors 146A, 146B) can impact the performance of the heat pump 140. As also noted above, the pressure of the heat pump refrigerant in one or both of the circuits, as controlled via the expansion valves 148A, 148B, can impact the performance of the heat pump 140. In some embodiments, the selection of the heat pump refrigerant can impact the performance of the heat pump 140. Different heat pump refrigerants change states at different temperatures and pressures. The overall efficiency of the heat pump 140 can be affected by the characteristics of the refrigerant, including the energy absorbed or given off during a change of state. Thus, the selection of a heat pump refrigerant can have a significant impact on, e.g., the temperature difference across the heat pump 140 and the work input to motivate the temperature difference. In some embodiments, the volume of heat pump refrigerant added to either or both of the circuits can impact the performance of the heat pump 140. In some embodiments, the volume of oil in the heat pump refrigerant can impact performance of the heat pump 140. One or more of these and similar factors can be controlled to provide optimal heat pump performance, depending on the circumstances of the particular application. In some embodiments, the dual-circuit heat pump can reduce the number of mechanical connections and fittings for the HVAC fluids, thereby reducing flow restrictions while at the same time increasing performance. [39] In many embodiments, the heat pump 140 is designed and/or configured to produce repeatable temperature differences across the respective heat exchangers 142, 144. In some instances, flow properties of the HVAC fluid in the chilled HVAC fluid loop 152 and/or the hot HVAC fluid loop 154 can be adjusted with control valves 156, 157, 158, 159 to achieve temperature differences across the heat exchangers 142, 144 that differ from those that would have been achieved in absence of the adjustment with the control valves 156, 157, 158, 159. In some embodiments, a percentage of the HVAC fluid can bypass a heat exchanger by means of one or more bypass valves.
In some embodiments, multiple heat pumps 140 are made in modular fashion, such that each heat pump 140 is a self-contained unit with clearly defined interfaces to other HVAC system components, including other heat pumps. Such a setup can provide a significant degree of flexibility in operating capacity percentage. The number of heat pumps (and specifically the number of compressors) is directly related to the number of operating capacity levels. The number of operating capacity levels is equal to the number of compressors plus one (accounting for 0% operating capacity). For example, with five dual-circuit heat pumps connected in parallel, there are eleven operating capacity levels. Assuming that all five heat pumps have similar configurations, the heat pumps collectively can operate at 0% (none of the compressors operational), 10% (one of the ten compressors operational), 20% (two of the ten compressors operational), and so on. The HVAC fluid flow can have equivalent capacity levels of reduced pumping energy with each refrigerant circuit still operating at optimum capacity and efficiency. In this way, the heat pumps collectively can provide what the HVAC system demands in a more precisely tailored fashion, thereby significantly improving energy efficiency.
As discussed herein, a first aspect of the present invention provides a high-efficiency heat pump that includes a frame, as well as a first circuit, a first compressor, a condenser heat exchanger, a first electronic expansion valve, an evaporator heat exchanger, and a controller. The first circuit, the first compressor, the condenser heat exchanger, the first electronic expansion valve, and the evaporator heat exchanger can be supported by the frame. The first compressor, the condenser heat exchanger, the first electronic expansion valve, and the evaporator heat exchanger can be connected to the first circuit.
In the first aspect, the first circuit can be configured to circulate a first refrigerant. The first compressor can be configured to (i) receive the first refrigerant from the first circuit, (ii) increase pressure of the first refrigerant, and (iii) provide the higher-pressure first refrigerant back to the first circuit. The condenser heat exchanger can be configured to (i) receive the higher-pressure first refrigerant from the first circuit, (ii) transfer energy from the higher-pressure first refrigerant to a first HVAC fluid passing through the condenser heat exchanger, and (iii) provide the first refrigerant back to the first circuit. The first electronic expansion valve can be configured to (i) receive the first refrigerant from the first circuit, (ii) decrease pressure of the first refrigerant, and (iii) provide the lower-pressure first refrigerant back to the first circuit. The evaporator heat exchanger can be configured to (i) receive the lower-pressure first refrigerant from the first circuit, (ii) transfer energy from a second HVAC fluid passing through the evaporator heat exchanger to the lower-pressure first refrigerant, and (iii) provide the first refrigerant back to the first circuit.
In the first aspect, the heat pump may include a second circuit, a second compressor, and a second electronic expansion valve, each supported by the frame. The second circuit can be configured to circulate a second refrigerant. The second compressor and the second electronic expansion valve can be connected to the second circuit. The second compressor can be configured to (i) receive the second refrigerant from the second circuit, (ii) increase pressure of the second refrigerant, and (iii) provide the higher-pressure second refrigerant back to the second circuit. The condenser heat exchanger can be further configured to (i) receive the higher-pressure second refrigerant from the second circuit, (ii) transfer energy from the higher-pressure second refrigerant to HVAC fluid passing through the condenser heat exchanger, and (iii) provide the second refrigerant back to the second circuit. The second electronic expansion valve can be configured to (i) receive the second refrigerant from the second circuit, (ii) decrease pressure of the second refrigerant, and (iii) provide the lower-pressure second refrigerant back to the second circuit. The evaporator heat exchanger is further configured to (i) receive the lower-pressure second refrigerant from the second circuit, (ii) transfer energy from HVAC fluid passing through the evaporator heat exchanger to the lower-pressure second refrigerant, and (iii) provide the second refrigerant back to the second circuit.
In the first aspect, the controller can be in electronic communication with the first electronic expansion valve and/or the second electronic expansion valve. The controller can be configured to control operation of the first electronic expansion valve and/or the second electronic expansion valve.
In the first aspect, the high-efficiency heat pump may include one or more of the following features. The controller may be configured to modulate the first and second compressors. At least one of the condenser heat exchanger and the evaporator heat exchanger can be a plate-and-frame heat exchanger with gaps between plates. In some such embodiments, the first and second circuits can be connected to the plate-and-frame heat exchanger so as to channel the first refrigerant, HVAC fluid, the second refrigerant, and HVAC fluid, respectively, through alternating gaps. The first refrigerant and the second refrigerant can be different refrigerants having different properties. The first electronic expansion valve can be configured to communicate electronically with an operator and/or a remote controller through a network. The controller can be configured to receive input from one or more sensors of an HVAC system that incorporates the heat pump. In some such embodiments, the controller can be configured to control operation of the first electronic expansion valve based on that input. The first expansion valve can be controllable to (a) simultaneously heat the first HVAC fluid to a temperature above 100 F and cool the second HVAC fluid to a temperature below 10 F in a first season and (b) simultaneously heat the first HVAC fluid to a temperature above 160 F and cool the second HVAC fluid to a temperature below 40 F in a second season. In some embodiments, the heat pump can further include a third compressor and a third electronic expansion valve, both supported by the frame, as well as a third circuit supported by the frame and configured to circulate a third refrigerant through the third compressor, the condenser heat exchanger, the second electronic expansion valve, and the evaporator heat exchanger.
As discussed herein, a second aspect of the present invention provides a method of efficiently heating and/or cooling HVAC fluid. The method can include providing a high-efficiency heat pump, such as the heat pump discussed in connection with the first aspect or other heat pumps discussed herein. The method can include circulating a first HVAC fluid through the condenser heat exchanger or the evaporator heat exchanger. The method can include activating the first compressor to heat the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the condenser heat exchanger or to cool the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the evaporator heat exchanger. The method can include controlling the first electronic expansion valve to control heating of the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the condenser heat exchanger or to control cooling of the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the evaporator heat exchanger.
In the second aspect, the method of efficiently heating and/or cooling HVAC fluid may include one or more of the following features. The method may include circulating a second HVAC fluid through whichever of the heat exchangers the first HVAC fluid is not circulating through. In some such embodiments, activating the first compressor simultaneously heats the HVAC fluid in the condenser heat exchanger to a temperature above 125 F and cools the HVAC fluid in the evaporator heat exchanger to a temperature below 35 F. In some such embodiments, activating the first compressor simultaneously heats the HVAC fluid in the condenser heat exchanger to a temperature above 130 F and cools the HVAC fluid in the evaporator heat exchanger to a temperature below 30 F. In embodiments having a dual-circuit heat pump, the method can include activating both the first compressor and the second compressor to heat the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the condenser heat exchanger or to cool the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the evaporator heat exchanger. In some embodiments, controlling the first electronic expansion valve comprises remotely controlling the first electronic expansion valve. In some such embodiments, remotely controlling the first electronic expansion valve comprises controlling operation of the first electronic expansion valve based on input from one or more sensors of an HVAC system that incorporates the heat pump.
As discussed herein, a third aspect of the present invention provides a method of efficiently heating and/or cooling HVAC fluid. The method can include providing at least two heat pump units, such as those discussed in connection with the first aspect or other heat pumps discussed herein. The method can include connecting the heat pump units in parallel to create a heat pump. The method can include circulating a first HVAC fluid through the condenser heat exchanger or the evaporator heat exchanger of at least one of the heat pump units. The method can include activating the first compressor of at least one of the heat pump units to heat the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the condenser heat exchanger(s) or to cool the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the evaporator heat exchanger(s). The method can include controlling the corresponding first electronic expansion valve(s) to control heating of the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the condenser heat exchanger(s) or to control cooling of the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the evaporator heat exchanger(s).
In the third aspect, the method of efficiently heating and/or cooling HVAC fluid may include one or more of the following features. The method can include circulating a second HVAC fluid through the whichever of the heat exchangers of the at least one heat pump unit the first HVAC fluid is not circulating through. In some such embodiments, activating the first compressor of the at least one heat pump unit simultaneously heats the HVAC fluid in the condenser heat exchanger(s) to a temperature above 125 F and cools the HVAC fluid in the evaporator heat exchanger(s) to a temperature below 35 F. In some such embodiments, activating the first compressor of the at least one heat pump unit simultaneously heats the HVAC fluid in the condenser heat exchanger(s) to a temperature above 130 F and cools the HVAC fluid in the evaporator heat exchanger(s) to a temperature below 30 F. The method can include activating first compressors of multiple heat pump units. In some embodiments, circulating the first HVAC fluid through the condenser heat exchanger or the evaporator heat exchanger of at least one of the heat pump units comprises circulating the first HVAC fluid through the condenser heat exchanger or the evaporator heat exchanger of fewer than all of the heat pump units. In some embodiments, the first HVAC fluid enters the heat pump through a common inlet, then diverges to at least two separate heat pump units, and then converges to exit the heat pump through a common outlet. In embodiments having a dual-circuit heat pump, the method can include selectively activating the second compressor of at least one of the heat pump units to heat the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the condenser heat exchanger(s) or to cool the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the evaporator heat exchanger(s). Controlling the corresponding first electronic expansion valve(s) can include remotely controlling at least one of the corresponding first electronic expansion valve(s). In some such embodiments, remotely controlling at least one of the corresponding first electronic expansion valve(s) comprises controlling operation of the at least one of the corresponding first electronic expansion valve(s) based on input from one or more sensors of an HVAC system that incorporates the heat pump.
Heat pumps according to the present invention can be controlled in a variety of ways. FIGS. 3A-3B show illustrative methods for controlling dual-circuit heat pumps (such as the heat pump of FIG. 2). FIG. 3A shows an illustrative method for operation of the heat pump, based on instructions provided regarding what is needed from the heat pump. FIG. 3B shows an illustrative method for monitoring for heat pump irregularities and triggering the heat pump to turn off in the event that one or more of such irregularities is detected.
Referring to FIG. 3A, the time variables (e.g., the heat pump time on and time off variables) of the heat pump can be set (200). The automatic controls can measure and record the time duration a particular heat pump has been on or the time duration a particular heat pump has been off. Outputs from the main controller 202 of the HVAC system can send a signal to the heat pump controller indicating what is needed of the heat pump (204). Sensors positioned throughout the HVAC system can provide input to the main controller 202 concerning the conditions of the HVAC fluid. For example, referring to FIG. 1A, the main controller of the HVAC system can receive input from a temperature sensor reading the temperature of the returning hot HVAC fluid. The main controller can compare the desired conditions with the actual conditions and determine what role the heat pump can play in bringing the actual conditions into conformity with the desired conditions. The main controller can generate instructions concerning the role of the heat pump and can provide those instructions to the heat pump controller, as indicated by step (204) of FIG. 3A.
Referring again to FIG. 3A, the instructions provided by the main controller 202 to the heat pump controller (204) can relate to one or more of several variables of the heat pump. The operation of a heat pump controller can be overridden and supervised automatically by the main controller 202 or manually (e.g., by the building operator) at the heat pump, at a local computer monitoring the HVAC system, or through a network, such as the internet. For example, the instructions can manually deactivate a heat pump for servicing. The operations of an expansion valve controller can be overridden and supervised automatically by the main controller 202 or manually (e.g., by the building operator) at the heat pump, at a local computer monitoring the HVAC system, or through a network, such as the internet. For example, the instructions can change the superheat setpoint.
In many embodiments, the instructions call for the activation or deactivation of one or both of the heat pump's compressors. The heat pump controller can determine whether the instructions call for deactivation of both compressors (deactivate if activated or remain deactivated if already deactivated) (206). If the heat pump controller determines that the instructions indeed call for deactivation of both compressors, the heat pump controller can signal both compressors accordingly (208, 210), which can result in both compressors being stopped (212, 214). If the heat pump determines that the instructions call for activation of at least one compressor (activate if deactivated or remain activated if already activated), the heat pump can move to the next level of analysis.
If the heat pump controller determines that the instructions call for activation of at least one of the compressors, the heat pump controller can determine whether the instructions call for activation of only one of the compressors (216) or activation of both of the compressors (218). If the heat pump controller determines that the instructions call for activation of only one of the compressors, the heat pump controller can signal activation of either compressor A (220) or compressor B (222). This can result in a call of compressor A (224) or compressor B (226), pending inspection for irregularities (described in greater detail below). Whichever compressor is not called is/remains deactivated (212, 214).
When instructions call for activation of only one compressor, the heat pump controller can call either compressor A or compressor B based on an alternating or priority wear schedule. If either compressor A or compressor B were always called in this situation, that compressor would wear significantly faster than the other. Accordingly, a schedule can be established to encourage even wear of the two compressors or the preservation of one of the components. The digital control of the embodiment can enable many scheduling variations. In some embodiments, the heat pump controller determines which of the compressors to call. In some embodiments, the main controller determines which of the two controllers to call.
When the heat pump controller determines that the heat pump controller calls for activation of both compressors, the heat pump controller can signal activation of the compressors in a staggered fashion. In some instances, the heat pump controller can signal activation of compressor A first, followed by activation of compressor B after a time delay (228). This can result in (a) a call of compressor A (224), pending inspection for irregularities, (b) a period of delay as determined by reduced Amperage of the first stage and verification after the delay of a continued need, and (c) a call of compressor B (226), pending inspection for irregularities. In some instances, the heat pump controller can signal activation of compressor B first, followed by activation of compressor A after a delay (230). This can result in (a) a call of compressor B (226), pending inspection for irregularities, (b) a period of delay and confirmations, and (c) a call of compressor A (224), pending inspection for irregularities. Which compressor to activate first is often determined according to a schedule designed to reduce the likelihood of uneven wear between the compressors or overall long-term reliability of the system. The heat pump controller and/or the main controller can make this determination in a manner similar to the determination of which compressor to call when only one compressor is requested.
In some embodiments, the call for activation of a compressor can open the source valve SV for the cold HVAC fluid to the evaporator heat exchanger and open the load (moderate) valve MV for the hot HVAC fluid to the condenser heat exchanger. In many embodiments, the valves will close when both compressors are off. Operating the valves in this manner can reduce the pumping costs of the system, enable modules to operate at lower system flows, and prevent refrigerant migrations within the heat pump system from occurring when the heat pump is not active.
As alluded to above, before activating one or both of the compressors, the heat pump can be inspected for one or more irregularities (232, 234). Such an inspection can also be called a safety inspection in reference to making sure that activation of the compressor(s) will not damage the heat pump. If the heat pump controller determines that activation of either of the compressors (232, 234) would be unsafe, the heat pump controller can disable the activation of the compressor(s) (212, 214). If the heat pump controller determines that activation of one or both compressors would not be unsafe (232, 234), the heat pump controller can proceed with activation of the compressor(s) (236, 238).
FIG. 3B shows an illustrative method of monitoring for heat pump irregularities and/or heat pump safety concerns. As can be seen, the method of FIG. 3B includes eight tests. Other methods according to the present invention may include a greater or lesser number of tests. Other methods according to the present invention may involve one or more of the tests illustrated in FIG. 3B in a different order. A variety of tests, combinations, and orders are possible.
The heat pump controller can first activate the method (250). When a compressor is called, but before the compressor is turned on, the method can be activated. If the method detects no irregularities, the compressor can be turned on. In many embodiments, while the compressor is turned on, the method can run on a continuous basis. In such embodiments, if the method detects an irregularity or safety concern while the compressor is operating, the heat pump controller can cause the compressor to be deactivated. In most embodiments, the method of FIG. 3B can be performed in a relatively short period of time (e.g., once per second) to accommodate active compressors.
In many embodiments, the method of FIG. 3B supplements, or is supplemented by, protections that are hard-wired into the heat pump components themselves. The hard-wired protections can monitor for some or all of the irregularities that are monitored for by the heat pump controller. In many such embodiments, the heat pump controller safety tests are more conservative than those of the hard-wired heat pump components. In many such embodiments, the heat pump controller safety tests and the hard-wired safety tests can serve as back ups to one another in the event that one of the safety tests does not properly detect a potentially damaging heat pump irregularity.
With the method in active mode, the heat pump controller can run a variety of safety tests. One test can prevent compressors from being subjected to repeated short cycles (252). A compressor subjected to repeated short cycles can wear prematurely or be damaged. Embodiments of the present invention can prevent short cycles, thereby reducing the likelihood of premature wear of the compressor or heat pump failure. The heat pump controller can determine whether a compressor was just recently deactivated (e.g., within the past 10 or 15 minutes). In such a situation, the heat pump controller typically delays activation of the compressor to give it an appropriate amount of recovery (e.g., 10-15 minutes). Given the large size of most HVAC systems and given the fact that gradual changes in space conditions are typically desirable, the delay in activation of one compressor does not typically impede performance of the HVAC system.
If the heat pump controller determines that the compressor was recently deactivated, the heat pump controller can generate an alarm signal, signifying a condition in which operation of the compressor would be unsafe to the compressor (254). If the test identifies a potentially unsafe short cycle in compressor A, the unsafe condition is associated with compressor A (256). If the test identifies a potentially unsafe short cycle in compressor B, the unsafe condition is associated with compressor B (258). Referring to FIG. 3A, unsafe conditions associated with the respective compressors are shown (256, 258). As alluded to above, if either of these inputs (256, 258) indicate an unsafe condition, activation of the corresponding compressor will be prevented.
Referring again to FIG. 3B, if the heat pump controller determines that activating the called for compressor would not result in a potentially unsafe short cycle, the heat pump can administer additional safety tests. Another test monitors for irregular or inappropriate current draw experienced by the relevant compressor (260). Inappropriate current draw can result from, e.g., a change in load, a faulty power supply, and other reasons. If the heat pump controller detects an irregular or inappropriate current draw, the heat pump controller can generate a “high” signal, signifying a condition in which operation of the compressor would be unsafe to the compressor (254). As is discussed elsewhere herein, this condition can be associated with a compressor, which can prevent activation of, or deactivate, that compressor.
The third test of the illustrative method of FIG. 3B monitors for abnormally low suction pressure (262). This test can activate an alarm if the evaporator inlet refrigerant pressure is below a determined safe level that would cause “slugging” or fluidized refrigerant in damaging amounts to enter the compressor. If allowed to enter the compressor, mechanisms can be bent or broken. If the heat pump controller detects an abnormally low suction pressure, the heat pump controller can generate a “low” signal, signifying a condition in which operation of the compressor would be unsafe to the compressor (254). As is discussed elsewhere herein, this condition can be associated with a compressor, which can prevent activation of, or deactivate, that compressor.
The fourth test of the illustrative method of FIG. 3B monitors for abnormally high delivery pressure (264). This test can activate an alarm if the condenser outlet refrigerant pressure is above a determined safe level that would cause overheating and burning of the compressor windings. If allowed to over-pressurize, the compressor can be irreparably damaged. If the heat pump controller detects abnormally high delivery pressure, the heat pump controller can generate a “high” signal, signifying a condition in which operation of the compressor would be unsafe to the compressor (254). As is discussed elsewhere herein, this condition can be associated with a compressor, which can prevent activation of, or deactivate, that compressor.
The fifth test of the illustrative method of FIG. 3B monitors for abnormally low source temperature (266). This test can activate an alarm if the leaving HVAC fluid temperature is below a predetermined minimum that can cause the HVAC fluid in the evaporator to freeze or “gel” creating a “freeze rupture” in the heat pump condenser. This event can lead to a splitting of the plates in the condenser heat exchanger and leakage, a blockage of the HVAC fluid flow, and low suction pressure of the refrigerant flow. If the heat pump controller detects abnormally low source temperature, the heat pump controller can generate a “low” signal, signifying a condition in which operation of the compressor would be unsafe to the compressor (254). As is discussed elsewhere herein, this condition can be associated with a compressor, which can prevent activation of, or deactivate, that compressor.
The sixth test of the illustrative method of FIG. 3B monitors for abnormally high load temperature (268). This test can be activated if the hot HVAC fluid leaving the heat pump condenser is above a predetermined set point. If the leaving hot HVAC fluid is too hot, it can lead to unsafe fluid temperatures in the HVAC system with the potential for burning skin, damaging piping, activating secondary alarms, and other events. In the event of high load temperature, the compressor is deactivated until a predetermined reset level is achieved. If the heat pump controller detects abnormally high load temperature, the heat pump controller can generate a “high” signal, signifying a condition in which operation of the compressor would be unsafe to the compressor (254). As is discussed elsewhere herein, this condition can be associated with a compressor, which can prevent activation of, or deactivate, that compressor.
The seventh test of the illustrative method of FIG. 3B monitors for an abnormal positioning of the source valve (270). This test can activate an alarm if the heat pump compressors are called to turn on and the source valve is not in a position to allow flow of the HVAC fluid through the heat pump evaporator. If undetected, this event could cause secondary alarms (noted elsewhere herein) that would be caused by low suction and subsequent freeze rupturing. If the heat pump controller detects an abnormal positioning of the source valve, the heat pump controller can generate an “alarm” signal, signifying a condition in which operation of the compressor would be unsafe to the compressor (254). As is discussed elsewhere herein, this condition can be associated with a compressor, which can prevent activation of, or deactivate, that compressor.
The eighth test of the illustrative method of FIG. 3B monitors for an abnormal positioning of the load valve (272). This test can activate an alarm if the heat pump compressors are called to turn on and the load valve is not in a position to allow flow of the HVAC fluid through the heat pump condenser. If undetected, this event could cause secondary alarms as noted herein that would be caused by high discharge pressure and subsequent compressor overheating. If the heat pump controller detects an abnormal positioning of the load valve, the heat pump controller can generate an “alarm” signal, signifying a condition in which operation of the compressor would be unsafe to the compressor (254). As is discussed elsewhere herein, this condition can be associated with a compressor, which can prevent activation of, or deactivate, that compressor.
Monitoring for heat pump irregularities, e.g., by the illustrative method shown in FIG. 3B, can provide a variety of advantages. Some methods can assure health and safety measures related to the temperature of the HVAC fluid. Some methods can attract attention to other failures in the overall HVAC system. Some methods can help in the long-term control of the HVAC system. Some methods can prevent permanent damage and premature wear of the compressors or other components of the heat pump and secondary components in the HVAC system. Some methods can maintain and provide increased energy efficiency of the heat pump and the HVAC system.
Many heat pump embodiments described herein can be assembled according to a variety of methods. FIG. 4 provides an illustrative heat pump assembly method. First, a heat pump frame can be selected. The heat pump frame can be selected based on the size of the heat pump and a variety of other factors. In some instances, heat pumps can be combined to provide a 30-ton capacity, a 60-ton capacity, or other desired capacity.
Compressors can be added to the heat pump frame (101). In many embodiments, the compressor is a scroll compressor. The compressor can be smooth in operation, compact, with good motor protection. The compact size of such embodiments can permit the compressor to be built into relatively small heat pump frames and modules that can be introduced to retrofit spaces through normal doorways. In some embodiments, the compressor includes relatively few moving parts with better reliability. In some embodiments, the compressor is quieter and more energy efficient than other compressors. An example of a compressor that is suitable for some embodiments of the present invention is the Copeland Scroll ZR380. One advantage of using many such compressors according to embodiments of the present invention is the relatively quiet operation. Quiet operation of the compressor can enable a tolerable noise level in a mechanical room, even with open construction of some embodiments. This allows an operator to readily see piping (e.g. to observe frosting, etc.) without the removal of covers or other sound attenuation panels. One advantage of using many such compressors according to embodiments of the present invention is staging of capacity to achieve ideal compressor loading. Staging of compressors on individual refrigeration circuits enhances reliability and performance of the HVAC system.
Condenser and evaporator heat exchangers can be added to the heat pump frame (102). The evaporator and condenser heat exchangers can be piped with the relevant compressors (103) in common or separate refrigerant circuits for the common hot and cold HVAC fluids. In some embodiments, components of the dryer shell can be silver soldered or Sil-Fos welded to minimize leaks. In some embodiments, the core of the dryer can be removed and replaced simply (e.g., without welding).
A pressure test can be conducted on the heat pump (104). The pressure test can comprise adding nitrogen to the heat pump for a period of 12 hours at a pressure of 250 psi. If the heat pump passes the pressure test, it can be ready for the next step in the assembly process. If the heat pump fails, the failing joint can be fixed and the pressure test can be repeated until it passes (104).
A control panel can be added to the heat pump frame (105). The control panel can be prefabricated. In some embodiments, the compressor mounting can be accessed through a hinged electrical panel, thereby maintaining maintenance access if the heat pump modules are connected side by side.
The various electrical components of the heat pump can be wired (106). The heat pump can then be subjected to an electrical test and safety certification. If the heat pump passes the electrical test and safety certification, the heat pump assembly process can be complete. If the heat pump fails the electrical test, the faulty wiring can be repaired, and the heat pump wiring and electrical components can be retested until the heat pump passes the electrical test and achieves safety certification (106).
Referring again to FIG. 1A, as mentioned above, the HVAC system of FIG. 1A includes a network of pipes and valves for distributing HVAC fluid to various components. The energy transfer components of FIG. 1A, which are discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein, are connected to one another via a main loop 50. HVAC fluid can pass through the main loop 50 and, depending on the circumstances, can also pass through one or more of the energy transfer components. For example, in some heating operations, HVAC fluid can enter the main loop 50, pass through the solar thermal panel 10 and/or the laundry heat transfer component 12 and/or the waste water heat transfer component 14 and/or the ground energy transfer component 16 and/or the geothermal well system 18 and/or the outdoor air energy transfer component 20 and/or the exhaust heat transfer component 22 and/or the domestic cold water heat exchanger 24. As the HVAC fluid passes through the one or more energy transfer components during a heating operation, the HVAC fluid can pick up heat from the energy transfer components, thereby raising the temperature of the HVAC fluid. Depending on the circumstances, the HVAC fluid may bypass one or more of the energy transfer components (e.g., by closing the valves to the energy transfer component(s)) as it passes through the main loop 50. In some embodiments, the HVAC fluid from one or more energy transfer components can be tied directly into the HVAC loops 40, 42 feeding the conditioned space 6. This is shown in FIG. 1A for the solar thermal panel 10, though it could be done for any individual energy transfer component or combination of energy transfer components.
In heating operations, HVAC fluid can pass through the energy transfer component(s) on its way to the conditioned space 6 or on its way from the conditioned space 6. In some embodiments, HVAC fluid travels from the output of the heat pump's condenser heat exchanger 34 into the conditioned space 6, as well as into and through the main loop 50 (or to one or more individual energy transfer components), as well as back to the input of the heat pump's condenser heat exchanger 34. In this way, the energy transfer component(s) can provide HVAC fluid to the heat pump that is warmer than it otherwise would be. In many such embodiments, the energy transfer components can provide a larger change in temperature. In some embodiments, HVAC fluid travels from the output of the heat pump's condenser heat exchanger 34 through the main loop 50 (or to one or more individual energy transfer components) to the conditioned space 6 back to the input of the heat pump's condenser heat exchanger 34. In this way, the energy transfer component(s) can further warm HVAC fluid received from the heat pump 8. In some embodiments, HVAC fluid can pass through one or more energy transfer components between exiting the conditioned space 6 and entering the heat pump 8 and also pass through one or more energy transfer components between exiting the heat pump 8 and entering the conditioned space 6. The control system of the heat pump 8 can be regulated to account for the presence of one or more energy transfer components.
The HVAC system of FIG. 1A includes a cooling loop 42 that can be used in cooling operations. As shown in configuration 52, valves can be used to channel HVAC fluid between the heat pump's condenser heat exchanger 34 and the main loop 50 and/or between the heat pump's evaporator heat exchanger 38 and the main loop 50. In some embodiments, the valving configuration 52 may occur individually for each energy transfer component. For example, HVAC fluid can enter the cooling loop 42 (and be directed to the main loop 50 by the system valving 52), pass through the ground energy transfer component 16 and/or the geothermal well system 18 and/or the outdoor air energy transfer component 20 and/or the exhaust heat transfer component 22. In another example, HVAC fluid can enter the cooling loop 42 (and be directed to the main loop 50 by the system valving 52), pass through the solar thermal panel 10 and/or the laundry heat transfer component 12 and/or the waste water heat transfer component 14 and/or the domestic cold water heat exchanger 24. In another example, HVAC fluid can enter the cooling loop 42 (and be directed to the main loop 50 by the system valving 52) and pass through one energy transfer component while at the same time the HVAC fluid can enter the heating loop 40 (and be directed to a second loop by a valving configuration) and pass through an energy rejection sink. Many variations are possible. Again, depending on the circumstances, the HVAC fluid may bypass one or more of the energy transfer components (e.g., by closing the valves 52 to the energy transfer component(s)) as it passes through the cooling loop 42 and the main loop 50.
As with heating operations, in cooling operations, HVAC fluid can pass through the energy transfer component(s) which can reject heat away from the conditioned space 6. In some embodiments, HVAC fluid travels from the output of the heat pump's evaporator heat exchanger 38 to the conditioned space 6 through cooling loop 42 and (by way of the valving configuration 52) the main loop 50 (or to one or more individual energy transfer components) back to the input of the heat pump's evaporator heat exchanger 38. Energy transfer components that absorb energy from the HVAC fluid when their environments are warmer than the HVAC fluid become energy rejection components. In this way, the energy transfer component(s) can provide HVAC fluid to the heat pump that is cooler than it otherwise would be. In some embodiments, HVAC fluid travels from the output of the heat pump's evaporator heat exchanger 38 through the cooling loop 42 and the main loop 50 (or to one or more individual energy transfer components) to the conditioned space 6 back to the input of the heat pump's evaporator heat exchanger 38. In this way, the energy transfer component(s) can further cool HVAC fluid received from the heat pump 8. In some embodiments, HVAC fluid can pass through one or more energy transfer components between exiting the conditioned space 6 and entering the heat pump 8 and also pass through one or more energy transfer components between exiting the heat pump 8 and entering the conditioned space 6. As noted above, the control system of the heat pump 8 can be adjusted to account for the presence of one or more energy transfer components. Thus, in many embodiments, HVAC fluid can recover energy from, and/or reject energy to, one or more energy transfer components. HVAC systems can include various individual valve configurations enabling some of the energy transfer components to serve as energy recovery components and others to serve as energy rejection components. Many functional permutations and combinations are possible.
As discussed elsewhere herein, many embodiments can perform heating operations and cooling operations simultaneously. One or more compressors can be activated, causing heat pump refrigerant to cycle through the heat pump components. The heat pump refrigerant can chill HVAC fluid at the evaporator heat exchanger 38 and simultaneously heat HVAC fluid at the condenser heat exchanger 34. In this way, heating and cooling different HVAC fluids can involve no more compressor work than heating or cooling alone. HVAC systems can include a variety of components, which can be configured and operated in a variety of ways. Thus, embodiments of the present invention can reliably and efficiently serve a wide variety of applications.
FIG. 1B shows an illustrative HVAC system similar to that of FIG. 1A. As can be seen, like the HVAC system of FIG. 1A, the HVAC system of FIG. 1B includes a heat pump 8, a main loop 50 with connections to various energy transfer components 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, and a cooling loop 42 for heating and cooling zones 2, 4 of conditioned space 6. The HVAC system of FIG. 1B can also provide heating for zones 54 and 56 of conditioned space 6. Some or all of the HVAC fluid exiting the heat pump 8 can be routed through a second heat pump 58 to further increase the temperature of a second and separated HVAC fluid (often domestic hot water) before it enters zones 54, 56 of conditioned space 6. Often, the kinds of zones that would benefit from passing through multiple heat pumps are zones that require HVAC fluid at significantly higher temperatures (e.g., higher temperature domestic hot water, process water for laundry use, process water for municipal or industrial applications). When the HVAC fluid has passed through the second heat pump 58, the HVAC fluid can pass to zones 54, 56 through respective distribution boxes 62, 64.
HVAC systems according to embodiments of the present invention can arrange two or three or any suitable number of heat pumps (and/or groups of heat pumps arranged in parallel) in a series relationship to progressively increase the temperature of HVAC fluid passing through them. For example, a first heat pump can increase the temperature of HVAC fluid from 15 degrees Fahrenheit to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. A second heat pump can take that 60-degree HVAC fluid and increase its temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. A third heat pump can take that 120-degree HVAC fluid and increase its temperature to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. This sequence can continue until the temperature of the HVAC fluid reaches a desired (e.g., selected, predetermined) level. In this example, three heat pumps increase the temperature of HVAC fluid from 15 degrees Fahrenheit to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Even if achieving this kind of temperature difference with a single heat pump were feasible (which it most likely is not), the required energy input would be significantly greater than it would be for the incremental approach discussed herein. In some embodiments, the temperature of domestic hot water can be raised to 140 degrees Fahrenheit and process water to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, in many instances, multiple heat pumps arranged in a series relationship can provide additional functionality, improved system reliability, reduced wear on components, and increased efficiency.
Arranging multiple heat pumps in a series relationship can provide certain advantages in some embodiments. In many embodiments, each heat pump that is arranged in a series relationship experiences less strain than a single heat pump designed to achieve the same total temperature difference. In many such embodiments, the multiple heat pumps arranged in series provide for increased durability and longevity. In some embodiments, heat pumps that are optimized for certain temperature ranges can be selected. For example, in the example provided above, the first heat pump can be configured for peak efficiency between 15 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, the second heat pump can be configured for peak efficiency between 60 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit, and the third heat pump can be configured for peak efficiency between 120 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit. A heat pump can be optimized for a given temperature range by adjusting one or more of a variety of factors. For example, different heat pump refrigerants can be used in each of the ranges, with each heat pump refrigerant having characteristics making it suitable for optimal efficiency within a given temperature range. Different heat pumps can operate at different pressures and/or with different heat pump refrigerant volumes to provide optimum operation within different temperature ranges. Though arranging multiple heat pumps in a series relationship has been discussed in connection with progressively increasing the temperature of HVAC fluid in heating operations, the same kind of arrangement can progressively decrease the temperature of HVAC fluid in cooling operations.
As discussed herein, a fourth aspect of the present invention provides a method of achieving a predetermined temperature difference in an HVAC fluid. The method can include providing an initial heat pump (e.g., a heat pump discussed in connection with the first aspect or other heat pumps discussed herein) and a subsequent heat pump (e.g., a heat pump discussed in connection with the first aspect or other heat pumps discussed herein). The method can include connecting the initial heat pump and the subsequent heat pump in series. The method can include circulating the HVAC fluid through the initial heat pump to achieve a first temperature difference in the HVAC fluid. The method can include circulating the HVAC fluid through the subsequent heat pump to achieve a second temperature difference. The first and second temperature differences can sum to be approximately equal to the predetermined temperature difference. The predetermined temperature difference can be a temperature increase (e.g., of 150 F) or a temperature decrease (e.g., of 150 F).
Referring again to FIG. 1A, the illustrative HVAC system includes energy transfer components, as noted above. One of the energy transfer components shown in FIG. 1A is a solar thermal panel 10, which can assist the heat pump 8 in heating operations. The solar thermal panel 10 of FIG. 1A includes four panels 30 that collect solar thermal energy (though any number of panels 30 are possible). Solar radiant energy passes through the glass cover of the panel and is entrapped within the panel space. The solar radiant heat that accumulates in the panel is absorbed and transferred from the panel space to the radiant fins. The energy absorbed by the fins dissipates to the attached piping at its center. The energy transferred to the piping can be absorbed by the HVAC fluid that is passing through the pipes. In this way, HVAC fluid exiting the solar thermal panel 10 can be warmer than HVAC fluid entering the solar thermal panel 10, thereby reducing the amount by which the heat pump 8 must work to heat the relevant HVAC fluid to effectuate the desired heating. In some embodiments, such as that of FIG. 1A, the solar thermal panel 10 can be connected to the main loop 50. In some embodiments, the solar thermal panel 10 can be connected directly to the heat pump 8. In some embodiments, the solar thermal panel 10 can be connected to the domestic hot water supply, either instead of the HVAC fluid or in addition to the HVAC fluid (e.g., by running alternate piping circuits or the use of a heat exchanger on a separate solar panel piping). Taking advantage of heat provided by the solar thermal panel 10 can allow HVAC systems to perform significantly more efficiently and sustainably.
The HVAC system of FIG. 1A includes a laundry heat transfer component 12 and a waste water heat transfer component 14 as energy transfer components. The laundry heat transfer component 12 can take advantage of laundry exhaust (e.g., dryer exhaust) that is at a significantly higher temperature than the heat recovery HVAC fluid. In many buildings, laundry exhaust is channeled to the outside and into the surrounding air without the HVAC system taking advantage of its heat. The waste water heat transfer component 14 can take advantage of waste water (e.g., from laundry process water, shower drains, water closets, sink drains, etc.) that is at a significantly higher temperature than the heat recovery HVAC fluid. For example, the water running through shower drains is often around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. In some embodiments, such as that of FIG. 1A, both the laundry heat transfer component 12 and the waste water heat transfer component 14 can be connected to the main loop 50. In some embodiments, either one or both of the laundry heat transfer component 12 and the waste water heat transfer component 14 can be connected directly to the heat pump 8. Recovering this heat and using it in a building's HVAC system can significantly offset heating loads, increase heat pump efficiency, along with regenerating heat sources and providing a more sustainable system.
In many embodiments, the laundry heat transfer component 12 and the waste water heat transfer component 14 can have substantially the same flow-through structure. FIGS. 5A-5B show an example of such a structure. The flow-through heat transfer component 300 can include two coaxial tubes 302, 304. Laundry exhaust or waste water can pass through the interior of the inner tube 304, through channel 306. In many embodiments, the flow-through heat transfer component 300 can be substituted for a section of piping in a laundry exhaust or a waste water drainage system, with the inner diameter of tube 304 being smooth walled and substantially the same as the inner diameter of the laundry exhaust or waste water drainage system pipe. In this way, the flow path of the waste water or laundry exhaust can be substantially unimpeded by the structure that channels the HVAC fluid through the flow-through heat transfer component 300. This can provide a significant advantage over conventional plate-and-frame components in that solid substances (e.g., laundry lint, human waste, bones from kitchen drains, etc.) do not get trapped in the HVAC structure, meaning that the heat can be recovered without hindering the functionality of the laundry exhaust or waste water systems.
The flow-through heat transfer component 300 of FIGS. 5A-5B includes an inlet pipe 308 and a corresponding inlet connector 309, as well as an outlet pipe 312 and a corresponding outlet connector 313. The inlet and outlet connectors 309, 313 can connect the flow-through heat transfer component 300 to HVAC pipes, thereby incorporating the flow-through heat transfer component 300 into an HVAC system. Once connected, HVAC fluid can enter the flow-through heat transfer component 300 through the inlet pipe 308 and then pass into the channel 310 between the exterior of the inner tube 304 and the interior of the outer tube 302. As the HVAC fluid flows within the channel 310 from the inlet pipe 308 toward the outlet pipe 312, a barrier 314 guides HVAC fluid around and around the inner tube 304 in a coil-like configuration. In many embodiments, this flow path lengthens the amount of time the HVAC fluid is within the flow-through heat transfer component 300 and in thermal conductance with the laundry exhaust or waste water. In many embodiments, this flow path increases the turbulence of the flowing HVAC fluid, thereby enhancing the heat transfer of the HVAC fluid. When the HVAC fluid has completed its path through the channel 310 along the barrier 314, it exits the flow-through heat transfer component 300 through the outlet pipe 312. The HVAC fluid exiting the flow-through heat transfer component 300 through the outlet pipe 312 can be at a significantly higher temperature than the HVAC fluid entering the flow-through heat transfer component 300 through the inlet pipe 308.
The wall of the inner tube 304 can be configured to permit maximum heat transfer between the laundry exhaust or waste water and the HVAC fluid (e.g., can be made of thermally conductive material, such as a metal). The thickness of the wall of the inner tube 304 can relate to the thermal capacitance and absorptivity from the inner heat source, which could flow in either direction. The wall of the outer tube 302 can be made of thermally insulating material (e.g., a type of plastic) or an insulated metal, thereby inhibiting heat transfer between the HVAC fluid and the environment surrounding the flow-through heat transfer component 300. Many factors can be controlled to facilitate maximum heat transfer, such as contact surface area, direction of source flow, HVAC fluid flow rate, source flow rate, HVAC fluid temperature, and so on. In this way, the heat from the laundry exhaust or the waste water can be recovered and used in the HVAC system, allowing the HVAC system to perform more efficiently and sustainably. In some embodiments, the flow-through heat transfer component 300 can be used in reverse to heat the fluid within channel 306. In some embodiments, one or both of the inner and outer flows may be reversed. The insulating and conducting materials can be interchanged or made of the same material.
Referring again to FIG. 1A, the illustrative HVAC system can include a ground energy transfer component 16. In certain ground conditions, it is advantageous for the HVAC system to include pipes that exit the building and pass through a portion of the ground to take advantage of ambient ground energy. In some embodiments, such as that of FIG. 1A, the ground energy transfer component 16 can be connected to the main loop 50. In some embodiments, the ground energy transfer component 16 can be connected directly to the heat pump 8. Recovering this energy and using it in a building's HVAC system can significantly increase efficiency, along with providing a more sustainable system.
FIG. 6 shows an illustrative ground energy transfer component 400, according to some embodiments of the present invention. Like the flow-through heat transfer component of FIGS. 5A-5B, the ground energy transfer component 400 of FIG. 6 includes two coaxial tubes 402, 404. The tubes 402, 404 are shown positioned in the ground 406. In some embodiments, the tubes 402, 404 can be positioned in water or in any other suitable thermal mass. In many embodiments, the inner tube 402 is made of a material that is relatively thermally insulative (e.g., High Density Polyethylene [HDPE] plastic piping). In many embodiments, the outer tube 404 is made out of material that is relatively thermally conductive (e.g., stainless steel). The outer surface of the outer tube 404 may have a thin moisture barrier. Reasons for making the inner tube 402 of thermally insulative material and/or the outer tube 404 of thermally conductive material are discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein.
The ground energy transfer component 400 of FIG. 6 includes an inlet connector 407 and an outlet connector 408. The inlet connector 407 can connect to an inlet pipe 409 of an HVAC system, and the outlet connector 408 can connect to an outlet pipe 410 of the HVAC system, thereby incorporating the ground energy transfer component 400 into the HVAC system. In many embodiments, the inlet pipe 409 and the outlet pipe 410 can be made of a plastic polymer, such as a high-density polyethylene. As noted above, the outer tube 404 is often made of metal, meaning that the inlet connector 407 and the outlet connector 408 often have components that permit the polymer HVAC pipes to interface with the metal exterior of the ground energy transfer component.
In many embodiments, HVAC fluid can enter the ground energy transfer component 400 from the inlet pipe 409 through inlet connector 407 and can exit through the outlet connector 408 into the outlet pipe 410. In some embodiments, HVAC fluid can enter the ground energy transfer component 400 from the outlet pipe 410 through the outlet connector 408 and exit through the inlet connector into the inlet pipe 409. In many embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the connector by which the HVAC fluid enters the ground energy transfer component can be smaller than the cross-sectional area of the corresponding HVAC pipe, thereby resulting in an increased flow velocity of the HVAC fluid. In many embodiments, the flow volume of the HVAC fluid entering the ground energy transfer component is substantially equal to the flow volume of the HVAC fluid exiting the ground energy transfer component.
When HVAC fluid enters the ground energy transfer component 400 from the inlet pipe 409 via the inlet connector 407, the HVAC fluid can flow downwardly in the channel 412 between the outer surface of the inner tube 402 and the inner surface of the outer tube 404. As the HVAC fluid flows downwardly within the channel 412, a barrier 414 guides the HVAC fluid around and around the inner tube 402 in a coil-like configuration. In many embodiments, the barrier 414 serves to maintain the inner tube 402 in a generally concentric relationship with the outer tube 404. In many embodiments, the barrier 414 can be constructed of deformable tubing (e.g., plastic or metal). In some embodiments, the tubing can be wrapped around the inner tube 402 to create coils in a desired configuration. The tubing can be hot-air welded to the inner tube 402 to substantially prevent HVAC fluid from flowing straight down in the channel 412 as opposed to along the barrier 414.
The HVAC fluid completes its path through the channel 412 along the barrier 414 as it approaches the base 416 of the ground energy transfer component 400. As the HVAC fluid approaches and reaches the base 416, it enters the interior of the inner tube 402. In many embodiments, HVAC fluid enters the interior of the inner tube 402 through holes 420. In some embodiments, the lower end of the inner tube 402 can be open, which can permit HVAC fluid to enter the interior of the inner tube 402 through that opening. In some embodiments, the inner tube 402 can have both holes 420 and an open lower end. In embodiments having holes 420 and a closed lower end, the inner tube 402 can be connected to the base 416 in a substantially rigid manner, thereby reducing the tensile stress on the plastic-to-metal or metal-to-metal adapters of the inlet connector 407 and the outlet connector 408. In many embodiments, the collective cross-sectional area of the holes 420 is greater than the cross sectional area of the interior of the inner tube 402, thereby permitting ease of passage. In some embodiments, the holes 420 can be arranged approximately symmetrically about the inner tube 402. In this way, the flow momentum of the HVAC fluid can be balanced due to flow through the each hole 420 being countered by flow through one or more opposite holes 420.
The HVAC fluid then flows relatively laminarly upward in the interior of the inner tube 402. The cross-sectional area of the interior of the inner tube 402 can be significantly greater than the cross-sectional area within the channel 412. In this way, flow velocity within the inner tube 402 can be reduced, thereby producing a more laminar flow. In many embodiments, the HVAC fluid contacts significantly less surface of the ground energy transfer component on the upward path than on the downward path. Similarly, in most embodiments, the HVAC fluid can flow substantially unimpeded by other surfaces within the inner tube 402, thereby producing a more laminar flow. The upward path is also generally a significantly shorter distance, without spiraling around the ground energy transfer component 400. The HVAC fluid then exits the ground energy transfer component 400 through the outlet connector 408 and flows back into the outlet pipe 410. In such an embodiment, because the vertical temperature gradient of the surrounding ground 406 is opposite to that of the HVAC fluid in channel 412—during both heating and cooling—the ground energy transfer component 400 can serve as a cross-flow heat exchanger with the ground or ground fluid.
As referenced above, the HVAC fluid can thermally react with the ground 406 while in the ground energy transfer component 400. The HVAC fluid within channel 412, as guided by barrier 414, can thermally react with the ground. In many embodiments, this flow path increases the amount of time that the HVAC fluid is in thermal communication with the surrounding ground 406. In some embodiments, the momentum of the HVAC fluid as it flows along the barrier 414 causes it to crash against the interior of the outer tube 404. This turbulence can result in greater heat transfer between the HVAC fluid and the surrounding ground 406. Turbulence can be increased by providing increased flow velocity of the HVAC fluid; subjecting the HVAC fluid to more frictional forces due to contacting the barrier 414, the inner tube 402, and the outer tube 404; and/or by subjecting the HVAC fluid to a greater degree of centripetal force. As the HVAC fluid contacts the barrier 414, the inner tube 402, and the outer tube 404, it should be noted that the outer tube 404 provides a larger surface area for heat transfer to occur and that the HVAC fluid is contacting at the peak of its centripetal velocity profile.
In some instances, the HVAC fluid recovers heat from the ground 406, resulting in HVAC fluid that is warmer near the base 416 than the HVAC fluid near the inlet connector 407. In some instances, the HVAC fluid dissipates heat to the ground 406, resulting in HVAC fluid that is cooler near the base 416 than the HVAC fluid near the inlet connector 407. Generally, the HVAC fluid recovers heat from the ground 406 when the ground 406 is warmer than the HVAC fluid, and the HVAC fluid dissipates heat to the ground 406 when the ground 406 is cooler than the HVAC fluid. In many instances, the HVAC fluid recovers heat from the ground when the HVAC system is heating, and the HVAC fluid dissipates heat to the ground when the HVAC system is cooling. The wall of the outer tube 404 can be configured to permit maximum heat transfer between the HVAC fluid and the ground 406 (e.g., can be made of thermally conductive material, such as stainless steel).
The heat transfer properties can be enhanced by the surface properties of the barrier 414, the angle of slope (pitch) of the barrier 414, the size of the passageway between two sections of the barrier 414, the flow rate of the HVAC fluid, the centrifugal forces, other factors, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the spaces between coils of the barrier 414 can be non-uniform. For example, a single ground energy transfer component can have some coils that are spaced further apart (e.g., in ground with a higher recovery rate, such as an underground stream; in ground with a convective heat transfer component, such as flowing waste water) and other coils that are closer together (e.g., in ordinary ground with a lower heat recovery rate). In this way, the ground energy transfer component 400 can be tuned to the ground conditions by adjusting the pitch of the barrier 414.
In many embodiments, the HVAC fluid in the interior of the inner tube 402 can be generally thermally insulated, resulting in a relatively constant temperature within the interior of the inner tube 402. The wall of the inner tube 402 can be made of thermally insulating material, thereby inhibiting heat transfer between the HVAC fluid flowing through channel 412 and the HVAC fluid flowing in the interior of the inner tube 402. The spiraling flow path can create a velocity profile at the interface between the inner tube 402 and the HVAC fluid is relatively small, thereby resulting in less heat transfer between the HVAC fluid in channel 412 and the HVAC fluid in the interior of the inner tube 402.
Insulating the HVAC fluid within the interior of the inner tube 402 can generally preserve the effect of the heat transfer that occurred while HVAC fluid was flowing through channel 412. In some embodiments, a small amount of heat may transfer between HVAC fluid flowing within the inner tube 402 to HVAC fluid flowing within the outer tube 404. In such embodiments, the heat is transferred within the system, meaning that the heat is not lost to the surrounding environment. Providing both a heat transfer path and a return insulated path (or vice versa) can provide several advantages, such as improving the total heat transfer, reducing the volume of fluid, and improving the HVAC system response rate. In this way, embodiments of the ground energy transfer component 400 can be easily integrated into HVAC systems. The ground energy transfer component 400 can aid in recovering energy from the ground 406 (e.g., ground having the above-mentioned ground conditions) to be used in HVAC systems.
In some embodiments, the flow path through the ground energy transfer component 400 can be reversed. HVAC fluid can enter the ground energy transfer component 400 from the outlet pipe 410 via the outlet connector 408, flow downwardly within the interior of the inner tube 402 toward base 416, flow back upwardly through channel 412 (while recovering heat from the ground 406 or dissipating heat to the ground 406), and then exit the ground energy transfer component 400 to the inlet pipe 409 via the inlet connector 407.
Embodiments of the ground energy transfer component 400 can provide one or more of the following advantages. Some embodiments are closed systems, meaning that they can accommodate HVAC fluids such as antifreeze while remaining environmentally friendly. As closed systems, the HVAC fluid is not affected by ground or water minerals. In such embodiments, the welds in the outer tube and base can be air tight, as can the relevant connectors. Some embodiments provide more efficient heat transfer as compared with some closed geothermal wells. Some embodiments provide equal or better heat transfer as compared with open geothermal wells, but without environmental exposure to the ground or mineral exposure to the HVAC system. This increased efficiency can permit ground energy transfer components that are significantly shorter than geothermal wells. For example, many ground energy transfer component embodiments are less than 50 feet long. Many ground energy transfer component embodiments come in standard pipe lengths (e.g., 21 feet, etc.). Many ground energy transfer component embodiments are capable of fitting within a single (e.g., 6-inch diameter) bore hole. Some embodiments have a significantly smaller footprint than most conventional horizontal geothermal wells, some of which may be buried in relatively shallow ground. Some embodiments, such as those having outer tubes made of mill grade stainless steel, can provide significantly enhanced durability. Some embodiments can be used in connection with relatively small pumping heads and/or can operate at relatively low flow rates. Some embodiments are relatively inexpensive and/or simple to manufacture (e.g., due to the simple construction, the wide availability of base materials, etc.). Some embodiments provide the above-noted heat transfer benefits without diminishing the appearance of the building into which they are incorporated (e.g., they have no rejection towers, propane tanks, exhaust stacks, etc.).
Many ground energy transfer components can be installed with relative ease.
For example, a 4-inch hollow-stem auger can be inserted into the ground at a desired depth. The ground energy transfer component can then be slid into the interior of the auger. The auger can then be removed from the hole, leaving the ground energy transfer component intact. This can permit installation in even wet ground conditions. It can also reduce or eliminate the need for holding the hole open during installation. In installing ground energy transfer components in rock, a 3.7-inch cored hole can be used, thereby reducing the required amount of rock drilling. In many instances, the ground energy transfer component can be pre-fabricated, thereby simplifying on-site installation. A variety of installation methods can be employed.
Some HVAC systems include multiple ground energy transfer components 400. Multiple ground energy transfer components are arranged in series in some systems. Multiple ground energy transfer components are arranged in parallel in some systems. Some parallel arrangements provide advantages, such as reduced resistance to flow in the HVAC system and thus lower pumping costs.
Some embodiments of the ground energy transfer component can be used in applications other than HVAC systems. Examples include heaters for intakes of hydroelectric power dams, industrial processes, and other suitable applications.
Referring again to FIG. 1A, one of the energy transfer components of the illustrative HVAC system is a geothermal well system 18. The geothermal well system 18 can channel HVAC fluid down deep below the surface of the earth. In many embodiments, the geothermal well system 18 includes one or more loops 44, each comprising two pipes connected on their lower ends by a connector. Often, the loops 44 extend roughly 150-400 feet below the surface of the earth, where the temperature remains relatively constant. For much of the northern United States, this temperature is around 45 degrees Fahrenheit. The geothermal well system 18 can be made of thermally conductive material, thereby encouraging heat transfer between the HVAC fluid running through the geothermal well system 18 and the ground. In many embodiments, the geothermal well system 18 can be made of plastic pipe, which can have limited thermal conductivity. Generally, in heating operations, heat can be transferred from the ground to the HVAC fluid, and in cooling operations, heat can be transferred from the HVAC fluid to the ground. In some embodiments, such as that of FIG. 1A, the geothermal well system 18 can be connected to the main loop 50. In some embodiments, the geothermal well system 18 can be connected directly to the heat pump 8. In this way, the HVAC system can take advantage of the relatively constant temperature beneath the earth's surface, allowing the HVAC system to perform more efficiently and sustainably.
One of the energy transfer components of the illustrative HVAC system of FIG. 1A is an outdoor air energy transfer component 20. In many embodiments, it is advantageous to channel HVAC fluid through pipes that are exposed to outdoor ambient air. For example, in cooling the interior playing surface of an ice arena (e.g., to 20 degrees Fahrenheit) during peak winter and/or during cold “off-electrical peak” evenings when the air is colder than 20 degrees Fahrenheit, the HVAC system can dissipate significant amounts of heat to the outdoor ambient air while chilling the HVAC fluid used for cooling the interior playing surface of an ice arena. During the times when making ice with compressor work, the warm HVAC fluid can dissipate its heat from the compressors. In some embodiments, the outdoor air energy transfer component 20 is a closed loop that conserves water and does not evaporate it. The HVAC fluid can pass through the outdoor air energy transfer component 20, and a fan 46 can blow outdoor ambient air across the pipes containing HVAC fluid. In some embodiments, such as that of FIG. 1A, the outdoor air energy transfer component 20 can be connected to the main loop 50. In some embodiments, the outdoor air energy transfer component 20 can be connected directly to the heat pump 8. In this way, the HVAC system can take advantage of the outdoor ambient air, allowing the HVAC system to perform more efficiently and sustainably. In some situations, the outdoor air energy transfer component 20 can be used in enclosed spaces that simultaneously achieve a desired effect on the ambient air and the HVAC fluid.
One energy transfer component of the illustrative HVAC system of FIG. 1A is an exhaust heat transfer component 22. In many instances, various kinds of exhaust (e.g., building relief air, parking garage exhaust, general exhaust, non-grease kitchen exhaust, kiln exhaust, etc.) is removed buildings without taking advantage of the exhaust's thermal properties. HVAC fluid can be channeled around a coil within the exhaust heat transfer component 22. Exhaust can pass by the coil, thereby thermally reacting with the HVAC fluid. In this way, HVAC fluid exiting the exhaust heat transfer component 22 can be warmer than HVAC fluid entering the exhaust heat transfer component 22, thereby reducing the amount by which the heat pump 8 must heat the relevant HVAC fluid to effectuate the desired heating. In some embodiments, such as that of FIG. 1A, the exhaust heat transfer component 22 can be connected to the main loop 50. In some embodiments, the exhaust heat transfer component 22 can be connected directly to the heat pump 8. In some embodiments, the exhaust heat transfer component 22 can be connected to HVAC fluid that is warmer than the exhaust air in order to reject heat from the HVAC system. In this way, the HVAC system can take advantage of the thermal properties of the otherwise unused exhaust, allowing the HVAC system to perform more efficiently and sustainably.
One energy transfer component of the illustrative HVAC system of FIG. 1A is a domestic cold water heat exchanger 24. In many instances, the domestic cold water provided to a building (e.g., from a municipality) is warmer than it needs to be and/or warmer than desired. For example, domestic cold water is often provided at 45 degrees Fahrenheit and warmer, while cold water coming out of the tap is commonly (and often preferably) only 37 degrees Fahrenheit. Accordingly, the domestic cold water heat exchanger 24 can reduce the temperature of the domestic cold water while providing the excess heat to the HVAC fluid flowing through the domestic cold water heat exchanger 24. In this way, HVAC fluid exiting the domestic cold water heat exchanger 24 can be warmer than HVAC fluid entering the domestic cold water heat exchanger 24, thereby reducing the amount by which the heat pump 8 must heat the relevant HVAC fluid to effectuate the desired heating. In this way, the domestic cold water can be made biologically safer and can be made usable for cooling applications. In some embodiments, such as that of FIG. 1A, the domestic cold water heat exchanger 24 can be connected to the main loop 50. In some embodiments, the domestic cold water heat exchanger 24 can be connected directly to the heat pump 8. In this way, the HVAC system can take advantage of the heat provided by cooling the domestic cold water, allowing the HVAC system to perform more efficiently and sustainably.
In the illustrative HVAC system of FIG. 1A, the above-mentioned network of pipes and valves can distribute temperature-controlled HVAC fluid to the illustrated building zones 2, 4. Before the HVAC fluid flows to the building zones 2, 4, the HVAC fluid can flow through respective distribution boxes 26, 28. As discussed elsewhere herein, many buildings have several zones, such as 20, 30, 40, or more zones. For example, in a hotel, each room can constitute its own zone. In many embodiments of the present invention, one distribution box is provided for each building zone. The distribution boxes 26, 28 can provide more precise temperature control to the building zones 2, 4. Moreover, as is discussed elsewhere herein, many distribution boxes 26, 28 are indeed modular in that they can be easily exchanged in their entirety if one or more of the components therein needs to be repaired or replaced. In this way, the relevant building zone can be isolated from the HVAC system (e.g., by shutting inlet and outlet HVAC fluid valves) for only the relatively short period of time required to exchange the distribution box, as opposed to isolating that building zone for the often much longer period of time required to repair or replace the relevant component(s). With the distribution box removed from the HVAC system, the relevant component(s) can be repaired or replaced in a shop location, thereby preparing the distribution box to be reintroduced to an HVAC system. The distribution box can be reintroduced to the same HVAC system (in the same or different location) or in an entirely different HVAC system.
In many instances, it is advantageous to build a complete distribution box in a setting more conducive to construction (e.g., a machine shop), as opposed to interconnecting the various components at the same time as installing the HVAC system. In many such instances, the setting more conducive to the construction may be located remotely from the HVAC system installation site. The setting may employ more specifically trained or alternately waged people to perform the task.
FIG. 7 shows an illustrative distribution box 500, according to some embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the distribution box 500 can include a hot HVAC fluid inlet pipe 502, a cold HVAC fluid inlet pipe 504, a hot HVAC fluid outlet pipe 506, and a cold HVAC fluid outlet pipe 508. Each of the inlet and outlet pipes 502, 504, 506, 508 can have a corresponding connector. Connector 514 can be connected to the hot HVAC fluid inlet pipe 502, connector 516 can be connected to the cold HVAC fluid inlet pipe 504, connector 518 can be connected to the hot HVAC fluid outlet pipe 506, and connector 520 can be connected to the cold HVAC fluid outlet pipe 508. The distribution box 500 can include a fan coil supply pipe 510 and a fan coil return pipe 512. Both of the fan coil pipes 510, 512 can have a corresponding connector, with connector 522 being connected to the fan coil supply pipe 510 and connector 524 being connected to the fan coil return pipe 512. The fan coil pipes 510, 512 can enable the distribution box 500 to be connected to a fan coil and/or to various HVAC terminal devices.
The connectors 514, 516, 518, 520, 522, 524 of the distribution box 500 can connect to HVAC pipes, thereby incorporating the distribution box 500 into an HVAC system. In many embodiments, the connectors 514, 516, 518, 520, 522, 524 of the distribution box 500 can be configured to permit the distribution box 500 to be connected to, and disconnected from, the remainder of the HVAC system relatively quickly.
As noted, HVAC fluid can flow through the distribution box 500. HVAC fluid can flow into the distribution box 500 via the hot HVAC fluid inlet pipe 502 and/or the cold HVAC fluid inlet pipe 504. A valve 526 can permit either hot HVAC fluid coming from the hot HVAC fluid inlet pipe 502 or cold HVAC fluid coming from the cold HVAC fluid inlet pipe 504 to pass through to pump 528. Pump 528 can pump the relevant HVAC fluid through the fan coil supply pipe 510 and into a fan coil. In some embodiments, the HVAC fluid can flow into the fan coil without the need of pump 528 (e.g., if the rest of the HVAC system is designed to provide the requisite pressure). After passing through the fan coil, the HVAC fluid can re-enter the distribution box via the fan coil return pipe 512. A valve 530 can channel the HVAC fluid out of the distribution box 500 via either the hot HVAC fluid outlet pipe 506 or the cold HVAC fluid outlet pipe 508. The valves 526 and 530 can be configured such that hot HVAC fluid and cold HVAC fluid do not mix. Hot HVAC fluid from HVAC fluid inlet pipe 502 can return to the hot HVAC fluid at hot HVAC fluid outlet pipe 506. Cold HVAC fluid from cold HVAC fluid pipe 504 can return to the cold HVAC fluid at cold HVAC fluid outlet pipe 508.
A controller 532 can control various aspects of the distribution box 500. The controller 532 can be in electrical communication with one or more inputs, such as thermostat 534. Thermostat 534 can be positioned within the appropriate zone. One or more individuals within the zone can manually adjust conditions of the zone via thermostat 534, or thermostat 534 can operate according to various pre-selected conditions. Other inputs that can be in electrical communication with the controller 532 include various sensors. For example, a temperature sensor can be positioned in the fan coil supply pipe 510 such that the temperature sensor can inform the controller 532 of the temperature of the HVAC fluid entering the fan coil. Several other inputs are used in various embodiments.
Based on information provided by one or more inputs, the controller 532 can control various aspects of the distribution box 500. For example, the controller 532 can instruct valve 526 to permit only hot HVAC fluid to pass through to the pump 528 (e.g., during a heating operation) or to permit only cold HVAC fluid to pass through to the pump 528 (e.g., during a cooling operation). In some instances, the controller 532 can control the flow rate and/or displacement of the pump 528. In some embodiments, the controller 532 can instruct valve 530 to channel returning HVAC fluid through the hot HVAC fluid outlet pipe 506 (e.g., during a heating operation) or through the cold HVAC fluid outlet pipe 508 (e.g., during a cooling operation). In some instances, the controller 532 can (digitally) instruct the blower of the fan coil to various pre-wired stages of speed or it can instruct the blower of the fan coil to any increment of speed on a variable (analogue) signal.
Like other controllers discussed herein, the controller 532 can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, integrated circuitry, specially designed ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, electric relays and switches and/or combinations thereof. These various implementations can include implementation in one or more computer programs that are executable and/or interpretable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which may be special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device. These various implementations can include relays and switches from a remote controller device (e.g., a thermostat) wired or wirelessly connected to the assembled body of an embodiment of the invention.
In many instances, the controller can be connected via a network (e.g., a LAN, a WAN, the Internet, etc.) to other components of the HVAC system. Examples of components to which the controller 532 may be connected include controllers of other distribution boxes, controllers for one or more of the various energy transfer components, controllers for one or more heat pump, operator input devices/stations, zone input sensors (e.g., a sensor to indicate whether the zone has transitioned from a closed system to an open system, such as through the opening of a door or window), and other suitable components. In this way, an operator (e.g., a hotel employee at the front desk) can provide instructions to the controller 532, such as whether the zone is occupied, one or more set-point temperatures for the zone, changes to the set-point temperature or limit set points, changes to the actual temperature, whether to cease heating/cooling in the zone, and so on. In this way, the operator can remotely control various HVAC conditions within a given zone with relative ease.
In many HVAC system embodiments in which a controller and corresponding pump(s) and valve(s) regulate the HVAC fluid entering the fan coil, the HVAC fluid can enter only one coil within the fan box, as opposed to two separate coils (one for cold HVAC fluid and the other for hot HVAC fluid). FIG. 8 illustrates such a system. Such a system can provide one or more of several advantages. Some such systems can accommodate potable water as the HVAC fluid in that there is a significantly lower likelihood that water will remain stagnant in the fan coil. The controller can cause the pump to regularly circulate the water in and through the fan box, thereby preventing the water from becoming stagnant. This contrasts with many two-coil systems in which water can remain stagnant for six months or more (e.g., hot water in the hot water coil during a long cooling season), leading to contamination and/or unacceptable temperatures. Regularly circulating the water can dramatically reduce the risk of contamination of the potable HVAC fluid, as well as maintain the water at an acceptable temperature (e.g., hot water above 115 degrees Fahrenheit). Some such systems can reduce the likelihood of simultaneously heating and cooling a zone, thereby reducing inefficiencies. Some such systems incorporate one larger size coil, which can accomplish heating or cooling with HVAC fluid at lower or higher temperatures, respectively. Some such systems can operate in the absence of the heat pump in some circumstances (e.g., when the one or more energy transfer components are capable of providing HVAC fluid at the desired temperatures). Some such systems can operate effectively by one or more smaller fans (e.g., having only one coil as opposed to two coils can reduce the static pressure drop that the fan must overcome, allowing the fan to be smaller and often using less energy and producing less noise).
Referring again to FIG. 7, in some embodiments, the distribution box 500 is configured to accommodate potable water. Valves, pumps, and other components can be constructed out of materials (e.g., bronze, stainless steel, etc.) that do not erode in such a way as to contaminate the potable water. Such systems can include a bronze body circulating pump (e.g., Grundfos UP15-42 B7 or UP26-96 BF). The pumps can be 100% lead free circulators suitable for potable water systems with 145 psi maximum operating pressure and 176 degrees Fahrenheit maximum fluid temperature in a 104 degrees Fahrenheit maximum ambient temperature. In some embodiments, the pumps can accommodate water from just above freezing (e.g., 35.6 degrees Fahrenheit) up to approximately 230 degrees Fahrenheit. Some embodiments include a composite impeller suitable for potable water. Many other variations are possible. Systems that accommodate potable water often circulate the water to prevent stagnation, whether or not circulation is needed for HVAC purposes.
Distribution components similar to the distribution box 500 of FIG. 7 can be incorporated into other locations in HVAC systems. For example, some energy transfer components can be used in both heating and cooling operations. Examples from FIG. 1A include the ground energy transfer component 16, the geothermal well system 18, the outdoor air energy transfer component 20, and the exhaust heat transfer component 22. A distribution box can be connected between such energy transfer components and, e.g., the main loop 50. Such a distribution box can include one or more valves, controllable by a controller, that channel either hot HVAC fluid (e.g., during heating operations) or cold HVAC fluid (e.g., during cooling operations) through the energy transfer component. Some distribution boxes that are incorporated into other locations in HVAC systems can have similar characteristics to the distribution box of FIG. 7, meaning that they can be swapped out quickly and efficiently.
In the foregoing detailed description, the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, it may be appreciated that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. Thus, some of the features of preferred embodiments described herein are not necessarily included in preferred embodiments of the invention which are intended for alternative uses.
1. A high-efficiency heat pump, comprising:
(a) a frame; (b) a first circuit supported by the frame and configured to circulate a first refrigerant; (c) a first compressor supported by the frame and connected to the first circuit, the first compressor being configured to (i) receive the first refrigerant from the first circuit, (ii) increase pressure of the first refrigerant, and (iii) provide the higher-pressure first refrigerant back to the first circuit; (d) a condenser heat exchanger supported by the frame and connected to the first circuit, the condenser heat exchanger being configured to (i) receive the higher-pressure first refrigerant from the first circuit, (ii) transfer energy from the higher-pressure first refrigerant to a first HVAC fluid passing through the condenser heat exchanger, and (iii) provide the first refrigerant back to the first circuit; (e) a first electronic expansion valve supported by the frame and connected to the first circuit, the first electronic expansion valve being configured to (i) receive the first refrigerant from the first circuit, (ii) decrease pressure of the first refrigerant, and (iii) provide the lower-pressure first refrigerant back to the first circuit; (f) an evaporator heat exchanger supported by the frame and connected to the first circuit, the evaporator heat exchanger being configured to (i) receive the lower-pressure first refrigerant from the first circuit, (ii) transfer energy from a second HVAC fluid passing through the evaporator heat exchanger to the lower-pressure first refrigerant, and (iii) provide the first refrigerant back to the first circuit; and (g) a controller in electronic communication with the first electronic expansion valve, the controller being configured to control operation of the first electronic expansion valve.
2. The high-efficiency heat pump of claim 1, further comprising:
(h) a second circuit supported by the frame and configured to circulate a second refrigerant; (i) a second compressor supported by the frame and connected to the second circuit; and (j) a second electronic expansion valve supported by the frame and connected to the second circuit, wherein the second compressor is configured to (i) receive the second refrigerant from the second circuit, (ii) increase pressure of the second refrigerant, and (iii) provide the higher-pressure second refrigerant back to the second circuit, wherein the condenser heat exchanger is further configured to (i) receive the higher-pressure second refrigerant from the second circuit, (ii) transfer energy from the higher-pressure second refrigerant to HVAC fluid passing through the condenser heat exchanger, and (iii) provide the second refrigerant back to the second circuit, wherein the second electronic expansion valve is configured to (i) receive the second refrigerant from the second circuit, (ii) decrease pressure of the second refrigerant, and (iii) provide the lower-pressure second refrigerant back to the second circuit, wherein the evaporator heat exchanger is further configured to (i) receive the lower-pressure second refrigerant from the second circuit, (ii) transfer energy from HVAC fluid passing through the evaporator heat exchanger to the lower-pressure second refrigerant, and (iii) provide the second refrigerant back to the second circuit, and wherein the controller is in electronic communication with the first electronic expansion valve and/or the second electronic expansion valve, the controller being configured to control operation of the first electronic expansion valve and/or the second electronic expansion valve.
3. The high-efficiency heat pump of claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to modulate the first and second compressors.
4-5. (canceled)
6. The high-efficiency heat pump of claim 1, wherein the first electronic expansion valve is configured to communicate electronically with an operator and/or a remote controller through a network.
7. (canceled)
8. The high-efficiency heat pump of claim 1, wherein the first expansion valve is controllable to (A) simultaneously heat the first HVAC fluid to a temperature above 100 F and cool the second HVAC fluid to a temperature below 10 F in a first season and (B) simultaneously heat the first HVAC fluid to a temperature above 160 F and cool the second HVAC fluid to a temperature below 40 F in a second season.
9. A method of efficiently heating and/or cooling HVAC fluid, comprising:
(a) providing a high-efficiency heat pump that includes:
(i) a frame,
(ii) a first compressor, a condenser heat exchanger, a first electronic expansion valve, and an evaporator heat exchanger, each supported by the frame, and
(iii) a first circuit supported by the frame and configured to circulate a first refrigerant through the first compressor, the condenser heat exchanger, the first electronic expansion valve, and the evaporator heat exchanger;
(b) circulating a first HVAC fluid through the condenser heat exchanger or the evaporator heat exchanger; (c) activating the first compressor to heat the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the condenser heat exchanger or to cool the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the evaporator heat exchanger; and (d) controlling the first electronic expansion valve to control heating of the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the condenser heat exchanger or to control cooling of the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the evaporator heat exchanger.
10. The method of claim 9, further comprising (e) circulating a second HVAC fluid through whichever of the heat exchangers the first HVAC fluid is not circulating through, wherein activating the first compressor simultaneously heats the HVAC fluid in the condenser heat exchanger to a temperature above 125 F and cools the HVAC fluid in the evaporator heat exchanger to a temperature below 35 F.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein activating the first compressor simultaneously heats the HVAC fluid in the condenser heat exchanger to a temperature above 130 F and cools the HVAC fluid in the evaporator heat exchanger to a temperature below 30 F.
12. The method of claim 9, wherein the heat pump further includes:
(iv) a second compressor and a second electronic expansion valve, both supported by the frame, and (v) a second circuit supported by the frame and configured to circulate a second refrigerant through the second compressor, the condenser heat exchanger, the second electronic expansion valve, and the evaporator heat exchanger.
13. The method of claim 12, further comprising activating both the first compressor and the second compressor to heat the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the condenser heat exchanger or to cool the first HVAC fluid if the first HVAC fluid is circulating through the evaporator heat exchanger.
14. (canceled)
15. The method of claim 12, wherein the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant are different refrigerants having different properties.
16. The method of claim 9, wherein controlling the first electronic expansion valve comprises remotely controlling the first electronic expansion valve.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein remotely controlling the first electronic expansion valve comprises controlling operation of the first electronic expansion valve based on input from one or more sensors of an HVAC system that incorporates the heat pump.
18-28. (canceled)
29. A method of achieving a predetermined temperature difference in an HVAC fluid, comprising:
(a) providing an initial heat pump and a subsequent heat pump; (b) connecting the initial heat pump and the subsequent heat pump in series; (c) circulating the HVAC fluid through the initial heat pump to achieve a first temperature difference in the HVAC fluid; and (d) circulating the HVAC fluid through the subsequent heat pump to achieve a second temperature difference, wherein the first and second temperature differences sum to be approximately equal to the predetermined temperature difference.
30. The method of claim 29, wherein the initial heat pump and/or the subsequent heat pump includes a controllable electronic expansion valve configured to control performance of the initial heat pump and/or the subsequent heat pump.
31. The method of claim 30, wherein the controllable electronic expansion valve is remotely controllable.
32. The method of claim 29, wherein the initial heat pump and/or the subsequent heat pump comprise two or more heat pump units.
33. (canceled)
34. The method of claim 29, wherein the predetermined temperature difference is a temperature increase of 150 F.
35. (canceled)
36. The method of claim 29, wherein the predetermined temperature difference is a temperature decrease of 150 F.
37. (canceled)
38. The method of claim 29, further comprising (e) circulating a first refrigerant through the initial heat pump and circulating a second refrigerant through the subsequent heat pump, wherein the first refrigerant and the second refrigerant are different refrigerants having different properties.
| 2011-07-08 | en | 2011-11-03 |
US-6860105-A | Data transfer memory
ABSTRACT
A data transfer memory for reducing the number of components in an electronic module. A master controller circuit provides a transfer start command to a master clock signal generator circuit when receiving an activation detection signal from a power activation detection circuit. As a result, the master clock signal generator circuit generates a basic clock signal, outputs the basic clock signal to an SCL line, and has a master transfer sequencer circuit execute a transfer sequence. The master transfer sequencer circuit transmits a start condition, data stored in the nonvolatile memory via a serial control circuit, and a stop condition to an SDA line synchronously with the basic clock signal.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from prior Japanese Patent Application No. 2004-057903, filed on Mar. 2, 2004, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INENTION
The present invention relates to a data transfer memory.
Philips Electronics has proposed an I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) bus, that is a two-wire serial bus. The I2C bus is used for operating a slave device in response to a transmission command issued by a master device. Operation of the I2C bus is described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5.
As shown in FIG. 1, under a start condition, a serial clock line (SCL line) is at an H level while a serial data line (SDA line) shifts from an H level to an L level. All operations initiate from the start condition. Under a stop condition, the SCL line is at an H level while the SDA line shifts from an L level to an H level. The SCL line is a line into which a serial clock signal is input. The SDA line is a line used for data transfer.
A transmission command is issued by shifting the level of the SDA line when the SCL line is at an L level. The transmission command is a signal including eight consecutively transmitted bits. During a ninth clock cycle, a slave device receiving the command shifts the SDA line to an L level and outputs an acknowledgement indicating that it has received the command. In this manner, each command is issued and received in a unit of nine clock cycles.
FIG. 2 shows a byte write sequence in which data is written to a slave device in byte units by a master device. First, the master device transmits a start condition (START). The master device then transmits a slave address in seven clock cycles to select one of a plurality of slave devices for writing data. The master device further transmits an L level write command code (WRITE) during the eighth clock cycle. The selected slave device outputs an acknowledgement (ACK) when recognizing that it has been selected.
Upon receiving the acknowledgement, the master device transmits an 8-bit write address (word address) to the slave device. The slave device, recognizing the write address, outputs an acknowledgement (ACK). Upon receiving this acknowledgement, the master device further transmits 8-bit write data. When recognizing the write data, the slave device outputs an acknowledgement. Upon receiving the last acknowledgement, the master device transmits a stop condition (STOP). Upon recognizing the stop condition, the slave device starts writing the data.
FIG. 3 shows a current address read sequence in which a master device reads data in byte units from a slave device. First, the master device transmits a start condition (START). Subsequently, the master device transmits a slave address in seven clock cycles to select one of a plurality of slave devices from which data is to be read. The master device then transmits an H level command code (READ) during the eighth clock cycle. The slave device transmits an acknowledgement when recognizing that it has been selected.
After outputting the acknowledgement, the slave device outputs 8 bits of read data at the current address held by the slave device. Thereafter, the master device transmits a stop condition (STOP) without outputting an acknowledgement. This ends the-read operation of the slave device.
FIG. 4 shows a page write sequence in which data is written from a master device to a slave device in page units. First, the master device transmits a start condition. Then, the master device transmits a slave address in seven clock cycles to select one of a plurality of slave devices for writing data. The master device then transmits an L level write command code during the eighth clock cycle. The selected slave device outputs an acknowledgement when recognizing that it has been selected.
Upon receiving this acknowledgement, the master device outputs an 8-bit write address to the slave device. When recognizing the write address, the slave device outputs an acknowledgement. Upon receipt of this acknowledgement, the master device further transmits 8-bit write data (1). The slave device, recognizing the write data, outputs an acknowledgement. The master device then transmits 8-bit write data (2) corresponding to the next word address, and, the slave device outputs an acknowledgement. Subsequently, the transmission of 8-bit write data from the master device and the output of an acknowledgement from the slave device are repeated to transmit a maximum page size of write data to the slave device. When the master device finally transmits a stop condition, the slave device starts writing the page size of data.
FIG. 5 shows a sequential read sequence in which a master device reads a plurality of data bytes from a slave device. First, the master device transmits a start condition. Subsequently, the master device transmits a slave address in seven clock cycles to select one of a plurality of slave devices from which data is to be read. The master device then transmits an H level read command code during the eighth clock cycle. The selected slave device outputs an acknowledgement when recognizing that it has been selected.
After outputting the acknowledgement, the slave device outputs 8-bit read data at the current address that it is holding. Subsequently, when the master device outputs an acknowledgement, the slave device outputs 8-bit read data for the next word address and the master device outputs an acknowledgement. Afterwards, the output of 8-bit read data from the slave device and the transmission of an acknowledgement from the master device are repeated continuously. When a memory address counter of the slave device reaches the last word address, the memory address counter rolls over to the top memory address. Finally, the master device transmits a stop condition without transmitting an acknowledgement. This terminates the sequential read operation of the plurality of data bytes from the slave device.
In recent years, the application fields for modules incorporating a plurality of electronic components have widened. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a conventional CCD camera module 50. The module 50 includes a charge coupled device (CCD) 10, an analog-digital (A/D) converter circuit 11 for converting an analog image signal output from the CCD 10 into a digital signal, and a digital signal processor (DSP) 12 for processing a digital image signal output from the A/D converter circuit 11. The DSP 12 is connected to a CPU 13 and a data memory 14 via an I2C bus 15. The data memory 14 stores a DSP control program and camera adjustment data (including, for example, white balance properties of the CCD 10 and instrumental error correction data for the mechanical shutter).
In response to power activation or an operation start switch signal from the CCD 10, the CPU 13 operates as a master device. The CPU 13 reads out the DSP control program and camera adjustment data (e.g., white balance properties) from the data memory 14 functioning as a slave device, via the I2C bus 15. Subsequently, the CPU 13, operating as the master device, writes the DSP control program and the camera adjustment data in the DSP 12 functioning as the slave device, via the I2C bus 15. The DSP 12 thus implements predetermined image data processing or camera adjustment (e.g., white balance correction or instrumental error correction for the mechanical shutter).
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the data memory 14 functioning as an I2C bus applicable slave device. An SCL terminal is an input terminal for receiving a serial clock signal and is connected to an input buffer 20. The SCL terminal performs signal processing at the rising and falling edges of the serial clock signal. An SDA terminal, which is used to perform bidirectional serial data transfer, is connected to an I/O buffer 21 including an input terminal and an open-drain output terminal. A condition-acknowledgement detection circuit 22 receives an output signal from the input buffer 20 and the I/O buffer 21 to detect a start or stop condition or an acknowledgement (ACK). A serial control circuit 23 receives a start/stop condition detection signal and an acknowledgement (ACK) detection signal, which are output from the condition-acknowledgement detection circuit 22, and an output signal from the I/O buffer 21. In accordance with the received signals, the serial control circuit 23 performs control to cause the I/O buffer 21 to output an acknowledgement, to write data in a nonvolatile memory 24, and to read data from the nonvolatile memory 24. When data is read from the nonvolatile memory 24, the serial control circuit 23 causes the I/O buffer 21 to output the read data.
A master device such as the CPU 13 is necessary in order to transfer data stored in the data memory 14 which functions only as a slave device. Therefore, with the data memory 14 of the prior art, the number of components configuring the module 50 cannot be decreased.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
One aspect of the present invention is a data transfer memory for transferring data to a slave device via an I2C bus. The data transfer memory includes a nonvolatile memory for storing slave device information. A serial control circuit controls a write operation and a read operation of the nonvolatile memory. A master clock signal generator circuit generates a basic clock signal in accordance with a transfer start command. A master transfer sequencer circuit commands the serial control circuit to read data from the nonvolatile memory in synchronism with the basic clock signal.
Another aspect of the present invention electronic module includes an I2C bus. The electronic module includes a slave device connectable to the I2C bus. A data transfer memory transfers data to the slave device via the I2C bus. The data transfer memory includes a nonvolatile memory for storing slave device information. A serial control circuit controls a write operation and a read operation of the nonvolatile memory. A master clock signal generator circuit generates a basic clock signal in accordance with a transfer start command. A master transfer sequencer circuit commands the serial control circuit to read data from the nonvolatile memory in synchronism with the basic clock signal. The nonvolatile memory stores transfer data required for operation of the slave device in accordance with a predetermined format. The data transfer memory transfers the transfer data to the slave device in accordance with the transfer start command.
Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrating by way of example the principles of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention, together with objects and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following description of the presently preferred embodiments together with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is an operational timing chart of an I2C bus;
FIG. 2 shows a byte write sequence of the I2C bus;
FIG. 3 shows a current address read sequence of the I2C bus;
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a page write sequence on the I2C bus;
FIG. 5 shows a sequential read sequence of the I2C bus;
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electronic module in the prior art;
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a data memory in the prior art;
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an electronic module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a data transfer memory in the preferred embodiment;
FIG. 10 shows an example of data stored in a nonvolatile memory of the data transfer memory;
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a data transfer procedure for the electronic module in the preferred embodiment; and
FIG. 12 shows another example of data stored in the nonvolatile memory of the data transfer memory according to the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an electronic module 100, which is used for CCD cameras, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The module 100 includes a CCD 10, an A/D converter circuit 11, and a DSP 12, which are identical to those of the prior art module 50 shown in FIG. 6. The module 100 of the preferred embodiment further includes a data transfer memory 34 connected to the I2C bus 15. The data transfer memory 34 stores a DSP control program and camera adjustment data (including, for example, white balance properties of the CCD 10 and instrumental error correction data for the mechanical shutter).
When activated or in response to an operation start switch signal from the CCD 10, the data transfer memory 34 operates as a master device and writes the DSP control program and camera adjustment data (e.g., white balance properties) in the DSP 12 serving as a slave device via the I2C bus 15. Thus, the DSP 12 executes predetermined image data processing and camera adjustment (e.g., white balance correction and instrumental error correction for the mechanical shutter).
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the data transfer memory 34. An SCL terminal is an input terminal for receiving a serial clock signal and is connected to an input buffer 40. The SCL terminal performs signal processing in correspondence with the rising edge and the falling edge of the serial clock signal. An SDA terminal, which is used for bidirectional serial data transfer, is connected to an I/O buffer 41 including an input terminal and an open-drain output terminal. A condition-acknowledgement detection circuit 42 receives an output signal from the input buffer 40 and an output signal from the I/O buffer 41 to detect a start/stop condition and an acknowledgement (ACK). The serial control circuit 43 receives a start/stop condition detection signal and acknowledgement (ACK) detection signal output from the condition-acknowledgement detection circuit 42, and an output signal from the I/O buffer 41. In accordance with the received signals, the serial control circuit 43 performs control to cause the I/O buffer 41 to output an acknowledgement, to write data in a nonvolatile memory (EEPROM) 44, and to read data from the nonvolatile memory 44. When data is read from the nonvolatile memory 44, the serial control circuit 43 has the I/O buffer 41 output the read data.
The data transfer memory 34 includes a power activation detection circuit 45 for detecting power activation. The power activation detection circuit 45 is connected to a master controller circuit 46. When an activation detection signal is provided to the master controller circuit 46 by the power activation detection circuit 45, the master controller circuit 46 provides a transfer start command to a master clock signal generator circuit 47.
The master controller circuit 46 is also connected to the condition-acknowledgement detection circuit 42. When receiving a signal from the condition-acknowledgement detection circuit 42 indicating that no acknowledgement has been received from the slave device, the master controller circuit 46 also provides a transfer start command to the master clock signal generator circuit 47. In this case, the data transfer memory 34 performs the data transfer processing from the beginning again, in other words, executes a so-called retry.
When receiving a transfer start command, the master clock signal generator circuit 47 generates a basic clock signal and outputs the clock signal to the SCL line. Further, the clock signal generator circuit 47 commands the master transfer sequencer circuit 48 to execute a transfer sequence. The conventional data memory 14 (FIG. 7) has a clock signal generator circuit since timing control is also essential for writing data in the nonvolatile memory 24. In the preferred embodiment, the master clock signal generator circuit 47 includes a clock signal generator section for generating a basic clock signal in which major part of a prior art clock signal generator circuit is incorporated. When receiving a command for executing a transfer sequence from the master clock signal generator circuit 47, the master transfer sequencer circuit 48 shifts the SDA line from an H level to an L level when the SCL line is at an H level and transmits a start condition to the I2C bus 15. The master transfer sequencer circuit 48 then commands the serial control circuit 43 to read data stored in the nonvolatile memory 44. The serial control circuit 43 transmits the read data to the SDA line via the I/O buffer 41 synchronously with the basic clock signal. Further, the master transfer sequencer circuit 48 shifts the SDA line from an L level to an H level when the SCL line is at an H level and transmits a stop condition to the I2C bus 15.
FIG. 10 shows an example of data stored in the nonvolatile memory 44 in the preferred embodiment. The nonvolatile memory 44 stores 8 bits of data at each of its addresses. Three pieces of data, including a slave address to which a read-write command code is added, a word address, and transfer data, are respectively stored in three addresses. These three pieces of data configure one data block (basic unit). The three pieces of data are written to the data transfer memory 34, which serves as a slave device, by an external master device via the I2C bus 15. The slave address is configured by one bit of a write command code (an L level) added to seven bits of a slave address. The nonvolatile memory 44 thus stores slave addresses and word addresses as slave device information.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a data transfer procedure (data forwarding procedure) for the module 100 in the preferred embodiment. The module 100 performs data transfer according to the byte write sequence of the I2C bus 15 as illustrated in FIG. 2. A case in which the nonvolatile memory 44 stores the data shown in FIG. 10 will now be described.
In step S1, when detecting power activation, the power activation detection circuit 45 provides an activation detection signal to the master controller circuit 46.
In step S2, the master controller circuit 46 initializes the retry number Try to the initial value 0 and sets a retry number upper limit Trymax and a transfer number upper limit FWmax. The transfer number upper limit FWmax is a value corresponding to ‘Z’ in FIG. 10, namely, the number of bytes of data to be transferred by the data transfer memory 34. The two upper limits Trymax and FWmax may be either fixed values preset by the master controller circuit 46 or fixed values stored in a specified area (e.g., in the final address) of the nonvolatile memory 44 or another nonvolatile memory (not shown). In this case, these fixed values are read by the master controller circuit 46.
In step S3, the master controller circuit 46 determines whether the retry number Try is less than or equal to the retry number upper limit Trymax. If the retry number Try is greater than the retry number upper limit Trymax, the data transfer is stopped.
If the retry number Try is less than or equal to the retry number upper limit Trymax, in step S4, the master controller circuit 46 initializes the transfer number FW to the initial value 0, and initializes the parameter m representing the address in the nonvolatile memory 44 to the initial value 0. These initial values are sent to the master transfer sequencer circuit 48, and the master controller circuit 46 provides a transfer start command to the master clock signal generator circuit 47.
In step S5, the master clock signal generator circuit 47 generates a basic clock signal, outputs the clock signal to the SCL line, and commands the master transfer sequencer circuit 48 to execute the transfer sequence. The master transfer sequencer circuit 48 shifts the SDA line from an H level to an L level when the SCL line is at an H level and transmits a start condition to the I2C bus 15.
In step S6, the master transfer sequencer circuit 48 commands the serial control circuit 43 to read the 8 bits of the slave address and write command code stored at the address corresponding to the address parameter m (e.g., 0) of the nonvolatile memory 44. The serial control circuit 43 transmits the read data one bit at a time to the SDA line via the I/O buffer 41 synchronously with the basic clock signal.
In step S7, the condition-acknowledgement detection circuit 42 detects whether the slave device outputs an acknowledgement synchronously with the next basic clock signal. If the acknowledgement is detected, step S8 is performed. If no acknowledgement is detected, step S18 is performed.
In step S8, the master controller circuit 46 adds 1 to the parameter m representing an address of the nonvolatile memory 44.
In step S9, the master transfer sequencer circuit 48 commands the serial control circuit 43 to read the 8 bits of the word address stored at the address corresponding to the address parameter m (e.g., 1) in the nonvolatile memory 44. The serial control circuit 43 transmits the read data, one bit at a time, to the SDA line via the I/O buffer 41 synchronously with the basic clock signal.
In step S10, the condition-acknowledgement detection circuit 42 detects whether an acknowledgement is output by the slave device synchronously with the next basic clock signal. If the acknowledgement is detected, the processing proceeds to step S11. If the acknowledgement is not detected, the processing proceeds to step S18.
In step S11, 1 is added to the parameter m representing an address in the nonvolatile memory 44.
In step S12, the master transfer sequencer circuit 48 commands the serial control circuit 43 to read the 8 bits of the transfer data stored at the address corresponding to the address parameter m (e.g., 2) in the nonvolatile memory 44. The serial control circuit 43 transmits the read data, one bit at a time, to the SDA line through I/O buffer 41 synchronously with the basic clock signal.
In step S13, the condition-acknowledgement detection circuit 42 detects whether an acknowledgement is output by the slave device synchronously with the next basic clock signal. If the acknowledgement is detected, step S14 is performed. If the acknowledgement is not detected, step S18 is performed.
In step S14, the master controller circuit 46 adds 1 to the parameter m representing an address of the nonvolatile memory 44.
In step S15, the master transfer sequencer circuit 48 shifts the SDA line from an L level to an H level when the SCL line is at an H level and transmits a stop condition to the I2C bus 15.
In step S17, the master controller circuit 46 determines whether the transfer number FW is less than the transfer number upper limit FWmax. If the transfer number FW is less than the transfer number upper limit FWmax, in step S5, the data transfer memory 34 successively transfers the transfer data to the slave device via the I2C bus 15 according to the address parameter m to which 1 has been added. Each data transfer is performed in a basic unit including three pieces of data, namely, the slave address to which the write command code is added, the word address, and the transfer data. If the transfer number FW is greater than or equal to the transfer number upper limit FWmax, this would indicate that all of the transfer data has been transferred to the slave device. In this case, the data transfer memory 34 terminates the data transfer.
If no acknowledgement is detected either in step S7 or in S10, the master controller circuit 46 adds 1 to the retry number Try in step S18 and proceeds to step S3. In step S3, the master controller circuit 46 determines whether the retry number Try is less than or equal to the retry number upper limit Trymax. If the retry number Try is less than or equal to the retry number upper limit Trymax, the data transfer is performed again from the beginning. Otherwise, the data transfer is stopped.
FIG. 12 shows an example of data stored in the nonvolatile memory 44 of the preferred embodiment. The nonvolatile memory 44 stores 8 bits of data at each address. Further, (X+2) pieces of data, including a slave address to which a read-write command code is added, a word address, and X bytes of transfer data are stored at an (X+2) number of addresses, respectively. The (X+2) pieces of data configure one data block (basic unit). The (X+2) pieces of data are written by an external master device to the data transfer memory 34, which serves as a slave device, via the I2C bus 15. The read-write command code added to the slave address is a write command code (L level). The data transfer memory 34 performs data transfer according to the page write sequence of the I2C bus 15 as shown in FIG. 4 in a manner that is basically the same as that of FIG. 11. However, the transfer number FW represents a value corresponding to Z in FIG. 12, that is, the number of pages of transfer data transferred by the data transfer memory 34. The transfer number upper limit FWmax represents the upper limit of the transfer number FW. Following step S11, step S12 to step S14 are repeated X times.
As described above, the data transfer memory of the present invention functions as a master device. This eliminates the need for an external device that functions as a master device, such as a CPU, for transferring transfer data stored in the data transfer memory to other devices. Therefore, the number of components configuring the module 100 may be decreased. Additionally, the DSP control program and camera adjustment data may be transferred to the DSP (initialization) by the module 100 alone using power activation or the like as a trigger. In the prior art, timing control is essential for writing data in a nonvolatile memory. Thus, the prior art volatile memory includes a clock signal generator circuit. In the data transfer memory of the present invention, the master clock signal generator circuit 47 incorporates a circuit for generating a basic clock signal by using most of the prior art clock signal generator circuit. This prevents the circuit scale and chip size from being enlarged.
In the preferred embodiment, a transfer start command is issued when the power activation detection circuit 45 detects power activation. However, the present invention is not limited to such configuration, and the transfer start command may be issued in response to a command from an external device. In this case, the power activation detection circuit 45 may be omitted.
In the preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10 or FIG. 12, data is stored in the nonvolatile memory 44 in a state where the slave address can be changed for each basic data unit. However, it is of course possible to use the same slave address.
When the slave address of the slave device to which the data transfer memory transfers data is predetermined, the master transfer sequencer circuit 48 is not required to read the slave address from the nonvolatile memory 44 each time to output the slave address to the SDA terminal. For example, the master transfer sequencer circuit 48 may read the slave address from the nonvolatile memory 44 or another nonvolatile memory to store the slave address in a register, and then output the stored slave address to the SDA terminal every time.
When the increment amount of the word address of the slave device to which the data transfer memory transfers data is predetermined, the master transfer sequencer circuit 48 is not required to read the word address from the nonvolatile memory 44 each time to output the word address to the SDA terminal. The transfer sequencer circuit 48 may update the word address by adding an increment amount (e.g., +1) each time and output the updated word address directly to the SDA terminal.
In such an arrangement, the data stored in the memory area of the nonvolatile memory 44 may be limited to only transfer data. This enables the memory area to be used efficiently.
It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in many other specific forms without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the present examples and embodiments are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein, but may be modified within the scope and equivalence of the appended claims.
1. A data transfer memory for transferring data to a slave device via an I2C bus, the data transfer memory comprising:
a nonvolatile memory for storing slave device information; a serial control circuit for controlling a write operation and a read operation of the nonvolatile memory; a master clock signal generator circuit for generating a basic clock signal in accordance with a transfer start command; and a master transfer sequencer circuit for commanding the serial control circuit to read data from the nonvolatile memory in synchronism with the basic clock signal.
2. The data transfer memory according to claim 1, further comprising:
a power activation detection circuit for detecting power activation, wherein the transfer start command is provided to the master clock signal generator circuit when the power activation detection circuit detects power activation.
3. The data transfer memory according to claim 2, wherein the nonvolatile memory stores transfer data that is transferred to the slave device in accordance with a predetermined format.
4. The data transfer memory according to claim 2, further comprising:
a master controller circuit connected to the power activation detection circuit and the master clock signal generator circuit, wherein the master controller circuit provides the transfer start command to the master clock signal generator circuit in response to power activation detection by the power activation detection circuit.
5. An electronic module including an I2C bus, the electronic module comprising:
a slave device connectable to the I2C bus; and a data transfer memory for transferring data to the slave device via the I2C bus, the data transfer memory including:
a nonvolatile memory for storing slave device information;
a serial control circuit for controlling a write operation and a read operation of the nonvolatile memory;
a master clock signal generator circuit for generating a basic clock signal in accordance with a transfer start command; and
a master transfer sequencer circuit for commanding the serial control circuit to read data from the nonvolatile memory in synchronism with the basic clock signal;
wherein the nonvolatile memory stores transfer data required for operation of the slave device in accordance with a predetermined format; and
the data transfer memory transfers the transfer data to the slave device in accordance with the transfer start command.
6. The electronic module according to claim 5, wherein the data transfer memory further includes:
a power activation detection circuit for detecting power activation, the transfer start command being provided to the master clock signal generator circuit when the power activation detection circuit detects power activation, the data transfer memory transferring the transfer data to the slave device in response to power activation.
7. The electronic module according to claim 6, wherein the data transfer memory further includes:
a master controller circuit connected to the power activation detection circuit and the master clock signal generator circuit, the master controller circuit providing the transfer start command to the master clock signal generator circuit in response to power activation detection by the power activation detection circuit.
| 2005-02-28 | en | 2005-09-08 |
US-18847005-A | Air-assisted fuel injector for mixer assembly of a gas turbine engine combustor
ABSTRACT
A mixer assembly for use in a combustion chamber of a gas turbine engine includes a pilot mixer, a main mixer, and a fuel manifold positioned between the pilot mixer and main mixer. The pilot mixer includes an annular pilot housing having a hollow interior and a pilot fuel nozzle mounted in the housing and adapted for dispensing droplets of fuel to the hollow interior of the pilot housing. The main mixer includes: a main housing surrounding the pilot housing and defining an annular cavity; a plurality of fuel injection ports for introducing fuel into the cavity; a post member associated with and extending from each fuel injection port to an inner surface of said annular cavity, the post member including an inner passage therethrough in flow communication with the fuel injection port; a passage surrounding each post member, wherein air is provided therefrom to envelop fuel injected into the annular cavity; and, a swirler arrangement including at least one swirler positioned upstream from the fuel injection ports, wherein each swirler of the arrangement has a plurality of vanes for swirling air traveling through such swirler to mix air and the droplets of fuel dispensed by the fuel injection ports. The air through the passages is either injected substantially straight through or swirled a predetermined amount.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a staged combustion system in which the production of undesirable combustion product components is minimized over the engine operating regime and, more particularly, to a fuel injection arrangement for the main mixer of such system which enhances fuel penetration into an annular cavity for improved mixing of fuel and air therein.
Air pollution concerns worldwide have led to stricter emissions standards both domestically and internationally. Aircraft are governed by both Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. These standards regulate the emission of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), unburned hydrocarbons (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO) from aircraft in the vicinity of airports, where they contribute to urban photochemical smog problems. Such standards are driving the design of gas turbine engine combustors, which also must be able to accommodate the desire for efficient, low cost operation and reduced fuel consumption. In addition, the engine output must be maintained or even increased.
It will be appreciated that engine emissions generally fall into two classes: those formed because of high flame temperatures (NOx) and those formed because of low flame temperatures which do not allow the fuel-air reaction to proceed to completion (HC and CO). Balancing the operation of a combustor to allow efficient thermal operation of the engine, while simultaneously minimizing the production of undesirable combustion products, is difficult to achieve. In that regard, operating at low combustion temperatures to lower the emissions of NOx can also result in incomplete or partially incomplete combustion, which can lead to the production of excessive amounts of HC and CO, as well as lower power output and lower thermal efficiency. High combustion temperature, on the other hand, improves thermal efficiency and lowers the amount of HC and CO, but oftentimes results in a higher output of NOx.
One way of minimizing the emission of undesirable gas turbine engine combustion products has been through staged combustion. In such an arrangement, the combustor is provided with a first stage burner for low speed and low power conditions so the character of the combustion products is more closely controlled. A combination of first and second stage burners is provided for higher power output conditions, which attempts to maintain the combustion products within the emissions limits.
Another way that has been proposed to minimize the production of such undesirable combustion product components is to provide for more effective intermixing of the injected fuel and the combustion air. In this way, burning occurs uniformly over the entire mixture and reduces the level of HC and CO that results from incomplete combustion. While numerous mixer designs have been proposed over the years to improve the mixing of the fuel and air, improvement in the levels of undesirable NOx formed under high power conditions (i.e., when the flame temperatures are high) is still desired.
One mixer design that has been utilized is known as a twin annular premixing swirler (TAPS), which is disclosed in the following U.S. Pat. Nos.: 6,354,072; 6,363,726; 6,367,262; 6,381,964; 6,389,815; 6,418,726; 6,453,660; 6,484,489; and, 6,865,889. Published U.S. patent application 2002/0178732 also depicts certain embodiments of the TAPS mixer. It will be understood that the TAPS mixer assembly includes a pilot mixer which is supplied with fuel during the entire engine operating cycle and a main mixer which is supplied with fuel only during increased power conditions of the engine operating cycle. Because improvements in NOx emissions during high power conditions are of current primary concern, modification of the main mixer in the assembly is needed to maximize fuel-air mixing therein.
As shown in the '964 and '815 patents, fuel is injected from a fuel manifold into the main mixer by means of a plurality of fuel injection ports. Such ports are generally located downstream of a ramp portion and terminate beneath the inner surface of the annular mixing cavity. It has been found that fuel injected into such annular cavity has a tendency to break apart more quickly than desired and/or reside too closely to the inner radial surface thereof In either event, the ability of the fuel and air in the annular cavity to form a more uniform mixture is impeded.
Accordingly, there is a desire for a gas turbine engine combustor in which the production of undesirable combustion product components is minimized over a wide range of engine operating conditions. More specifically, a mixer assembly for such gas turbine engine combustor is desired which provides increased mixing of fuel and air so as to create a more uniform mixture. It is desired that the fuel spray be injected further into the annular cavity of the main mixer and that a flow field be created therein which is conducive to retarding break-up of the fuel spray.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a first exemplary embodiment of the invention, a mixer assembly for use in a combustion chamber of a gas turbine engine is disclosed as including a pilot mixer, a main mixer, and a fuel manifold positioned between the pilot mixer and main mixer. The pilot mixer includes an annular pilot housing having a hollow interior and a pilot fuel nozzle mounted in the housing and adapted for dispensing droplets of fuel to the hollow interior of the pilot housing. The main mixer includes: a main housing surrounding the pilot housing and defining an annular cavity; a plurality of fuel injection ports for introducing fuel into the cavity; a post member associated with and extending from each fuel injection port to an inner surface of the annular cavity, the post member including an inner passage therethrough in flow communication with the fuel injection port; a passage surrounding each post member, wherein air is provided therefrom to envelop fuel injected into the annular cavity; and, a swirler arrangement including at least one swirler positioned upstream from the fuel injection ports, wherein each swirler of the arrangement has a plurality of vanes for swirling air traveling through such swirler to mix air and the droplets of fuel dispensed by the fuel injection ports. The air flowing through the passages surrounding the post members is either injected substantially straight through or swirled a predetermined amount.
In a second exemplary embodiment of the invention, a mixer assembly for use in a combustion chamber of a gas turbine engine is disclosed as including a pilot mixer, a main mixer, and a fuel manifold positioned between the pilot mixer and main mixer. The pilot mixer includes an annular pilot housing having a hollow interior and a pilot fuel nozzle mounted in the housing and adapted for dispensing droplets of fuel to the hollow interior of the pilot housing. The main mixer includes: a main housing surrounding the pilot housing and defining an annular cavity; a plurality of fuel injection ports for introducing fuel into the cavity; a plurality of circumferentially spaced passages located in a downstream portion of the annular cavity, wherein air is provided to force a fuel/air mixture from residing along an inner surface of the annular cavity; and, a swirler arrangement including at least one swirler positioned upstream from the fuel injection ports, wherein each swirler of the arrangement has a plurality of vanes for swirling air traveling through such swirler to mix air and the droplets of fuel dispensed by the fuel injection ports. The fuel injection ports are in flow communication with the fuel manifold.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a high bypass turbofan gas turbine engine;
FIG. 2 is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of a gas turbine engine combustor having a staged arrangement;
FIG. 3 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the mixer assembly depicted in FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the mixer assembly depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, where a first embodiment of the air assist passages is shown;
FIG. 5 is a front view of the mixer assembly depicted in FIGS. 2-4;
FIG. 6 is an enlarged partial section view of the mixer assembly depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, where a second embodiment of the air assist passages is shown;
FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of the mixer assembly depicted in FIG. 6;
FIG. 8 is a top view of the mixer assembly depicted in FIGS. 6 and 7 taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 6;
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a swirler member associated with the air assist passages depicted in FIGS. 6-8;
FIG. 10 is an enlarged partial section view of the mixer assembly depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, where a third embodiment of the air assist passages is shown;
FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view of the mixer assembly depicted in FIG. 10;
FIG. 12 is a top view of the mixer assembly depicted in FIGS. 10 and 11 taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 10; and,
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative swirler member associated with the air assist passages depicted in FIGS. 10-12.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring now to the drawings in detail, wherein identical numerals indicate the same elements throughout the figures, FIG. 1 depicts in diagrammatic form an exemplary gas turbine engine 10 (high bypass type) utilized with aircraft having a longitudinal or axial centerline axis 12 therethrough for reference purposes. Engine 10 preferably includes a core gas turbine engine generally identified by numeral 14 and a fan section 16 positioned upstream thereof. Core engine 14 typically includes a generally tubular outer casing 18 that defines an annular inlet 20. Outer casing 18 further encloses and supports a booster compressor 22 for raising the pressure of the air that enters core engine 14 to a first pressure level. A high pressure, multi-stage, axial-flow compressor 24 receives pressurized air from booster 22 and further increases the pressure of the air. The pressurized air flows to a combustor 26, where fuel is injected into the pressurized air stream to raise the temperature and energy level of the pressurized air. The high energy combustion products flow from combustor 26 to a first (high pressure) turbine 28 for driving high pressure compressor 24 through a first (high pressure) drive shaft 30, and then to a second (low pressure) turbine 32 for driving booster compressor 22 and fan section 16 through a second (low pressure) drive shaft 34 that is coaxial with first drive shaft 30. After driving each of turbines 28 and 32, the combustion products leave core engine 14 through an exhaust nozzle 36 to provide propulsive jet thrust.
Fan section 16 includes a rotatable, axial-flow fan rotor 38 that is surrounded by an annular fan casing 40. It will be appreciated that fan casing 40 is supported from core engine 14 by a plurality of substantially radially-extending, circumferentially-spaced outlet guide vanes 42. In this way, fan casing 40 encloses fan rotor 38 and fan rotor blades 44. Downstream section 46 of fan casing 40 extends over an outer portion of core engine 14 to define a secondary, or bypass, airflow conduit 48 that provides additional propulsive jet thrust.
From a flow standpoint, it will be appreciated that an initial air flow, presented by arrow 50, enters gas turbine engine 10 through an inlet 52 to fan casing 40. Air flow 50 passes through fan blades 44 and splits into a first compressed air flow (represented by arrow 54) that moves through conduit 48 and a second compressed air flow (represented by arrow 56) which enters booster compressor 22. The pressure of second compressed air flow 56 is increased and enters high pressure compressor 24, as represented by arrow 58. After mixing with fuel and being combusted in combustor 26, combustion products 60 exit combustor 26 and flow through first turbine 28. Combustion products 60 then flow through second turbine 32 and exit exhaust nozzle 36 to provide thrust for gas turbine engine 10.
As best seen in FIG. 2, combustor 26 includes an annular combustion chamber 62 that is coaxial with longitudinal axis 12, as well as an inlet 64 and an outlet 66. As noted above, combustor 26 receives an annular stream of pressurized air from a high pressure compressor discharge outlet 69. A portion of this compressor discharge air flows into a mixing assembly 67, where fuel is also injected from a fuel nozzle 68 to mix with the air and form a fuel-air mixture that is provided to combustion chamber 62 for combustion. Ignition of the fuel-air mixture is accomplished by a suitable igniter 70, and the resulting combustion gases 60 flow in an axial direction toward and into an annular, first stage turbine nozzle 72. Nozzle 72 is defined by an annular flow channel that includes a plurality of radially-extending, circularly-spaced nozzle vanes 74 that turn the gases so that they flow angularly and impinge upon the first stage turbine blades of first turbine 28. As shown in FIG. 1, first turbine 28 preferably rotates high pressure compressor 24 via first drive shaft 30. Low pressure turbine 32 preferably drives booster compressor 24 and fan rotor 38 via second drive shaft 34.
Combustion chamber 62 is housed within engine outer casing 18 and is defined by an annular combustor outer liner 76 and a radially-inwardly positioned annular combustor inner liner 78. The arrows in FIG. 2 show the directions in which compressor discharge air flows within combustor 26. As shown, part of the air flows over the outermost surface of outer liner 76, part flows into combustion chamber 62, and part flows over the innermost surface of inner liner 78.
Contrary to previous designs, it is preferred that outer and inner liners 76 and 78, respectively, not be provided with a plurality of dilution openings to allow additional air to enter combustion chamber 62 for completion of the combustion process before the combustion products enter turbine nozzle 72. This is in accordance with a patent application entitled “Combustion Liner Having No Dilution Holes,” filed concurrently herewith and hereby incorporated by reference, which is also owned by the assignee of the present invention. It will be understood, however, that outer liner 76 and inner liner 78 preferably include a plurality of smaller, circularly-spaced cooling air apertures (not shown) for allowing some of the air that flows along the outermost surfaces thereof to flow into the interior of combustion chamber 62. Those inwardly-directed air flows pass along the inner surfaces of outer and inner liners 76 and 78 that face the interior of combustion chamber 62 so that a film of cooling air is provided therealong.
It will be understood that a plurality of axially-extending mixing assemblies 67 are disposed in a circular array at the upstream end of combustor 26 and extend into inlet 64 of annular combustion chamber 62. It will be seen that an annular dome plate 80 extends inwardly and forwardly to define an upstream end of combustion chamber 62 and has a plurality of circumferentially spaced openings formed therein for receiving mixing assemblies 67. For their part, upstream portions of each of inner and outer liners 76 and 78, respectively, are spaced from each other in a radial direction and define an outer cowl 82 and an inner cowl 84. The spacing between the forwardmost ends of outer and inner cowls 82 and 84 defines combustion chamber inlet 64 to provide an opening to allow compressor discharge air to enter combustion chamber 62.
A mixing assembly 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 3. Mixing assembly 100 preferably includes a pilot mixer 102, a main mixer 104, and a fuel manifold 106 positioned therebetween. More specifically, it will be seen that pilot mixer 102 preferably includes an annular pilot housing 108 having a hollow interior, a pilot fuel nozzle 110 mounted in housing 108 and adapted for dispensing droplets of fuel to the hollow interior of pilot housing 108. Further, pilot mixer preferably includes a first swirler 112 located at a radially inner position adjacent pilot fuel nozzle 110, a second swirler 114 located at a radially outer position from first swirler 112, and a splitter 116 positioned therebetween. Splitter 116 extends downstream of pilot fuel nozzle 110 to form a venturi 118 at a downstream portion. It will be understood that first and second pilot swirlers 112 and 114 are generally oriented parallel to a centerline axis 120 through mixing assembly 100 and include a plurality of vanes for swirling air traveling therethrough. Fuel and air are provided to pilot mixer 102 at all times during the engine operating cycle so that a primary combustion zone 122 is produced within a central portion of combustion chamber 62 (see FIG. 2).
Main mixer 104 further includes an annular main housing 124 radially surrounding pilot housing 108 and defining an annular cavity 126, a plurality of fuel injection ports 128 which introduce fuel into annular cavity 126, and a swirler arrangement identified generally by numeral 130. More specifically, annular cavity 126 is preferably defined by an upstream wall 132 and an outer radial wall 134 of a swirler housing 136, and by an inner radial wall 138 of a centerbody outer shell 140. It will be seen that inner radial wall 138 preferably also includes a ramp portion 142 located at a forward position along annular cavity 126. It will be appreciated that annular cavity 126 gently transitions from an upstream end 127 having a first radial height 129 to a downstream end 131 having a second radial height 133. The difference between first radial height 129 and second radial height 133 of annular cavity 126 is due primarily to outer radial wall 134 of swirler housing 136 incorporating a swirler 144 therein at upstream end 127. In addition, ramp portion 142 of inner radial wall 138 is preferably located within an axial length 145 of swirler housing 144.
It will be seen in FIGS. 3-6 and 10 that swirler arrangement 130 preferably includes at least a first swirler 144 positioned upstream from fuel injection ports 128. As shown, first swirler 144 is preferably oriented substantially radially to centerline axis 120 through mixer assembly 100 and has an axis 148 therethrough. It will be noted that first swirler 144 includes a plurality of vanes 150 extending between first and second portions 137 and 139 of outer radial wall 134. It will be appreciated that vanes 150 are preferably oriented at an angle of approximately 30-70° with respect to axis 148. Vanes 150 will preferably each have a height 151 which is measured across opposite ends (i.e., in the axial direction relative to centerline axis 120 of mixing assembly 100) that is equivalent to axial length 145 of swirler 144. Since vanes 150 are substantially uniformly spaced circumferentially, a plurality of substantially uniform passages 154 are defined between adjacent vanes 150. It will be noted that vanes 150 preferably extend from upstream end 147 of swirler 144 to downstream end 149 thereof. Nevertheless, vanes 150 may extend only part of the way from upstream end 147 to downstream end 149 so that the tips thereof are stepped or lie on a different annulus. It will further be understood that swirler 144 may include vanes having different configurations so as to shape the passages in a desirable manner, as disclosed in a patent application entitled “Swirler Arrangement For Mixer Assembly Of A Gas Turbine Engine Combustor Having Shaped Passages,” which is also filed concurrently herewith by the assignee of the present invention and is hereby incorporated herein.
Swirled air may also be provided at upstream end 127 of annular cavity 126 via a series of passages formed in upstream wall 132 of swirler housing, as shown and described in a patent application entitled, “Mixer Assembly For Combustor Of A Gas Turbine Engine Having A Main Mixer With Improved Fuel Penetration, which is filed concurrently herewith and is owned by the assignee of the present invention. Rather, it is seen from FIGS. 3-7 and 10-11 that a second swirler 146 is preferably provided which is oriented substantially axially to centerline axis 120. Second swirler 146 includes a plurality of vanes 152 extending between inner and outer portions 153 and 155 of upstream wall 132. It will be appreciated that vanes 152 are preferably oriented at an angle of approximately 0-60° with respect to an axis 158 extending therethrough and parallel to centerline axis 120. Vanes 152 will preferably each have a height 160 which is measured across opposite ends (i.e., in the radial direction relative to centerline axis 120 of mixing assembly 100). Since vanes 152 are substantially uniformly spaced circumferentially, a plurality of substantially uniform passages 162 are defined between adjacent vanes 152. It will be noted that vanes 152 preferably extend from inner end 164 of swirler 146 to outer end 166 thereof. Nevertheless, vanes 152 may extend only part of the way from inner end 164 to outer end 166 so that the tips thereof are stepped or lie on a different annulus. It will further be understood that swirler 146 may include vanes having different configurations so as to shape the passages in a desirable manner, as disclosed in a patent application entitled “Swirler Arrangement For Mixer Assembly and is utilized to provide the counter swirling flow in annular cavity 126.
It will be understood that air flowing through first swirler 144 will be swirled in a first direction and air flowing through second swirler 146 will preferably be swirled in a direction opposite the first direction. In this way, an intense mixing region 168 of air and fuel is created within annular cavity 126 having an enhanced total kinetic energy. By properly configuring swirlers 144 and 146, intense mixing region 168 is substantially centered within annular cavity 126, positioned axially adjacent fuel injection ports 128 and has a designated area. The configuration of the vanes in swirlers 144 and 146 may be altered to vary the swirl direction of air flowing therethrough and not be limited to the exemplary swirl directions indicated hereinabove.
It will be seen that height 151 of first swirler vanes 150 is preferably greater than height 160 of second swirler vanes 152. Accordingly, a relatively greater amount of air flows through first swirler 144 than through second swirler 146 due to the greater passage area therefor. The relative heights of swirlers 144 and 146 may be varied as desired to alter the distribution of air therethrough, so the sizes depicted are only illustrative.
Fuel manifold 106, as stated above, is located between pilot mixer 102 and main mixer 104 and is in flow communication with a fuel supply. In particular, outer radial wall 138 of centerbody outer shell 140 forms an outer surface 170 of fuel manifold 106, and a shroud member 172 is configured to provide an inner surface 174 and an aft surface 176. Fuel injection ports 128 are in flow communication with fuel manifold and spaced circumferentially around centerbody outer shell 140. As shown and described in a patent application entitled “Mixer Assembly For Combustor Of A Gas Turbine Engine Having A Main Mixer With Improved Fuel Penetration,” filed concurrently herewith and also owned by the assignee of the present invention, fuel injection ports 128 are preferably positioned axially adjacent ramp portion 142 of centerbody outer shell 140 so that fuel is provided in upstream end 127 of annular cavity 126. In this way, fuel is preferably mixed with the air in intense mixing region 168 before entering downstream end 131 of annular cavity 126. Regardless of the axial location of fuel injection ports 128, it is intended that the fuel be injected at least a specified distance into a middle radial portion of annular cavity 126 and away from the surface of inner wall 138.
It will be appreciated that injection of the fuel into the desired location of annular cavity 126 is a function of providing an air flow therein which accommodates such injected fuel (instead of forcing the fuel against inner radial wall 138), as well as positioning fuel injection ports 128 so as to inject fuel in the manner best suited to the air flow. In addition, at least one row of circumferentially spaced purge holes is provided adjacent to and between each fuel injection port 128 to assist the injected fuel in its intended path. Such purge holes also assist in preventing injected fuel from collecting along inner radial wall 138. More specifically, it will be seen in FIGS. 3, 4, 7 and 11 that a first row of purge holes 179 is located immediately upstream of and between fuel injection ports 128, a second row of purge holes 180 is located immediately downstream of and between fuel injection ports 128, and third and fourth rows of purge holes 181 and 182 are located between adjacent fuel injection ports 128. Depending on the axial location of fuel injection ports 128 and on the particular characteristics of mixing assembly 100, alternative configurations and locations of purge holes may be utilized. Moreover, it will be noted that an additional row of purge holes may be included upstream or downstream of fuel injection ports 128.
In order to further facilitate injection of the fuel from fuel injection ports 128 into annular cavity 126, it is also preferred that a post member 190 having an inner passage 191 be associated with each such fuel injection port 128. It will be seen that post member 190 preferably extends from fuel injection port 128 through an air cavity 192 supplying compressed air to all applicable purge holes discussed hereinabove and through inner wall 138. In this way, fuel not only is injected directly into annular cavity 126, but the fuel is better able to travel into a middle annular portion of annular cavity 126 with the assistance of purge holes 179, 180, 181 and 182.
As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a passage 194 is preferably provided which surrounds post member 190 and is in flow communication with air cavity 192 so that a jet of air envelops the fuel as it is injected into annular cavity 126. Accordingly, the fuel is better able to penetrate into annular cavity 126 a desired amount.
In order to provide a swirl to the air jet provide by passage 194, a swirler member 196 may be provided around post member 190 which extends from fuel injection port 128 to outer surface 170 of fuel manifold 106 (see FIGS. 6-9). More specifically, swirling member 196 includes a substantially planar first ring-shaped portion 198 having an opening 199 which functions to provide a base and seals the area around fuel injection port 128. A second ring-shaped portion 200 extends from first portion 198 and includes a plurality of spaced openings 202 formed in a side wall 204 thereof Accordingly, compressed air from air cavity 192 enters swirler member 196 through openings 202 in a manner which imparts a swirl to the jet exiting passage 194.
An alternative swirler member 210 is shown in FIGS. 10-13. As seen therein, swirler member 210 likewise includes a substantially planar ring-shaped portion 212 having an opening 214 which functions to provide a base and seals the area around fuel injection port 128. A plurality of vanes 216 extend from a top surface 218 of ring-shaped portion 212 to a bottom surface 219 of inner wall 138 of annular cavity 126, where a passage 220 is formed between adjacent vanes 216. Thus, compressed air from air cavity 192 enters swirler member 210 via passages 220 in a manner which imparts swirl to the jet exiting passage 194.
When fuel is provided to main mixer 104, an annular, secondary combustion zone 178 is provided in combustion chamber 62 that is radially outwardly spaced from and concentrically surrounds primary combustion zone 122. Depending upon the size of gas turbine engine 10, as many as twenty or so mixer assemblies 100 can be disposed in a circular array at inlet 64 of combustion chamber 62.
Although particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended to encompass within the appended claims all such changes and modification that fall within the scope of the present invention.
1. A mixer assembly for use in a combustion chamber of a gas turbine engine, comprising:
(a) a pilot mixer including an annular pilot housing having a hollow interior and a pilot fuel nozzle mounted in said housing and adapted for dispensing droplets of fuel to said hollow interior of said pilot housing; (b) a main mixer including:
(1) a main housing surrounding said pilot housing and defining an annular cavity;
(2) a plurality of fuel injection ports for introducing fuel into said annular cavity;
(3) a post member associated with and extending from each said fuel injection port to an inner surface of said annular cavity, said post member including an inner passage therethrough in flow communication with said fuel injection port;
(4) a passage surrounding each said post member, wherein air is provided therefrom to envelop fuel injected into said annular cavity; and,
(5) a swirler arrangement including at least one swirler positioned upstream from said fuel injection ports, wherein each swirler of said arrangement has a plurality of vanes for swirling air traveling through such swirler to mix air and said droplets of fuel dispensed by said fuel injection ports; and,
(c) a fuel manifold positioned between said pilot mixer and said main mixer, wherein said plurality of fuel injection ports for introducing fuel into said main mixer cavity are in flow communication with said fuel manifold.
2. The mixer assembly of claim 1, wherein air flows substantially straight through said passages surrounding said post members into said annular cavity.
3. The mixer assembly of claim 1, wherein air is swirled through said passages surrounding said post members into said annular cavity.
4. The mixer assembly of claim 3, wherein air is swirled through said passages surrounding said post members at an angle of about 20° to about 40° with respect to an axis oriented substantially perpendicular to a centerline axis through said mixer assembly.
5. The mixer assembly of claim 3, wherein air through said passages surrounding said post members is swirled in a direction opposite air swirled by said swirler.
6. The mixer assembly of claim 1, further comprising a swirler member including:
(a) a substantially planar first ring-shaped portion having a central opening therein adjacent said fuel injection port; and, (b) a second ring-shaped portion extending from said first portion and including a plurality of spaced openings formed in a side wall thereof; wherein compressed air enters said spaced openings to impart swirl to air exiting said passage surrounding said post member.
7. The mixer assembly of claim 1, further comprising a swirler member including:
(a) a substantially planar ring-shaped portion having a central opening therein adjacent said fuel injection port; and, (b) a plurality of vanes extending from a top surface of said ring-shaped portion so that a passage is formed between adjacent vanes; wherein compressed air enters said passages to impart swirl to air exiting said passage surrounding said post member.
8. The mixer assembly of claim 1, wherein said passages surrounding said post members are oriented substantially coaxially around said post members.
9. The mixer assembly of claim 1, wherein a ratio of fuel through said fuel injection ports to air through said passages surrounding said post members is about 3 to about 6.
10. The mixer assembly of claim 1, further comprising openings between each said fuel injection port in flow communication with compressed air.
11. The mixer assembly of claim 1, said swirler arrangement further comprising at least one swirler oriented substantially radially to a centerline axis through said mixer assembly.
12. The mixer assembly of claim 1, said swirler arrangement further comprising at least one swirler oriented at an acute angle to a centerline axis through said mixer assembly.
13. The mixer assembly of claim 1, said swirler arrangement further comprising at least one swirler oriented substantially parallel to a centerline axis through said mixer assembly.
14. The mixer assembly of claim 1, wherein fuel droplets from said fuel injection ports are able to penetrate to a designated position within said annular cavity.
15. The mixer assembly of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of purge openings located downstream of said fuel injection ports in flow communication with compressed air.
16. The mixer assembly of claim 15, wherein said purge openings are spaced in an annular fashion around said annular cavity so as to be substantially planar.
17. The mixer assembly of claim 16, wherein said openings are located downstream of said swirler arrangement.
18. The mixer assembly of claim 1, wherein said fuel injection ports are positioned adjacent a ramp portion of said annular cavity located at an upstream end thereof.
19. The mixer assembly of claim 1, wherein compressed air is supplied to said passages surrounding said post members by means of an air cavity located between said fuel manifold and said annular cavity.
20. A mixer assembly for use in a combustion chamber of a gas turbine engine, comprising:
(a) a pilot mixer including an annular pilot housing having a hollow interior and a pilot fuel nozzle mounted in said housing and adapted for dispensing droplets of fuel to said hollow interior of said pilot housing; (b) a main mixer including:
(1) a main housing surrounding said pilot housing and defining an annular cavity;
(2) a plurality of fuel injection ports for introducing fuel into said annular cavity;
(3) a plurality of circumferentially spaced passages located in a downstream portion of said annular cavity, wherein air is provided to force a fuel/air mixture from residing along an inner surface of said annular cavity; and,
(4) a swirler arrangement including at least one swirler positioned upstream from said fuel injection ports, wherein each swirler of said arrangement has a plurality of vanes for swirling air traveling through such swirler to mix air and said droplets of fuel dispensed by said fuel injection portions; and,
(d) a fuel manifold positioned between said pilot mixer and said main mixer, wherein said plurality of fuel injection ports for introducing fuel into said main mixer cavity are in flow communication with said fuel manifold.
| 2005-07-25 | en | 2007-02-08 |
US-201816615049-A | Electric liquid-heating device, and use of same and of a heat conductor
ABSTRACT
An electrical fluid heater, in particular water heater, preferably for a motor vehicle, including at least one fluid accommodating container and at least one heating conductor having a conductive polymer structure, for heating fluid, in particular water, accommodated in the fluid accommodating container.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application represents the national stage entry of PCT International Patent Application No. PCT/EP2018/063499 filed on May 23, 2018 and claims priority to German Patent Application No. DE 10 2017 111 373.8 filed May 24, 2017, German Patent Application No. DE 10 2017 111 378.9 filed May 24, 2017, German Patent Application No. DE 10 2017 115 148.6 filed Jul. 6, 2017, and German Patent Application No. DE 10 2017 121 064.4 filed Sep. 12, 2017. The contents of each of these applications are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein.
Description
The disclosure relates to an electrical fluid heater, in particular water heater, preferably for a motor vehicle.
Electrical water heaters (in particular those used in mobile applications) are usually based on ceramic heating elements having a comparatively highly temperature-dependent electrical resistance, which enables self-regulation of the heat output. These resistors are usually PTC elements (PTC stands for Positive Temperature Coefficient). A PTC element comprises a PTC thermistor, that is to say a temperature-dependent resistor having a positive temperature coefficient, which conducts the electric current better at low temperatures than at high temperatures. Also known are electrical water heaters based on so-called wire heaters, which are generally connected to heat exchanger areas.
In conventional water heaters having ceramic PTC elements, production is comparatively complex on account of complicated heat exchanger manufacture and the incorporation of the ceramic elements. Sorting of the ceramic elements is usually necessary on account of manufacturing tolerances. The power density in the heating element/heat exchanger composite assembly is comparatively unsatisfactory on account of local heat generation. A maximum heating power is limited on account of the thickness of the PTC material (or on account of a limited heat dissipation from the ceramic). A small geometric spacing of components having a high voltage potential entails a risk of short circuit. In the case of the abovementioned wire heaters, in turn, a PTC effect is not present and self-regulation is therefore not possible, which is associated with a corresponding safety problem.
It is therefore an object of the disclosure to propose a fluid heater, in particular water heater, which enables the fluid (water) to be heated effectively. In particular, the intention is to enable a high power density in conjunction with a comparatively small structural space.
This object is achieved in particular by means of an electrical fluid heater, preferably water heater, according to claim 1.
In particular, the object is achieved by means of an electrical fluid heater, in particular water heater, preferably for a vehicle, more preferably motor vehicle (such as car or lorry), comprising at least one fluid accommodating container and at least one heating conductor having a conductive polymer structure, for heating fluid, in particular water, accommodated in the fluid accommodating container.
A central concept of the disclosure is to propose an electrical fluid heater (in particular water heater) in which a fluid accommodating container (water container) is provided and the fluid accommodated there (or the water accommodated there) is heated by means of a conductive polymer structure. The heat absorbed in the fluid container can then be made available to further components (in particular in a motor vehicle) in particular by way of a cooling fluid circuit. Overall, efficient heat generation and efficient (direct) heat transfer can be made possible. Overall, safe and efficient heating is made possible. A structural space occupied can be comparatively compact.
The fluid accommodating container preferably comprises a housing and a (at least one) fluid inlet and a (at least one) fluid outlet. The fluid container can have a (maximum) extent of 8 cm or more—or 12 cm or more—in at least two mutually perpendicular directions. The fluid accommodating container can be (at least substantially) a polyhedron or a cylinder (in particular circular cylinder). An area of an entrance and/or exit opening is preferably significantly smaller (for example by a factor of at least 2 or a factor of at least 3) than a wall area of the fluid accommodating container on which the opening is provided.
In one concrete embodiment, the heating conductor is a heating cable (in particular polymer PTC cable). The heating cable can comprise at least one electrical connection (for example an, in particular inner, pair of electrical, preferably metallic, connection conductors). The polymer structure can be provided in a manner adjoining connection elements (in particular surrounding connection wires). Said polymer structure can be embodied such that it is per se cablelike (pliable). A cross section of the polymer structure can for example correspond to a (rounded) rectangle or be embodied such that it is elliptic, optionally round (circular). In particular, a sheathing can be provided around the polymer structure. The sheathing can comprise for example a first (insulating) polymer component (around the conductive polymer structure). The first insulating polymer component can preferably comprise (modified) fluoropolymer. Around the first insulating polymer component, it is in turn optionally possible to provide a (conductive, in particular metallic) sheathing (for example composed of a copper alloy or composed of, preferably stainless, steel) and/or a second insulating polymer component (optionally as outermost sheathing), comprising a (modified) polymer, in particular (modified) polyolefin and/or a fluoropolymer. The electrical connections can be embodied from copper or a copper alloy (optionally nickel-coated).
In general, the heating conductor is preferably shapeable (not dimensionally stable vis-à-vis external forces, such as e.g. bending forces), in particular bendable.
Preferably, the heating conductor is arranged in a meandering fashion (that is to say has at least one bend, preferably at least three or at least five bends). More preferably, the meandering heating conductor can be positioned by guides in the fluid accommodating container (or a corresponding heat exchanger). Overall, an effective heat transfer can be made possible as a result.
The fluid heater is designed in particular for operation in the high-voltage range, but can also be used for the low-voltage range.
High-voltage range should preferably be understood to mean a range of above 100 volts, more preferably more than 400 volts. A low-voltage range should preferably be understood to mean a range of 100 volts, preferably 60 volts.
Preferably, the heating conductor is arranged (directly) in contact with the fluid accommodated in the fluid accommodating container or (at least partly) within the fluid container. As a result, a good heat transfer to the fluid (in particular on account of the direct contact) can be made possible. Direct heat transfer takes place (or no heat transfer takes place by way of additional heat conduction).
In embodiments, the conductive polymer structure comprises an (optionally insulating) polymer component and a conductive carbon component.
The carbon component can be present in particle form and/or as a carbon backbone.
The carbon component can be present in the form of carbon black and/or graphite and/or graphene and/or carbon fibres and/or carbon nanotubes.
The polymer component can be embodied in the form of an electrically insulating polymer component and/or can comprise a first polymer subcomponent based on ethylene acetate or ethylene acetate copolymer and/or ethylene acrylate or ethylene acrylate copolymer and/or a second polymer subcomponent based on polyolefin, in particular polyethylene and/or polypropylene, and/or polyester and/or polyamide and/or fluoropolymer.
The polymer structure is preferably a PTC thermistor. As a result, self-regulation of the heat output can be made possible, which simplifies the control and in particular increases safety during operation.
The object mentioned above is furthermore achieved by means of the use of a fluid heater, in particular water heater, of the above type for heating fluid, in particular water, preferably for a vehicle, more preferably for a motor vehicle, more preferably for a motor vehicle interior (in particular of a car or lorry).
The object mentioned above is furthermore achieved by means of the use of a heating conductor having a conductive polymer structure for heating fluid, in particular water, accommodated in a fluid accommodating container, preferably in a vehicle, more preferably a motor vehicle, more preferably for a motor vehicle interior (in particular of a car and/or lorry).
The conductive polymer structure can be crosslinked by (ionizing or high-energy) radiation, such as α-, β- or, preferably, electron radiation.
The heating conductor or at least the conductive polymer structure is preferably non-dimensionally stable (but can also be embodied as dimensionally stable). A corresponding arrangement of the heating conductor is correspondingly simplified as a result.
The carbon component can be embodied or arranged such that it allows a current flow, e.g. in particle form (with the particles correspondingly touching one another or being close together) and/or as a carbon backbone.
The polymer structure can comprise an electrically insulating polymer component.
The object mentioned above is furthermore achieved by means of a vehicle comprising a fluid heater, in particular water heater, of the type described above or produced according to the method described above.
Polymer component and carbon component are preferably mixed together or interlaced in one another. By way of example, the polymer component can form a (skeletonlike) backbone in which the carbon component is received, or vice versa.
Preferably, the polymer structure comprises at least 5% by weight, preferably at least 10% by weight, even more preferably at least 15% by weight, even more preferably at least 20% by weight and/or less than 50% of carbon (if appropriate without taking into account a carbon fraction of the polymer as such) or of the carbon component, such as e.g. the carbon particles.
Preferably, the carbon component comprises at least 70% by weight of carbon.
In embodiments, the polymer component can comprise a first polymer subcomponent based on ethylene acetate (copolymer) and/or ethylene acrylate (copolymer) and/or a second polymer subcomponent based on polyolefin, in particular polyethylene and/or polypropylene, and/or polyester and/or polyamide and/or fluoropolymer. The term “subcomponent” is intended to be used here in particular for differentiation between first and second polymer subcomponents. The respective subcomponent can form the polymer component either in part or else in full. The ethylene acrylate can be ethyl methyl acrylate or ethylene ethyl acrylate. The ethylene acetate can be ethylene vinyl acetate. The polyethylene can be HD (High Density) polyethylene, MD (Medium Density) polyethylene, LD (Low Density) polyethylene. The fluoropolymer can be PFA (copolymer composed of tetrafluoroethylene and perfluoropropyl vinyl ester), MFA (copolymer composed of tetrafluoroethylene and perfluorovinyl ester), FEP (copolymer composed of tetrafluoroethylene and hexafluoropropylene), ETFE (copolymer composed of ethylene and tetrafluoroethylene) or PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride).
In embodiments, the first polymer subcomponent can be embodied as described in WO 2014/188190 A1 (as first electrically insulating material). The second polymer subcomponent can likewise be embodied as described in WO 2014/188190 A1 (as second electrically insulating material).
The polymer structure and/or a corresponding substance (e.g. paste) to be shaped for its production can comprise (as, in particular, crystalline binder) at least one polymer, preferably based on at least one olefin; and/or at least one copolymer of at least one olefin and at least one monomer which can be copolymerized therewith, e.g. ethylene/acrylic acid and/or ethylene/ethyl acrylate and/or ethylene/vinyl acetate; and/or at least one polyalkenamer (polyacetylene or polyalkenylene), such as e.g. polyoctenamer; and/or at least one, in particular melt-deformable, fluoropolymer, such as e.g. polyvinylidene fluoride and/or copolymers thereof.
In general, the polymer structure or a substance (paste) used for producing the polymer structure can be embodied as described in DE 689 23 455 T2. This also holds true, in particular, for the production and/or concrete composition thereof. By way of example, this also holds true for possible binders (in particular in accordance with page 4, 2nd paragraph and page 5, 1st paragraph of DE 689 23 455 T2) and/or solvents (in particular in accordance with page 5, 2nd paragraph and page 6, 2nd paragraph of DE 689 23 455 T2).
The polymer structure is preferably a PTC thermistor. As a result, self-regulation of the heat output can be made possible, which simplifies the control and in particular increases safety during operation.
The heating conductor (in particular the heating cable) can preferably be embodied as described in WO 2014/188190 A1.
The term “conductive”, in particular with regard to the polymer structure, should be understood as an abbreviation of “electrically conductive”.
An electrically insulating material should be understood to mean, in particular, a material which has an electrical conductivity of less than 10−1 S·m−1 (optionally less than 10−8 S·m−1) (at room temperature of, in particular, 25° C.). Accordingly, an electrical conductor or a material (or coating) having electrical conductivity should be understood to mean a material having an electrical conductivity of preferably at least 10 S·m−1, more preferably at least 103 S·m−1 (at room temperature of, in particular, 25° C.).
Further embodiments are evident from the dependent claims.
The disclosure is described below on the basis of an exemplary embodiment which is explained in greater detail with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:
FIG. 1 shows a schematic oblique view of a heating conductor according to the disclosure; and
FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of an electrical water heater according to the disclosure.
In the following description, the same reference signs are used for identical and identically acting parts.
FIG. 1 shows a schematic oblique view (with a partly cut-away view showing internal components) of a heating conductor 10 according to the disclosure.
The heating conductor 10 comprises two electrically conductive (metallic) lines 11 a, 11 b. The latter are surrounded by a conductive polymer structure 12 or a corresponding polymer core. The polymer structure 12 in turn is surrounded (optionally) by an inner sheath 13 composed of an insulating material (for example polymer, in particular fluoropolymer). The inner sheath 13 is in turn surrounded by a conductive (metallic) sheathing 14. The sheathing 14 is in turn surrounded (optionally) by an outer sheath 15, which is preferably formed from an insulating material, in particular polymer (preferably comprising polyolefin and/or fluoropolymer).
FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of an electrical fluid heater (water heater) according to the invention disclosure. It is discernible therein that the heating conductor 10 is arranged in a meandering fashion in a fluid accommodating container 16. For this purpose, corresponding guides can be positioned at a heat exchanger area.
It should be pointed out at this juncture that all parts described above, considered by themselves and in any combination, in particular the details illustrated in the drawings, are claimed as essential to the disclosure. Modifications thereof are familiar to the person skilled in the art.
LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS
10 Heating conductor
11 a Line
11 b Line
12 Polymer structure
13 Inner sheath
14 Sheathing
15 Outer sheath
16 Housing
1. Electrical fluid heater comprising at least one fluid accommodating container and at least one heating conductor having a conductive polymer structure, for heating fluid accommodated in the fluid accommodating container.
2. Fluid heater according to claim 1, wherein the heating conductor is a heating cable.
3. Fluid heater according to claim 1, wherein the heating conductor is arranged in a meandering fashion.
4. Fluid heater according to claim 1, wherein the heating conductor is arranged within the fluid accommodating container.
5. Fluid heater according to claim 1, wherein the polymer structure comprises a polymer component and a carbon component,
wherein the carbon component is present in particle form and/or as a carbon backbone and/or wherein the carbon component is present in the form of carbon black and/or graphite and/or graphene and/or carbon fibres and/or carbon nanotubes.
6. Fluid heater according to claim 1, wherein the polymer component is embodied in the form of an electrically insulating polymer component and/or comprises a first polymer subcomponent based on ethylene acetate or ethylene acetate copolymer and/or ethylene acrylate or ethylene acrylate copolymer and/or
a second polymer subcomponent based on polyolefin and/or polyester and/or polyamide and/or fluoropolymer.
7. Fluid heater according to claim 1, wherein the polymer structure is a PTC thermistor.
8. A motor vehicle comprising fluid heater according to claim 1.
9. A motor vehicle comprising a heating conductor having a conductive polymer structure for heating fluid accommodated in a fluid accommodating container, preferably in a motor vehicle.
10. Electrical fluid heater according to claim 1, wherein the fluid is water.
11. Fluid heater according to claim 6, wherein the second polymer subcomponent based on polyolefin is polyethylene and/or polypropylene.
| 2018-05-23 | en | 2021-06-03 |
US-202017121643-A | Method, electronic device, and computer program product for managing storage system
ABSTRACT
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method, an electronic device, and a computer program product for managing a storage system. The method includes: if it is determined that a first storage unit of the storage system is faulty, writing a data block stored in the first storage unit into a hidden file of the storage system, wherein the hidden file is distributed across at least a second storage unit and a third storage unit of the storage system, and the second storage unit and the third storage unit are different from the first storage unit. The embodiments of the present disclosure can better protect data in the storage system and improve the performance of the storage system, and are particularly beneficial to improving the performance of a delay-sensitive workflow.
RELATED APPLICATION
The present application claims the benefit of priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202011189490.6, filed on Oct. 30, 2020, which application is hereby incorporated into the present application by reference herein in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to the field of data storage, and in particular, to a method, an electronic device, and a computer program product for managing a storage system.
BACKGROUND
In a storage system, there are usually one or more storage units to provide data storage capabilities. For example, the storage system may include one or more nodes, and each node may include one or more disks. Storage units may be one or more disks or one or more nodes in the storage system. When a storage unit is faulty, for example, when a disk on a node is faulty, data stored on the faulty disk needs to be reconstructed and the reconstructed data needs to be stored in other storage units in the storage system to ensure that all data in the storage system can be protected.
SUMMARY
The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosed subject matter in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosed subject matter. It is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of the disclosed subject matter nor delineate the scope of the disclosed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the disclosed subject matter in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method, an electronic device, and a computer program product for managing a storage system.
In a first aspect of the present disclosure, a method for managing a storage system is provided. The method includes: if it is determined that a first storage unit of the storage system is faulty, writing a data block stored in the first storage unit into a hidden file of the storage system, wherein the hidden file is distributed across at least a second storage unit and a third storage unit of the storage system, and the second storage unit and the third storage unit are different from the first storage unit.
In a second aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes at least one processing unit and at least one memory. The at least one memory is coupled to the at least one processing unit and stores instructions for execution by the at least one processing unit. The instruction, when executed by the at least one processing unit, causes the electronic device to perform actions including: if it is determined that a first storage unit of the storage system is faulty, writing a data block stored in the first storage unit into a hidden file of the storage system, wherein the hidden file is distributed across at least a second storage unit and a third storage unit of the storage system, and the second storage unit and the third storage unit are different from the first storage unit.
In a third aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program product is provided. The computer program product is tangibly stored in a non-transitory computer storage medium and includes machine-executable instructions. The machine-executable instructions, when executed by a device, cause this device to implement any step of the method described according to the first aspect of the present disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
By description of example embodiments of the present disclosure in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the above and other objectives, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent. In the example embodiments of the present disclosure, the same reference numerals generally represent the same components.
FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an example environment in which embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented;
FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a conventional solution for storing data stored in a faulty storage unit;
FIG. 3 shows a flowchart of an example method for storing data stored in a faulty storage unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of an example method for storing data stored in a faulty storage unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of an address translation of a data block according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of an address translation of a redundant data block according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of storing data stored in a faulty storage unit into other storage units according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of an example method for storing data back to an updated original faulty storage unit according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 9 shows a schematic diagram of an example method for storing data back to an updated original faulty storage unit according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; and
FIG. 10 shows a schematic block diagram of an example device that may be configured to implement embodiments of content of the present disclosure.
The same or corresponding reference numerals in the various drawings represent the same or corresponding portions.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present disclosure can be implemented in various forms and should not be limited by the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be more thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.
As used herein, the term “including” and variations thereof mean open-ended inclusion, that is, “including but not limited to.” Unless specifically stated, the term “or” means “and/or.” The term “based on” means “based at least in part on.” The terms “one example embodiment” and “one embodiment” mean “at least one example embodiment.” The term “another embodiment” means “at least one further embodiment.” The terms “first,” “second,” and the like may refer to different or identical objects. Other explicit and implicit definitions may also be included below.
FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of storage system 100 in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented. Storage system 100 includes one or more storage units for providing a data storage capability. In some embodiments, storage system 100 may include nodes 102-1, 102-2, 102-3, . . . , 102-M (collectively or individually referred to as “node 102”). Each node 102 may include one or more disks. For example, node 102-1 may include disks 111-1, 111-2, . . . , 111-N (collectively or individually referred to as “disk 111”). The storage units may be one or more disks 111 or one or more nodes 102 in storage system 100.
Storage system 100 shown in FIG. 1 has M nodes, and each node has N disks, where M and N may be any natural numbers. For example, M may be 4 and N may be 9, but this is only illustrative and does not limit the present disclosure in any way. It should be understood that the number of nodes may be arbitrary, the number of disks on nodes may be arbitrary, and the number of disks on different nodes may be different.
In some embodiments, disks in storage system 100 are also divided into different disk groups. For example, in FIG. 1, disk 111-2, disk 111-5, and disk 111-8 on node 102-1 and disks with corresponding serial numbers on nodes 102-2, 102-3, . . . , 102-M are divided into a first disk group, and other disks remaining in storage system 100 are divided into other disk groups in a similar manner. It should be understood that the manner of grouping disks may be arbitrary, and the disks in storage system 100 may be divided into different disk groups in different ways.
Storage system 100 may utilize multiple storage technologies to provide data storage capabilities. In some embodiments, examples of disks may include, but are not limited to, a digital versatile disk (DVD), a Blue-ray disc (BD), an optical disk (CD), a floppy disk, a hard disk device, a tape drive, an optical drive, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid storage device (SSD), a redundant array of independent disks (RAID), or other hard disk devices.
Storage system 100 also includes front-end network interface 120 to provide communication between one or more nodes 102 and one or more clients 140. Front-end network interface 120 may use multiple communication protocols. Storage system 100 also includes back-end network interface 130 to provide communication between one or more nodes 102-1, 102-2, 102-3, . . . , 102-M for internal data transmission.
During the use of storage system 100, a storage unit of storage system 100 may be faulty. For example, a disk on node 102 is faulty. When a storage unit is faulty, in order to ensure that all data stored in the storage system can be protected, it is necessary to reconstruct data stored in the faulty storage unit and store the reconstructed data in other storage units in storage system 100.
FIG. 2 shows a conventional solution for reconstructing and storing data in a faulty storage unit. As shown in FIG. 2, storage system 200 has a plurality of nodes 202-1, 202-2, 202-3, . . . , 202-M (collectively or individually referred to as “node 202”). Each node 202 may include one or more disks. For example, node 202-1 may include disks 211-1, 211-2, . . . , 211-N (collectively or individually referred to as “disk 211”). Disks in storage system 200 are also divided into different disk groups. For example, disk 211-2, disk 211-5, and disk 211-8 on node 202-1 in storage system 200 and disks 212-2, 212-5, 212-8, 213-2, 213-5, 213-8, 214-2, 214-5, and 214-8 as shown in FIG. 2 on nodes 202-2, 202-3, . . . , 202-M are divided into a first disk group, and other disks remaining in storage system 200 are divided into other disk groups in a similar manner.
When a storage unit in storage system 200 is faulty, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, when disk 211-2 on node 202-1 is faulty, in a conventional solution, in order to ensure that data stored in faulty disk 211-2 can be protected, storage system 200 reconstructs the data stored in faulty disk 211-2, and stores the reconstructed data on disks that are at the same node 202-1 and in the same disk group as faulty disk 211-2, rather than storing the data in other storage units of storage system 200. The reason for such processing according to the conventional solution is that in storage system 200, technologies such as erasure coding or mirroring are usually used to protect data. Through such protection methods, when disk 211-2 on node 202-1 is faulty, the data on node 202 other than node 202-1 may be used to reconstruct the data of disk 211-2 on node 202-1. Therefore, if the data of faulty disk 211-2 is reconstructed and then stored to a node other than node 202-1, such as node 202-2, once node 202-2 is faulty, the data of two nodes 202 will actually be lost (that is, the data of reconstructed node 202-1 stored on node 202-2 and the original data of node 202-2), which will cause the original erasure coding or mirroring protection to fail to obtain enough data blocks to reconstruct the original data. Therefore, in the conventional solution, the reconstructed data is stored on a disk that is at the same node 202-1 and in the same disk group as faulty disk 211-2, and the data is not stored in other storage units of storage system 200. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the data in faulty disk 211-2 is reconstructed and stored in disk 211-5 and disk 211-8, and the data in faulty disk 211-2 will not be stored in other storage units of storage system 200.
In the conventional solution, when the amount of data stored in faulty disk 211-2 is very large, a very large amount of reconstructed data needs to be stored in disk 211-5 and disk 211-8, that is, a large number of write I/O operations are needed for disk 211-5 and disk 211-8, which will cause disk 211-5 and disk 211-8 to be very busy, will cause delays in workflows on disk 211-5 and disk 211-8, and will affect the performance of the entire storage system 200, especially seriously affect a delay-sensitive workflow. In addition, this conventional solution will also cause a large amount of data to be stored in disk 211-5 and disk 211-8, which will further cause an imbalance in the amount of data stored in each disk in storage system 200, and affect the performance of the entire storage system 200.
The embodiments of the present disclosure provide a solution for managing a storage system to solve one or more of the above problems and other potential problems. In this solution, if it is determined that a first storage unit in storage system 100 is faulty, a data block stored in the first storage unit is written into a hidden file in the storage system. The hidden file can be distributed across a plurality of other storage units different from the faulty first storage unit in the storage system. In this way, the data block stored in the first storage unit is reconstructed and stored in other storage units in storage system 100, thereby ensuring that the data can be protected.
In this way, this solution can avoid an excessively busy situation caused by too many data write I/O operations on a certain storage unit or certain storage units, which is beneficial to the performance of storage system 100, especially to the performance of a delay-sensitive workflow. In addition, this solution can balance the amount of data stored in each disk in storage system 100, thereby further optimizing the performance of the entire storage system.
In addition, this solution can re-store, after the faulty first storage unit is repaired or replaced, the data originally stored in the first storage unit to the repaired or replaced first storage unit.
The embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 3 shows a flowchart of example method 300 for managing storage system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 300 may be, for example, executed by storage system 100 as shown in FIG. 1. It should be understood that method 300 may further include an additional action that is not shown and/or may omit an action that is shown. The scope of the present disclosure is not limited in this regard. Method 300 is described in detail below with reference to FIG. 1.
As shown in FIG. 3, at 310, if it is determined that a first storage unit in storage system 100 is faulty, it means that a data block stored in the first storage unit needs to be stored for data protection.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the method further includes: reconstructing the data block stored in the first storage unit. For example, erasure code or mirror images in storage system 100 may be utilized to reconstruct the data block.
At 320, the data block stored in the first storage unit is written into a hidden file of storage system 100. The hidden file is a special type of files invisible to users in storage system 100. The hidden file can be distributed across a plurality of other storage units different from the faulty first storage unit in storage system 100. The hidden file in the storage system has many functions. For example, there may be a large amount of duplicate data in some files in the storage system. In order to avoid a large amount of duplicate data being repeatedly stored multiple times, the data may be stored in the hidden file once to avoid repeated occupations of a storage space. In addition, some files that are too small may also be combined together and stored in the hidden file.
In some embodiments, if there is no hidden file in storage system 100, a hidden file needs to be created and initialized.
In some embodiments, since the hidden file can be distributed across a plurality of other storage units different from the faulty first storage unit in storage system 100, the data block stored in the hidden file may be located in a plurality of storage units other than the faulty first storage unit in storage system 100. Therefore, storage system 100 may also automatically allocate the storage of each data block in the hidden file in storage system 100. In this way, the allocation of storage resources in storage system 100 can be better balanced, and the performance of storage system 100 can be further improved.
FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of reconstructing and storing data stored in a faulty first storage unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. To facilitate discussion, FIG. 4 is described in conjunction with process 300 in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 4, storage system 100 may include a plurality of nodes 102, and each node 102 may include a plurality of disks. Storage system 100 also has hidden file 410 and mapping table 420. Although FIG. 4 shows one hidden file 410 and one mapping table 420, but this is only illustrative and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that storage system 100 may have a plurality of hidden files 410 and a plurality of mapping tables 420.
In some embodiments, when a certain storage unit in storage system 100 is faulty, for example, disk 111-2 (also referred to as the first storage unit for ease of discussion) on node 102-1 is faulty, the data block stored in disk 111-2 needs to be reconstructed and the reconstructed data block needs to be stored in hidden file 410. In some embodiments, storage system 100 may include a plurality of hidden files 410. The plurality of hidden files 410 may be used to store the above-mentioned reconstructed data block of the faulty first storage unit. In some embodiments, the reconstruction of the data block is performed using erasure code or mirror images stored in storage system 100. It should be understood that other modes may also be used to reconstruct the data block. In some embodiments, a first physical address of the data block stored in hidden file 410 in storage system 100 may be located at a certain physical address on a disk other than faulty disk 111-2 in storage system 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the first physical address of the data block may be a certain physical address on disk 111-1 on node 102-1, or a certain physical address on disk 412-3 on node 102-2, or a certain physical address on disk 413-6 on node 102-3, or a certain physical address on disk 414-5 on node 102-M. Although FIG. 4 shows that the data block in hidden file 410 may be stored on, for example, disk 111-1, disk 412-3, disk 413-6, and disk 414-5, but this is only illustrative. It should be understood that the data block in hidden file 410 may be stored on any disk in storage system 100 other than faulty disk 111-2.
In some embodiments, when the data block is stored in hidden file 410, an index information item corresponding to the data block is also created for hidden file 410. The index information item indicates the first physical address of the data block written into hidden file 410.
In some embodiments, after the data block is stored in hidden file 410, an original physical address of the data block at a storage position of original faulty disk 111-2 (for ease of discussion, also referred to as a second physical address) is replaced with the index information item corresponding to the data block in hidden file 410. It will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.
In addition, FIG. 4 also shows mapping table 420 in storage system 100. After the data block is written into hidden file 410, mapping table 420 stores the index information items saved in hidden file 410 and an identifier of the faulty first storage unit in an associative manner. For example, the index information item saved in hidden file 410 and the identifier of faulty disk 111-2 are stored in an associative manner in the mapping table. The identifier of faulty disk 111-2 may be, for example, identification number 1 of node 102-1 in storage system 100 and serial number 2 of disk 111-2 on node 102-1.
FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of an address translation of a data block according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5, block 501 shows physical addresses of certain data blocks recorded in storage system 100 before disk 111-2 is faulty, and each row of information represents physical address information of a data block. For example, the first row 1,2,439312384:8192#16 in block 501 represents a second physical address of the data block, where the number “1” before the first “,” represents node 102-1 of the data block located in storage system 100, the number “2” between the two “,” represents that the data block is located on disk 111-2 on node 102-1, and the following number string represents specific physical address offset information of the data block on disk 111-2 on node 102-1. When disk 111-2 on node 102-1 is faulty, the data block corresponding to the first row in block 501 needs to be stored in hidden file 410.
After the data block has been stored in hidden file 410, the corresponding second physical address in storage system 100 also changes. As shown in FIG. 5, block 502 shows an updated physical address stored in storage system 100 after the data block in faulty disk 111-2 has been stored in hidden file 410. As shown in FIG. 5, the first line of information in block 501 becomes the first line in block 502, that is, the second physical address of the data block becomes the first line of information in block 502. The first line of information in block 502 indicates the corresponding index information item, in hidden file 410, of the data block corresponding to the first line in block 501. Information before “@” indicates identification information of hidden file 410 to which the data block is written, and information after “@” indicates offset position information of the data block in hidden file 410 corresponding to the identifier. A more detailed description will be made below in conjunction with FIG. 7.
FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of an address translation of a redundant data block according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, in order to better protect data, storage system 100 also provides redundancy protection for the data stored in each storage unit in storage system 100. Redundancy protection may adopt different redundancy protection modes, including but not limited to parity protection or mirroring protection. In the process of reconstructing and storing the data block stored in the faulty first storage unit, a redundant data block stored in the faulty first storage unit is also reconstructed and stored in hidden file 410. For example, similar to FIG. 5, blocks 601 and 602 in FIG. 6 respectively show the translation of physical address information of certain redundant data blocks in storage system 100. The fifth row of block 601 and the fifth row of block 602 respectively show a second physical address of a redundant data block on disk 111-2 of node 102-1 before the fault occurs, and index information item corresponding to the redundant data block after being stored in hidden file 410.
In some embodiments, storage system 100 also provides redundancy protection for the data block stored in hidden file 410. For example, this may be achieved by adopting its own corresponding erasure code or mirror images. That is to say, the data block and the redundant data block stored in hidden file 410 are redundantly protected, which provides secondary redundancy protection for the data in the faulty first storage unit. In this way, the data can be protected with a protection level not lower than the original protection level of the stored faulty data block. Even if some data blocks stored in storage system 100 are accidentally damaged, storage system 100 can recover the data blocks through redundant blocks.
FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of storing a data block stored in a faulty first storage unit to hidden file 410 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
As shown in FIG. 7, block 701 shows second physical addresses of a plurality of data blocks stored in faulty disk 111-2 in disk 111-2. In some embodiments, storage system 100 may include a plurality of hidden files 410-1, 410-2, . . . , 410-P (collectively or individually referred to as “hidden file 410”). P may be any natural number. For example, P may be 16, but this is only illustrative and does not limit the present disclosure in any way. After disk 111-2 is faulty, a plurality of data blocks stored in 111-2 are stored in a certain hidden file 410. For example, a data block corresponding to the first row in block 701 is saved in hidden file 410-1, a data block corresponding to the third row in block 701 is saved in hidden file 410-2, and so on, a data block corresponding to the second last row in block 701 is saved in hidden file 410-P. Different hidden files 410 have identification information as shown in the text in hidden file 410 in the figure. It should be understood that each hidden file 410 may store a plurality of data blocks. The identification information of hidden file 410 shown in hidden file 410 combined with the offset position information of the data block in hidden file 410 may jointly form the index information item of the data block stored in hidden file 410 as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.
Block 703 shows the information of address positions of the plurality of data blocks stored in hidden file 410-2 in storage system 100. It can be seen from block 703 that these data blocks are stored on a plurality of disks in storage system 100 other than faulty disk 111-2, such as a disk with a serial number of 4 on node 102-4 indicated by the first row.
Block 704 shows other attribute information stored in hidden file 410. Lower block 714 stores the identification information of faulty disk 111-2. For example, node number 1 shown in the figure may identify node 102-1, and disk number 2 may identify disk 111-2 on node 102-1.
FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of an example method for storing data back to an updated original faulty storage unit according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
At 810, it is determined that a data block of a faulty first storage unit has been written into hidden file 410. If the data block has been written into hidden file 410, the data block has been protected by storage system 100. Then, the first storage unit may be updated.
In some embodiments, when the faulty first storage unit is updated, for example, the faulty first storage unit is repaired or the faulty first storage unit is replaced with a new first storage unit, the data block stored in the original first storage unit in hidden file 410 may be stored back to the updated first storage unit.
Returning to FIG. 8, at 820, it is determined that the faulty first storage unit has been updated. If the first storage unit has been updated, at 830, mapping table 420 in storage system 100 is searched for an identifier of the faulty first storage unit.
At 840, for the identifier of the faulty first storage unit, which is found in mapping table 420, an index information item associated with the identifier is acquired, a data block is acquired at a first physical address indicated by the index information item, and the data block is stored back to the updated original faulty storage unit.
FIG. 9 shows a schematic diagram of an example method for storing data back to an updated original first storage unit according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. To facilitate discussion, FIG. 9 is described in conjunction with process 800 in FIG. 8.
As shown in FIG. 9, disk 111-2 on node 102-1 has been updated.
In conjunction with FIG. 4, a data block in original faulty disk 111-2 is stored in hidden file 410, and a first physical address of the data block stored in hidden file 410 in storage system 100 may be a certain physical address on a disk other than faulty disk 111-2 in storage system 100, for example, as shown in FIG. 4, a certain physical address on disk 111-2 on node 102-1, or a certain physical address on disk 412-3 on node 102-2, or a certain physical address on disk 413-6 on node 102-3, or a certain physical address on disk 414-5 on node 102-M.
Returning to FIG. 9, mapping table 420 is searched for an identifier of disk 111-2 on node 102-1, an index information item associated with the identifier is acquired, and the index information item indicates, for example, as shown in FIG. 4, a certain physical address on disk 111-2 on node 102-1, or a certain physical address on disk 412-3 on node 102-2, or a certain physical address on disk 413-6 on node 102-3, or a certain physical address on disk 414-5 on node 102-M.
A data block is acquired at the first physical address indicated by the index information item, and the data block is stored back to updated disk 111-2, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 9.
In this way, the data block stored in hidden file 410 may be stored back into the updated first storage unit, which avoids re-allocating and calculating storage resources by storage system 100, saves the calculation work of storage system 100, and is beneficial to the performance of storage system 100.
In some embodiments, if the faulty first storage unit has not been updated for a long time, during this period of time, a user may have made a large number of modifications to the data stored in storage system 100, and many pieces of data stored in the original first storage unit in hidden file 410 may have been deleted by the user. In this case, if the first storage unit is updated, the remaining data blocks stored in hidden file 410 will still be stored back into the updated first storage unit. In this case, since the data blocks stored back to the updated first storage unit are reduced a lot, the storage space allocation of each storage unit in storage system 100 may be unbalanced. Therefore, in some embodiments, storage system 100 also needs to perform additional automatic balancing calculations to balance the allocation of storage resources in storage system 100. In this way, the storage resource allocation of storage system 100 can be better balanced.
In some embodiments, during the process of storing the data blocks stored in hidden file 410 back into the updated first storage unit, a large number of data blocks need to be written into the first storage unit. In order to prevent the first storage unit from being too busy due to the overly large amount of data being written, which affects normal read and write I/O operations, it is necessary to set the first storage unit to a temporary pause state and stop other read and write I/O operations until the process of storing the data blocks back to the first storage unit ends, and after that, the first storage unit will be restored to normal use. In this way, it can be ensured that data in storage system 100 is better protected.
FIG. 10 shows a schematic block diagram of example device 1000 that may be configured to implement embodiments of content of the present disclosure. For example, storage system 100 as shown in FIG. 1 may be implemented by device 1000. As shown in FIG. 10, device 1000 includes central processing unit (CPU) 1001 that may perform various appropriate actions and processing according to computer program instructions stored in read-only memory (ROM) 1002 or computer program instructions loaded from storage unit 1008 into random access memory (RAM) 1003. In RAM 1003, various programs and data required for the operation of storage device 1000 may also be stored. CPU 1001, ROM 1002, and RAM 1003 are connected to each other via bus 1004. Input/output (I/O) interface 1005 is also connected to bus 1004.
Multiple components in device 1000 are connected to I/O interface 1005, including: input unit 1006, such as a keyboard and a mouse; output unit 1007, such as various types of displays and speakers; storage unit 1008, such as a disk and an optical disc; and communication unit 1009, such as a network card, a modem, and a wireless communication transceiver. Communication unit 1009 allows device 1000 to exchange information/data with other devices over a computer network such as the Internet and/or various telecommunication networks.
The various processes and processing described above, such as methods 300 and/or 800, may be performed by processing unit 1001. For example, in some embodiments, methods 300 and/or 800 may be implemented as a computer software program that is tangibly included in a machine-readable medium, such as storage unit 1008. In some embodiments, some or all of the computer program may be loaded and/or installed onto device 1000 via ROM 1002 and/or communication unit 1009. One or more actions of methods 300 and/or 800 described above may be performed when the computer program is loaded into RAM 1003 and executed by CPU 1001.
The present disclosure may be a method, a device, a system, and/or a computer program product. The computer program product may include a computer-readable storage medium, on which computer-readable program instructions used for executing various aspects of the present disclosure are loaded.
The computer-readable storage medium may be a tangible device that may retain and store instructions for use by an instruction-executing device. For example, the computer-readable storage medium may be, but is not limited to, an electrical storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, or any suitable combination of the above. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer-readable storage medium include: a portable computer disk, a hard disk drive, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), a portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a memory stick, a floppy disk, a mechanical encoding device such as a punch card or a raised structure in a groove having instructions stored thereon, and any suitable combination thereof. Computer-readable storage media used herein are not to be interpreted as transient signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through waveguides or other transmission media (for example, light pulses through fiber optic cables), or electrical signal transmitted via electrical wires.
The computer-readable program instructions described herein may be downloaded from a computer-readable storage medium to various computing/processing devices, or downloaded to an external computer or external storage device via a network, such as the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network, and/or a wireless network. The network may include copper transmission cables, fiber optic transmission, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers, and/or edge servers. The network adapter card or network interface in each computing/processing device receives computer-readable program instructions from the network and forwards the computer-readable program instructions for storage in a computer-readable storage medium in each computing/processing device.
Computer program instructions for performing the operations of the present disclosure may be assembly instructions, instruction set architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine-related instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, state setting data, or source or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, wherein the programming languages include object-oriented programming languages, such as Smalltalk and C++, and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” language or similar programming languages. Computer-readable program instructions may be executed entirely on a user's computer, partly on a user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on a user's computer and partly on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or a server. In the case involving a remote computer, the remote computer may be connected to a user's computer through any kind of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or it may be connected to an external computer (for example, connected through an Internet using an Internet service provider). In some embodiments, an electronic circuit, for example, a programmable logic circuit, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or a programmable logic array (PLA), is personalized by utilizing the state information of the computer-readable program instructions, wherein the electronic circuit may execute computer-readable program instructions so as to implement various aspects of the present disclosure.
Various aspects of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to flowcharts and/or block diagrams of the method, the device (system), and the computer program product according to embodiments of the present disclosure. It should be understood that each block in the flowcharts and/or block diagrams as well as a combination of blocks in the flowcharts and/or block diagrams may be implemented by using the computer-readable program instructions.
These computer-readable program instructions may be provided to a processing unit of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or a further programmable data processing apparatus, thereby producing a machine, such that these instructions, when executed by the processing unit of the computer or the further programmable data processing apparatus, produce means for implementing the functions/actions specified in one or more blocks in the flowcharts and/or block diagrams. These computer-readable program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and these instructions cause a computer, a programmable data processing apparatus, and/or other devices to work in a specific manner; and thus the computer-readable medium having stored instructions includes an article of manufacture including instructions that implement various aspects of the functions/actions specified in one or more blocks in the flowcharts and/or block diagrams.
The computer-readable program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, a further programmable data processing apparatus, or a further device, so that a series of operating steps may be performed on the computer, the further programmable data processing apparatus, or the further device to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions executed on the computer, the further programmable data processing apparatus, or the further device may implement the functions/actions specified in one or more blocks in the flowcharts and/or block diagrams.
The flowcharts and block diagrams in the drawings illustrate the architectures, functions, and operations of possible implementations of the systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowcharts or block diagrams may represent a module, a program segment, or part of an instruction, the module, the program segment, or the part of an instruction including one or more executable instructions for implementing specified logical functions. In some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the blocks may also occur in an order different from that marked in the accompanying drawings. For example, two successive blocks may actually be executed in parallel substantially, or they may be executed in an opposite order sometimes, depending on the functions involved. It should be further noted that each block in the block diagrams and/or flowcharts as well as a combination of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowcharts may be implemented by using a special hardware-based system for executing specified functions or actions or by a combination of special hardware and computer instructions.
The embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above. The above description is illustrative, rather than exhaustive, and is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Numerous modifications and alterations are apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of illustrated various embodiments. The selection of terms used herein is intended to best explain the principles and practical applications of the embodiments or the improvements to technologies on the market, or to enable other persons of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.
What is claimed is:
1. A method, comprising:
in response to determining that a first storage unit of a storage system is faulty, writing, by a system comprising a processor, a data block stored in the first storage unit into a hidden file of the storage system, wherein the hidden file is distributed across at least a second storage unit and a third storage unit of the storage system, and the second storage unit and the third storage unit are different from the first storage unit.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein writing the data block into the hidden file comprises:
creating the hidden file in the storage system; and creating an index information item corresponding to the data block for the hidden file, the index information item indicating a first physical address of the data block written into the hidden file in the storage system.
3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising:
storing the index information item and an identifier of the first storage unit in an associative manner in a mapping table in the storage system.
4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising:
in response to determining that the data block has been written into the hidden file, searching the mapping table for the identifier of the first storage unit in response to update of the first storage unit; and writing, based on the index information item associated with the identifier in the mapping table, the data block at the first physical address indicated by the index information item into the updated first storage unit.
5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the update of the first storage unit comprises at least one of:
repair of the first storage unit; or replacement of the first storage unit.
6. The method according to claim 1, wherein writing the data block stored in the first storage unit into the hidden file comprises:
reconstructing the data block stored in the first storage unit, resulting in a reconstructed data block; and writing the reconstructed data block into the hidden file.
7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising at least one of:
writing a redundant data block of the data block into the hidden file; or storing the identifier of the first storage unit in the hidden file.
8. The method according to claim 2, further comprising:
after the data block is written into the hidden file, replacing a second physical address of the data block recorded in the storage system in the first storage unit with the index information item corresponding to the data block.
9. A device, comprising:
at least one processor; and at least one memory storing computer program instructions, the at least one memory and the computer program instructions being configured to cause, together with the at least one processor, the electronic device to perform operations, comprising: based on determining that a first storage unit of a storage system is faulty, writing a data block stored in the first storage unit into a hidden file of the storage system, wherein the hidden file is distributed across at least a second storage unit and a third storage unit of the storage system, and the second storage unit and the third storage unit are different from the first storage unit.
10. The device according to claim 9, wherein writing the data block into the hidden file comprises:
creating the hidden file in the storage system; and creating an index information item corresponding to the data block for the hidden file, the index information item indicating a first physical address of the data block written into the hidden file in the storage system.
11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the operations further comprise:
storing the index information item and an identifier of the first storage unit in an associative manner in a mapping table in the storage system.
12. The device according to claim 11, wherein the operations further comprise:
based on determining that the data block has been written into the hidden file, searching the mapping table for the identifier of the first storage unit in response to update of the first storage unit; and writing, based on the index information item associated with the identifier in the mapping table, the data block at the first physical address indicated by the index information item into the updated first storage unit.
13. The device according to claim 12, wherein the update of the first storage unit comprises at least one of:
repair of the first storage unit; or replacement of the first storage unit.
14. The device according to claim 9, wherein writing the data block stored in the first storage unit into the hidden file comprises:
reconstructing the data block stored in the first storage unit, resulting in a reconstructed data block; and writing the reconstructed data block into the hidden file.
15. The device according to claim 9, wherein the operations further comprise at least one of:
writing a redundant data block of the data block into the hidden file; or storing the identifier of the first storage unit in the hidden file.
16. The device according to claim 10, wherein the operations further comprise:
after the data block is written into the hidden file, replacing a second physical address of the data block recorded in the storage system in the first storage unit with the index information item corresponding to the data block.
17. A non-transitory computer program product stored in a non-volatile computer-readable medium and comprising machine-executable instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to execute operations, comprising
in response to determining that a first storage unit of a storage system is faulty, writing, by a system comprising a processor, a data block stored in the first storage unit into a hidden file of the storage system, wherein the hidden file is distributed across at least a second storage unit and a third storage unit of the storage system, and the second storage unit and the third storage unit are different from the first storage unit.
18. The non-transitory computer program product according to claim 17, wherein writing the data block into the hidden file comprises:
creating the hidden file in the storage system; and creating an index information item corresponding to the data block for the hidden file, the index information item indicating a first physical address of the data block written into the hidden file in the storage system.
19. The non-transitory computer program product according to claim 17, wherein writing the data block stored in the first storage unit into the hidden file comprises:
reconstructing the data block stored in the first storage unit, resulting in a reconstructed data block; and writing the reconstructed data block into the hidden file.
20. The non-transitory computer program product according to claim 17, wherein the operations further comprise at least one of:
writing a redundant data block of the data block into the hidden file; or storing the identifier of the first storage unit in the hidden file.
| 2020-12-14 | en | 2022-05-05 |
US-34334008-A | Database staging area read-through or forced flush with dirty notification
ABSTRACT
Embodiments of the present invention allow the results of a query to an operational datastore to be augmented with relevant data that may be stored in a staging area datastore. Upon receiving a query to the operational datastore, it is determined whether data relevant to the query is present in the staging area datastore. If relevant data is present, such data may be transformed, transferred and combined with data in the operational datastore. The query is then run against the combined data and the results displayed to the user.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/290,893, filed Nov. 30, 2005, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to data processing and more specifically to managing datastores.
2. Description of the Related Art
A management information system may contain one or more datastores to retain data related to various business functions. Such data may be critical to decision making, planning, program implementation, control etc. Furthermore, the ability to process, store and retrieve critical data quickly and efficiently may provide a business a competitive advantage in its market. For example, critical data may indicate shifting consumer expectations. By adjusting to such trends in the market, as indicated by previously collected and processed data, a business may become more profitable. In some instances the data collected may be critical not just to the future of the business itself but also to the safety of a current customer. For example, a hospital may maintain data related to a patient's medical records. The patient's current treatment may depend on past medical history to determine the safest solutions.
The use of an information system requires accesses to a datastore containing critical information to store or retrieve such information. However, a large number of accesses to the datastore may lead to serious degradations in performance of the information system. For example, large organizations may have hundreds of salesmen accessing the datastore to retrieve product and pricing information or to store information about recently made sales. Such large numbers of accesses to the datastore at the same time may severely strain the datastore which may have a limited bandwidth. As a result, data store accesses may become extremely slow and inefficient.
One solution to this problem is to maintain two datastores: a staging area datastore and an operational datastore. The staging area datastore may have information that has not yet been inserted into the operational datastore. For example, the staging area datastore of a hospital may contain data relating to the current clinical episode for a patient. A clinical episode may contain information relating to a particular visit to the hospital. The information relating to a current clinical episode, for example, may not be inserted in the operational datastore until that clinical episode is over. Because the data contained in the staging area may have a different format, such data may be normalized, annotated and checked for errors before insertion into the operational datastore. Insertions may be performed in batches during off peak hours when system time is available. This allows systems to be better utilized. As a result, users of the operational datastore have quicker response times and the system has a more consistent work load.
However, this solution may cause problems for users when the operational datastore is queried for recent information. Such recent information may not have been inserted in the operational datastore. Consequently, the result sets returned for queries against the operational data store may contain incomplete or even in accurate data. One solution for this problem is to write an application that reads from both the operational datastore and the staging area. However, because the data contained in the operational data store and the staging datastore may be in different formats, two applications will have to be written to represent the same type of data. Additionally, as previously described, the data in the staging area may not be normalized, annotated etc., in the same way as data in the operational data store, thereby limiting the way in which it can be searched.
Therefore, what is needed is improved methods and systems to provide meaningful results of a query against a first datastore by including relevant information contained in the second datastore.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention generally provide systems and computer readable storage media for augmenting the results of a query to an operational datastore with relevant data that may be stored in a staging area datastore.
Another embodiment of the invention provides a system for managing data in an operational datastore and a staging area datastore. The system generally includes a staging datastore and an operational datastore. The staging datastore is configured to receive new data, store the new data in a first data structure in the staging datastore, wherein one or more fields of the first data structure have a predefined relationship with one or more fields of a second data structure in the operational datastore, receive a first query configured to query and retrieve data from the first data structure, the first query comprising at least one field in the first data structure on which the relationship between the data structures is defined. The staging datastore is further configured to periodically migrate data from the first data structure to the second data structure according to the predefined relationship, wherein the migrating occurs in response to a predefined condition being met, transform non-migrated data into a format consistent with the format of the second data structure, and execute a second query to insert the transformed non-migrated data into a data set in the operational datastore containing the second data structure. The operational datastore is configured to receive a user defined query configured to query and return data from the operational datastore, in response to receiving the user defined query, execute the first query to retrieve, from the first data structure, any non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query, and execute the user defined query against a data set including the second data structure and the transformed data.
Yet another embodiment of the invention provides a computer readable storage medium containing a program product, which, when executed performs operations for managing data in an operational datastore and a staging area datastore. The operations generally include configuring the staging datastore comprising defining a relationship between one or more fields of a first data structure in the staging datastore and one or more fields of a second data structure in the operational datastore, wherein the first data structure is a data source for the second data structure in the operational datastore, and defining a first query comprising at least one field in the first data structure on which the relationship between the data structures is defined, the first query being configured to query and retrieve data from the first data structure. The method further includes periodically migrating data from the first data structure to the second data structure according to the defined relationship, wherein the migrating occurs in response to a predefined condition being met. In response to receiving a user defined query configured to query to retrieve, from the first data structure, any non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query. In the event any non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query are returned, the returned non-migrated data is transformed into a format consistent with the format of the second data structure. The user defined query is then executed against a data set including the second data structure and the transformed data, and results are returned for the executed user defined query.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
So that the manner in which the above recited features, advantages and objects of the present invention are attained and can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to the embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings.
It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.
FIG. 1 is a computer system illustratively utilized in accordance with this invention.
FIG. 2 is a relational view of the components of the invention according to one embodiment.
FIGS. 3A and 3B are flow diagrams for exemplary operations in the notified and always check modes, according to one embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary operational datastore, staging datastore and their contents.
FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate the contents of tables contained in an exemplary operational datastore and staging area datastore.
FIG. 6 is a flow diagram for exemplary operations performed to temporarily transfer data from the staging area according to one embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 7 is a flow diagram for exemplary operations performed to permanently transfer data from the staging area according to one embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Embodiments of the present invention allow the results of a query to an operational datastore to be augmented with relevant data that may be stored in a staging area datastore. Upon receiving a query to the operational datastore, it is determined whether data relevant to the query is present in the staging area datastore. If relevant data is present, such data may be transformed, transferred and combined with data in the operational datastore. The query is then run against the combined data and the results displayed to the user.
In the following, reference is made to embodiments of the invention. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to specific described embodiments. Instead, any combination of the following features and elements, whether related to different embodiments or not, is contemplated to implement and practice the invention. Furthermore, in various embodiments the invention provides numerous advantages over the prior art. However, although embodiments of the invention may achieve advantages over other possible solutions and/or over the prior art, whether or not a particular advantage is achieved by a given embodiment is not limiting of the invention. Thus, the following aspects, features, embodiments and advantages are merely illustrative and not considered elements or limitations of the appended claims except where explicitly recited in the claim(s). Likewise, reference to “the invention” shall not be construed as a generalization of any inventive subject matter disclosed herein and shall not be considered to be an element or limitation of the appended claims except where explicitly recited in a claim(s).
One embodiment of the invention is implemented as a program product for use with a computer system such as, for example, computer system 100 shown in FIG. 1 and described below. The program(s) of the program product defines functions of the embodiments (including the methods described herein) and can be contained on a variety of computer-readable storage media. Illustrative computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to: (i) information permanently stored on non-writable storage media (e.g., read-only memory devices within a computer such as CD-ROM disks readable by a CD-ROM drive); (ii) alterable information stored on writable storage media (e.g., floppy disks within a diskette drive or hard-disk drive); or (iii) information conveyed to a computer by a communications medium, such as through a computer or telephone network, including wireless communications. The latter embodiment specifically includes information to/from the Internet and other networks. Such computer-readable media, when carrying computer-readable instructions that direct the functions of the present invention, represent embodiments of the present invention.
In general, the routines executed to implement the embodiments of the invention, may be part of an operating system or a specific application, component, program, module, object, or sequence of instructions. The computer program of the present invention typically is comprised of a multitude of instructions that will be translated by the native computer into a machine-readable format and hence executable instructions. Also, programs are comprised of variables and data structures that either reside locally to the program or are found in memory or on storage devices. In addition, various programs described hereinafter may be identified based upon the application for which they are implemented in a specific embodiment of the invention. However, it should be appreciated that any particular program nomenclature that follows is used merely for convenience, and thus the invention should not be limited to use solely in any specific application identified and/or implied by such nomenclature.
Physical View of Environment
FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of a networked system 100 in which embodiments of the present invention may be implemented. In general, the networked system 100 includes a client (e.g., user's) computer 102 (three such client computers 102 are shown), at least one operational datastore 104, and at least one staging area data store 106. The client computer 102, operational datastore 104, and staging area datastore 106 are connected via a network 126. In general, the network 126 may be a local area network (LAN) and/or a wide area network (WAN). In a particular embodiment, the network 126 is the Internet.
The client computer 102 includes a Central Processing Unit (CPU) 110 connected via a bus 130 to a memory 112, storage 114, an input device 116, an output device 119, and a network interface device 118. The input device 116 can be any device to give input to the client computer 102. For example, a keyboard, keypad, light-pen, touch-screen, track-ball, or speech recognition unit, audio/video player, and the like could be used. The output device 119 can be any device to give output to the user, e.g., any conventional display screen. Although shown separately from the input device 116, the output device 119 and input device 116 could be combined. For example, a display screen with an integrated touch-screen, a display with an integrated keyboard, or a speech recognition unit combined with a text speech converter could be used.
The network interface device 118 may be any entry/exit device configured to allow network communications between the client computer 102, operational datastore 104, and staging area datastore via the network 126. For example, the network interface device 118 may be a network adapter or other network interface card (NIC).
Storage 114 is preferably a Direct Access Storage Device (DASD). Although it is shown as a single unit, it could be a combination of fixed and/or removable storage devices, such as fixed disc drives, floppy disc drives, tape drives, removable memory cards, or optical storage. The memory 112 and storage 114 could be part of one virtual address space spanning multiple primary and secondary storage devices.
The memory 112 is preferably a random access memory sufficiently large to hold the necessary programming and data structures of the invention. While the memory 112 is shown as a single entity, it should be understood that the memory 112 may in fact comprise a plurality of modules, and that the memory 112 may exist at multiple levels, from high speed registers and caches to lower speed but larger DRAM chips.
Illustratively, the memory 112 contains an operating system 124. Illustrative operating systems, which may be used to advantage, include Linux and Microsoft's Windows®. More generally, any operating system supporting the functions disclosed herein may be used.
The memory 112 is also shown containing a browser program 122 that, when executed by CPU 110, provides support for querying the operational datastore 104. The memory 112 may also contain a transaction program 126 that, when executed by the CPU 110, provides support for storing data in the staging area datastore 106. In one embodiment, the browser program 122 and the transaction program 124 include a web-based Graphical User Interface (GUI), which allows the user to display Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML) information. More generally, however, the browser program 122 and transaction program 126 may be GUI-based programs capable of rendering the information transferred between the client computer 102 and the datastores 104 and 106.
The operational datastore 104 may by physically arranged in a manner similar to the client computer 102. Accordingly, the operational datastore 104 is shown generally comprising a CPU 130, a memory 132, and a storage device 134, coupled to one another by a bus 136. Memory 132 may be a random access memory sufficiently large to hold the necessary programming and data structures that are located on the operational datastore 104.
The operational datastore 104 is generally under the control of an operating system 138 shown residing in memory 132. Examples of the operating system 138 include IBM OS/400®, UNIX, Microsoft Windows®, and the like. More generally, any operating system capable of supporting the functions described herein may be used.
The memory 132 further includes one or more applications 140. Applications 140 may include a query interface 146 and an update program 147. The applications 140 are software products comprising a plurality of instructions that are resident at various times in various memory and storage devices in the computer system 100. When read and executed by one or more processors 130 in the operational datastore 104, the applications 140 cause the computer system 100 to perform the steps necessary to execute steps or elements embodying the various aspects of the invention. The query interface 146 (and more generally, any requesting entity, including the operating system 138) is configured to issue queries against a database 135 (shown in storage 134). The database 135 is representative of any collection of data regardless of the particular physical representation. By way of illustration, the database 135 may be organized according to a relational schema (accessible by SQL queries) or according to an XML schema (accessible by XML queries). However, the invention is not limited to a particular schema and contemplates extension to schemas presently unknown. As used herein, the term “schema” generically refers to a particular arrangement of data. The update program 147, when executed by the CPU 130, provides support for querying the staging area datastore 106 to update database 135.
The staging area datastore 106 may by physically arranged in a manner similar to the operational datastore 104. Accordingly, the staging area datastore 106 is shown generally comprising a CPU 150, a memory 152, and a storage device 154, coupled to one another by a bus 167. Memory 152 may be a random access memory sufficiently large to hold the necessary programming and data structures that are located on the staging area datastore 106.
The staging area datastore 106 is generally under the control of an operating system 158 shown residing in memory 152. Examples of the operating system 158 include IBM OS/400®, UNIX, Microsoft Windows®, and the like. More generally, any operating system capable of supporting the functions described herein may be used.
The memory 152 further includes one or more applications 160. The applications 160 may include a query interface 166, a transaction interface 168, and a transaction program 169. The applications 160 are software products comprising a plurality of instructions that are resident at various times in various memory and storage devices in the computer system 100. When read and executed by one or more processors 150 in the staging area datastore 106, the applications 160 cause the computer system 100 to perform the steps necessary to execute steps or elements embodying the various aspects of the invention. The query interface 166 (and more generally, any requesting entity, including the operating system 158) is configured to issue queries against a database 155 (shown in storage 154). The database 155 is representative of any collection of data regardless of the particular physical representation. As with database 135, the database 155 may be organized according to a relational schema (accessible by SQL queries) or according to an XML schema (accessible by XML queries). However, the invention is not limited to a particular schema and contemplates extension to schemas presently unknown. Transaction interface 168 may be configured to store data received over the network into database 155. Transformation program 169, when executed by the CPU 150, may transform data contained in database 155 into a form compatible with the data in database 135.
Relational View of Environment
FIG. 2 generally illustrates the transactions between the operational datastore 104 and the staging area datastore 106. In response to receiving a query 201, the operational datastore may determine whether data relevant to the query is present in the staging area datastore. To this end, the operational datastore may be configured to operate in one or more modes. In one embodiment of the invention, the operational datastore is configured to be in an “always check” mode. In the always check mode, the operational datastore assumes that relevant data may be present in the staging area datastore. Therefore, operational datastore 104 may attempt to recover such data, for example, by sending a predefined Request For Data query 210, every time a user query 201 is received.
Alternatively, the operational datastore 104 may be configured to operate in the “notified” mode. In the notified mode, the operational datastore may maintain a tracking table 220 to determine if data relevant to a user query is present in the staging area datastore. Each time an entry is made into the staging area, Notification Messages 212 may be sent to the operational datastore by the staging area to indicate the presence of new information. Therefore, upon receipt of the user query, the operational datastore may retrieve relevant data from the staging area only if the tracking table 220 indicates the presence of new relevant data. While the always check mode and notified mode are described herein, the invention is not limited to these two modes. Those skilled in the art will recognize that any other means for determining whether data relevant to a query to the operational datastore is present in the staging area datastore may be used, all of which are in the scope of the present invention.
FIG. 3A is a flow diagram that illustrates exemplary operations performed by the operational datastore in the always check mode. The operations begin in step 301 by receiving a query to the operational datastore. In step 302, the operational datastore may determine if data relevant to the received query is present in the staging area datastore by querying the staging area. If relevant data is present in the staging area, such data is retrieved in step 303 and combined with data in the operational datastore. Finally, in step 304, the query is run against the combined data. If relevant data is not present in the staging area, the query is simply run against the data in the operational datastore in step 304.
FIG. 3B is a flow diagram that illustrates exemplary operations performed by the operational datastore in the notified mode. The operations begin in step 310 by receiving a query to the operational datastore. In step 320, the operational datastore may determine if data relevant to the received query is present in the staging area datastore by examining the tracking table. If the tracking table indicates that relevant data is present in the staging area, such data is retrieved in step 330 and combined with data in the operational datastore. Finally, in step 340, the query is run against the combined data. If the tracking table indicates that relevant data is not present in the staging area, the query is simply run against the data in the operational datastore in step 340.
Referring back to FIG. 2, when data is inserted into the operational datastore, it may be transformed and cleansed (214). During transformation and cleansing, the values of various data fields in the staging area may be normalized, annotated, or checked for plausibility or warning indicators. For example, normalization may involve matching data fields in the staging area to data fields in the operational datastore based on predefined relationships between the data fields. Checking plausibility may involve determining errors based on predefined logic. For example, data reflecting a four year old male who is indicated as pregnant may be implausible and the data may be flagged as being erroneous.
FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary operational datastore, staging area datastore and their contents according to one embodiment of the invention. The operational datastore may be organized on a per table basis. For example, in FIG. 4, operational datastore 104 contains tables 400. Tables 400 may contain a test table 401 and demographics table 402. However, any number of tables 400 may be created in the operational datastore 104. Each of the tables 400 may be separately configured in either the always check mode or the notified mode. Operational datastore 104 may contain a tracking table 403 to receive notification messages from the staging area 106 indicating new data. The operational datastore may also contain a temporary table 404, which is described in greater detail below.
As with the operational datastore, the staging area 106 may also be organized on a per table basis. For example in FIG. 4, the staging area 106 contains tables 410. Tables 410, for example may further contain a table Stest among other tables. The staging area may also contain Transformation logic 440 to perform transformation and cleansing of data contained in the staging area before it is transferred to the operational datastore.
Each table in the staging area datastore may be declared to be a source table for data in the operational datastore at the time of its creation. Such configuration may involve defining a primary key or join constrain columns that relate fields of a record in the staging area with fields of a record in the operational datastore. For example, in a hospital information system, the patient ID and episode number may be defined as columns that join data in the staging area and the operational datastore. Furthermore, transformation logic 440 that transforms, filters and/or cleanses data before it is inserted in the operational datastore may also be defined.
Configuration of a table in the staging area may involve defining predefined select statement 420 and predefined insert statement 430. Predefined select statement 420 may be defined for each of tables 410 in the staging area datastore and an associated table in tables 400 in the operational datastore to select a specific primary key and join constrain. For example, predefined select statement 420 may define a relationship between test table 401 and Stest 411, as illustrated. If the patient ID (PID) is defined as a primary key, then the predefined select statement 420 may be:
SELECT*FROM Stest WHERE PID=?
In this example, any value may be substituted for the parameter “?” to select a particular patient ID (PID) from Stest.
Similarly, predefined insert statement 430 may be defined for each of tables 410 and an associated table in tables 400 to transfer a record from the staging area to the operational datastore. For example, predefined insert statement 430 may define a relationship between test table 401 and Stest 411. For example, the predefined select statement 420 may be:
INSERT INTO test VALUES (value 1, value 2 . . . value n)
Values 1-n may be transformed and cleansed values related to a particular patient ID (PID) from Stest to be inserted in the operational datastore.
In one embodiment of the invention, predefined insert statement 430 may facilitate a temporary transfer of data from the staging area to the operational datastore. Such a temporary transfer may involve transferring data in the staging area into temporary table 404 in the operational datastore. A union operation may be performed on the temporary table 404 and one of tables 400 to combine the respective data into the resultant (unioned) temporary table. A user query may then be run against the (unioned) temporary table. In one embodiment, when the transfer of data is temporary, the data transferred is not deleted in the staging area, but rather is preserved until a permanent transfer can take place. A temporary transfer of data may be performed, for example, when a patient episode lasts for multiple days and queries to the operational datastore during the episode are necessary. In such instances, queries to the operational datastore may result in a temporary transfer of data relating to the current clinical episode, a permanent transfer being delayed until the end of the current episode.
In another embodiment of the invention, all transfers from the staging area may be permanent transfers, with the predefined insert statement 430 directly transferring data from one of tables 410 in the staging area to one of tables 400 in the operational datastore.
FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a simple example describing relationships between the tables 400 in the operational datastore and tables 410 in the staging area datastore and their content. In FIG. 5A, a Demographics table 510, with columns for Patient ID (PID), patient name, and city of residence is shown. For simplicity, only 3 patients are described. A Test table 511 with columns for PID, episode number, test type and test value is provided. A Tracking Table 512 is also provided for tables which are declared to run in notified mode. Tracking table 512 contains a table column to identify the table where the given record will be inserted, episode number and PID columns that contain join constrain values, and a status value indicating the availability of the record in the staging area. The operational datastore may also contain a Temporary table 513 that may be used to combine data from the operational datastore and the staging area. If temporary table is used to combine data in the staging area with data in Test table 511, it will contain columns similar to the Test table, as illustrated.
FIG. 5B illustrates the contents of the STest 521 in the staging area. For simplicity, the STest table has the same structure as Test table 511. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that STest may have a different format than Test. For each patient visit, an entry is made in the staging area. For example, for Patient Kris' visit, an episode number of 7 is assigned. Test 45 was conducted and the result of the test was 6.9. The values for this episode are entered in the staging area accordingly and a notification message is sent to the operational datastore. As illustrated, STest contains two entries. Because STest is declared as a source for Test, which is configured to operate in notified mode, Tracking Table 512 also contains two entries that indicate the presence of data in the STest for Test.
If a user enters a query for a patient with a PID of 3, the Tracking Table reveals that more information is available in the staging area. As previously discussed, a predefined select statement selecting records in STest with PID equal to 3 is then run against STest. Found records may then be transformed. In this example, no transformation step is necessary because Test and STest have the same format. Finally, a predefined insert statement is used to write the new information into a table in the operational datastore. If the transfer is temporary, the new information is transferred into Temporary table 513. A union operation is performed between the Temporary Table and Test so that the Temporary Table contains the information in the Test Table and the new information retrieved from the staging area. The user query is then run against the temporary table and the results displayed. Alternatively, the new information may be directly inserted into Test, the user query run against Test, and the results displayed.
FIG. 6 is a flow diagram that illustrates exemplary operations performed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention in which transfers from the staging area are temporary. The operations begin in step 601 by receiving a user query to the operational datastore. If the table to be queried is configured to be in the notified mode, the tracking table in the operational datastore may be accessed in step 602. In step 603, the tracking table may be searched to determine if data relevant to the query is present in the staging area. Alternatively, the table may be configured in always check mode, which may result in the staging area being queried directly, as previously described.
If it is determined that no relevant data is present in the staging area, the query is run against an appropriate table in the operational datastore in step 609 and the results returned to the user in step 610. If, on the other hand, it is determined that relevant data is present in the staging area, such data is selected in the staging area using a predefined select statement in step 604. The selected data is transformed and cleansed in step 605. In step 606, a predefined insert statement is used to insert the data into a temporary table in the operational datastore. In step 607, a union operation is performed on the temporary table and the table initially queried to combine the data from the staging area and the table initially queried in the temporary table. The user query may be rewritten to run against the (unioned) temporary table in step 608. Finally, the query is run against the (unioned) temporary table and the results returned to the user in step 610.
FIG. 7 illustrates exemplary operations performed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention in which transfers from the staging area are permanent. The operations begin in step 701 by receiving a user query to the operational datastore. If the table to be queried is configured to be in the notified mode, the tracking table in the operational datastore may be accessed in step 702. In step 703, the tracking table may be searched to determine if data relevant to the query is present in the staging area. Alternatively, the table may be configured in always check mode, which may result in the staging area being queried directly, as previously described.
If it is determined that no relevant data is present in the staging area, the query is run against an appropriate table in the operational datastore in step 707 and the results returned to the user in step 708. If, on the other hand, it is determined that relevant data is present in the staging area, such data is selected in the staging area using a predefined select statement in step 704. The selected data is transformed and cleansed in step 705. In step 706, a predefined insert statement is used to insert the data into the queried table in the operational datastore. The query is run against the table and the results returned to the user in step 708.
CONCLUSION
By providing a means to augment the results of a query to an operational datastore with data relevant to the query in a staging area, the present invention allows a user to retrieve more recent and perhaps critical information that was not transferred to the operational datastore from the staging area. As a result, the user may be allowed to perform a more efficient and effective query to the operational datastore.
While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.
1. A system for managing data, comprising:
one or more processors; a staging datastore and an operational datastore each stored in one or more storage media; wherein the staging datastore comprises a first data structure and the operational datastore comprises a second data structure, wherein one or more fields of the first data structure have a predefined relationship with one or more fields of a second data structure; wherein by execution of at least one of the one or more processors the staging datastore is configured to:
receive new data;
store the new data in the first data structure in the staging datastore;
receive a first query configured to query and retrieve data from the first data structure, the first query comprising at least one field in the first data structure on which the relationship between the data structures is defined;
periodically migrate data from the first data structure to the second data structure according to the predefined relationship, wherein the migrating occurs in response to a predefined condition being met, wherein the first data structure and the second data structure both include episodic data and wherein the first data structure includes data for currently incomplete episodes and the second data structure only includes data for completed episodes; wherein the predefined condition is completion of an episode; and
transform non-migrated data into a format consistent with the format of the second data structure; and
wherein by execution of at least one of the one or more processors the operational datastore is configured to:
receiving a user defined query configured to query and return data from the second data structure in the operational datastore, wherein the query is configured to request episodic data including data for at least one episode which is currently incomplete;
in response to receiving the user defined query, execute the first query to retrieve, from the first data structure, any non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query, the non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query including data relating to the at least one episode which is currently incomplete;
generating a temporary data structure in the operational data store;
combining the data from the second data structure and the transformed data into the temporary data structure;
transforming the user-defined query into a rewritten format capable of execution against the temporary data structure;
executing the user defined query in the rewritten format against the temporary data structure
returning results for the executed user defined query, whereby the results include data from the first data structure and the second data structure; and
upon completion of the at least one episode, migrating data relating to the at least one episode from the first data structure to the second data structure according to the defined relationship, whereby query results for subsequent user-defined queries for data relating to the at least one episode can be returned from the second data structure without need for a temporary data structure.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the staging datastore is further configured to execute a second query to insert the transformed non-migrated data into the data set containing the second data structure.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the operational datastore, to retrieve, from the first data structure, any non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query, is configured to execute the first query in response to first determining the presence of such non-migrated data in the staging datastore.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the operational datastore, to determine the presence of non-migrated data in the staging datastore, is further configured to examine a tracking data structure in the operational datastore, wherein the tracking data structure contains data indicating the presence of non-migrated data in the staging datastore.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the second data structure is configured in one of at least two available modes of operation for determining the presence of new data in the staging datastore, the modes comprising:
a first mode of operation, wherein the second data structure is configured to execute the first query each time the user defined query is received; and a second mode of operation, wherein the second data structure is configured to execute the first query in response to determining the presence of non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query in the staging datastore.
6. A computer readable storage medium containing a program for managing data in an operational datastore and a staging datastore which, when executed performs the operations comprising:
configuring the staging datastore, comprising:
(a) defining a relationship between one or more fields of a first data structure in the staging datastore and one or more fields of a second data structure in the operational datastore, wherein the first data structure is a data source for the second data structure in the operational datastore; and
(b) defining a first query comprising at least one field in the first data structure on which the relationship between the data structures is defined, the first query being configured to query and retrieve data from the first data structure;
periodically migrating data from the first data structure to the second data structure according to the defined relationship, wherein the migrating occurs in response to a predefined condition being met, wherein the first data structure and the second data structure both include episodic data and wherein the first data structure includes data for currently incomplete episodes and the second data structure only includes data for completed episodes; wherein the predefined condition is completion of an episode; receiving a user defined query configured to query and return data from the second data structure in the operational datastore, wherein the query is configured to request episodic data including data for at least one episode which is currently incomplete; in response to receiving the user defined query, executing the first query to retrieve, from the first data structure, any non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query, the non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query including data relating to the at least one episode which is currently incomplete; in the event any non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query are returned, transforming the returned non-migrated data into a format consistent with the format of the second data structure; generating a temporary data structure in the operational data store; combining the data from the second data structure and the transformed data into the temporary data structure; transforming the user-defined query into a rewritten format capable of execution against the temporary data structure; executing the user defined query in the rewritten format against the temporary data structure; returning results for the executed user defined query, whereby the results include data from the first data structure and the second data structure; and upon completion of the at least one episode, migrating data relating to the at least one episode from the first data structure to the second data structure according to the defined relationship, whereby query results for subsequent user-defined queries for data relating to the at least one episode can be returned from the second data structure without need for a temporary data structure.
7. The computer readable storage medium of claim 6, wherein retrieving non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query from the staging datastore comprises executing the first query in response to first determining the presence of such non-migrated data in the staging datastore.
8. The computer readable storage medium of claim 7, wherein determining the presence of non-migrated data in the staging datastore comprises examining a tracking data structure in the operational datastore, wherein the tracking data structure contains data indicating the presence of non-migrated data in the staging datastore.
9. The computer readable storage medium of claim 6, wherein retrieving non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query from the staging datastore comprises:
selecting the first query from a plurality of predefined queries, wherein the plurality of predefined queries are based on other predefined relationships between the other data structures in the operational datastore and staging datastore, respectively; and executing the selected query.
10. The computer readable storage medium of claim 6, wherein the second data structure is configured in one of at least two available modes of operation for determining the presence of new data in the staging datastore, the modes comprising:
a first mode of operation comprising executing the first query each time the user defined query is received; and a second mode of operation comprising executing the first query in response to determining the presence of non-migrated data relevant to the user defined query in the staging datastore.
| 2008-12-23 | en | 2009-04-16 |
US-201916253588-A | Reduced noise appliance
ABSTRACT
An appliance provides a platform having a platform bottom and a platform base which supports a main base. A motor is carried by the platform base and rotates a ventilation fan which has a plurality of radial vanes with a fan aperture centrally positioned therein, such that the ventilation fan draws air in through an intake port provided by the platform. A fan shroud encloses the ventilation fan and has a shroud opening. The fan shroud extends from the platform base toward the platform bottom, wherein the main base surrounds the motor. The main base has an outer housing with at least one housing port, wherein rotation of the ventilation fan draws air into the fan aperture from the intake port, through the shroud opening, and expels the air radially from the plurality of radial vanes so that the air flows through the motor and out the housing port.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a Continuation application of Application Ser. No. 15/166,742 filed May 27, 2016, which claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/167,961 filed May 29, 2015, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
Generally, the present invention relates to a motor-operated appliance which includes a motor shaft with a coupling interface. Specifically, the present invention provides a motor-operated appliance which includes improved air flow features to reduce noise at high rotational speeds of the motor.
BACKGROUND ART
Motors are commonly used with appliances and the like to rotate a component of the appliance at a high operational speed. Some appliance configurations require that a portion of the appliance be de-coupled from the motor/motor base to facilitate their use. Examples of such appliances are consumer and industrial mixers, blenders and the like, wherein a container or bowl has a fixture that couples with a motor shaft.
Coupling a motor shaft to a receiving component is problematic in that the devices may be slightly misaligned due to poor tolerances. Poor alignment of the structure surrounding the shaft and receiving component may also contribute to misalignment.
Another problem with current appliances is that cooling air is first drawn in through and over the motor and then expelled by a fan. Conventional ventilating appliances are thermally managed by “pulling” air from a base section and exhausting that air through the appropriate port areas designed into the appliance base. This means that the noise spectrum generated at the ventilating fan exhaust perimeter is introduced directly into exhaust air passages and is transferred out to ambient. Moreover, such prior art configurations first transfer heated air from the motor through the fan. It is known that directing heated air through the fan reduces mass air flow, thus requiring more work by the motor and more air flow is then required for cooling. This additional work required by the motor in turn generates more noise from the fan. Prior art solutions to this problem include elaborate air passage baffling and the addition of sound deadening material to achieve a low system noise output, which adds complexity and cost to the configuration.
Misalignment of the motor shaft with the receiving component and poor heat management contribute to premature failure of the shaft and/or the receiving component and prevents the appliance from obtaining higher rotational speeds. Therefore, there is a need in the art to improve the air management features and to accommodate or improve the misalignment problem.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In light of the foregoing, it is a first aspect of the present invention to provide a reduced noise appliance.
It is another aspect of the present invention to provide an appliance, comprising a platform having a platform bottom and a platform base which supports a main base, the platform having at least one intake port, a motor carried by the platform base, the motor rotating a ventilation fan having a plurality of radial vanes with a fan aperture centrally positioned therein, the ventilation fan drawing air in through the at least one intake port, and a fan shroud enclosing the ventilation fan and having a shroud opening, wherein the fan shroud extends from the platform base toward the platform bottom, the main base surrounding the motor, the main base having an outer housing with at least one housing port, wherein rotation of the ventilation fan draws air into the fan aperture from the at least one intake port, through the shroud opening, and expels the air radially from the plurality of radial vanes so that the air flows through the motor and out the at least one housing port.
Still another aspect of the present invention is to provide an appliance, comprising a main base, a platform having a platform bottom and a platform base which supports the main base, the platform having at least one intake port, a motor carried by the platform base and extending into the main base, the motor rotating a ventilation fan that draws air in through the at least one intake port, and a fan shroud carried by the platform base and enclosing the ventilation fan, the fan shroud having a centrally disposed shroud opening, wherein the fan shroud extends from the platform base toward the platform bottom, wherein the centrally disposed shroud opening faces the platform bottom and the main base surrounds the motor, the main base having an outer housing with at least one housing port, wherein rotation of the ventilation fan draws air from the at least one intake port, through the centrally disposed shroud opening, and expels the air through the motor, into the main base and out the at least one housing port.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings wherein:
FIG. 1 is a partial schematic drawing of an appliance according to the concepts of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a schematic drawing of a multi-sided ball receivable in a pocket of a rotatable component according to the concepts of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is an end view taken along lines 3-3 of FIG. 2 of the multi-sided ball according to the concepts of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is an end view taken along lines 4-4 of FIG. 2 of the pocket according to the concepts of the present invention; and
FIG. 5 is schematic diagram of a reverse air flow motor housing according to the concepts of the present invention.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Referring now to the drawings, and in particular to FIGS. 1-2, it can be seen that an appliance, which provides reduced-noise features, is designated generally by the numeral 10. The appliance includes a main base 12 which carries a motor 14. The motor 14 may be powered by mains power through an electrical cord 16 which supplies electricity to the motor, or the motor may be powered by a separate power supply or a number of batteries (not shown). Extending from the motor 14 is a shaft 20 which may be rotated in either direction.
A multi-sided ball 22 is secured to the end of the shaft 20 and is received by an attachment 26. As used herein, the term ball refers to a generally rounded shape which has one side truncated and secured to the shaft and an opposite side which may or may not be truncated. In some embodiments the attachment 26 may be a container such as a mixing bowl or pitcher as is used in a blender, wherein the attachment 26 includes a rotatable component 28. The rotatable component 28 is configured to receive the multi-sided ball 22.
As best seen in FIGS. 2-4, the multi-sided ball 22 includes a body 34 which provides a trailing end that is secured to the shaft 20 and which is opposite a leading end 38 which is received in the rotatable component 28. The body 34 includes at least two rounded sides 40 which extend from the trailing end 36 to the leading end 38. Any number of sides may be employed. In the embodiment shown, the ball 22 provides for six rounded sides in a quasi-hexagon configuration. Each rounded side 40 provides an apex 42 at about a midpoint of the ball between the trailing end 36 and leading end 38. Each rounded side intersects with an adjacent rounded side at an edge 39. The ball 22, and in particular the rounded side 40 provides a rounded curvature with a radius appropriate for the size of the receiving pocket.
The rotatable component 28 includes a paddle or blade used by the appliance 10 to perform its desired function. The rotatable component 28 provides a pocket 50 for receiving the multi-sided ball 22. The pocket 50 includes a bottom surface 52 and a multi-sided wall 54 wherein the number of sides of the multi-sided wall 54 match the number of rounded sides provided by the ball 22. In the present embodiment, each wall 54 may be provided at about a right angle with respect to the bottom 52. The angular configuration of the multi-sided walls 54 is similar to those provided by the sides 40 of the ball 22. The ball 22 is dimensionally sized so as to be receivable within the pocket 50. The apex 42 of each side 40 is sized so as to be in close proximity to the wall 54 when the ball is received in the pocket. In some embodiments the apex 42 may be frictionally fit with the corresponding wall 54.
In some embodiments, the position of the ball 22 and the pocket 50 may be switched. In other words, the pocket 50 may be integral with the motor shaft 20 and the multi-sided ball 22 may be integral with the rotatable component 28. Such a configuration provides the same advantages.
During operation of the appliance, it will be appreciated that as the shaft 20 turns, the rounded sides of the ball 22 engage the walls 54 of the pocket 50. The ability to slightly angularly insert the shaft and associated ball 22 into the pocket 50 accommodates any misalignment therebetween while still providing the desired torsional forces from the shaft to the rotatable component 28. It has been found that such a configuration provides for the desired torsional properties while also reducing noise generated from shafts that do not provide for a multi-sided ball as shown and described.
Referring now to FIG. 5, it can be seen that a reverse air flow motor housing is designated generally by the numeral 100. The motor housing 100 includes the main base 12 which carries the motor 14 from which extends the motor shaft 20. The shaft 20, in this embodiment, may provide for the multi-sided ball 22 or some other configuration receivable in the attachment 26. It will be appreciated that the appliance 10 may not provide the ball 22 and only the features associated with the housing 100.
The main base 12 includes a lower platform 102 which may include a platform bottom 104 from which extends a platform sidewall 106. Supported by the platform sidewall 106 is a platform base 108 which may support and/or carry the motor 14. The platform sidewall 106 may provide at least one air intake port 110. Skilled artisans will also appreciate that in some embodiments the air intake port 110 may be provided or may extend through the platform bottom 104 wherein the platform bottom 104 may be elevated by a plurality of feet 112 which are supported by any available surface.
A ventilation fan 120, which may be considered as part of the motor 14, is attached to an end of the shaft 20 opposite the attachment end that carries the multi-sided ball 22 or other attachment feature. The ventilation fan 120 includes a fan aperture 122 at the approximate center thereof which may be aligned with the shaft 20. A plurality of radial vanes 124 are provided by the fan wherein the aperture 122 is positioned centrally within the radial vanes 124. A fan shroud 130 partially encloses the fan 120 and is mounted to an underside of the platform base 108. The fan shroud may also include a fan end plate 132 which may be mounted to the platform base 108. The fan shroud 130 may provide for a centrally disposed shroud opening 134 which is aligned with the fan aperture 122. In the present embodiment, at least one plate aperture 136 may extend through the fan end plate 132. Skilled artisans will appreciate that although the fan end plate 132 may offer noise reduction advantages, other structural features within the housing 100 also reduce noise generated by the ventilation fan 120. As shown, the shroud 130 extends into the lower platform 102 substantially its entire width. However, in some embodiments, it will be appreciated that the shroud may be positioned at any desired depth or may be flush with the platform base 108. In other words, the shroud opening 134 may be in the same plane as the platform base 108.
The motor 14 includes a pair of opposed carbon brushes 138 which are positioned so as to contact a rotor 140 as is well known in the art. The rotor 140 is fixedly attached to the shaft 20 which extends through a motor core 142. A brush bracket 144 may be employed to hold the brushes 138 in place. Motor windings 146 are spaced from and surround the core as is also well known in the art. Bearings 148 are disposed around and near each end of the shaft so as to rotatably support the shaft and allow for rotation thereof when electric power is applied to the brushes 138. The brush bracket 144 may also hold the bearings 148 and may also be structurally supported by the fan end plate 132. In some embodiments, the brush bracket 144 may be supported or carried by the end plate 132, and in other embodiments the brush bracket 144 may be supported or carried by the platform base 108. And in other embodiments, a combination of the end plate 132 and the base 108 may support or carry the brush bracket 144 and as a result the other parts of the motor 14.
A casing 150 spaces and supports components of the motor 14 and may extend from the brush bracket 144 and/or the fan end plate 132. The casing 150 carries at least one fastener 151 that may extend therethrough. The casing 150 may be spaced apart from the motor core 142 so as to form casing passages 152 therebetween. An end bracket 154 may be secured around and mounted to the casing 150 at an end of the motor opposite the end plate 132. The bracket 154 also functions to hold the bearings 148 in an operative position with the shaft 20. The at least one fastener 151 effectively secures the brush bracket 144, the casing 150 and the end bracket 154 to one another. The end bracket 154 may provide at least one bracket opening 156 therethrough which may be radially oriented. In other words, the at least one bracket opening 156 extends through the end bracket and is contiguous with the casing passage 152. In the embodiment shown, the end bracket 154 may be maintained within the motor housing 100.
Maintained within the motor housing 100 may be an inner support 160. The inner support 160 may include a platform leg 162 which may be attached to, otherwise supported by or maintained in close proximity to the platform base 108 or other nearby structure. At an end opposite the platform leg 162 is a casing leg 164 which may be attached to, otherwise supported by or maintained in close proximity to the motor casing 150. As shown, a casing support 166 radially extends from the casing leg 164 and effectively from the casing. A platform support 168 may extend substantially perpendicularly from the casing support 166 and is connected to the platform leg 162. It will be appreciated that the inner support 160 may provide structural support of the motor with respect to the platform base 108. The support 160 may also provide a sound barrier to assist in muffling noises generated by operation of the motor 14 and/or the ventilation fan 124. The inner support 160 substantially surrounds a lower half of the motor 14 while also providing structural support which maintains an airflow in a generally axial direction through the casing and in an opposite generally axial direction between the inner support and an outer housing 170 as will be described,
The motor housing 100 may include an outer housing 170 which may extend radially from the end bracket 154 and surrounds or substantially encloses the inner support 160 and is further supported by the platform base 108. The outer housing 170 includes a housing sidewall 172 which has a housing end 174 with a shaft opening 176 therethrough. The housing end 174 may be adjacent to and/or in a contacting positional relationship with the appropriate facing surface of the end bracket 154. In any event, it will be appreciated that the shaft 20 extends through the shaft opening 176. The outer housing may be provided with at least one housing port 178. In one embodiment, the housing sidewall 172 may provide the port 178. In the embodiment shown, the housing port 178, which may also be called a sidewall port, is juxtapositioned near the inner support 160. However, the sidewall ports 178 may be positioned anywhere along the housing sidewall 172 and about an outer periphery of the housing end 174 that is radially removed from the end bracket 154.
Together, the inner support 160 and the outer housing 170 provide a passageway for air exiting from the motor casing 150 to be directed to ambient. In the embodiment shown, the outer housing together with the inner housing route air flow that passes from the bracket opening 156 toward the ports 178. The casing support 166, the housing end 174, the casing 150 and an upper portion of the sidewall 172 form a cavity 179 which is contiguous with the end bracket aperture 156. Air that exits from the bracket opening 156 and which carries the associated noise spectrum, deflects off of the various surfaces that form the cavity and, as a result, serves to reduce the noise. The platform support, the platform leg, and/or the platform base, and a lower portion of the sidewall 172 form a chamber 180, which may be annular in shape. The chamber 180 is contiguous with the cavity 179 and the sidewall ports 178. After collecting in the cavity 179, the air flow from the fan 124 is directed into the chamber and then out to ambient.
In operation, rotation of the shaft 20 operates the appliance as previously described. Simultaneously, rotation of the shaft results in rotation of the ventilation fan 120 which generates an airflow represented by the enlarged arrows in FIG. 5. Rotation of the fan 120 results in air being drawn in through the air intake port or ports 110 and through the shroud opening 134. Subsequently, the air travels through the fan aperture 122 and is then expelled radially by the vanes 124 into the fan shroud 130. The apertures 136 extend through the fan end plate 132 and allow for the ventilation air to then travel through the motor casing openings and/or passages 152 between the core and the casing as shown in FIG. 5. Skilled artisans will appreciate that rotation of the shaft and electricity flowing through the electrical components within the motor generate heat and the flowing ventilation air transfers the heat and expels it out through the bracket openings 156. This air then travels within the cavity 179 and the chamber 180 between an inner surface of the outer housing 170 and an exterior surface of the inner support 160 until such time that it passes through the side wall ports 178.
The present reverse air flow motor housing 100 ventilates air flow and the associated noise spectrum in a direction that is reverse, leading to the benefit of reduced noise. In contrast to the prior art configurations, air is “pushed” into a motor housing by the ventilating fan. The system ventilation or cooling air and noise spectrum are directed into the housing interior and cooling air thermally manages the housing interior components and is subsequently exhausted to ambient through housing section port areas. The appliance housing and related structure also acts as a muffler, reducing the noise amount introduced into ambient. Noise reduction may be accomplished without the addition of a noise abatement material or additional air passage baffling. As such, the present platform and housing configuration serves dual purposes in that it houses the components and also muffles fan noise. Skilled artisans will appreciate that if desired further abatement strategies, such as the use of sound dampening material, may further reduce noise. The disclosed configuration allows noise abatement without the need to increase the size of the housing in view of the housing's dual role of housing components and abating noise. Cooling fan noise generated by the fan air intake feature is substantially less than the exhaust perimeter noise. This fact gives the reverse air flow configuration a noise platform lower than conventional ventilated appliance systems where exhaust noise is directly exposed to ambient air.
Thus, it can be seen that the objects of the invention have been satisfied by the structure and its method for use presented above. While in accordance with the Patent Statutes, only the best mode and preferred embodiment has been presented and described in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited thereto or thereby. Accordingly, for an appreciation of the true scope and breadth of the invention, reference should be made to the following claims.
What is claimed is:
1. An appliance, comprising:
a platform having a platform bottom and a platform base which supports a main base, said platform having at least one intake port; a motor carried by said platform base, said motor rotating a ventilation fan having a plurality of radial vanes with a fan aperture centrally positioned therein, said ventilation fan drawing air in through said at least one intake port; and a fan shroud enclosing said ventilation fan and having a shroud opening, wherein said fan shroud extends from said platform base toward said platform bottom, said main base surrounding said motor, said main base having an outer housing with at least one housing port, wherein rotation of said ventilation fan draws air into said fan aperture from said at least one intake port, through said shroud opening, and expels the air radially from said plurality of radial vanes so that the air flows through said motor and out said at least one housing port.
2. The appliance according to claim 1, further comprising:
a casing that encloses portions of said motor, wherein said casing provides a plurality of passages through which air passes from said platform through said at least one housing port.
3. The appliance according to claim 2, further comprising:
a brush bracket disposed at one end of said motor; an end bracket disposed at an opposite end of said motor; and at least one fastener connecting said brush bracket, said casing and said end bracket to each other.
4. The appliance according to claim 2, further comprising:
a fan end plate positioned between said ventilation fan and said motor, said fan end plate having at least one plate aperture therethrough, wherein air drawn in through said fan shroud passes through said at least one plate aperture.
5. The appliance according to claim 4, further comprising:
an inner support positioned between said casing and at least one of said main base and said platform, said inner support and said main base forming a chamber therebetween, wherein said at least one housing port is contiguous with said chamber.
6. The appliance according to claim 2, further comprising:
an inner support positioned between said casing and one of said main base and said platform, wherein air flows through said plurality of passages to an exterior of said inner support and through said at least one housing port.
7. The appliance according to claim 4, wherein said ventilation fan has a plurality of radial vanes with a fan aperture centrally positioned therein and which is aligned with said shroud opening, wherein rotation of said ventilation fan draws in air through said at least one air intake port, through said shroud opening into said fan aperture, and wherein said plurality of vanes expel the air radially, whereupon the air passes through said at least one plate aperture.
8. The appliance according to claim 1, wherein said fan aperture is aligned with said shroud opening.
9. An appliance, comprising:
a main base; a platform having a platform bottom and a platform base which supports said main base, said platform having at least one intake port; a motor carried by said platform base and extending into said main base, said motor rotating a ventilation fan that draws air in through said at least one intake port; and a fan shroud carried by said platform base and enclosing said ventilation fan, said fan shroud having a centrally disposed shroud opening, wherein said fan shroud extends from said platform base toward said platform bottom, wherein said centrally disposed shroud opening faces said platform bottom and said main base surrounds said motor, said main base having an outer housing with at least one housing port, wherein rotation of said ventilation fan draws air from said at least one intake port, through said centrally disposed shroud opening, and expels the air through said motor, into said main base and out said at least one housing port.
10. The appliance according to claim 9, further comprising:
a casing that encloses portions of said motor, wherein said casing provides a plurality of passages through which air passes from said platform through said at least one housing port.
11. The appliance according to claim 10, further comprising:
a fan end plate positioned between said ventilation fan and said motor, said fan end plate having at least one plate aperture therethrough, wherein air drawn in through said fan shroud passes through said at least one plate aperture.
12. The appliance according to claim 10, further comprising:
an inner support positioned between said casing and at least one of said main base and said platform, said inner support and said main base forming a chamber therebetween, wherein said at least one housing port is contiguous with said chamber.
13. The appliance according to claim 9, wherein said ventilation fan has a plurality of radial vanes with a fan aperture centrally positioned therein and which is aligned with said centrally disposed shroud opening, wherein rotation of said ventilation fan draws in air through said at least one air intake port, through said centrally disposed shroud opening into said ventilation fan, and wherein said plurality of radial vanes expel the air radially, whereupon the air passes through said motor, into said main base and out said at least one housing port.
14. The appliance according to claim 9, wherein said ventilation fan has a plurality of radial vanes with a fan aperture centrally positioned therein and which is aligned with said centrally disposed shroud opening.
| 2019-01-22 | en | 2019-05-23 |
US-202318199035-A | Developing apparatus
ABSTRACT
A developing apparatus includes a body; a buffer plate on the body and including a gas flow path; a vacuum plate on an upper surface of the buffer plate and having a gas supply hole in fluid communication with the gas flow path; and a slit block on an edge of the vacuum plate, the slit block and the vacuum plate forming a flow path for gas from the gas supply hole, wherein a substrate is holdable on the vacuum plate, a contact area between the substrate and the vacuum plate being 90% or more of an area of the substrate, the slit block and the vacuum plate form a buffer space and an inclined first flow path in fluid communication with the buffer space, and the slit block and an edge of the substrate forms a second flow path in fluid communication with the first flow path.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
This application claims benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0079039 filed on Jun. 28, 2022, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
1. Field
Embodiments relate to a developing apparatus.
2. Description of the Related Art
Developing methods are roughly classified into a dipping method, in which a substrate is dipped in a developer bath, a continuous flow method, in which a developer is continuously injected, and a puddle method, using surface tension.
SUMMARY
The embodiments may be realized by providing a developing apparatus including a body; a buffer plate fixedly installed on the body and including a gas flow groove through which a gas is flowable; a vacuum plate fixedly installed on an upper surface of the buffer plate and having a gas supply hole in fluid communication with the gas flow groove; and a slit block fixedly installed on an edge of the vacuum plate, the slit block and the vacuum plate together forming a buffer space and an inclined first flow path for gas supplied through the gas supply hole, wherein a substrate is holdable on the vacuum plate, a contact area between the substrate and the vacuum plate being equal to 90% or more of an area of the substrate, the buffer space and the inclined first flow path are in fluid communication with the buffer space such that the gas is introducible into the buffer space from the gas supply hole, and the slit block together with an edge of the substrate held on the vacuum plate forms a second flow path in fluid communication with the inclined first flow path.
The embodiments may be realized by providing a developing apparatus including a body; a buffer plate fixedly installed on the body and including a gas flow groove through which a gas is flowable; a vacuum plate fixedly installed on an upper surface of the buffer plate and having a gas supply hole in fluid communication with the gas flow groove, the vacuum plate including a plurality of vacuum holes for holding a substrate; and a slit block fixedly installed on an edge of the vacuum plate, the slit block and the vacuum plate together forming a buffer space and an inclined first flow path for gas supplied through the gas supply hole, wherein a contact area between the substrate and the vacuum plate is equal to 90% or more of an area of the substrate when the substrate is held by the vacuum plate, an edge of the substrate protrudes outwardly relative to the edge of the vacuum plate, the buffer space and the inclined first flow path are in fluid communication with the buffer space such that the gas is introducible into the buffer space from the gas supply hole, the slit block together with the edge of the substrate held on the vacuum plate forms a second flow path in fluid communication with to the inclined first flow path, and a cross-sectional area of the second flow path is equal to 70% or less of a cross-sectional area of the gas supply hole.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
Features will be apparent to those of skill in the art by describing in detail exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating some components of a developing apparatus according to an example embodiment.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a buffer plate, a vacuum plate, and a slit block of the developing apparatus according to an example embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a region of the buffer plate, the vacuum plate, and the slit block of the developing apparatus according to an example embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a cutaway perspective view illustrating a buffer space and a first flow path of a developing apparatus according to an example embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a graph illustrating a flow rate of gas discharged through a second flow path depending on a size of a gap forming the second flow path.
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a region in which two slit blocks provided in the developing apparatus according to an example embodiment are coupled to each other.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a gas flow path.
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a vacuum plate and slit block of a developing apparatus according to an example embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating some components of a developing apparatus according to an example embodiment, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a buffer plate, a vacuum plate, and a slit block of the developing apparatus according to an example embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a region of the buffer plate, the vacuum plate, and the slit block of the developing apparatus according to an example embodiment.
Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3 , a developing apparatus 100 according to an example embodiment may include a body 110, a buffer plate 120, a vacuum plate 130, and a slit block 140.
The body 110 may have an internal space in which the buffer plate 120, the vacuum plate 130, and the slit block 140 are accommodated. The body 110 may accommodate a substrate 102 adsorbed to or held on or by the vacuum plate 130, or a shutter 112 through which a wafer enters or exits. A developer supply may be on the body 110 to supply a developer to an upper surface of the substrate 102. A lift pin 114 may be on the body 110 to lift the substrate 102 seated on the vacuum plate 130. In an implementation, the body 110 may be installed inside a process chamber to be isolated from an external entity or environment.
The buffer plate 120 may be fixedly installed on the body 110. The vacuum plate 130 may be on the buffer plate 120. The buffer plate 120 may include a gas flow groove 122 through which gas flows or is flowable. The gas, flowing through the gas flow groove 122, may help prevent the developer (supplied to the substrate 102) from being introduced into or onto a lower surface of the substrate 102. This will be described in detail below.
The vacuum plate 130 may be fixedly installed on, e.g., an upper surface of, the buffer plate 120 and may include a gas supply hole 131 connected to (e.g., in fluid communication with) the gas flow groove 122. The gas supply hole 131 may have a cross-section that is narrower than the gas flow groove 122, and may supply gas to a buffer space 142 to be described below. The vacuum plate 130 may be include a plurality of vacuum holes 132 for holding (e.g., vacuum holding) the substrate 102. The vacuum hole 132 may adsorb or hold the substrate 102, seated on the upper surface of the vacuum plate 130, to the vacuum plate 130. In an implementation, the vacuum holes 132 may help prevent warpage of the substrate 102, seated on the upper surface of the vacuum plate 130, such that the substrate 102 may be maintained in a flat state.
In an implementation, a relatively larger number of vacuum holes 132 may be in or on an edge of the vacuum plate 130 than a number of vacuum holes 132 in or on a central portion of the vacuum plate 130. In an implementation, when the substrate 102 is being held, the substrate 102 may be held by the vacuum holes 132 in the central portion of the vacuum plate 130, and may then be held sequentially by the vacuum holes 132 in or on the edge of the vacuum plate 130 and the vacuum holes 132 in or on a corner side of the vacuum plate 130. Accordingly, warpage of the substrate 102 may be reduced. In an implementation, a region in which the vacuum hole 132 is formed may be equal to approximately 85% or more of an area of the substrate 102.
In an implementation, when the substrate 102 is held by the vacuum plate 130, a contact area between the substrate 102 and the vacuum plate 130 may be equal to 90% or more of the area of the substrate 102. If the contact area between the vacuum plate 130 and the substrate 102 were to be less than 90% of the area of the substrate 102, the risk of the warpage of the substrate 102 could be increased. In an implementation, to prevent the warpage of the substrate 102, the contact area between the substrate 102 and the vacuum plate 130 may be equal to 90% or more of the area of the substrate 102. In an implementation, the edge of the substrate 102 may be protrude from (e.g., outwardly beyond an edge of) the vacuum plate 130.
The vacuum plate 130 may include an installation hole 133 in or through which the lift pin 114 may be installed. In an implementation, the vacuum plate 130 may have a substantially rectangular plate. In an implementation, the vacuum plate 130 may have a shape that may vary depending on a shape of the seated substrate 102 or a seated wafer.
In an implementation, the vacuum plate 130 may include an inclined surface 134 for guiding liquid (e.g., the developer), overflowing from the substrate 102, to flow to the outside of the vacuum plate 130. The inclined surface 134 may be extend from the slit block 140, the liquid may flow to the outside of the vacuum plate 130 due to the inclined surface 134, and the liquid may be prevented from flowing back and contaminating the lower surface of the substrate 102.
In an implementation, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the vacuum plate 130 may include a step portion 135 such that a gas supply hole 131, through which gas may be supplied to the buffer space 142 (to be described below), is spaced apart from the bottom surface of the buffer space 142, and an end of the gas supply hole 131 may be open to or at an upper surface of the step portion 135. In an implementation, even if the liquid were to be introduced into the buffer space 142, the liquid may be prevented from being introduced into the gas supply hole 131.
The slit block 140 may be fixedly installed on the edge of the vacuum plate 130 and may provide a flow path of the gas supplied through the gas supply hole 131. In an implementation, four slit blocks 140 may be on the vacuum plate 130 and coupled to the edge of the vacuum plate 130. As illustrated in FIG. 4 , the slit block 140 may form the buffer space 142, into which the gas may be introduced, and a first flow path 144, connected to (e.g., in fluid communication with) the buffer space 142 and inclined, together with the vacuum plate 130. The buffer space 142 may help supply a uniform amount of gas to the lower surface of the substrate 102. In an implementation, the gas supplied through the gas supply hole 131 may be supplied to the first flow path 144 at constant amount and at constant pressure and speed. The slit block 140 may form a second flow path 146, connected to or in fluid communication with the first flow path 144, together with the edge of the substrate 102 when the substrate 102 is held by the vacuum plate 130. In an implementation, the developer may be prevented from being introduced onto the lower surface of the substrate 102. In an implementation, the gas may be discharged along the second flow path 146 to help prevent the liquid from being introduced onto the lower surface of the substrate 102. In an implementation, an upper surface of the slit block 140, forming the second flow path 146 together with the substrate 102, may be disposed such that an end of the upper surface of the slit block 140 matches or is aligned with the end of the substrate 102. In an implementation, an end of the upper surface of the slit block 140 may be protrude from (e.g., outwardly beyond) the end of the substrate 102.
In an implementation, a cross-sectional area of the second flow path 146 may be equal to 70% or less of a cross-sectional area of the gas supply hole 131. In an implementation, a pressure of the gas discharged through the second flow path 146 may be higher than an osmotic pressure due to a capillary phenomenon of liquid (e.g., the developer). If the cross-sectional area of the second flow path 146 were to be greater than 70% of the cross-sectional area of the gas supply hole 131, the pressure of the gas flowing through the second flow path 146 could become lower than the osmotic pressure due to the capillary phenomenon of the liquid to introduce the liquid onto the lower surface of the substrate 102 and/or at a side of the second flow path 146, and the lower surface of the substrate 102 could be contaminated. In an implementation, the cross-sectional area of the second flow path 146 may be equal to 70% or less of the cross-sectional area of the gas supply hole 131, and the lower surface of the substrate 102 may be prevented from being contaminated by the liquid (e.g., the developer).
In an implementation, a gap G between the lower surface of the substrate 102 and the upper surface of the slit block 140 may be, e.g., 0.05 mm to 0.01 mm. In an implementation, a minimum flow rate of the gas flowing along the second flow path 146 may be, e.g., about 34 m/sec, as illustrated in FIG. 5 . In an implementation, the flow rate of the gas flowing along the second flow path 146 may be, e.g., 34 m/sec to 130 m/sec, as illustrated in FIG. 5 . If the flow rate of the gas flowing along the second flow path 146 were to be lower than 34 m/sec, the liquid introduced into the lower surface of the substrate 102 could be introduced into the second flow path 146 due to the capillary phenomenon of the liquid. If the flow rate of the gas flowing along the second flow path 146 were to be higher than 130 m/sec, the flow rate of the gas flowing through the second flow path 146 could be significantly high, so that the liquid could be scattered to contaminate the substrate 102.
In an implementation, a cross-sectional area of the first flow path 144 may be equal to or smaller than the cross-sectional area of the second flow path 146. In an implementation, the introduction of the liquid (e.g., the developer) into the second flow path 146 may be further reduced.
As illustrated in more detail in FIG. 6 , one end portion of the slit block 140 may include a projection portion 148, and another end of the slit block 140 may include with a groove 149 corresponding (e.g., complementary) to the projection portion 148. In an implementation, when one slit block 140 is coupled to an adjacent slit block 140, the slit blocks 140 may be coupled to each other while inserting the projection portion 148 into the groove 149.
In an implementation, the projection portion 148 and the groove 149 may be in a region, in which the slit block 140 is coupled, to help further prevent the liquid from being introduced into the region.
In an implementation, the slit block 140 may include an assembly projection 150, as illustrated in more detail in FIG. 4 . The assembly projection 150 may be inserted into and coupled to an assembly groove 134 a in the inclined surface 134 of the vacuum plate 130. In an implementation, the liquid may be prevented from being introduced into the region in which the slit block 140 and the vacuum plate 130 are coupled to each other.
A description will also be provided with respect to the flow path of the gas preventing the liquid (e.g., the developer) from being introduced onto the lower surface of the substrate 102. As illustrated in FIG. 7 , the gas may be supplied through the gas flow groove 122 of the buffer plate 120. Then, the gas flowing along the gas flow groove 122 may flow through the gas supply hole 131 of the vacuum plate 130, and may be introduced into the buffer space 142 while being discharged from the gas supply hole 131 open at the upper surface of the step portion 135 and spaced apart from the bottom surface of the buffer space 142. The gas, introduced into the buffer space 142, may flow along the first flow path 144 formed by the slit block 140 and the vacuum plate 130. Then, the gas may be discharged to an external entity (e.g., to the outside) while flowing along the second flow path 146 formed by the upper surface of the slit block 140 and the lower surface of the substrate 102. Accordingly, the gas discharged from the second flow path 146 may be uniformly injected or flow overall along the edge of the substrate 102. In an implementation, the cross-sectional area of the second flow path 146 may be equal to 70% or less of the cross-sectional area of the gas supply hole 131, so that pressure of the gas discharged through the second flow path 146 may be higher than the osmotic pressure due to the capillary phenomenon of the liquid (e.g., the developer). Accordingly, the liquid (e.g., the developer) supplied to the upper surface of the substrate 102 may be prevented from being introduced onto the lower surface of the substrate 102.
As described above, the gas may flow and be discharged through the second flow path 146 to help prevent the lower surface of the substrate 102 from being contaminated.
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a vacuum plate and slit block of a developing apparatus according to an example embodiment.
Referring to FIG. 8 , a vacuum plate 230 may include a seating portion 232, on which a wafer is seatable, in a central portion thereof, and a slit block 240 may be around the seating portion 232. In an implementation, the slit block 240 and the vacuum plate 230 may form a buffer space, and a first flow path, as set forth in the above-described embodiment, and a second flow path, may be formed by the wafer seated on the slit block 240 and the vacuum plate 230.
By way of summation and review, in the puddle method, developing may be performed while a substrate is maintained in a stationary state after a developer is injected to use surface tension. The developer injected to the substrate could be introduced into a lower portion of the substrate along a side surface of the substrate to contaminate a lower surface of the substrate.
When the developer is introduced to the lower surface of the substrate to contaminate the lower surface of the substrate as described above, malfunctioning of a substrate adsorption portion provided in a developing apparatus could occur.
As described above, the embodiments may also be applied to the developing apparatus for developing a disk-shaped wafer.
As described above, a developing apparatus, capable of reducing contamination of a lower surface of a substrate, may be provided.
One or more embodiments may provide a developing apparatus for reducing contamination of a lower surface of a substrate.
Example embodiments have been disclosed herein, and although specific terms are employed, they are used and are to be interpreted in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purpose of limitation. In some instances, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art as of the filing of the present application, features, characteristics, and/or elements described in connection with a particular embodiment may be used singly or in combination with features, characteristics, and/or elements described in connection with other embodiments unless otherwise specifically indicated. Accordingly, it will be understood by those of skill in the art that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the following claims.
What is claimed is:
1. A developing apparatus, comprising:
a body; a buffer plate fixedly installed on the body and including a gas flow groove through which a gas is flowable; a vacuum plate fixedly installed on an upper surface of the buffer plate and having a gas supply hole in fluid communication with the gas flow groove; and a slit block fixedly installed on an edge of the vacuum plate, the slit block and the vacuum plate together forming a buffer space and an inclined first flow path for gas supplied through the gas supply hole, wherein: a substrate is holdable on the vacuum plate, a contact area between the substrate and the vacuum plate being equal to 90% or more of an area of the substrate, the buffer space and the inclined first flow path are in fluid communication with the buffer space such that the gas is introducible into the buffer space from the gas supply hole, and the slit block together with an edge of the substrate held on the vacuum plate forms a second flow path in fluid communication with the inclined first flow path.
2. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second flow path is along a lower surface of the substrate in a direction that is parallel to the lower surface of the substrate.
3. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a cross-sectional area of the second flow path is equal to 70% or less of a cross-sectional area of the gas supply hole.
4. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein a gap of the second flow path is 0.05 mm to 0.1 mm.
5. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein a flow rate of gas, flowing through the second flow path, is 34 m/sec to 130 m/sec.
6. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein a cross-sectional area of the inclined first flow path is smaller than or equal to the cross-sectional area of the second flow path.
7. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the vacuum plate includes a plurality of vacuum holes for vacuum holding of the substrate, and a number of vacuum holes in the edge of the vacuum plate is larger than a number of vacuum holes in a central portion of the vacuum plate.
8. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vacuum plate includes an inclined surface configured to guide a liquid that overflows from the substrate to an outer side of the vacuum plate.
9. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein the slit block includes an assembly projection in an assembly groove in the inclined surface of the vacuum plate.
10. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gas supply hole is open to the buffer space in a step portion of the vacuum plate in the buffer space, the gas supply hole being spaced apart from a bottom surface of the buffer space.
11. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
one end portion of the slit block includes a projection portion, and another end portion of the slit block includes a groove complementary to and coupled to the projection portion.
12. A developing apparatus, comprising:
a body; a buffer plate fixedly installed on the body and including a gas flow groove through which a gas is flowable; a vacuum plate fixedly installed on an upper surface of the buffer plate and having a gas supply hole in fluid communication with the gas flow groove, the vacuum plate including a plurality of vacuum holes for holding a substrate; and a slit block fixedly installed on an edge of the vacuum plate, the slit block and the vacuum plate together forming a buffer space and an inclined first flow path for gas supplied through the gas supply hole, wherein: a contact area between the substrate and the vacuum plate is equal to 90% or more of an area of the substrate when the substrate is held by the vacuum plate, an edge of the substrate protrudes outwardly relative to the edge of the vacuum plate, the buffer space and the inclined first flow path are in fluid communication with the buffer space such that the gas is introducible into the buffer space from the gas supply hole, the slit block together with the edge of the substrate held on the vacuum plate forms a second flow path in fluid communication with to the inclined first flow path, and a cross-sectional area of the second flow path is equal to 70% or less of a cross-sectional area of the gas supply hole.
13. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein a number of vacuum holes in the edge of the vacuum plate is larger than a number of vacuum holes in a central portion of the vacuum plate.
14. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the second flow path is along a lower surface of the substrate in a direction that is parallel to the lower surface of the substrate.
15. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein a gap of the second flow path is 0.05 mm to 0.1 mm.
16. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein a flow rate of gas, flowing through the second flow path, is 34 m/sec to 130 m/sec.
17. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein a cross-sectional area of the inclined first flow path is smaller than or equal to the cross-sectional area of the second flow path.
18. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the vacuum plate includes an inclined surface configured to guide a liquid that overflows from the substrate to an outer side of the vacuum plate.
19. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 18, wherein the slit block includes an assembly projection in an assembly groove in the inclined surface of the vacuum plate.
20. The developing apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the slit block includes an assembly projection in an assembly groove in the inclined surface of the vacuum plate.
| 2023-05-18 | en | 2023-12-28 |
US-59511806-A | Methods of treating hemolytic anemia
ABSTRACT
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria or other hemolytic diseases are treated using a compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or the activity of one or more complement components, such as, for example, a complement-inhibiting antibody.
RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/050,543, filed Feb. 3, 2005, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/771,552, filed Feb. 3, 2004, and further claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/783,070, filed Mar. 15, 2006, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by this reference.
BACKGROUND
1. Technical Field
This disclosure relates to a method of treating a hemolytic disease such as, for example, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (“PNH”), by administering a compound which binds to, or otherwise blocks, the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components.
2. Background of Related Art
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (“PNH”) is an uncommon blood disorder wherein red blood cells are compromised and are thus destroyed more rapidly than normal red blood cells. PNH results from a mutation of bone marrow cells resulting in the generation of abnormal blood cells. More specifically, PNH is believed to be a disorder of hematopoietic stem cells, which give rise to distinct populations of mature blood cells. The basis of the disease appears to be somatic mutations leading to the inability to synthesize the glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (“GPI”) anchor that is responsible for attaching proteins to cell membranes. The mutated gene, PIG-A (phosphatidylinositol glycan class A) resides in the X chromosome and can have several different mutations, varying from deletions to point mutations.
PNH causes a sensitivity to complement-mediated destruction and this sensitivity occurs in the cell membrane. PNH cells are deficient in a number of proteins, particularly essential complement-regulating surface proteins. These complement-regulating surface proteins include the decay-accelerating factor (“DAF”) or CD55 and membrane inhibitor of reactive lysis (“MIRL”) or CD59.
PNH is characterized by hemolytic anemia (a decreased number of red blood cells) and hemoglobinuria (excess hemoglobin in the urine). PNH-afflicted individuals are known to have paroxysms, which are defined here as an exacerbation of hemolysis with dark-colored urine. Hemolytic anemia is due to intravascular destruction of red blood cells by complement components. Other known symptoms include dysphagia, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, thrombosis, recurrent abdominal pain, pulmonary hypertension, and an overall poor quality of life.
Hemolysis resulting from intravascular destruction of red blood cells causes local and systemic nitric oxide (NO) deficiency through the release of free hemoglobin. Free hemoglobin is a very efficient scavenger of NO, due in part to the accessibility of NO in the non-erythrocyte compartment and a 106 times greater affinity of the heme moiety for NO than that for oxygen. The occurrence of intravascular hemolysis often generates sufficient free hemoglobin to completely deplete haptoglobin. Once the capacity of this hemoglobin scavenging protein is exceeded, consumption of endogenous NO ensues. For example, in a setting of intravascular hemolysis such as PNH, where LDH levels routinely exceed the upper limit of the normal range and commonly reach levels of 2-3 times their normal levels, free hemoglobin would likely obtain concentrations of 0.8-1.6 g/L. Since haptoglobin can only bind somewhere between 0.7 to 1.5 g/L of hemoglobin depending on the haptoglobin allotype, a large excess of free hemoglobin would be generated. Once the capacity of hemoglobin reabsorption by the kidney proximal tubules is exceeded, hemoglobinuria ensues. The release of free hemoglobin during intravascular hemolysis results in excessive consumption of NO with subsequent enhanced smooth muscle contraction, vasoconstriction and platelet activation and aggregation. PNH-related morbidities associated with NO scavenging by hemoglobin include abdominal pain, erectile dysfunction, esophageal spasm, and thrombosis.
The laboratory evaluation of hemolysis normally includes hematologic, serologic, and urine tests. Hematologic tests include an examination of the blood smear for morphologic abnormalities of red blood cells (RBCs) (to determine causation), and the measurement of the reticulocyte count in whole blood (to determine bone marrow compensation for RBC loss). Serologic tests include lactate dehydrogenase (LDH; widely performed), and free hemoglobin (not widely performed) as a direct measure of hemolysis. LDH levels can be useful in the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with hemolysis. Other serologic tests include bilirubin or haptoglobin, as measures of breakdown products or scavenging reserve, respectively. Urine tests include bilirubin, hemosiderin, and free hemoglobin, and are generally used to measure gross severity of hemolysis and for differentiation of intravascular vs. extravascular etiologies of hemolysis rather than routine monitoring of hemolysis. Further, RBC numbers, RBC (i.e. cell-bound) hemoglobin, and hematocrit are generally performed to determine the extent of any accompanying anemia rather than as a measure of hemolytic activity per se.
Steroids have been employed as a therapy for hemolytic diseases and may be effective in suppressing hemolysis in some patients, although long term use of steroid therapy carries many negative side effects. Afflicted patients may require blood transfusions, which carry risks of infection. Anti-coagulation therapy may also be required to prevent blood clot formation and can result in hemorrhage. Bone marrow transplantation has been known to cure PNH, however, bone marrow matches are often very difficult to find and mortality rates are high with this procedure.
It would be advantageous to provide a treatment which safely and reliably eliminates and/or limits hemolytic diseases, such as PNH, and their effects.
SUMMARY
In one aspect, the application provides a method of reducing the occurrence of thrombosis in a subject, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject. In certain embodiments, the method comprises administering a compound to said subject, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of: a) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, b) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and c) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components.
In certain embodiments, the subject has a paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) granulocyte clone greater than 0.1% of the total granulocyte count. In certain embodiments, the subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 1% of the total granulocyte count. In certain embodiments, the subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 10% of the total granulocyte count. In certain embodiments, the subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 50% of the total granulocyte count.
In certain embodiments, the compound is selected from the group consisting of antibodies, soluble complement inhibitory compounds, proteins, protein fragments, peptides, small molecules, RNA aptamers, L-RNA aptamers, spiegelmers, antisense compounds, serine protease inhibitors, double stranded RNA, small interfering RNA, locked nucleic acid inhibitors, and peptide nucleic acid inhibitors.
In certain embodiments, the compound is selected from the group consisting of CR1, LEX-CRI, MCP, DAF, CD59, Factor H, cobra venom factor, FUT-175, complestatin, and K76 COOH.
In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits C5b activity. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits cleavage of C5. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits terminal complement. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits C5a activity or inhibits binding of C5a to its receptor.
In certain embodiments, the subject is a human. In certain embodiments, the subject has a history of one or more thrombotic events.
In certain embodiments, the compound is an antibody or antibody fragment. In certain embodiments, the antibody or antibody fragment is selected from the group consisting of a polyclonal antibody, a monoclonal antibody or antibody fragment, a diabody, a chimerized or chimeric antibody or antibody fragment, a humanized antibody or antibody fragment, a deimmunized human antibody or antibody fragment, a fully human antibody or antibody fragment, a single chain antibody, an Fv, an Fab, an Fab′, an Fd, and an F(ab′)2.
In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In certain embodiments, the compound is administered chronically to said subject. In certain embodiments, the compound is administered systemically to said subject. In certain embodiments, the compound is administered locally to said subject.
In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 25%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 50%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 75%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 90%.
In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 25% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 50% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 75% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method in a subject results in at least a 90% reduction in LDH levels.
In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering a second compound, wherein said second compound increases hematopoiesis. In certain embodiments, the second compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, immunosuppressants, anti-coagulants, folic acid, iron, erythropoietin (EPO), pegylated EPO, EPO mimetics, Aranesp®, erythropoiesis stimulating agents, antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and antilymphocyte globulin (ALG). In certain embodiments, EPO is administered with an anti-C5 antibody. In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering an antithrombotic compound. In certain embodiments, the antithrombotic compound is an anticoagulant. In certain embodiments, the anticoagulant is administered with an anti-C5 antibody. In certain embodiments, the anticoagulant is an antiplatelet agent. In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In another aspect, the application provides a method of reducing the occurrence of thrombosis in a subject who has a higher than normal lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject.
In certain embodiments, the method comprises administering a compound to said subject, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of: a) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, b) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and c) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components.
In certain embodiments, the subject has an LDH level greater than the upper limit of normal. In certain embodiments, the subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 1.5 times the upper limit of normal. In certain embodiments, the subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 2.5 times the upper limit of normal. In certain embodiments, the subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 5 times the upper limit of normal. In certain embodiments, the subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 10 times the upper limit of normal.
In certain embodiments, the compound is selected from the group consisting of antibodies, soluble complement inhibitory compounds, proteins, protein fragments, peptides, small molecules, RNA aptamers, L-RNA aptamers, spiegelmers, antisense compounds, serine protease inhibitors, double stranded RNA, small interfering RNA, locked nucleic acid inhibitors, and peptide nucleic acid inhibitors.
In certain embodiments, the compound is selected from the group consisting of CR1, LEX-CR1, MCP, DAF, CD59, Factor H, cobra venom factor, FUT-175, complestatin, and K76 COOH.
In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits C5b activity. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits cleavage of C5. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits terminal complement. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits C5a activity or inhibits binding of C5a to its receptor.
In certain embodiments, the subject is a human. In certain embodiments, the subject has a history of one or more thrombotic events.
In certain embodiments, the compound is an antibody or antibody fragment. In certain embodiments, the antibody or antibody fragment is selected from the group consisting of a polyclonal antibody, a monoclonal antibody or antibody fragment, a diabody, a chimerized or chimeric antibody or antibody fragment, a humanized antibody or antibody fragment, a deimmunized human antibody or antibody fragment, a fully human antibody or antibody fragment, a single chain antibody, an Fv, an Fab, an Fab′, an Fd, and an F(ab′)2.
In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In certain embodiments, the compound is administered chronically to said subject. In certain embodiments, the compound is administered systemically to said subject. In certain embodiments, the compound is administered locally to said subject.
In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 25%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 50%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 75%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 90%.
In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 25% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 50% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 75% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method in a subject results in at least a 90% reduction in LDH levels.
In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering a second compound, wherein said second compound increases hematopolesis. In certain embodiments, the second compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, immunosuppressants, anti-coagulants, folic acid, iron, erythropoietin (EPO), pegylated EPO, EPO mimetics, Aranesp®, erythropoiesis stimulating agents, antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and antilymphocyte globulin (ALG). In certain embodiments, EPO is administered with an anti-C5 antibody. In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering an antithrombotic compound. In certain embodiments, the antithrombotic compound is an anticoagulant. In certain embodiments, the anticoagulant is administered with an anti-C5 antibody. In certain embodiments, the anticoagulant is an antiplatelet agent. In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In still another aspect, the application provides a method of reducing the occurrence of thrombosis in a subject who has a PNH granulocyte clone and an LDH level greater than the upper limit of normal, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject. In certain embodiments, the method comprises administering a compound to said subject, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of: a) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, b) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and c) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components.
In certain embodiments, the subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 0.1% of the total granulocyte count. In certain embodiments, the subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 0.1% of the total granulocyte count. In certain embodiments, the subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 1% of the total granulocyte count. In certain embodiments, the subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 10% of the total granulocyte count. In certain embodiments, the subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 50% of the total granulocyte count.
In certain embodiments, the compound is selected from the group consisting of antibodies, soluble complement inhibitory compounds, proteins, protein fragments, peptides, small molecules, RNA aptamers, L-RNA aptamers, spiegelmers, antisense compounds, serine protease inhibitors, double stranded RNA, small interfering RNA, locked nucleic acid inhibitors, and peptide nucleic acid inhibitors.
In certain embodiments, the compound is selected from the group consisting of CR1, LEX-CR1, MCP, DAF, CD59, Factor H, cobra venom factor, FUT-175, complestatin, and K76 COOH.
In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits C5b activity. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits cleavage of C5. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits terminal complement. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits C5a activity or inhibits binding of C5a to its receptor.
In certain embodiments, the subject is a human. In certain embodiments, the subject has a history of one or more thrombotic events.
In certain embodiments, the compound is an antibody or antibody fragment. In certain embodiments, the antibody or antibody fragment is selected from the group consisting of a polyclonal antibody, a monoclonal antibody or antibody fragment, a diabody, a chimerized or chimeric antibody or antibody fragment, a humanized antibody or antibody fragment, a deimmunized human antibody or antibody fragment, a fully human antibody or antibody fragment, a single chain antibody, an Fv, an Fab, an Fab′, an Fd, and an F(ab′)2.
In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In certain embodiments, the compound is administered chronically to said subject. In certain embodiments, the compound is administered systemically to said subject. In certain embodiments, the compound is administered locally to said subject.
In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 25%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 50%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 75%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 90%.
In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 25% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 50% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 75% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method in a subject results in at least a 90% reduction in LDH levels.
In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering a second compound, wherein said second compound increases hematopoiesis. In certain embodiments, the second compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, immunosuppressants, anti-coagulants, folic acid, iron, erythropoietin (EPO), pegylated EPO, EPO mimetics, Aranesp®, erythropoiesis stimulating agents, antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and antilymphocyte globulin (ALG). In certain embodiments, EPO is administered with an anti-C5 antibody. In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering an antithrombotic compound. In certain embodiments, the antithrombotic compound is an anticoagulant. In certain embodiments, the anticoagulant is administered with an anti-C5 antibody. In certain embodiments, the anticoagulant is an antiplatelet agent. In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In yet another aspect, the application provides a method of reducing the occurrence of thrombosis in a subject suffering from a lower than normal nitric oxide (NO) level, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject. In certain embodiments, the method comprises administering a compound to said subject, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of: i) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, ii) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and iii) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components, wherein said method increases serum nitric oxide (NO) levels.
In certain embodiments, the method increases NO levels by greater than 25%. In certain embodiments, the method increases NO levels by greater than 50%. In certain embodiments, the method increases NO levels by greater than 100%. In certain embodiments, the method increases NO levels by greater than 3 fold.
In certain embodiments, the subject has PNH.
In certain embodiments, the compound is selected from the group consisting of antibodies, soluble complement inhibitory compounds, proteins, protein fragments, peptides, small molecules, RNA aptamers, L-RNA aptamers, spiegelmers, antisense compounds, serine protease inhibitors, double stranded RNA, small interfering RNA, locked nucleic acid inhibitors, and peptide nucleic acid inhibitors.
In certain embodiments, the compound is selected from the group consisting of CR1, LEX-CR1, MCP, DAF, CD59, Factor H, cobra venom factor, FUT-175, complestatin, and K76 COOH.
In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits C5b activity. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits cleavage of C5. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits terminal complement. In certain embodiments, the compound inhibits C5a activity or inhibits binding of C5a to its receptor.
In certain embodiments, the subject is a human. In certain embodiments, the subject has a history of one or more thrombotic events.
In certain embodiments, the compound is an antibody or antibody fragment. In certain embodiments, the antibody or antibody fragment is selected from the group consisting of a polyclonal antibody, a monoclonal antibody or antibody fragment, a diabody, a chimerized or chimeric antibody or antibody fragment, a humanized antibody or antibody fragment, a deimmunized human antibody or antibody fragment, a fully human antibody or antibody fragment, a single chain antibody, an Fv, an Fab, an Fab′, an Fd, and an F(ab′)2.
In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In certain embodiments, the compound is administered chronically to said subject. In certain embodiments, the compound is administered systemically to said subject. In certain embodiments, the compound is administered locally to said subject.
In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 25%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 50%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 75%. In certain embodiments, the method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 90%.
In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 25% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 50% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method results in at least a 75% reduction in LDH levels. In certain embodiments, the method in a subject results in at least a 90% reduction in LDH levels.
In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering a second compound, wherein said second compound increases hematopoiesis. In certain embodiments, the second compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, immunosuppressants, anti-coagulants, folic acid, iron, erythropoietin (EPO), pegylated EPO, EPO mimetics, Aranesp®, erythropoiesis stimulating agents, antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and antilymphocyte globulin (ALG). In certain embodiments, EPO is administered with an anti-C5 antibody. In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering an antithrombotic compound. In certain embodiments, the antithrombotic compound is an anticoagulant. In certain embodiments, the anticoagulant is administered with an anti-C5 antibody. In certain embodiments, the anticoagulant is an antiplatelet agent. In certain embodiments, the antibody is pexelizumab. In certain embodiments, the antibody is eculizumab.
In another aspect, the application provides a method of determining whether a subject having a hemolytic disorder is susceptible to thrombosis comprising measuring the PNH granulocyte clone size of said subject, wherein if the clone size is greater than 0.1% then said subject is susceptible to thrombosis. In certain embodiments, the clone size is greater than 1%. In certain embodiments, the clone size is greater than 10%. In certain embodiments, the clone size is greater than 50%.
In still another aspect, the application provides a method of increasing PNH red blood cell mass of a subject, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject. In certain embodiments, the method comprises administering a compound to the subject, the compound being selected from the group consisting of: i) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, ii) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and iii) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components.
In certain embodiments, the subject has a PNH granulocyte clone. In certain embodiments, the PNH granulocyte clone is greater than 0.1% of the total granulocyte count. In certain embodiments, the PNH granulocyte clone is greater than 1% of the total granulocyte count. In certain embodiments, the PNH granulocyte clone is greater than 10% of the total granulocyte count. In certain embodiments, the PNH granulocyte clone is greater than 50% of the total granulocyte count.
In certain embodiments, the subject has an LDH level greater than the upper limit of normal. In certain embodiments, the subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 1.5 times the upper limit of normal. In certain embodiments, the subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 2.5 times the upper limit of normal. In certain embodiments, the subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 5 times the upper limit of normal. In certain embodiments, the subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 10 times the upper limit of normal.
In yet another aspect, the application provides a method of treating hemolytic anemia in a subject, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject. In certain embodiments, the method comprises administering a compound to the subject, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of: i) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, ii) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and iii) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components, wherein said method increases red blood cell (RBC) mass.
In certain embodiments, the RBC mass is measured as the absolute number of RBCs. In certain embodiments, the RBC mass is PNH RBC mass. In certain embodiments, the method increases RBC mass by greater than 10%. In certain embodiments, the method increases RBC mass by greater than 25%. In certain embodiments, the method increases RBC mass by greater than 50%. In certain embodiments, the method increases RBC mass by greater than 100%. In certain embodiments, the method increases RBC mass by greater than 2 fold.
In certain embodiments, the method decreases transfusion requirements.
In certain embodiments, the method stabilizes hemoglobin levels.
In certain embodiments, the method causes an increase in hemoglobin levels.
The application contemplates combinations of any of the foregoing aspects and embodiments.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1A reports biochemical parameters of hemolysis measured during treatment of PNH patients with an anti-C5 antibody.
FIG. 1B graphically depicts the effect of treatment with an anti-C5 antibody on lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels.
FIG. 2 shows a urine color scale devised to monitor the incidence of paroxysm of hemoglobinuria in PNH patients.
FIG. 3 is a graph of the effects of eculizumab treatments on patient paroxysm rates, as compared to pre-treatment rates.
FIG. 4 shows urine samples of PNH patients and measurements of hemoglobinuria, dysphagia, LDH, AST, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) reflecting the immediate and positive effects of the present methods on hemolysis, symptoms and pharmacodynamics suitable to completely block complement.
FIG. 5 graphically depicts the effect of anti-C5 antibody dosing schedule on hemoglobinuria over time.
FIGS. 6 a and 6 b are graphs comparing the number of transfusion units required per patient per month, prior to and during treatment with an anti-C5 antibody: FIG. 6 a depicts cytopenic patients; and FIG. 6 b depicts non-cytopenic patients.
FIG. 7 shows the management of a thrombocytopenic patient by administering an anti-C5 antibody and erythropoietin (EPO).
FIG. 8 graphically depicts the pharmacodynamics of an anti-C5 antibody.
FIG. 9 is a chart of the results of European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer questionnaires (“EORTC QLC-C30”) completed during the anti-C5 therapy regimen addressing quality of life issues.
FIG. 10 is a chart depicting the effects of anti-C5 antibody treatments on adverse symptoms associated with PNH.
FIG. 11 shows changes in PNH RBC mass during treatment with eculizumab compared with placebo.
FIG. 12 shows the effect of eculizumab and recombinant human erythropoietin on PNH Type III RBC mass and transfusion requirements. The diamonds represent PNH type III RBC counts and solid bars represent the number of packed red blood cell (PRBC) units transfused. The x-axis indicates date.
FIG. 13 shows changes in FACIT-Fatigue score during treatment with eculizumab and for placebo control.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present disclosure relates to a method of treating paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (“PNH”) and other hemolytic diseases in marnmals. Specifically, the methods of treating hemolytic diseases, which are described herein, involve using compounds which bind to or otherwise block the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components. The present methods have been found to provide surprising results. For instance, hemolysis rapidly ceases upon administration of the compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components, with LDH and hemoglobinuria being significantly reduced immediately after treatment. Also, hemolytic patients can be rendered less dependent on transfusions or transfusion-independent for extended periods (twelve months or more), well beyond the 120 day life cycle of red blood cells. In addition, type III red blood cell count can be increased dramatically in the midst of other mechanisms of red blood cell lysis (non-complement mediated and/or earlier complement component mediated e.g., Cb3). Another example of a surprising result is that a variety of symptoms resolved, indicating that NO serum levels were increased enough even in the presence of other mechanisms of red blood cell lysis. These and other results reported herein are unexpected and could not be predicted from prior treatments of hemolytic diseases.
Any compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components can be used in the present methods. A specific class of such compounds which is particularly useful includes antibodies specific to a human complement component, especially anti-C5 antibodies. The anti-C5 antibody inhibits the complement cascade and, ultimately, prevents red blood cell (“RBC”) lysis by the terminal complement complex C5b-9. By inhibiting and/or reducing the lysis of RBCs, the effects of PNH and other hemolytic diseases (including symptoms such as hemoglobinuria, anemia, dysphagia, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, recurrent abdominal pain and thrombosis) are eliminated or decreased.
In another embodiment, soluble forms of the proteins CD55 and CD59, singularly or in combination with each other, can be administered to a subject to inhibit the complement cascade in its alternative pathway. CD55 inhibits at the level of C3, thereby preventing the further progression of the cascade. CD59 inhibits the C5b-8 complex from combining with C9 to form the membrane attack complex (see discussion below).
The complement system acts in conjunction with other immunological systems of the body to defend against intrusion of bacterial and viral pathogens. There are at least 25 proteins involved in the complement cascade, which are found as a complex collection of plasma proteins and membrane cofactors. Complement components achieve their immune defensive functions by interacting in a series of intricate but precise enzymatic cleavage and membrane binding events. The resulting complement cascade leads to the production of products with opsonic, immunoregulatory, and lytic functions. A concise summary of the biologic activities associated with complement activation is provided, for example, in The Merck Manual, 16th Edition.
The complement cascade progresses via the classical pathway, the alternative pathway or the lectin pathway. These pathways share many components, and while they differ in their initial steps, they converge and share the same “terminal complement” components (C5 through C9) responsible for the activation and destruction of target cells. The classical complement pathway is typically initiated by antibody recognition of and binding to an antigenic site on a target cell. The alternative pathway is usually antibody independent, and can be initiated by certain molecules on pathogen surfaces. Additionally, the lectin pathway is typically initiated with binding of mannose-binding lectin (“MBL”) to high mannose substrates. These pathways converge at the point where complement component C3 is cleaved by an active protease to yield C3a and C3b. C3a is an anaphylatoxin (see discussion below). C3b binds to bacteria and other cells, as well as to certain viruses and immune complexes, and tags them for removal from the circulation. C3b in this role is known as opsonin. The opsonic function of C3b is generally considered to be the most important anti-infective action of the complement system. Patients with genetic lesions that block C3b function are prone to infection by a broad variety of pathogenic organisms, while patients with lesions later in the complement cascade sequence, i.e., patients with lesions that block C5 functions, are found to be more prone only to Neisseria infection, and then only somewhat more prone (Fearon, in Intensive Review of Internal Medicine, 2nd Ed. Fanta and Minaker, eds. Brigham and Women's and Beth Israel Hospitals, 1983).
C3b also forms a complex with other components unique to each pathway to form classical or alternative C5 convertase, which cleaves C5 into C5a and C5b. C3 is thus regarded as the central protein in the complement reaction sequence since it is essential to all three activation pathways (Wurzner, et al., Complement Inflamm. 1991, 8:328-340). This property of C3b is regulated by the serum protease Factor I, which acts on C3b to produce iC3b (inactive C3b). While still functional as an opsonin, iC3b can not form an active C5 convertase.
The pro-C5 precursor is cleaved after amino acid 655 and 659, to yield the beta chain as an amino terminal fragment (amino acid residues +1 to 655 of the sequence) and the alpha chain as a carboxyl terminal fragment (amino acid residues 660 to 1658 of the sequence), with four amino acids (amino acid residues 656-659 of the sequence) deleted between the two. C5 is glycosylated, with about 1.5-3 percent of its mass attributed to carbohydrate. Mature C5 is a heterodimer of a 999 amino acid 115 kDa alpha chain that is disulfide linked to a 655 amino acid 75 kDa beta chain. C5 is found in normal serum at approximately 75 μg/mL (0.4 μM). C5 is synthesized as a single chain precursor protein product of a single copy gene (Haviland et al., J. Immunol. 1991, 146:362-368). The cDNA sequence of the transcript of this gene predicts a secreted pro-C5 precursor of 1658 amino acids along with an 18 amino acid leader sequence (see, U.S. Pat. No. 6,355,245).
Cleavage of C5 releases C5a, a potent anaphylatoxin and chemotactic factor, and leads to the formation of the lytic terminal complement complex, C5b-9. C5a is cleaved from the alpha chain of C5 by either alternative or classical C5 convertase as an amino terminal fragment comprising the first 74 amino acids of the alpha chain (i.e., amino acid residues 660-733 of the sequence). Approximately 20 percent of the 11 kDa mass of C5a is attributed to carbohydrate. The cleavage site for convertase action is at, or immediately adjacent to, amino acid residue 733 of the sequence. A compound that binds at, or adjacent, to this cleavage site would have the potential to block access of the C5 convertase enzymes to the cleavage site and thereby act as a complement inhibitor.
C5b combines with C6, C7, and C8 to form the C5b-8 complex at the surface of the target cell. Upon binding of several C9 molecules, the membrane attack complex (“MAC”, C5b-9, terminal complement complex—TCC) is formed. When sufficient numbers of MACs insert into target cell membranes, the openings they create (MAC pores) mediate rapid osmotic lysis of the target cells. Lower, non-lytic concentrations of MACs can produce other proinflammatory effects. In particular, membrane insertion of small numbers of the C5b-9 complexes into endothelial cells and platelets can cause deleterious cell activation. In some cases activation may precede cell lysis.
C5a and C5b-9 also have pleiotropic cell activating properties, by amplifying the release of downstream inflammatory factors, such as hydrolytic enzymes, reactive oxygen species, arachidonic acid metabolites and various cytokines. C5 can also be activated by means other than C5 convertase activity. Limited trypsin digestion (Minta and Man, J. Immunol. 1977, 119:1597-1602; Wetsel and Kolb, J. Immunol. 1982, 128:2209-2216) and acid treatment (Yamamoto and Gewurz, J. Immunol. 1978, 120:2008; Damerau et al., Molec. Immunol. 1989, 26:1133-1142) can also cleave C5 and produce active C5b.
As mentioned above, C3a and C5a are anaphylatoxins. These activated complement components can trigger mast cell degranulation, which releases histamine and other mediators of inflammation, resulting in smooth muscle contraction, increased vascular permeability, leukocyte activation, and other inflammatory phenomena including cellular proliferation resulting in hypercellularity. C5a also functions as a chemotactic peptide that serves to attract pro-inflammatory granulocytes to the site of complement activation.
Any compounds which bind to or otherwise block the generation and/or activity of any of the human complement components may be utilized in accordance with the present disclosure. In some embodiments, antibodies specific to a human complement component are useful herein. Some compounds include antibodies directed against complement components C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5, C-6, C-7, C-8, C-9, Factor D, Factor B, Factor P, MBL, MASP-1, and MASP-2, thus preventing the generation of the anaphylatoxic activity associated with C5a and/or preventing the assembly of the membrane attack complex associated with C5b.
Also useful in the present methods are naturally occurring or soluble forms of complement inhibitory compounds such as CR1, LEX-CRI, MCP, DAF, CD59, Factor H, cobra venom factor, FUT-175, complestatin, and K76 COOH. Other compounds which may be utilized to bind to or otherwise block the generation and/or activity of any of the human complement components include, but are not limited to, proteins, protein fragments, peptides, small molecules, RNA aptamers including ARC187 (which is commercially available from Archemix Corp., Cambridge, Mass.), L-RNA aptamers, spiegelmers, antisense compounds, serine protease inhibitors, molecules which may be utilized in RNA interference (RNAi) such as double stranded RNA including small interfering RNA (siRNA), locked nucleic acid (LNA) inhibitors, peptide nucleic acid (PNA) inhibitors, etc.
Functionally, one suitable class of compounds inhibits the cleavage of C5, which blocks the generation of potent proinflammatory molecules C5a and C5b-9 (terminal complement complex). Preferably, the compound does not prevent the formation of C3b, which subserves critical immunoprotective functions of opsonization and immune complex clearance.
While preventing the generation of these membrane attack complex molecules, inhibition of the complement cascade at C5 preserves the ability to generate C3b, which is critical for opsonization of many pathogenic microorganisms, as well as for immune complex solubilization and clearance. Retaining the capacity to generate C3b appears to be particularly important as a therapeutic factor in complement inhibition for hemolytic diseases, where increased susceptibility to thrombosis, infection, fatigue, lethargy and impaired clearance of immune complexes are pre-existing clinical features of the disease process.
Particularly useful compounds for use herein are antibodies that reduce, directly or indirectly, the conversion of complement component C5 into complement components C5a and C5b. One class of useful antibodies are those having at least one antigen binding site and exhibiting specific binding to human complement component C5. Particularly useful complement inhibitors are compounds which reduce the generation of C5a and/or C5b-9 by greater than about 30%. Anti-C5 antibodies that have the desirable ability to block the generation of C5a have been known in the art since at least 1982 (Moongkarndi et al., Immunobiol. 1982, 162:397; Moongkarndi et al., Immunobiol. 1983, 165:323). Antibodies known in the art that are immunoreactive against C5 or C5 fragments include antibodies against the C5 beta chain (Moongkarndi et al., Immunobiol. 1982, 162:397; Moongkarndi et al., Immunobiol. 1983, 165:323; Wurzner et al., 1991, supra; Mollnes et al., Scand. J. Immunol. 1988, 28:307-312); C5a (see for example, Ames et al., J. Immunol. 1994, 152:4572-4581, U.S. Pat. No. 4,686,100, and European patent publication No. 0 411 306); and antibodies against non-human C5 (see for example, Giclas et al., J. Immunol. Meth. 1987, 105:201-209). Particularly useful anti-C5 antibodies are h5G1.1-mAb, h5G1.1-scFv and other functional fragments of h5G1.1. Methods for the preparation of h5G1.1-mAb, h5G1.1-scFv and other functional fragments of h5G1.1 are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,355,245 and “Inhibition of Complement Activity by Humanized Anti-C5 Antibody and Single Chain Fv”, Thomas et al., Molecular Immunology, Vol. 33, No. 17/18, pages 1389-1401, 1996, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein in their entirety by this reference. The antibody h5G1.1-mAb is currently undergoing clinical trials under the tradename eculizumab.
Hybridomas producing monoclonal antibodies reactive with complement component C5 can be obtained according to the teachings of Sims, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,135,916. Antibodies are prepared using purified components of the complement C5 component as immunogens according to known methods. In accordance with this disclosure, complement component C5, C5a or C5b is preferably used as the immunogen. In accordance with particularly preferred useful embodiments, the immunogen is the alpha chain of C5.
Particularly useful antibodies share the required functional properties discussed in the preceding paragraph and have any of the following characteristics: (1) they compete for binding to portions of C5 that are specifically immunoreactive with 5G1I.1; (2) they specifically bind to the C5 alpha chain—such specific binding, and competition for binding can be determined by various methods well known in the art, including the plasmon surface resonance method (Johne et al., J. Immunol. Meth. 1993, 160:191-198); and (3) they block the binding of C5 to either C3 or C4 (which are components of the C5 convertases).
The compound that inhibits the production and/or activity of at least one complement component can be administered in a variety of unit dosage forms. The dose will vary according to the particular compound employed. For example, different antibodies may have different masses and/or affinities, and thus require different dosage levels. Antibodies prepared as fragments (e.g., Fab, F(ab′)2, scFv) will also require differing dosages than the equivalent intact immunoglobulins, as they are of considerably smaller mass than intact immunoglobulins, and thus require lower dosages to reach the same molar levels in the patient's blood.
The dose will also vary depending on the manner of administration, the particular symptoms of the patient being treated, the overall health, condition, size, and age of the patient, and the judgment of the prescribing physician.
Administration of the compound that inhibits the production and/or activity of at least one complement component will preferably be via intravenous infusion by injection but may be in an aerosol form with a suitable pharmaceutical carrier, subcutaneous injection, orally, or sublingually. Other routes of administration may be used if desired.
It is further contemplated that a combination therapy can be used wherein a complement-inhibiting compound is administered in combination with a regimen of known therapy for hemolytic disease. Such regimens include administration of 1) one or more compounds known to increase hematopoiesis (for example, either by boosting production, eliminating stem cell destruction or eliminating stem cell inhibition) in combination with 2) a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds which bind to one or more complement components, compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components and compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components. Suitable compounds known to increase hematopoiesis include, for example, steroids, immunosuppressants (such as, cyclosporin), anti-coagulants (such as, warfarin), folic acid, iron and the like, erythropoietin (EPO), antithymocyte globulin (ATG), antilymphocyte globulin (ALG), EPO derivatives, EPO mimetics, and darbepoetin alfa (commercially available as Aranesp® from Amgen, Inc., Thousand Oaks, Calif. (Aranesp® is a man-made form of EPO produced in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells by recombinant DNA technology)). In particularly useful embodiments, erythropoietin (EPO) (a compound known to increase hematopoiesis), EPO derivatives, or darbepoetin alfa may be administered in combination with an anti-C5 antibody selected from the group consisting of h5G1.I-mAb, h5G1.1-scFv and other functional fragments of h5G1.1.
Formulations suitable for injection are found in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mack Publishing Company, Philadelphia, Pa., 17th ed. (1985). Such formulations must be sterile and non-pyrogenic, and generally will include a pharmaceutically effective carrier, such as saline, buffered (e.g., phosphate buffered) saline, Hank's solution, Ringer's solution, dextrose/saline, glucose solutions, and the like. The formulations may contain pharmaceutically acceptable auxiliary substances as required, such as, tonicity adjusting agents, wetting agents, bactericidal agents, preservatives, stabilizers, and the like.
The present disclosure contemplates methods of reducing hemolysis in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease by administering one or more compounds which bind to or otherwise block the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components. Reducing hemolysis means that the duration of time a person suffers from hemolysis is reduced by about 25% or more. The effectiveness of the treatment can be evaluated in any of the various manners known to those skilled in the art for determining the level of hemolysis in a patient. One qualitative method for detecting hemolysis is to observe the occurrences of hemoglobinuria. Quite surprisingly, treatment in accordance with the present methods reduces hemolysis as determined by a rapid reduction in hemoglobinunra.
A more qualitative manner of measuring hemolysis is to measure lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels in the patient's bloodstream. LDH catalyzes the interconversion of pyruvate and lactate. Red blood cells metabolize glucose to lactate, which is released into the blood and is taken up by the liver. LDH levels are used as an objective indicator of hemolysis. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, measurements of “upper limit of normal” levels of LDH will vary from lab to lab depending on a number of factors including the particular assay employed and the precise manner in which the assay is conducted. Generally speaking, however, the present methods can reduce hemolysis in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease as reflected by a reduction of LDH levels in the patients to within 20% of the upper limit of normal LDH levels. Alternatively, the present methods can reduce hemolysis in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease as reflected by a reduction of LDH levels in the patients of greater than 50% of the patient's pre-treatment LDH level, preferably greater than 65% of the patient's pre-treatment LDH level, most preferably greater than 80% of the patient's pre-treatment LDH level.
Another quantitative measurement of a reduction in hemolysis is the presence of GPI-deficient red blood cells (PNH red blood cells). As those skilled in the art will appreciate, PNH red blood cells have no GPI-anchor protein expression on the cell surface. The proportion of GPI-deficient cells (PNH cells) can be determined by flow cytometry using, for example, the technique described in Richards, et al., Clin. Appl. Immunol. Rev., vol. 1, pages 315-330, 2001. The absolute number of the PNH cells can then be determined. The present methods can reduce hemolysis in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease as reflected by an increase in PNH red blood cells. Preferably an increase in PNH red blood cell levels in the patient of greater than 25% of the total red blood cell count is achieved, more preferably an increase in PNH red blood cell levels in the patients greater than 50% of the total red blood cell count is achieved, most preferably an increase in PNH red blood cell levels in the patients greater than 75% of the total red blood cell count is achieved.
Methods of reducing one or more symptoms associated with PNH or other hemolytic diseases are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Such symptoms include, for example, abdominal pain, fatigue, and dyspnea. Symptoms can be the direct result of lysis of red blood cells (e.g., hemoglobinuria, anemia, fatigue, low red blood cell count, etc.) or the symptoms can result from low nitric oxide (NO) levels in the patient's bloodstream (e.g., abdominal pain, erectile dysfunction, dysphagia, thrombosis, etc.). It has recently been reported that patients with greater than 40% PNH granulocyte clone have an increased incidence of thrombosis, abdominal pain, erectile dysfunction and dysphagia, indicating a high hemolytic rate (see Moyo et al., British J. Haematol. 126:133-138 (2004)).
In particularly useful embodiments, the present methods provide a reduction in one or more symptoms associated with PNH or other hemolytic diseases in a patient having a platelet count in excess of 30,000 per microliter (a hypoplastic patient), preferably in excess of 75,000 per microliter, most preferably in excess of 150,000 per microliter. In other embodiments, the present methods provide a reduction in one or more symptoms associated with PNH or other hemolytic diseases in a patient where the proportion of PNH type III red blood cells of the subject's total red blood cell content is greater than 10%, preferably greater than 25%, most preferably in excess of 50%. In yet other embodiments, the present methods provide a reduction in one or more symptoms associated with PNH or other hemolytic diseases in a patient having a reticulocyte count in excess of 80×109per liter, more preferably in excess of 120×109 per liter, most preferably in excess of 150×109 per liter. Patients in the most preferable ranges recited above have active bone marrow and will produce adequate numbers of red blood cells. While in a patient afflicted with PNH or other hemolytic disease the red blood cells may be defective in one or more ways (e.g., GPI deficient), the present methods are particularly useful in protecting such cells from lysis resulting from complement activation. Thus, patients within the preferred ranges benefit most from the present methods.
In one aspect, a method of reducing fatigue is contemplated, the method including the step of administering to a subject having or susceptible to a hemolytic disease a compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components. Reducing fatigue means the duration of time a person suffers from fatigue is reduced by about 25% or more. Fatigue is a symptom believed to be associated with intravascular hemolysis as the fatigue relents when hemoglobinuria resolves even when the anemia persists. By reducing the lysis of red blood cells, the present methods reduce fatigue. Patients within the above-mentioned preferred ranges of type III red blood cells, reticulocytes and platelets benefit most from the present methods.
In another aspect, a method of reducing abdominal pain is contemplated, the method including the step of administering to a subject having or susceptible to a hemolytic disease a compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components. Reducing abdominal pain means the duration of time a person suffers from abdominal pain is reduced by about 25% or more. Abdominal pain is a symptom resulting from the inability of a patient's natural levels of haptoglobin to process all the free hemoglobin released into the bloodstream as a result of intravascular hemolysis, resulting in the scavenging of NO and intestinal dystonia and spasms. By reducing the lysis of red blood cells, the present methods reduce the amount of free hemoglobin in the bloodstream, thereby reducing abdominal pain. Patients within the above-mentioned preferred ranges of type III red blood cells, reticulocytes and platelets benefit most from the present methods.
In another aspect, a method of reducing dysphagia is contemplated, the method including the step of administering to a subject having or susceptible to a hemolytic disease a compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components. Reducing dysphagia means the duration of time a person has dysphagia attacks is reduced by about 25% or more. Dysphagia is a symptom resulting from the inability of a patient's natural levels of haptoglobin to process all the free hemoglobin released into the bloodstream as a result of intravascular hemolysis, resulting in the scavenging of NO and esophageal spasms. By reducing the lysis of red blood cells, the present methods reduce the amount of free hemoglobin in the bloodstream, thereby reducing dysphagia. Patients within the above-mentioned preferred ranges of type III red blood cells, reticulocytes and platelets benefit most from the present methods.
In yet another aspect, a method of reducing erectile dysfuinction is contemplated, the method including the step of administering to a subject having or susceptible to a hemolytic disease a compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components. Reducing erectile dysfunction means the duration of time a person suffers from erectile dysfunction is reduced by about 25% or more. Erectile dysfunction is a symptom believed to be associated with scavenging of NO by free hemoglobin released into the bloodstream as a result of intravascular hemolysis. By reducing the lysis of red blood cells, the present methods reduce the amount of free hemoglobin in the bloodstream, thereby increasing serum levels of NO and reducing erectile dysfunction. Patients within the above-mentioned preferred ranges of type III red blood cells, reticulocytes and platelets benefit most from the present methods.
In yet another aspect, a method of reducing hemoglobinuria is contemplated, the method including the step of administering to a subject having or susceptible to a hemolytic disease a compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components. Reducing hemoglobinuria means a reduction in the number of times a person has red, brown, or darker urine, wherein the reduction is typically about 25% or more. Hemoglobinuria is a symptom resulting from the inability of a patient's natural levels of haptoglobin to process all the free hemoglobin released into the bloodstream as a result of intravascular hemolysis. By reducing the lysis of red blood cells, the present methods reduce the amount of free hemoglobin in the bloodstream and urine thereby reducing hemoglobinuria. Quite surprisingly, the reduction in hemoglobinuria occurs rapidly. Patients within the above-mentioned preferred ranges of type III red blood cells, reticulocytes and platelets benefit most from the present methods.
In still another aspect, a method of reducing thrombosis is contemplated, the method including the step of administering to a subject having or susceptible to a hemolytic disease a compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components. Reducing thrombosis means the duration of time a person has thrombosis attacks is reduced by about 25% or more or that the frequency of thrombosis attacks is reduced by about 25% or more over a period of one or more years. Thrombosis is a symptom believed to be associated with scavenging of NO by free hemoglobin released into the bloodstream as a result of intravascular hemolysis. By reducing the lysis of red blood cells, the present methods reduce the amount of free hemoglobin in the bloodstream, thereby increasing serum levels of NO and reducing thrombosis.
Thrombosis is thought to be multi-factorial in etiology including NO scavenging by free hemoglobin, exposure of prothrombotic surfaces from lysed red blood cell membranes, and changes in the endothelium surface by cell free heme. The intravascular release of free hemoglobin may directly contribute to small vessel thrombosis. NO has been shown to inhibit platelet aggregation, induce disaggregation of aggregated platelets and inhibit platelet adhesion. Conversely, NO scavenging by hemoglobin or the reduction of NO generation by the inhibition of arginine metabolism results in an increase in platelet aggregation. By reducing the lysis of red blood cells, the present methods reduce the amount of free hemoglobin in the bloodstream, thereby increasing serum levels of NO and reducing thrombosis.
In particularly useful embodiments, the present methods reduce thrombosis, especially in patients having a platelet count in excess of 30,000 per microliter, preferably in excess of 75,000 per microliter, most preferably in excess of 150,000 per microliter. In other embodiments, the present methods reduce thrombosis in patients where the proportion of PNH type III red blood cells of the subject's total red blood cell content is greater than 1%, preferably greater than 10%, more preferably greater than 25%, even more preferably in excess of 50%, and most preferably in excess of 75% (see, e.g., Hall et al., Blood 102:3587-3591 (2003); Audebert et al., J. Neurol. 252:1379-1386 (2005)). In yet other embodiments, the present methods reduce transfusion thrombosis in patients having a reticulocyte count in excess of 80×109 per liter, more preferably in excess of 120×109 per liter, most preferably in excess of 150×109 per liter.
In still another aspect, a method of reducing anemia is contemplated, the method including the step of administering to a subject having or susceptible to a hemolytic disease a compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components. Reducing anemia means the duration of time a person has anemia is reduced by about 25% or more. Anemia in hemolytic diseases results from the blood's reduced capacity to carry oxygen due to the loss of red blood cell mass. By reducing the lysis of red blood cells, the present methods assist red blood cell levels to increase thereby reducing anemia.
In another aspect, a method of increasing the total endogenous red blood cell count in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease is contemplated. By increasing the patient's RBC count, fatigue, anemia and the patient's need for blood transfusions is reduced. The reduction in transfusions can be in frequency of transfusions, amount of blood units transfused, or both.
The method of increasing red blood cell count in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease includes the step of administering a compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components to a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease. In particularly useful embodiments, the present methods increase red blood cell count in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease, especially patients having a platelet count in excess of 30,000 per microliter, preferably in excess of 75,000 per microliter, most preferably in excess of 150,000 per microliter. In other embodiments, the present methods increase red blood cell count in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease where the proportion of PNH type III red blood cells of the subject's total red blood cell content is greater than 1%, preferably greater than 10%, more preferably greater than 25%, even more preferably in excess of 50%, and most preferably in excess of 75%. In yet other embodiments, the present methods increase red blood cell count in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease having a reticulocyte count in excess of 80×109 per liter, more preferably in excess of 120×109 per liter, most preferably in excess of 150×109 per liter. In some embodiments, the methods of the present disclosure may result in a decrease in the frequency of transfusions by about 50%, typically a decrease in the frequency of transfusions by about 70%, more typically a decrease in the frequency of transfusions by about 90%.
In yet another aspect, the present disclosure contemplates a method of rendering a subject afflicted with a hemolytic disease less dependent on transfusions or transfusion-independent by administering a compound to the subject, the compound being selected from the group consisting of compounds which bind to one or more complement components, compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components and compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the normal life cycle for a red blood cell is about 120 days. Treatment for six months or more is required for the evaluation of transfusion independence given the long half life of red blood cells. It has unexpectedly been found that in some patients transfusion-independence can be maintained for twelve months or more, in some cases more than four years, long beyond the 120 day life cycle of red blood cells. In particularly useful embodiments, the present methods provide decreased dependence on transfusions or transfusion-independence in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease, especially patients having a platelet count in excess of 30,000 per microliter, preferably in excess of 75,000 per microliter, most preferably in excess of 150,000 per microliter. In other embodiments, the present methods provide decreased dependence on transfusions or transfusion-independence in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease where the proportion of PNH type III red blood cells of the subject's total red blood cell content is greater than 1%, preferably greater than 10%, more preferably greater than 25%, even more preferably in excess of 50%, and most preferably in excess of 75%. In yet other embodiments, the present methods provide decreased dependence on transfusions or transfusion-independence in a patient afflicted with a hemolytic disease having a reticulocyte count in excess of 80×109 per liter, more preferably in excess of 120×109 per liter, most preferably in excess of 150×109 per liter.
Methods of increasing the nitric oxide (NO) levels in a patient having PNH or some other hemolytic disease are also within the scope of the present disclosure. These methods of increasing NO levels include the step of administering to a subject having or susceptible to a hemolytic disease a compound which binds to or otherwise blocks the generation and/or activity of one or more complement components. Low NO levels arise in patients afflicted with PNH or other hemolytic diseases as a result of scavenging of NO by free hemoglobin released into the bloodstream as a result of intravascular hemolysis. By reducing the lysis of red blood cells, the present methods reduce the amount of free hemoglobin in the bloodstream, thereby increasing serum levels of NO. In particularly useful embodiments, NO homeostasis is restored as evidenced by a resolution of symptoms attributable to NO deficiencies.
Without intending to limit it in any manner, the present application will be more fully described by the following examples.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
Eleven patients participated in therapy trials to evaluate the effects of anti-C5 antibody on PNH and symptoms associated therewith. PNH patients were transfusion-dependent and hemolytic. Patients were defined as transfusion dependent with a history of four or more transfusions within twelve months. The median number of transfusions within the patient pool was nine in the previous twelve months. The median number of transfusion units used in the previous twelve months was twenty-two for the patient pool.
Over the course of four weeks, each of 11 patients received a weekly 600 mg intravenous infusion of anti-C5 antibody for approximately thirty minutes. The specific anti-C5 antibody used in the study was eculizumab. Patients received 900 mg of eculizumab 1 week later and then 900 mg on a biweekly basis. The first twelve weeks of the study constituted the pilot study. Following completion of the initial acute phase twelve week study, all patients participated in an extension study conducted to a total of 64 weeks. Ten of the eleven patients participated in an extension study conducted to a total of two years.
The effect of anti-C5 antibody treatments on PNH type III red blood cells (“RBCs”) was tested. “PNH Type” refers to the density of GPI-anchored proteins expressed on the cell surface. Type I is normal expression, Type II is intermediate expression, and Type III has no GPI-anchor protein expression on the cell surface. The proportion of GPI-deficient cells is determined by flow cytometry in the manner described in Richards, et al., Clin. Appl. Immunol. Rev., vol. 1, pages 315-330, 2001. As compared to pre-therapy conditions, PNH Type III red blood cells increased more than 50% during the extension study. The increase from a pre-study mean value of 36.7% of all red blood cells to a 64 week mean value of 58.4% of Type III red blood cells indicated that hemolysis had decreased sharply. See Table 1, below. Eculizumab therapy protected PNH type III RBCs from complement-mediated lysis, prolonging the cells' survival. This protection of the PNH-affected cells reduced the need for transfusions, paroxysms and overall hemolysis in all patients in the trial.
TABLE 1 PNH Cell Populations Pre- and Post-Eculizumab Treatment in All Patients Proportion of PNH Cells (%) PNH Cell Type baseline 12 weeks 64 weeks p-valuea Type III RBCs 36.7 +/− 5.9 59.2 +/− 8.0 58.4 +/− 8.5 0.005 Type II RBCs 5.3 +/− 1.4 7.5 +/− 2.1 13.2 +/− 2.4 0.013 Type III WBCs 92.1 +/− 4.6 89.9 +/− 6.6 91.1 +/− 5.8 N.S. Type III 92.4 +/− 2.4 93.3 +/− 2.8 92.8 +/− 2.6 N.S. Platelets acomparison of mean change from baseline to 64 weeks
During the course of the two year extension study, it was found that PNH red cells with a complete deficiency of GPI-linked proteins (Type III red cells) progressively increased during the treatment period from a mean of 36.7% to 58.9% (p=0.001) while partially deficient PNH red cells (Type II) increased from 5.3% to 8.7% (p=0.01). There was no concomitant change in the proportion of PNH neutrophils in any of the patients during eculizumab therapy, indicating that the increase in the proportion of PNH red cells was due to a reduction in hemolysis and transfusions rather than a change in the PNH clone(s) themselves.
The effect of anti-C5 antibody treatments on lactate dehydrogenase levels (“LDH”) was measured on all eleven patients. LDH catalyzes the interconversion of pyruvate and lactate. Red blood cells metabolize glucose to lactate, which is released into the blood and is taken up by the liver. LDH levels are used as an objective indicator of hemolysis. The LDH levels were decreased by greater than 80% as compared to pre-treatment levels. The LDH levels were lowered from a pre-study mean value of 3111 U/L to a mean value of 594 U/L during the pilot study and a mean value of 622 U/L after 64 weeks (p=0.002 for 64 week comparison; see FIGS. 1A and 1B).
Similarly, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, another marker of red blood cell hemolysis, decreased from a mean baseline value of 76 IU/L to 26 IU/L and 30 IU/L during the 12 and 64 weeks of treatment, respectively (p=0.02 for 64 week comparison). Levels of haptoglobin, hemoglobin and bilirubin, and numbers of reticulocytes, did not change significantly from prestudy values during the 64 week treatment period.
Paroxysm rates were measured and compared to pre-treatment levels. Paroxysm as used in this disclosure is defined as incidences of dark-colored urine with a colorimetric level of 6 of more on a scale of 1-10. FIG. 2 shows the urine color scale devised to monitor the incidence of paroxysm of hemoglobinuria in patients with PNH before and during treatment. As compared to pre-treatment levels, the paroxysm percentage rate was reduced by 93% (see, FIG. 3) from 3.0 paroxysms per patient per month before eculizumab treatment to 0.1 paroxysm per patient per month during the initial 12 weeks and 0.2 paroxysm per patient per month during the 64 week treatment (FIG. 3 (p<0.001)).
Serum hemolytic activity in nine of the eleven patients was completely blocked throughout the 64 week treatment period with trough levels of eculizumab at equilibrium ranging from approximately 35 μg/mL to 350 μg/mL. During the extension study, 2 patients did not sustain levels of eculizumab necessary to consistently block complement. This breakthrough in serum hemolytic activity occurred in the last 2 days of the 14 day dosing interval, a pattern that was repeated between multiple doses. In one of the patients, as seen in FIG. 4, break-through of complement blockade resulted in hemoglobinuria, dysphagia, and increased LDH and AST, which correlated with the return of serum hemolytic activity. At the next dose, symptoms resolved (FIG. 5) and reduction in the dosing interval from 900 mg every 14 days to 900 mg every 12 days resulted in a regain of complement control which was maintained over the extension study to 64 weeks in both patients. This patient showed a 24 hour resolution of dysphagia and hemoglobinuria. A reduction in the dosing interval from 14 to 12 days was sufficient to maintain levels of eculizumab above 35 μg/mL and effectively and consistently blocked serum hemolytic activity for the remainder of the extension study for both patients.
The patients' need for transfusions was also reduced by the treatment with eculizumab. FIG. 6 a compares the number of transfusion units required per patient per month, prior to and during treatment with an anti-C5 antibody for cytopenic patients, while FIG. 6 b compares the number of transfusion units required per patient per month, prior to and during treatment with an anti-C5 antibody for non-cytopenic patients. A significant reduction in the need for transfusion was also noted in the entire group (mean transfusion rates decreased from 2.1 units per patient per month during a 1 year period prior to treatment to 0.6 units per patient per month during the initial 12 weeks and 0.5 units per patient per month during the combined 64 week treatment period), with non-cytopenic patients benefiting the most. In fact, four of the non-thrombocytopenic patients with normal platelet counts (≧150,000 per microliter) became transfusion-independent during the 64 week treatment.
The effect of eculizumab administered in combination with erythropoietin (EPO) was also evaluated in a thrombocytopenic patient. EPO (NeoRecormon™, Roche Pharmaceuticals, Basel, Switzerland) was administered in an amount of 18,000 I.U. three times per week beginning in week 23 of the study. As shown in FIG. 7, the frequency of transfusions required for this patient was significantly reduced, and soon halted.
For the two year extension study, 10 of the 11 patients from the initial 3 month study continued to receive 900 mg of eculizumab every other week. (One patient discontinued eculizumab therapy after 23 months.) Six of the 11 patients had normal platelet counts (no clinical evidence of marrow failure) whereas 5 of the 11 had low platelet counts. For the patient who discontinued eculizumab therapy after 23 months, intravascular hemolysis was successfully controlled by eculizumab, but the patient continued to be transfused even after erythropoietin therapy. This patient had the most severe hypoplasia at the start of eculizumab therapy with a platelet count below 30×109/L, suggesting that the ongoing transfusions were likely a result of the underlying bone marrow failure.
Results of the two year extension study also demonstrated that there was a statistically significant decrease in transfusion requirements for the patients. Three patients remained transfusion independent during the entire two year treatment period, and four cytopenic patients became transfusion independent, three following treatment with EPO (NeoRecormon™). The reduction in transfusion requirements was found to be most pronounced in patients with a good marrow reserve.
Pharmacodynamic levels were measured and recorded according to eculizumab doses. The pharm acodynamic analysis of eculizumab was determined by measuring the capacity of patient serum samples to lyse chicken erythrocytes in a standard total human serum complement hemolytic assay. Briefly, patient samples or human control serum (Quidel, San Diego, Calif.) was diluted to 40% vol/vol with gelatin veronal-buffered saline (GVB2+, Advanced Research technologies, San Diego, Calif.) and added in triplicate to a 96-well plate such that the final concentration of serum in each well was 20%. The plate was then incubated at room temperature while chicken erythrocytes (Lampire Biologics, Malvern, Pa.) were washed. The chicken erythrocytes were sensitized by the addition of anti-chicken red blood cell polyclonal antibody (0.1% vol/vol). The cells were then washed and resuspended in GVB2+ buffer. Chicken erythrocytes (2.5×106cells/30 μL) were added to the plate containing human control serum or patient samples and incubated at 37° C. for 30 min. Each plate contained six additional wells of identically prepared chicken erythrocytes of which four wells were incubated with 20% serum containing 2 mM EDTA as the blank and two wells were incubated with GVB2+buffer alone as a negative control for spontaneous hemolysis. The plate was then centrifuged and the supernatant transferred to a new flat bottom 96-well plate. Hemoglobin release was determined at OD 415 nm using a microplate reader. The percent hemolysis was determined using the following formula: Percent Hemolysis=100×((OD patient sample−OD blank)/(OD human serum control−OD blank )).
The graph of the pharmacodynamics (FIG. 8), the study of the physiological effects, shows the percentage of serum hemolytic activity (i.e. the percentage of cell lysis) over time. Cell lysis was dramatically reduced in the majority of the patients to below 20% of normal serum hemolytic activity while under eculizumab treatment. Two patients exhibited a breakthrough in hemolytic activity, but complement blockade was permanently restored by reducing the dosing interval to 12 days (See, FIG. 4).
Improvement of quality of life issues was also evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core (http://www.eortc.be) questionnaires (“EORTC QLC-C30”). Each of the participating patients completed the QLC-30 questionnaire before and during the eculizumab therapy. Overall improvements were observed in global health status, physical functioning, role functioning, emotional functioning, cognitive functioning, fatigue, pain, dyspnea and insomnia. (See FIG. 9).
Patients in the two year study experienced a reduction in adverse symptoms associated with PNH. For example, as set forth in FIG. 10, there was a demonstrated decrease of abdominal pain, dysphagia, and erectile dysfunction after administration of eculizumab in those patients reporting those symptoms before administration of eculizumab.
Example 2
Description of Clinical Studies
The safety and efficacy of eculizumab was assessed in three separate studies including an 87 patient randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 26 week phase 3 study (Study C04-001), an ongoing 97 patient open-label 52 week phase 3 study (Study C04-002), and an 11 patient open-label 12 week phase 2 study (Study C02-001; this study had two study-specific extension studies [E02-001 and X03-001] totaling an additional 156 weeks). All patients successfully completing Studies C04-001, C04-002, or C02-001/E02-001/X03-001 were eligible to enroll in an ongoing open-label 104 week phase 3 extension study (Study E05-001) which is anticipated to enroll approximately 190 patients. The E05-001 study provides additional long-term safety and efficacy data of eculizumab in the overall population of PNH patients and includes the collection of thromboembolic event rates with eculizumab treatment across the pooled eculizumab treatment groups from the parent studies described above. The pre-specified secondary endpoint of thromboembolic event rate in Study E05-001 was designed to assess the thromboembolic event rate in each of the Study E05-001 patients before eculizumab treatment, during eculizumab treatment in each of the Study C04-001, C04-002, and C02-001/E02-001/X03-001 patients, and during eculizumab treatment in the overall patient population for all studies. Thrombotic event rates were captured as major adverse vascular events (MAVE, See Table 2).
In all studies, eculizumab-treated patients were administered 600 mg study drug every week for 4 weeks, 900 mg in week 5, and then a 900 mg dose every 14±2 days for the study duration.
In Study C04-001, C04-002, and C02-001/E02-001/X03-001, eculizumab treatment was associated with highly statistically and clinically significant improvements in all pre-specified primary and secondary endpoints.
TABLE 2 LIST of MAJOR ADVERSE VASCULAR EVENTS (MAVE) Thrombophlebitis/Deep Vein Renal Vein Thrombosis Thrombosis Pulmonary Embolus Mesenteric Vein Thrombosis Cerebrovascular Accident Portal Vein Thrombosis (Budd-Chiari) Amputation Gangrene Myocardial Infarction Acute Peripheral Vascular Occlusion Transient Ischemic Attack Sudden Death Unstable Angina
Effect of Eculizumab on the Pathophysiological Pathways Leading to Clinically Symptomatic Thrombosis
Thromboembolic (TE) events are frequently tied directly to intravascular hemolysis in PNH. Intravascular hemolysis leads to accumulation of free hemoglobin in the plasma which has been demonstrated to deplete nitric oxide and subsequently lead to thrombus formation.
Treatment with eculizumab markedly reduces intravascular hemolysis, as measured by a decrease in median LDH, from 2,042 U/L pre-treatment to 261 U/L at 26 weeks with eculizumab treatment in the combined C04-001 and C04-002 studies (P<0.00l).
Treatment with eculizumab markedly reduces circulating levels of cell-free hemoglobin, as measured by median free hemoglobin levels, from 36.7 mg/dL pre-treatment to 5.6 mg/dL at 26 weeks with eculizumab treatment in the combined C04-001 and C04-002 studies (P<0.001).
Treatment with eculizumab effectively reduces the consumption of nitric oxide, as measured by the median change in nitric oxide consumption, with median pre-treatment nitric oxide of 9.3 μM decreasing by 67.1% at week 26 with eculizumab treatment and with pre-treatment nitric oxide of 9.9 μM increasing by 14.9% at week 26 with placebo in the C04-001 study (P<0.001).
Effect of Eculizumab on Thrombotic Rate in Overall Study Population
Eculizumab-treatment TE events were determined for all patients that entered into and received eculizumab in the C04-001, C04-002, C02-001, E02-001, X03-001 and E05-001 PNH clinical studies on an intention-to-treat basis. TE events were defined by the MAVE criteria (see Table 2 above) in the C04-001, C04-002, and E05-001 studies (primary adverse event and medical history listings were used for the C02-001, E02-001 and X03-001 studies). Patient years of eculizumab exposure were calculated for the completed C04-001, C02-001, E02-001 and X03-001 studies. For the C04-002 study, patient years of eculizumab exposure were determined for each patient after 26 weeks of treatment (the 6 month interim analysis). In the E05-001 study, patient years of exposure was determined for all patients through April 2006.
The pre-treatment patient years was determined from the earlier of diagnosis of PNH or first thrombotic event prior to enrollment into the parent PNH clinical studies (C04-001, C04-002, C02-001) and also included patient years from placebo-treated patients in the C04-001 study. The total pre-eculizumab treatment TE events included all TE events in all patients prior to enrollment in C04-001, C04-002, and C02-001 plus the TE events during placebo treatment in the C04-001 study (i.e., total pre-eculizumab treatment period TE events equals the sum of pre-eculizumab treatment TE events in C04-001, C04-002, and C02-001 in Table 3 plus the pre-C04-001 TE events in Table 4 plus the placebo-treatment TE events in Table 4). The total eculizumab period TE events included all TE events during the period commencing from the first eculizumab dose. The primary TE analysis (i.e., E05-001 secondary endpoint) was performed with a signed rank test.
Compared to the rate of thromboembolic events before treatment, eculizumab treatment resulted in a reduction in the TE event rate in the same patients in each of the individual clinical studies and a significant reduction in the TE event rate overall. The overall TE event rate was reduced from 7.49 TE events per 100 patient years pre-eculizumab treatment to 1.22 TE events per 100 patient years in the same patients with eculizumab treatment (P<0.001). This represented a relative reduction of 84% and an absolute reduction of 6.27 TE events per 100 patient years. Thromboembolic event rates are shown in Table 3.
TABLE 3 Overall Thromboembolic Events in Patients Prior to Start of Eculizumab Treatment and During Eculizumab Treatment in C04-001, C04-002, C02-001/E02-001/X03-001 and E05-001 C02-001/ E05-001 C04- E02-001/ (All studies C04-001 002 X03-001 combined) Pre-Treatment Patients (n) 43 97 11 195 MAVE Events (n) 16 93 5 126 Patient Years (n) 309.0 718.3 161.7 1683.4 MAVE Event Rate 5.18 12.95 3.09 7.49 (n per 100 patient years) Eculizumab Treatment Patients (n) 43 97 11 195 MAVE Events (n) 0 2 0 2 Patient Years (n) 21.8 48.2 35.8 164.1 MAVE Event Rate 0.00 4.15 0.00 1.221 (n per 100 patient years) 1P < 0.001 Eculizumab Treatment vs. Pre-Treatment
The apparent heterogeneity in the different pre-study TE event rates may have been related in part to the different inclusion criteria of the three individual studies and/or the different sites involved in the individual studies. However, as opposed to earlier reports, current TE event ascertainment was systematic, prospective, and performed on a multicenter, international, and controlled basis in the C04-001, C04-002, and E05-001 studies. For these reasons, it is likely that the current pre-study TE event rates more likely represent the TE event rate in this PNH patient population prior to enrollment in the eculizumab PNH studies, although even these estimates may underestimate the true TE event rate as discussed below. Further, despite heterogeneity in the individual pre-study TE event rates, eculizumab treatment consistently resulted in a marked reduction in TE event rate in each individual study.
Tests for Robustness of Eculizumab Effect on Thrombosis
Because of the striking reduction in TE event rate observed above, five post-hoc analyses were performed to test the robustness of the observed effect. The major confounding issues that were identified were possible reduction in TE event rate reporting in the randomized clinical trial as compared to the medical history, reduction in TE event rates over time during the pre-eculizumab treatment period, quantitative imbalance between the pre-eculizumab treatment and treatment period quantity of patient years, impact of eculizumab treatment on patients with previous TE, reduction in TE event rates during the pre-eculizumab treatment period due to concomitant anticoagulant therapy.
Evaluation of Potential for Reduction in TE Event Rate Reporting in the Randomized Clinical Trial as Compared to the Medical History
In order to control for the potential confounding impact of an unexpected reduction in TE reporting during the randomized clinical trial as compared to pre-enrollment medical history, TE events were compared pre-enrollment and in placebo-treated C04-001 patients.
The TE event rate in patients treated with placebo was not reduced when compared to the rate in the same patients prior to placebo treatment. The TE event rate was 2.34 events per 100 patient years pre-placebo treatment and 4.38 events per 100 patient years in the same patients with placebo treatment. Thromboembolic event rates are shown in Table 4.
This analysis does not support the view that there was any intrinsic reduction in TE event rate reporting during the eculizumab clinical studies.
TABLE 4 Thromboembolic Events in the Same Patients Prior to Placebo/ Treatment and with Placebo Treatment in C04-001 C04-001 Pre-Treatment Patients (n) 44 MAVE Events (n) 11 Patient Years (n) 470.4 MAVE Event Rate (n per 100 patient years) 2.34 Placebo Treatment Patients (n) 44 MAVE Events (n) 1 Patient Years (n) 22.9 MAVE Event Rate (n per 100 patient years) 4.38
Twelve Months before Treatment vs. Eculizumab Treatment:
In order to evaluate for the potential of both (i) an unexpected reduction in the TE event rate immediately preceding trial entry, and also (ii) a quantitative imbalance between the quantity of patient years associated with the pre-eculizumab treatment and eculizumab treatment periods, a single analysis was performed; pre-eculizumab treatment TE event rates were truncated and only examined during the 12 months immediately preceding eculizumab treatment and compared to the available eculizumab treatment period. This single analysis served to both remove more distant years from the analysis and therefore focus more so on the most recent medical condition of the patients and to also equalize the quantity of patient years considered in the analysis prior to treatment with the quantity of patient years currently available with eculizumab treatment.
Compared to the TE event rate during only the 12 month period immediately preceding commencement of eculizumab treatment, eculizumab treatment resulted in a reduction in TE event rate in the same patients in each of the individual clinical studies and a significant reduction in the TE event rate overall. The TE event rate was reduced from 17.21 events per 100 patient years pre-eculizumab treatment to 1.22 events per 100 patient years in the same patients with eculizumab treatment (P=0.013). This represented a relative reduction of 93%, and an absolute reduction of 15.99 TE events per 100 patient years. Thromboembolic event rates are shown in Table 5.
It is noteworthy that the TE event rate in the 12 month period immediately preceding eculizumab treatment is markedly increased at 17.21 TE events per 100 patient years, as compared to the aggregate event rate of 7.49 TE events per 100 patient years for the entire period of time extending from the earlier of first TE/PNH diagnosis to enrollment into one of the eculizumab PNH trials. Thus, the data demonstrate that the TE event rates during the 12 month period immediately preceding eculizumab treatment were not reduced as compared to the overall pre-eculizumab treatment event rate. This crescendo TE event rate immediately preceding trial enrollment may be indicative of a substantial survivor bias in the pre-eculizumab treatment dataset. Additionally, this crescendo pattern of the TE event rate in the period immediately preceding commencement of eculizumab treatment was followed by a comparative arrest of the TE event rate with eculizumab treatment.
Truncating the analysis to equalize the quantity of patient years in the two comparison groups, as shown in Table 5 below, did not mitigate the observed beneficial impact of eculizumab on the TE event rate. With an approximately equal quantity of patient years distributed before and during eculizumab treatment, the observed relative and absolute reductions in TE event rates with eculizumab treatment were, if anything, greater than those observed with the primary analysis.
TABLE 5 Thromboembolic Events in Patients during the 12 Months Prior to Start of Eculizumab Treatment and During Eculizumab Treatment in C04-001, C04-002, C02-001/E02-001/X03-001 and E05-001 C02-001/ E05-001 C04- E02-001/ (All studies C04-001 002 X03-001 combined) Pre-Treatment Patients (n) 43 97 11 195 MAVE Events (n) 6 23 3 33 Patient Years (n) 42.9 93.8 11.0 191.8 MAVE Event Rate 13.98 24.51 27.27 17.21 (n per 100 patient years) SOLIRIS ™ Treatment Patients (n) 43 97 11 195 MAVE Events (n) 0 2 0 2 Patient Years (n) 21.8 48.2 35.8 164.1 MAVE Event Rate 0.00 4.15 0.00 1.221 (n per 100 patient years) 1P = 0.013 Eculizumab vs. Pre-Treatment
Evaluation of Impact of Eculizumab Treatment on Patients with Previous TE
In order to control for and identify the impact of previous thrombosis on the analysis, the effect of eculizumab on the TE event rate in patients with previous TE was examined. Patients who did not have a TE event pre-eculizumab treatment were excluded from the analysis.
Compared to the rate of thromboembolic events in patients with previous TE before eculizumab treatment, eculizumab treatment resulted in a reduction in TE event rate in the same patients in each of the individual clinical studies and a significant reduction in TE event rate overall. The TE event rate was reduced from 21.95 TE events per 100 patient years pre-eculizumab treatment to 3.42 TE events per 100 patient years in the same patients with eculizumab treatment (P<0.001). This represented a reduction of 84%, and an absolute reduction of 18.53 TE events per 100 patient years. Thromboembolic event rates are shown in Table 6.
Thus, in patients with the highest TE event rate pre-eculizumab treatment, eculizumab treatment caused a commensurate and highly significant reduction in TE event rates.
TABLE 6 Thromboembolic Events in Patients with Previous Thrombotic Events Prior to Start of Eculizumab Treatment and During Eculizumab Treatment in C04-001, C04-002, C02-001/E02-001/X03-001 and E05-001 C02-001/ E05-001 C04- E02-001/ (All studies C04-001 002 X03-001 combined) Pre-Treatment Patients (n) 9 42 3 63 MAVE Events (n) 16 93 5 126 Patient Years (n) 78.7 329.2 17.6 574.2 MAVE Event Rate 20.34 28.25 28.43 21.95 (n per 100 patient years) Eculizumab Treatment Patients (n) 9 42 3 63 MAVE Events (n) 0 2 0 2 Patient Years (n) 4.6 20.7 9.1 58.5 MAVE Event Rate 0.00 9.68 0.00 3.421 (n per 100 patient years) 1P < 0.001 Eculizumab vs. Pre-Treatment
Evaluation of Impact of Eculizumab Treatment on Patients Treated Concomitantly with Anticoagulant Therapy
In order to evaluate the potential impact of other anti-thrombotic therapies (which can comprise both anticoagulant and anti-platelet therapy) to reduce TE event rates over time prior to eculizumab treatment, the potentially confounding effect of anticoagulant therapy was controlled by specifically examining the effect of eculizumab treatment on the TE event rate in patients with previous anticoagulation therapy. TE event rates in patients who were never anticoagulated were also examined; in these analyses, TE events prior to initiation of anticoagulant therapy were excluded.
Compared to the TE event rate in patients treated with anticoagulant therapy before commencement of eculizumab treatment, eculizumab treatment resulted in a reduction in the TE event rate in the same patients in each of the individual clinical studies and a significant reduction in the TE event rate overall. The TE event rate was reduced from 14.00 TE events per 100 patient years with anticoagulant therapy but prior to commencement of eculizumab treatment to 0.00 TE events per 100 patient years with eculizumab treatment in the same patients (P<0.001). This represented a relative reduction of 100%, and an absolute reduction of 14.00 TE events per 100 patient years. Thromboembolic event rates are shown in Table 7.
Compared to the negligible rate of thromboembolic events in patients without anticoagulant therapy before eculizumab treatment, eculizumab treatment resulted in no meaningful change in the thrombotic event rate. The TE event rate was 1.31 TE events per 100 patient years pre-eculizumab treatment and 2.90 TE events per 100 patient years in the same patients with eculizumab treatment (P=1.000). Thromboembolic event rates are shown in Table 8.
TABLE 7 Thromboembolic Events in Patients with Previous Anticoagulant Treatment Prior to Start of Eculizumab Treatment and During Eculizumab Treatment in C04-001, C04-002, C02-001/E02-001/X03-001 and E05-001 C02-001/ E05-001 C04- E02-001/ (All studies C04-001 002 X03-001 combined) Pre-Treatment Patients (n) 23 51 9 103 MAVE Events (n) 11 35 4 54 Patient Years (n) 72.7 168.6 45.9 385.7 MAVE Event Rate 15.13 20.76 8.71 14.00 (n per 100 patient years) Eculizumab Treatment Patients (n) 23 51 9 103 MAVE Events (n) 0 0 0 0 Patient Years (n) 11.9 24.8 28.8 100.1 MAVE Event Rate 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.001 (n per 100 patient years) 1P < 0.001 Eculizumab vs. Pre-Treatment
TABLE 8
Thromboembolic Events in Patients without Previous Anticoagulant
Treatment Prior to Start of Eculizumab Treatment and During
Eculizumab Treatment in C04-001, C04-002, C02-001/E02-001/X03-001
and E05-001
C02-001/
E05-001
C04-
E02-001/
(All studies
C04-001
002
X03-001
combined)
Pre-Treatment
Patients (n)
20
46
2
92
MAVE Events (n)
0
7
0
10
Patient Years (n)
122.4
319.4
69.0
764.3
MAVE Event Rate
0.00
2.19
0.00
1.31
(n per 100 patient years)
Eculizumab Treatment
Patients (n)
20
46
2
92
MAVE Events (n)
0
2
0
2
Patient Years (n)
9.9
22.2
7.0
69.0
MAVE Event Rate
0.00
8.99
0.00
2.901
(n per 100 patient years)
1P = 1.000 Eculizumab vs. Pre-Treatment
Eculizumab has been demonstrated to be safe and well tolerated for the treatment of PNH. In studies of patients diagnosed with PNH, there were no apparent significant safety concerns associated with eculizumab therapy. Adverse event frequency was similar in eculizumab and placebo-treated patients and the overall frequency of serious adverse events was less with eculizumab than with placebo. There was one reported infection with Neisseria species in a vaccinated PNH patient that was treated effectively and resolved without clinical sequelae. The overall frequency of infections was similar with eculizumab and placebo. Serious hemolysis following discontinuation of eculizumab in PNH patients was not observed and patients that discontinued eculizumab were effectively managed by standard of care. The incidence of bone marrow failure disorders was unchanged with eculizumab treatment. In addition, no dose-related toxicities were observed in these studies.
Example 3
Eculizumab, a complement inhibitor, was shown to reduce intravascular hemolysis and transfusion requirements in patients with PNH. Eculizumab-treated patients, as compared to placebo, showed an 85.8% decrease in intravascular hemolysis (as measured by LDH area under a curve, p<0.001). This reduction in hemolysis with eculizumab resulted in a 2.5-fold increase in PNH RBC mass from a median of 0.81×1012 cells/L at baseline to 2.05×1012 cells/L at 26 weeks (p<0.001), while the PNH RBC mass in placebo-treated patients remained relatively unchanged (from a median of 1.09×1012 cells/L to 1.16×1012 cells/L) (FIG. 11). The increase in PNH RBC mass was associated with an overall increase in hemoglobin levels in eculizumab-treated patients relative to placebo (p<0.001, mixed model analysis). The number of PRBC units transfused decreased from a median of 10.0/patient with placebo to 0.0/patient with eculizumab (p<0.001), and 51.2% of eculizumab-treated patients became transfusion independent (versus 0.0% of placebo patients, p<0.001). Even patients who required some transfusions while on eculizumab showed a marked reduction in transfusion requirements from a median of 10.0 units per patient with placebo to 6.0 units/patient with eculizumab (p<0.001). The reduction in PRBC units transfused with eculizumab was observed regardless of transfusion requirements prior to treatment, with statistical significance reached in 3 of 3 pre-treatment transfusion strata (4 to 14 units/year; 15-25 units/year; and>25 units/year, p<0.001 for each stratum) (see Table 9). Significant reductions were observed in intravascular hemolysis (LDH) in eculizumab-treated patients that achieved transfusion independence (p<0.001) as well as those that did not (p<0.001) (see Table 10). Taken together, these data demonstrate that effective control of intravascular hemolysis in PNH with eculizumab results in a substantial improvement in anemia, as evidenced by an increase in endogenous RBC mass, an improvement in hemoglobin levels, and a reduction in transfusion requirements. Substantial and significant reductions in intravascular hemolysis and improvements in anemia with eculizumab are demonstrated regardless of historical transfusion requirements or whether patients achieve transfusion independence during treatment. See Hillmen et al., N. Engl. J. Med. 355:1233-1243 (2006).
TABLE 9 Transfusion Requirement during Treatment by Pretreatment Transfusion Strata Median Packed Red Cells Transfused Transfusion (units/patient) Stratum (Units) No. Patients Placebo Eculizumab P value* Overall 87 10.0 0.0 <0.001 4-14 30 6.0 0.0 <0.001 15-25 35 10.0 2.0 <0.001 >25 22 18.0 3.0 <0.001
TABLE 10
Hemolysis (LDH AUC) during Treatment by Pretreatment
Transfusion Strata
Median Lactate Dehydrogenase Area
Transfusion
under the Curve (Units/L × Day)
Stratum (Units)
No. Patients
Placebo
Eculizumab
P value*
Overall
87
411,822
58,587
<0.001
4-14
30
398,573
53,610
<0.001
15-25
35
420,338
56,127
<0.001
>25
22
441,880
67,181
<0.001
Randomization strata were based on transfusion data over a period of 12-months prior to screening.
*P value was calculated using Wilcoxon's rank sum test.
Example 4
A 48-year old transfusion-dependent male was diagnosed with aplastic anemia in May 1988 and with PNH in September 1993. He has been transfusion dependent due to PNH starting in September 1993, requiring transfusions of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) every 4 to 6 weeks. He received eculizumab infusions starting May 22, 2002 and is currently dosed at 900 mg every other week. On Nov. 6, 2002, after 6 months of receiving eculizumab, rHuEpo (NeoRecormon®) therapy was initiated at the following doses: 450 IU/kg/week in 3 divided doses during the first 2 months; 900 IU/kg/week in 3 divided doses during the next 15 months; and 750 IU/kg/week in 3 divided doses until May 3, 2006. At that time he was switched to Aranesp® at a dose of 300 mcg every 2 weeks. The dose was increased to 500 mcg every 2 weeks on 28th Jun. 2006.
Intravascular hemolysis was assessed by measuring levels of the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Levels of erythropoiesis were determined by measuring reticulocyte counts. PNH RBC mass was calculated by multiplying the absolute number of RBCs by the proportion of PNH type III RBCs as assessed by flow cytometry. Hemoglobin levels and PRBC transfusion requirements were also monitored. All assessments have been collected to the present date and results are reported through August 2006.
During the year prior to eculizumab therapy, the mean LDH level was 2,075 IU/L (more than 4 times that of the upper limit of the normal range), the mean hemoglobin level was 10.5 g/dL, and the mean reticulocyte count was 77.5×109/L (Table II). The absolute number of PNH type III RBCs was 1.1×1012/L, and the proportion of these cells constituted less than 50% of the total RBC mass. The patient required 1.8 units of PRBCs per month during the pre-treatment period (Table 11), receiving a total of 9 transfusions and 22 units (FIG. 12).
TABLE 11 Hematological Parameters Before and After Eculizumab and rHuEpo Therapies. Mean ± SD Eculizumab Eculizumab + Pre-treatment alone RHuEPO Parameter (1 year) (0.5 year) (3.7 years) LDH, IU/L (normal 2075 ± 1590 456 ± 76 679 ± 146 range 150-480) Hemoglobin, g/dL 10.5 ± 1.5 10.2 ± 0.9 11.4 ± 1.1 (normal range 13.5-18.0) Reticulocytes, ×109/ 77.5 ± 10.6 96.4 ± 29.5 205.3 ± 43.6 L (normal range 20-80) PNH type III 1.1 ± 0.3 1.9 ± 0.1 2.5 ± 0.3 RBCs, ×1012/L* Units transfused per 1.8 1.0 0.1 month *Calculated as (proportion of PNH type III RBCs) × (total number of RBCs) ÷ 100
After starting eculizumab treatment, hemolysis was rapidly and consistently reduced as indicated by a 78% decrease in the mean LDH level (Table 11). A concomitant increase (73%) in the PNH type III RBC mass was also demonstrated, supporting enhanced survival of these cells. Further, the average number of transfusions required each month was reduced by 44%. RBC hemoglobin was stable even though transfusion requirement decreased, indicating a net increase in endogenous hemoglobin levels (Table 11).
After 6 months of eculizumab treatment, the patient received concomitant rHuEpo therapy resulting in a mean reticulocyte count increase of 113% (Table 11). This increase in erythropoiesis was associated with an additional 32% increase in the PNH type III RBC mass over that achieved with eculizumab treatment alone. In addition, RBC hemoglobin levels showed an increase from 10.2 g/dL to 11.4 g/dL during the same period. This improvement in anemia resulted in a further decrease in transfusion requirements, eventually leading to transfusion-independence for more than two years (FIG. 12). One transfusion was given after the two-years of transfusion independence and this coincided with a transient decrease in erythropoiesis, as evidenced by a drop in the reticulocyte count (data not shown). There was no evidence-of an increase in intravascular hemolysis and LDH levels have remained within the normal range or just above the upper limit of the normal range during the entire treatment period. This patient continues to receive eculizumab and rHuEpo and has received only 1 transfusion in more than 3 years.
Example 5
Pulmonary hypertension (PHT) is an emerging common complication of hereditary hemolytic anemias. It has been mechanistically and epidemiologically linked to intravascular hemolysis and decreased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. While this complication has been described in approximately 30% of adult patients with sickle cell disease and thalassemia, the prevalence of PHT in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), an acquired disease with the highest levels of intravascular hemolysis observed, has never been determined. PNH patients frequently have symptoms consistent with both hemolysis and PHT including severe fatigue and dyspnea on exertion. Therefore, we examined for the presence of PHT in PNH and explored potential mechanisms associated with its development by measuring the ability of plasma to instantaneously consume NO using ozone-based chemiluminescence.
Doppler echocardiography was performed in 28 hemolytic PNH patients to estimate pulmonary artery systolic pressures. Systolic PHT was defined by a tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity (TRV)≧2.5m/s at rest. Fourteen (50%) patients had elevated pulmonary artery systolic pressures. Twelve (43%) had mild to moderate PHT (mean TRV 2.6m/s±0.01) while two (7%) had moderate to severe pressures (mean TRV 3.7m/s±0.02). Plasma from PNH patients (n=32) consumed 34.6±8.3μM NO while normal subjects (n=9) consumed 2.2±0.6μM NO (p=0.0001). LDH levels correlated with NO consumption (r=0.6342, p<0.0002). In a separate cohort of 7 patients treated with eculizumab for a median of 3 years to reduce hemolysis, the ability to consume NO appeared lower (13.2±4.8 μM NO).
Example 6
PNH patients suffer from diverse and serious hemolysis-induced morbidities leading to a poor quality of life (QoL). Fatigue in PNH patients may be disabling and levels are similar to anemic cancer patients. Fatigue is multifactoral, related to both the underlying anemia and hemolysis. Patients suffer from reduced global health status, patient functioning, pain and dyspnea. Treatment with the complement inhibitor eculizumab reduces intravascular hemolysis and improves anemia. The impact of eculizumab treatment on levels of fatigue and other patient reported outcomes was prospectively examined in a double-blind placebo-controlled study (TRIUMPH) using two distinct instruments, the FACIT-Fatigue and the EORTC QLQ-C30. Improvements in QoL were quantified using standardized effect sizes (SES), a measure of the magnitude of the clinical benefit in various instruments. Eculizumab treatment, as compared to placebo, was associated with a very large and significant improvement in fatigue as measured by the FACIT-fatigue scale (SES=1.13, P<0.001) as well as the EORTC-QLQ-C30 fatigue subscale ((SES=1.12, P<0.001). Similarly, the percentage of patients achieving a pre-specified minimally important difference (MID) was 53.7% versus 20.5% of eculizumab- and placebo-treated patients, respectively (P=0.003) using the FACIT-Fatigue; 67.6% versus 24.4%, respectively (P<0.001) with the EORTC QLQ-C30. Treatment independent univariate analyses showed that reduction in intravascular hemolysis (decreased LDH levels) and improvement in anemia (increased hemoglobin levels) were both significantly associated with an improvement in fatigue. Further multivariate analyses indicated that reduction in hemolysis was more predictive than improvement in anemia of an improvement in fatigue. Eculizumab treatment was also associated with significant improvements with moderate to large SES in the following EORTC-QLQ-C30 subscales: global health status (0.87, P<0.001); role functioning (0.93, P<0.001); social functioning (0.57, P=0.003); cognitive functioning (0.78, P=0.002); physical functioning (1.01, P<0.001); emotional functioning (0.51, P=0.008); pain (0.65, P=0.002); dyspnea (0.69, P<0.001); and appetite loss (0.50, P<0.001). These data demonstrate that resolution of intravascular hemolysis with eculizumab treatment results in large and clinically meaningful improvements in patient reported outcomes including fatigue, global health status, patient functioning, and disease-related symptoms in PNH.
Example 7
In paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), lack of the GPI-anchored terminal complement inhibitor CD59 from blood cells renders erythrocytes susceptible to chronic hemolysis resulting in anemia, fatigue, thrombosis, poor quality of the life (QoL), and a dependency on transfusions. Eculizumab, a complement inhibitor, reduced intravascular hemolysis and transfusion requirements in transfusion dependent patients with normal or near-normal platelet counts in a randomized placebo-controlled trial (TRIUMPH). SHEPHERD, an open-label, non-placebo controlled 52-week phase III clinical study, is underway to evaluate the safety and efficacy of eculizumab in a broader PNH population including patients with significant thrombocytopenia and/or lower transfusion requirements. Eculizumab was dosed as follows: 600 mg IV every 7 days×4; 900 mg 7 days later; and then 900 mg every 14±2 days. Eculizumab was administered to 97 patients at 33 international sites. In a pre-specified 6-month interim analysis, the most frequent adverse events were headache (50%), nasopharyngitis (23%), and nausea (16%); most were mild to moderate in severity. No infections or serious adverse events were reported as “probably” or “definitely” related to drug. Intravascular hemolysis, the central clinical manifestation in PNH and the primary surrogate efficacy endpoint of the trial, was significantly reduced in eculizumab patients as assessed by change in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) area under the curve (p<0.001). LDH levels decreased from a median of 2,051 U/L at baseline to 270 U/L at 26 weeks (p<0.001; normal range 103-223 U/L). Control of intravascular hemolysis resulted in an improvement in anemia as transfusion requirements decreased from a median of 4.0 PRBC units/patient pre-treatment to 0.0 during treatment (p<0.001), approximately 50% of the patients were rendered transfusion independent (P<0.001), and hemoglobin levels increased (p<0.001). Fatigue, as measured by both the FACIT-Fatigue and EORTC QLQ-C30 instruments, was significantly improved with eculizumab treatment as compared to baseline (p<0.001 for each) (FIG. 13 and Table 12). Other EORTC-QLQ-C30 patient reported outcomes demonstrating improvement included global health status (p<0.001), all 5 patient functioning subscales (p<0.001) and 7 of 9 symptom/single item subscales (p<0.03). These results demonstrate that the beneficial effects of eculizumab in PNH are applicable to a much broader patient population than previously studied and further underscore that eculizumab treatment markedly reduces intravascular hemolysis, thereby providing clinical benefit to treated patients.
TABLE 12 Fatigue and other outcomes, as measured by both the FACIT-Fatigue and EORTC QLQ-C30 instruments. Change from Baseline MID (%)* SES† P-Value‡ FACIT-Fatigue 74.5 1.01 <0.001 EORTC QLQ-C30 Fatigue 80.9 1.08 <0.001 Global Health Status 59.6 0.73 <0.001 Functioning scales Physical 50.0 0.86 <0.001 Role 55.3 0.70 <0.001 Cognitive 39.4 0.40 <0.001 Social 54.3 0.61 <0.001 Emotional 44.7 0.58 <0.001 Dyspnea 55.3 0.75 <0.001 Pain 30.9 0.30 0.004 Appetite loss 20.2 0.31 <0.001 Insomnia 35.1 0.48 <0.001 Financial difficulties 15.1 0.08 0.804 Constipation 10.8 0.08 0.758 Nausea/vomiting 18.1 0.05 0.034 Diarrhea 17.0 0.27 <0.001
Example 8
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is characterized by clonal expansion of PNH red cells that are highly sensitive to lysis by terminal complement. The primary lesion in PNH is bone marrow failure in the form of immune-mediated aplastic anemia and peripheral blood cytopenias of varying severity. In Example 1, the successful control of hemolysis and transfusion in 11 patients with the complement inhibitor eculizumab is described. Ten of these 11 patients remained on eculizumab therapy after approximately 3 years with maintained reductions in intravascular hemolysis and transfusion. The effectiveness of eculizumab therapy in these patients is through the protection of the PNH red cell from complement-mediated lysis and the expansion of this cell population. Flow cytometry studies have shown that the percentage of PNH red cells increased significantly from a mean of 36.7% before treatment to 58.4% at week 64 of therapy. Importantly, granulocyte, monocyte and platelet PNH clone sizes were>90% before treatment and remained stable for all patients throughout the trial suggesting that the majority of hematopoiesis is derived from PNH stem cells. It is hypothesized that the PNH red cell clone should approach the clone size of other myeloid hematopoietic cells in a given patient when hemolysis is prevented by eculizumab therapy as this more accurately depicts PNH stem cell activity.
In all patients hemolysis was substantially reduced by 21 days. In 9 of 1 patients, there was a rapid rise in PNH red cell count with the mean absolute number of PNH red cells increasing from 1.37×1012/L before treatment to 1.50×1012/L at 2 weeks (P=0.21), 1.74×1012/L at 4 weeks (P=0.002), and 2.11×1012/L at 12 weeks (P=0.001) of eculizumab treatment. The maximum theoretical red cell response was achieved in a mean of 178 days (range 49-419 days). The mean absolute number of PNH red cells increased to 2.37×1012/L at maximum response (P=0.001), an increase of 73% (range 36% -207%). All patients achieved a maximum response prior to 18 months of treatment and clone size was subsequently stable. In 2 patients, despite the effectiveness of eculizumab in resolving hemolysis, there was no change in absolute numbers of PNH red cells pre and post-treatment. This is likely due to a combination of a lower degree of hemolysis and more profound bone marrow insufficiency in these patients. The determination of absolute PNH red cell counts during the first 12 months of eculizumab therapy may identify which patients will become transfusion independent and which patients may benefit from additional growth factor support to boost erythropoiesis. Furthermore, long-term eculizumab therapy appeared to be associated with a stable PNH red cell clone size in this initial clinical study.
Example 9
Surprisingly, in the C04-002 study, eculizumab treatment, as compared to baseline, was associated with an apparent increase in parameters of platelet activation (mixed model analysis, overall). Statistically significant increases were observed in monocyte-platelet aggregates (mean increase of 7.9%, P=0.002), neutrophil-platelet aggregates (mean increase of 5.3%, P<0.001) and the percentage of P-Selectin positive platelets (mean increase of 3.7%, P<0.001). Similarly, in eculizumab-treated patients in the C04-001 study increases were observed in monocyte-platelet aggregates (mean increase of 15.0%, P=0.056), neutrophil-platelet aggregates (mean increase of 11.2%, P=0.777) and the percentage of P-Selectin positive platelets (mean increase of 5.1%, P=0.044).
In the combined C04-001 and C04-002 studies, significant increases were also observed in monocyte-platelet aggregates (mean increase of 10.1%, P<0.00 1), neutrophil-platelet aggregates (mean increase of 7.0%, P<0.001) and the percentage of P-Selectin positive platelets (mean increase of 4.1%, P<0.001). In this placebo-controlled C04-001 study, the eculizumab cohort as well as the placebo cohort showed similar increases in parameters of platelet activation from baseline (Table 13A-F). In these placebo-treated patients, increases from baseline were observed in monocyte-platelet aggregates (mean increase of 2.2%, P=0.771), neutrophil-platelet aggregates (mean increase of 6.9%, P=0.135) and the percentage of P-Selectin positive platelets (mean increase of 5.9%, P−0.001) (Table 14A-C).
TABLE 13A C04-002; C04-001 and C04-002 Compared and Combined: Mixed model analysis of change in Platelet Activation Markers; Change from Baseline MONOCYTE PLATELET AGGREGATION Study Study Week Statistic DF P Value(a) C04-001 (N = 43) Mean Baseline 44.282 Value Least Square 1 9.294 0.98 34 0.333249423 Means 2 14.009 1.48 34 0.148210796 4 27.935 2.95 34 0.005713194 14 16.012 1.64 34 0.110194214 26 10.827 1.11 34 0.275177698 Overall(b) Overall 15.005 1.98 34 0.055927296 C-04-002 (N = 97) Mean Baseline 26.310 Value Least Square 1 2.967 0.65 95 0.518317428 Means 2 2.691 0.62 95 0.534704269 4 9.596 2.22 95 0.028644828 14 11.193 2.54 95 0.012540534 26 11.838 2.69 95 0.008417504 Overall(b) Overall 7.940 3.17 95 0.002037650 NOTE: (a)P value was based on T test. (b)Overall was based on the average of least square means from Week 1 to Week 26.
TABLE 13B
C04-002; C04-001 and C04-002 Compared and Combined: Mixed model
analysis of change in Platelet Activation Markers; Change from Baseline
MONOCYTE PLATELET AGGREGATION
Study
Study Week
Statistic
DF
P Value(a)
Combined (N = 140)
Mean Baseline
31.302
Value
Least Square
1
4.971
1.15
133
0.250281818
Means
2
5.794
1.39
133
0.166169537
4
14.650
3.52
133
0.000591120
14
12.842
3.02
133
0.003059012
26
11.824
2.78
133
0.006256488
Overall(b)
Overall
10.092
3.47
133
0.000691639
Placebo (N = 44)
Mean Baseline
39.444
Value
Least Square
1
4.768
0.55
44
0.585815062
Means
2
−3.814
−0.45
44
0.652851604
4
5.484
0.63
44
0.531000233
14
−4.964
−0.55
44
0.583493606
26
13.523
1.61
44
0.115481853
Overall(b)
Overall
2.181
0.37
44
0.711338659
NOTE:
(a)P value was based on T test.
(b)Overall was based on the average of least square means from Week 1 to Week 26.
TABLE 13C
C04-002; C04-001 and C04-002 Compared and Combined: Mixed model analysis of
change in Platelet Activation Markers; Change from Baseline
NEUTROPHIL-PLATELET AGGREGATION
Study
Study Week
Statistic
DF
P Value(a)
C04-001 (N = 43)
Mean Baseline
23.555
Value
Least Square
1
6.057
0.75
34
0.457636650
Means
2
6.877
0.85
34
0.399618945
4
21.467
2.66
34
0.011756090
14
16.246
1.95
34
0.059947232
26
6.857
0.82
34
0.417142286
Overall(b)
Overall
11.222
1.83
34
0.076671903
C-04-002 (N = 97)
Mean Baseline
10.586
Value
Least Square
1
3.558
1.27
94
0.208460346
Means
2
0.353
0.13
94
0.894343104
4
4.011
1.51
94
0.133423112
14
9.505
3.52
94
0.000663614
26
8.476
3.14
94
0.002261817
Overall(b)
Overall
5.275
3.51
94
0.000679427
NOTE:
(a)P value was based on T test.
(b)Overall was based on the average of least square means from Week 1 to Week 26.
TABLE 13D
C04-002; C04-001 and C04-002 Compared and Combined: Mixed model
analysis of change in Platelet Activation Markers; Change from Baseline
NEUTROPHIL-PLATELET AGGREGATION
Study
Study Week
Statistic
DF
P Value(a)
Combined (N = 140)
Mean Baseline
14.188
Value
Least Square
1
4.232
1.38
133
0.170014676
Means
2
2.156
0.73
133
0.467887940
4
8.851
2.99
133
0.003344370
14
11.514
3.80
133
0.000220613
26
8.246
2.72
133
0.007382065
Overall(b)
Overall
6.999
3.44
133
0.000781995
Placebo (N = 44)
Mean Baseline
16.172
Value
Least Square
1
5.275
0.77
44
0.448005308
Means
2
−0.160
−0.02
44
0.980942735
4
9.719
1.41
44
0.165084720
14
4.415
0.62
44
0.539239191
26
17.220
2.58
44
0.013226012
Overall(b)
Overall
6.919
1.52
44
0.135363716
NOTE:
(a)P value was based on T test.
(b)Overall was based on the average of least square means from Week 1 to Week 26.
TABLE 13E
C04-002; C04-001 and C04-002 Compared and Combined: Mixed model
analysis of change in Platelet Activation Markers; Change from Baseline
P-SELECTIN EXPRESSION
Study
Study Week
Statistic
DF
P Value(a)
C04-001 (N = 43)
Mean Baseline
7.941
Value
Least Square
1
2.157
0.50
34
0.621911155
Means
2
5.479
1.26
34
0.214825093
4
7.478
1.73
34
0.093582884
14
6.591
1.45
34
0.157269235
26
6.011
1.32
34
0.195994953
Overall(b)
Overall
5.149
2.09
34
0.044482961
C-04-002 (N = 97)
Mean Baseline
7.517
Value
Least Square
1
4.462
2.12
95
0.036933290
Means
2
4.009
2.02
95
0.046211034
4
3.817
1.92
95
0.057451135
14
2.535
1.25
95
0.213238625
26
3.035
1.50
95
0.137140051
Overall(b)
Overall
3.671
3.45
95
0.000837199
NOTE:
(a)P value was based on T test.
(b)Overall was based on the average of least square means from Week 1 to Week 26.
TABLE 13F
C04-002; C04-001 and C04-002 Compared and Combined: Mixed model
analysis of change in Platelet Activation Markers; Change from Baseline
P-SELECTIN EXPRESSION
Study
Study Week
Statistic
DF
P Value(a)
Combined (N = 140)
Mean Baseline
7.635
Value
Least Square
1
3.763
1.92
133
0.056451906
Means
2
4.333
2.31
133
0.022390009
4
4.750
2.53
133
0.012475659
14
3.665
1.90
133
0.059358752
26
3.788
1.96
133
0.051519764
Overall(b)
Overall
4.106
3.86
133
0.000178203
Placebo (N = 44)
Mean Baseline
6.585
Value
Least Square
1
8.053
2.14
43
0.038297488
Means
2
5.063
1.40
43
0.168857949
4
6.484
1.72
43
0.092313078
14
6.383
1.62
43
0.112358382
26
3.403
0.94
43
0.352152288
Overall(b)
Overall
5.851
3.49
43
0.001115025
NOTE:
(a)P value was based on T test.
(b)Overall was based on the average of least square means from Week 1 to Week 26.
TABLE 14A
C04-001: Mixed Model Analyses of Platelet Activation Markers;
Change from Baseline
MONOCYTE-PLATELET AGGREGATION
Population: ITT
Degree of Freedom
Effect
Numerator
Denominator
F Statistic
P Value
Baseline Platelet
1
104
11.26
0.001105679
Assay
Week
5
104
1.33
0.255322788
Treatment
1
104
3.01
0.085849037
NOTE: Analysis based on North American ITT patients only as described in the protocol.
TABLE 14B
C04-001: Mixed Model Analyses of Platelet Activation Markers;
Change from Baseline
NEUTROPHIL-PLATELET AGGREGATION
Population: ITT
Degree of Freedom
Effect
Numerator
Denominator
F Statistic
P Value
Baseline Platelet
1
104
4.28
0.040938932
Assay
Week
5
104
2.20
0.060319683
Treatment
1
104
1.21
0.274747130
NOTE:
Analysis based on North American ITT patients only as described in the protocol.
TABLE 14C
C04-001: Mixed Model Analyses of Platelet Activation Markers;
Change from Baseline P-SELECTIN EXPRESSION
Population: ITT
Degree of Freedom
Effect
Numerator
Denominator
F Statistic
P Value
Baseline Platelet
1
103
9.01
0.003374798
Assay
Week
5
103
0.91
0.480577712
Treatment
1
103
0.26
0.613587524
NOTE:
Analysis based on North American ITT patients only as described in the protocol
Incorporation by Reference
All publications and patents mentioned herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety as if each individual publication or patent was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. In case of conflict, the present application, including any definitions herein, will control.
Equivalents
While specific embodiments of the subject inventions are explicitly disclosed herein, the above specification is illustrative and not restrictive. Many variations of the inventions will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this specification and the claims below. The full scope of the inventions should be determined by reference to the claims, along with their full scope of equivalents, and the specification, along with such variations.
1. A method of reducing the occurrence of thrombosis in a subject, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein said method comprises administering a compound to said subject, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of: a) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, b) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and c) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein said subject has a paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) granulocyte clone greater than 0. 1% of the total granulocyte count.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein said subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 1% of the total granulocyte count.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein said subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 10% of the total granulocyte count.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein said subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 50% of the total granulocyte count.
7. The method of claim 2, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of antibodies, soluble complement inhibitory compounds, proteins, protein fragments, peptides, small molecules, RNA aptamers, L-RNA aptamers, spiegelmers, antisense compounds, serine protease inhibitors, double stranded RNA, small interfering RNA, locked nucleic acid inhibitors, and peptide nucleic acid inhibitors.
8. The method of claim 2, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of CR1, LEX-CRI, MCP, DAF, CD59, Factor H, cobra venom factor, FUT-175, complestatin, and K76 COOH.
9. The method of claim 2, wherein said compound inhibits C5b activity.
10. The method of claim 2, wherein said compound inhibits cleavage of C5.
11. The method of claim 2, wherein said compound inhibits terminal complement.
12. The method of claim 2, wherein said compound inhibits C5a activity or inhibits binding of C5a to its receptor.
13. The method of claim 1, wherein said subject is a human.
14. The method of claim 1, wherein said subject has a history of one or more thrombotic events.
15. The method of claim 7, wherein said compound is an antibody or antibody fragment.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein said antibody or antibody fragment is selected from the group consisting of a polyclonal antibody, a monoclonal antibody or antibody fragment, a diabody, a chimerized or chimeric antibody or antibody fragment, a humanized antibody or antibody fragment, a deimmunized human antibody or antibody fragment, a fully human antibody or antibody fragment, a single chain antibody, an Fv, an Fab, an Fab′, an Fd, and an F(ab′)2.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
19. The method of claim 2, wherein said compound is administered chronically to said subject.
20. The method of claim 2, wherein said compound is administered systemically to said subject.
21. The method of claim 2, wherein said compound is administered locally to said subject.
22. The method of claim 1, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 25%.
23. The method of claim 1, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 50%.
24. The method of claim 1, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 75%.
25. The method of claim 1, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 90%.
26. The method of claim 1, wherein said method results in at least a 25% reduction in LDH levels.
27. The method of claim 1, wherein said method results in at least a 50% reduction in LDH levels.
28. The method of claim 1, wherein said method results in at least a 75% reduction in LDH levels.
29. The method of claim 1, wherein said method in a subject results in at least a 90% reduction in LDH levels.
30. The method of claim 2, further comprising administering a second compound, wherein said second compound increases hematopoiesis.
31. The method of claim 30, wherein the second compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, immunosuppressants, anti-coagulants, folic acid, iron, erythropoietin (EPO), pegylated EPO, EPO mimetics, Aranesp®, erythropoiesis stimulating agents, antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and antilymphocyte globulin (ALG).
32. The method of claim 31, wherein EPO is administered with an anti-C5 antibody.
33. The method of claim 32, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
34. The method of claim 32, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
35. The method of claim 2, further comprising administering an antithrombotic compound.
36. The method of claim 35, wherein said antithrombotic compound is an anticoagulant.
37. The method of claim 36, wherein said anticoagulant is administered with an anti-C5 antibody.
38. The method of claim 36, wherein said anticoagulant is an antiplatelet agent.
39. The method of claim 37, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
40. The method of claim 37, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
41. A method of reducing the occurrence of thrombosis in a subject who has a higher than normal lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject.
42. The method of claim 41 comprising administering a compound to said subject, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of: a) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, b) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and c) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components.
43. The method of claim 41, wherein said subject has an LDH level greater than the upper limit of normal.
44. The method of claim 41, wherein said subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 1.5 times the upper limit of normal.
45. The method of claim 41, wherein said subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 2.5 times the upper limit of normal.
46. The method of claim 41, wherein said subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 5 times the upper limit of normal.
47. The method of claim 41, wherein said subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 10 times the upper limit of normal.
48. The method of claim 42, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of antibodies, soluble complement inhibitory compounds, proteins, protein fragments, peptides, small molecules, RNA aptamers, L-RNA aptamers, spiegelmers, antisense compounds, serine protease inhibitors, double stranded RNA, small interfering RNA, locked nucleic acid inhibitors, and peptide nucleic acid inhibitors.
49. The method of claim 42, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of CR1, LEX-CRl, MCP, DAF, CD59, Factor H, cobra venom factor, FUT-175, complestatin, and K76 COOH.
50. The method of claim 42, wherein said compound inhibits C5b activity.
51. The method of claim 42, wherein said compound inhibits cleavage of C5.
52. The method of claim 42, wherein said compound inhibits terminal complement.
53. The method of claim 42, wherein said compound inhibits C5a activity or inhibits binding of C5a to its receptor.
54. The method of claim 41, wherein said subject is a human.
55. The method of claim 41, wherein said subject has a history of one or more thrombotic events.
56. The method of claim 42, wherein said compound is an antibody or antibody fragment.
57. The method of claim 56, wherein said antibody or antibody fragment is selected from the group consisting of a polyclonal antibody, a monoclonal antibody or antibody fragment, a diabody, a chimerized or chimeric antibody or antibody fragment, a humanized antibody or antibody fragment, a deimmunized human antibody or antibody fragment, a fully human antibody or antibody fragment, a single chain antibody, an Fv, an Fab, an Fab′, an Fd, and an F(ab′)2.
58. The method of claim 56, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
59. The method of claim 56, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
60. The method of claim 42, wherein said compound is administered chronically to said subject.
61. The method of claim 42, wherein said compound is administered systemically to said subject.
62. The method of claim 42, wherein said compound is administered locally to said subject.
63. The method of claim 41, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 25%.
64. The method of claim 41, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 50%.
65. The method of claim 41, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 75%.
66. The method of claim 41, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 90%.
67. The method of claim 41, wherein said method results in at least a 25% reduction in LDH levels.
68. The method of claim 41, wherein said method results in at least a 50% reduction in LDH levels.
69. The method of claim 41, wherein said method results in at least a 75% reduction in LDH levels.
70. The method of claim 41, wherein said method results in at least a 90% reduction in LDH levels.
71. The method of claim 42, further comprising administering a second compound, wherein said second compound increases hematopoiesis.
72. The method of claim 71, wherein the second compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, immunosuppressants, anti-coagulants, folic acid, iron, erythropoietin (EPO), pegylated EPO, EPO mimetics, Aranesp®, erythropoiesis stimulating agents, antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and antilymphocyte globulin (ALG).
73. The method of claim 72, wherein EPO is administered with an anti-C5 antibody.
74. The method of claim 73, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
75. The method of claim 73, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
76. The method of claim 42, further comprising administering an antithrombotic compound.
77. The method of claim 76, wherein said antithrombotic compound is an anticoagulant.
78. The method of claim 77, wherein said anticoagulant is administered with an anti-C5 antibody.
79. The method of claim 77, wherein said anticoagulant is an antiplatelet agent.
80. The method of claim 78, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
81. The method of claim 78, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
82. A method of reducing the occurrence of thrombosis in a subject who has a PNH granulocyte clone and an LDH level greater than the upper limit of normal, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject.
83. The method of claim 82 comprising administering a compound to said subject, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of: a) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, b) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and c) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components.
84. The method of claim 82, wherein said subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 0.1% of the total granulocyte count.
85. The method of claim 82, wherein said subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 0.1% of the total granulocyte count.
86. The method of claim 82, wherein said subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 1% of the total granulocyte count.
87. The method of claim 82, wherein said subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 10% of the total granulocyte count.
88. The method of claim 82, wherein said subject has a PNH granulocyte clone greater than 50% of the total granulocyte count.
89. The method of claim 83, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of antibodies, soluble complement inhibitory compounds, proteins, protein fragments, peptides, small molecules, RNA aptamers, L-RNA aptamers, spiegelmers, antisense compounds, serine protease inhibitors, double stranded RNA, small interfering RNA, locked nucleic acid inhibitors, and peptide nucleic acid inhibitors.
90. The method of claim 83, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of CR1, LEX-CRI, MCP, DAF, CD59, Factor H, cobra venom factor, FUT-175, complestatin, and K76 COOH.
91. The method of claim 83, wherein said compound inhibits C5b activity.
92. The method of claim 83, wherein said compound inhibits cleavage of C5.
93. The method of claim 83, wherein said compound inhibits terminal complement.
94. The method of claim 83, wherein said compound inhibits C5a activity or inhibits binding of C5a to its receptor.
95. The method of claim 82, wherein said subject is a human.
96. The method of claim 82, wherein said subject has a history of one or more thrombotic events.
97. The method of claim 89, wherein said compound is an antibody or antibody fragment.
98. The method of claim 97, wherein said antibody or antibody fragment is selected from the group consisting of a polyclonal antibody, a monoclonal antibody or antibody fragment, a diabody, a chimerized or chimeric antibody or antibody fragment, a humanized antibody or antibody fragment, a deimmunized human antibody or antibody fragment, a fully human antibody or antibody fragment, a single chain antibody, an Fv, an Fab, an Fab′, an Fd, and an F(ab′)2.
99. The method of claim 97, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
100. The method of claim 97, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
101. The method of claim 83, wherein said compound is administered chronically to said subject.
102. The method of claim 83, wherein said compound is administered systemically to said subject.
103. The method of claim 83, wherein said compound is administered locally to said subject.
104. The method of claim 82, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 25%.
105. The method of claim 82, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 50%.
106. The method of claim 82, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 75%.
107. The method of claim 82, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 90%.
108. The method of claim 82, wherein said method results in at least a 25% reduction in LDH levels.
109. The method of claim 82, wherein said method results in at least a 50% reduction in LDH levels.
110. The method of claim 82, wherein said method results in at least a 75% reduction in LDH levels.
111. The method of claim 82, wherein said method results in at least a 90% reduction in LDH levels.
112. The method of claim 83, further comprising administering a second compound, wherein said second compound increases hematopoiesis.
113. The method of claim 112, wherein the second compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, immunosuppressants, anti-coagulants, folic acid, iron, erythropoietin (EPO), pegylated EPO, EPO mimetics, Aranesp®, erythropoiesis stimulating agents, antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and antilymphocyte globulin (ALG).
114. The method of claim 113, wherein EPO is administered with an anti-C5 antibody.
115. The method of claim 114, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
116. The method of claim 114, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
117. The method of claim 83, further comprising administering an antithrombotic compound.
118. The method of claim 117, wherein said antithrombotic compound is an anticoagulant.
119. The method of claim 118, wherein said anticoagulant is administered with an anti-C5 antibody.
120. The method of claim 118, wherein said anticoagulant is an antiplatelet agent.
121. The method of claim 119, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
122. The method of claim 119, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
123. A method of reducing the occurrence of thrombosis in a subject suffering from a lower than normal nitric oxide (NO) level, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject.
124. The method of claim 123 comprising administering a compound to said subject, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of: i) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, ii) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and iii) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components, wherein said method increases serum nitric oxide (NO) levels.
125. The method of claim 123, wherein said method increases NO levels by greater than 25%.
126. The method of claim 123, wherein said method increases NO levels by greater than 50%.
127. The method of claim 123, wherein said method increases NO levels by greater than 100%.
128. The method of claim 123, wherein said method increases NO levels by greater than 3 fold.
129. The method of claim 123, wherein the subject has PNH.
130. The method of claim 124, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of antibodies, soluble complement inhibitory compounds, proteins, protein fragments, peptides, small molecules, RNA aptamers, L-RNA aptamers, spiegelmers, antisense compounds, serine protease inhibitors, double stranded RNA, small interfering RNA, locked nucleic acid inhibitors, and peptide nucleic acid inhibitors.
131. The method of claim 124, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of CR1, LEX-CRI, MCP, DAF, CD59, Factor H, cobra venom factor, FUT-175, complestatin, and K76 COOH.
132. The method of claim 124, wherein said compound inhibits C5b activity.
133. The method of claim 124, wherein said compound inhibits cleavage of C5.
134. The method of claim 124, wherein said compound inhibits terminal complement.
135. The method of claim 124, wherein said compound inhibits C5a activity or inhibits binding of C5a to its receptor.
136. The method of claim 123, wherein said subject is a human.
137. The method of claim 123, wherein said subject has a history of one or more thrombotic events.
138. The method of claim 130, wherein said compound is an antibody or antibody fragment.
139. The method of claim 138, wherein said antibody or antibody fragment is selected from the group consisting of a polyclonal antibody, a monoclonal antibody or antibody fragment, a diabody, a chimerized or chimeric antibody or antibody fragment, a humanized antibody or antibody fragment, a deimmunized human antibody or antibody fragment, a fully human antibody or antibody fragment, a single chain antibody, an Fv, an Fab, an Fab′, an Fd, and an F(ab′)2.
140. The method of claim 138, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
141. The method of claim 138, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
142. The method of claim 124, wherein said compound is administered chronically to said subject.
143. The method of claim 124, wherein said compound is administered systemically to said subject.
144. The method of claim 124, wherein said compound is administered locally to said subject.
145. The method of claim 123, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 25%.
146. The method of claim 123, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 50%.
147. The method of claim 123, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 75%.
148. The method of claim 123, wherein said method reduces rates of thromboembolism by greater than 90%.
149. The method of claim 123, wherein said method results in at least a 25% reduction in LDH levels.
150. The method of claim 123, wherein said method results in at least a 50% reduction in LDH levels.
151. The method of claim 123, wherein said method results in at least a 75% reduction in LDH levels.
152. The method of claim 123, wherein said method results in at least a 90% reduction in LDH levels.
153. The method of claim 124, further comprising administering a second compound, wherein said second compound increases hematopoiesis.
154. The method of claim 153, wherein the second compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, immunosuppressants, anti-coagulants, folic acid, iron, erythropoietin (EPO), pegylated EPO, EPO mimetics, Aranesp®, erythropoiesis stimulating agents, antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and antilymphocyte globulin (ALG).
155. The method of claim 154, wherein EPO is administered with an anti-C5 antibody.
156. The method of claim 155, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
157. The method of claim 155, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
158. The method of claim 124, further comprising administering an antithrombotic compound.
159. The method of claim 158, wherein said antithrombotic compound is an anticoagulant.
160. The method of claim 159, wherein said anticoagulant is administered with an anti-C5 antibody.
161. The method of claim 159, wherein said anticoagulant is an antiplatelet agent.
162. The method of claim 160, wherein said antibody is pexelizumab.
163. The method of claim 160, wherein said antibody is eculizumab.
164. A method of determining whether a subject having a hemolytic disorder is susceptible to thrombosis comprising measuring the PNH granulocyte clone size of said subject, wherein if the clone size is greater than 0.1% then said subject is susceptible to thrombosis.
165. The method of claim 164, wherein said clone size is greater than 1%.
166. The method of claim 164, wherein said clone size is greater than 10%.
167. The method of claim 164, wherein said clone size is greater than 50%.
168. A method of increasing PNH red blood cell mass of a subject, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject.
169. The method of claim 168 comprising administering a compound to the subject, the compound being selected from the group consisting of: i) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, ii) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and iii) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components.
170. The method of claim 168, wherein said subject has a PNH granulocyte clone.
171. The method of claim 170, wherein said PNH granulocyte clone is greater than 0.1% of the total granulocyte count.
172. The method of claim 170, wherein said PNH granulocyte clone is greater than I% of the total granulocyte count.
173. The method of claim 170, wherein said PNH granulocyte clone is greater than 10% of the total granulocyte count.
174. The method of claim 170, wherein said PNH granulocyte clone is greater than 50% of the total granulocyte count.
175. The method of claim 168, wherein said subject has an LDH level greater than the upper limit of normal.
176. The method of claim 175, wherein said subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 1.5 times the upper limit of normal.
177. The method of claim 175, wherein said subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 2.5 times the upper limit of normal.
178. The method of claim 175, wherein said subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 5 times the upper limit of normal.
179. The method of claim 175, wherein said subject has an LDH level greater than or equal to 10 times the upper limit of normal.
180. A method of treating hemolytic anemia in a subject, said method comprising inhibiting complement in said subject.
181. The method of claim 180, wherein said method comprises administering a compound to the subject, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of: i) compounds which bind to one or more complement components, ii) compounds which block the generation of one or more complement components, and iii) compounds which block the activity of one or more complement components, wherein said method increases red blood cell (RBC) mass.
182. The method of claim 181, wherein RBC mass is measured as the absolute number of RBCs.
183. The method of claim 181, wherein RBC mass is PNH RBC mass.
184. The method of claim 183, wherein said method increases RBC mass by greater than 10%.
185. The method of claim 183, wherein said method increases RBC mass by greater than 25%.
186. The method of claim 183, wherein said method increases RBC mass by greater than 50%.
187. The method of claim 183, wherein said method increases RBC mass by greater than 100%.
188. The method of claim 183, wherein said method increases RBC mass by greater than 2 fold.
189. The method of claim 180, wherein said method decreases transfusion requirements.
190. The method of claim 180, wherein said method stabilizes hemoglobin levels.
191. The method of claim 180, wherein said method causes an increase in hemoglobin levels.
| 2006-11-08 | en | 2007-05-24 |
US-26658008-A | Implementing Variation Tolerant Memory Array Signal Timing
ABSTRACT
A method and signal timing adjustment circuit for implementing variation tolerant memory array signal timing, and a design structure on which the subject circuit resides are provided. A logic circuit generates a first delay signal based upon logic devices forming the logic circuit. A memory cell circuit receives the first delay signal and generates control signals responsive to the first delay signal and based upon memory cell devices forming the memory cell circuit. A programmable logic delay circuit receives the control signals and generates a timing adjustment signal.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to the data processing field, and more particularly, relates to a method and circuit for implementing variation tolerant memory array signal timing, and a design structure on which the subject circuit resides.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
In advanced CMOS technologies it is becoming common practice for static random access memory (SRAM) cells to have unique voltage threshold (Vt) implants independent from other standard logic devices. This causes SRAM cell variation to be independent of logic device variation.
As a result, process variation can cause logic devices to speed up while SRAM cells slow down or vice versa. This is a problem in sensitive SRAM array circuits where timing on certain signals is critical to the operation of the design.
For example, the wordline pulse width is tuned according to the performance of the SRAM cell, but in current methodology logic devices determine wordline pulse width. Other sensitive signals that are tuned according to the performance of the SRAM cell are the sense amplifier set signal in sense amplifier designs and the global precharge signal in domino designs. In current methodology, logic devices determine the timing of both of these signals.
A need exists for an effective mechanism for implementing variation tolerant memory array signal timing.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Principal aspects of the present invention are to provide a method and circuit for implementing variation tolerant memory array signal timing, and a design structure on which the subject circuit resides. Other important aspects of the present invention are to provide such method, circuit, and design structure substantially without negative effect and that overcome many of the disadvantages of prior art arrangements.
In brief, a method and circuit for implementing variation tolerant memory array signal timing, and a design structure on which the subject circuit resides are provided. A logic circuit generates a first delay signal based upon logic devices forming the logic circuit. A memory cell circuit receives the first delay signal and generates control signals responsive to the first delay signal and based upon memory cell devices forming the memory cell circuit. A programmable logic delay circuit receives the control signals and generates a timing adjustment signal.
In accordance with features of the invention, the logic circuit generates the first delay signal includes a logic device pulse generator. The logic device pulse generator generates an output pulse having a width dependent upon a delay of the logic devices forming the logic device pulse generator circuit.
In accordance with features of the invention, the memory cell circuit receives the first delay signal and generates control signals includes a static random access memory (SRAM) oscillator and a plurality of latches connected to the SRAM oscillator. A respective latch is coupled to each respective stage of the SRAM oscillator. An output of the latches provides the control signals responsive to the first delay signal and based upon memory cell devices forming the memory cell circuit.
In accordance with features of the invention, the programmable logic delay circuit is formed of logic devices that are programmable by the control signals.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention together with the above and other objects and advantages may best be understood from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention illustrated in the drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example signal timing adjustment circuit for implementing variation tolerant memory array signal timing in accordance with the preferred embodiment; and
FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of a design process used in semiconductor design, manufacturing, and/or test.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
In accordance with features of the invention, a signal timing adjustment circuit is provided for setting the timing of critical signals in memory arrays properly across logic device and memory device process variation. The signal timing adjustment circuit adjusts timing of memory array sensitive signals to account for independent variation of logic devices and memory devices.
Having reference now to the drawings, in FIG. 1, there is shown a signal timing adjustment circuit generally designated by the reference character 100 in accordance with the preferred embodiment. Signal timing adjustment circuit 100 includes a Logic Device Pulse Generator 102, a static random access memory (SRAM) oscillator 104 formed of SRAM cells, a plurality of latches 106, #1-#N, each latch 106 coupled to a respective stage STG_1-STG_N of the SRAM oscillator 104, and a programmable logic delay 108.
The signal timing adjustment circuit 100 is used for properly setting the timing of critical signals in memory arrays across logic device and memory device process variation. The signal timing adjustment circuit 100 receives an input signal SET DELAY and provides an output SA_SET.
The Logic Device Pulse Generator 102 uses logic devices to create an output pulse responsive to the input signal SET DELAY. The width of the output pulse is dependent upon the delay through the logic devices. The output pulse width reflects logic device process variation. The pulse output of the Logic Device Pulse Generator 102 is applied via a pair of series connected inverters 110, 112 to the SRAM oscillator 104.
The SRAM oscillator 104 is a ring oscillator circuit having a series read and parallel restore operation, and configured with no feedback so that SRAM oscillator 104 does not oscillate. The delay through the SRAM oscillator 104 is determined by the SRAM cell performance of the SRAM cells forming the SRAM oscillator 104 responsive to the applied pulse output of the Logic Device Pulse Generator 102. The SRAM oscillator 104 includes the plurality of stages #1-N providing respective output signals STG_1-STG_N that after input GO transitions high, the signals STG_1 through STG_N sequentially go high. The time it takes for this ‘1’ to propagate through the signals STG_1 through STG_N is determined by the speed of the SRAM cell forming the SRAM oscillator 104. When the GO signal is low, the signals STG_1 through STG_N are reset in parallel back to ‘0’.
A respective example circuit for implementing the Logic Device Pulse Generator 102 and the Programmable Logic Delay 108 is shown in FIG. 1, while it should be understood that various other circuits could be used to implement the Logic Device Pulse Generator 102 and the Programmable Logic Delay 108.
As shown in FIG. 1, the input signal SET DELAY to the Logic Device Pulse Generator 102 is applied to an AND gate 120. A plurality of inverters 122, 124, 126 arranged in a string receiving the input signal SET DELAY and providing a delayed input to a second input of the AND gate 120. The output of AND gate is an output pulse having a width dependent upon the delay through the logic devices defining the AND gate 120 and inverters 122, 124, 126.
The illustrated Programmable Logic Delay 108 includes a plurality of inverters 130, 132, 134, 136 arranged in a string and defined by logic devices, generating a delay that is programmable via the control signals C_1 through C_N.
Operation of the signal timing adjustment circuit 100 may be further understood as follows: When the input signal SET DELAY transitions high, the Logic Device Pulse Generator 102 generates a pulse at its output. This output pulse width is dependent upon the delay of the logic devices, which are used to form the Logic Device Pulse Generator 102. If logic devices speed up due to process variation, the pulse width will be smaller. If logic devices slow down due to process variation, the pulse width will be wider.
While the output pulse applied to input GO of SRAM oscillator 104 is high, the latches 106 become transparent and the SRAM Oscillator 104 (having no feedback so it does not oscillate) begins to propagate a ‘1’ on STG_1 through STG_N. The speed at which the ‘1’s are propagated on STG_1 through STG_N is determined by the speed of the SRAM cells. If the SRAM cells speed up, the propagation will happen faster. If the SRAM cells slow down the propagation will happen slower.
When the output pulse applied to input GO of SRAM oscillator 104 goes low, the number of STG_X signals that went high is captured in the latches 106. Also, after a small delay shown by the inverters 110, 112, the input GO signal controlling the SRAM Oscillator 104 goes low causing the signals STG_1 through STG_N to be reset back to ‘0’. The delay through inverters 110, 112 is adjusted to guard against STG_1 through STG_N precharged values flushing into the latches 106.
Now, there are ‘1’s stored in the first portion of the latches 106 and ‘0’s stored in the last portion of the latches 106. The amount of logic delay in the Logic Pulse Generator 102 and the number of stages of the SRAM Oscillator 104 is chosen such that under nominal process conditions half of the latches capture a ‘1’.
The data stored in the latches 106 at latch output D OUT are connected to control the Programmable Logic Delay 108. These control signals are connected or decoded within the Programmable Logic Delay 108 such that more l's stored in the latches 106 means that the Programmable Logic Delay 108 is programmed for less delay. This is because if more than half of the latches store ‘1’s, then the logic devices must be slow relative to the SRAM devices. Also, if less than half of the latches store ‘1’s, the Programmable Logic Delay 102 is programmed for more delay. This is because if less than half of the latches store ‘1’s, the logic devices are fast relative to the SRAM devices. Each possible number of ‘1’s in the latches 106 maps to a different amount of delay provided by the Programmable Logic Delay 108.
The output of the Programmable Logic Delay 108 is labeled SASET and could be used to selectively control sense amplifiers, wordline pulse widths, and global precharge signals. Also, the control signals C_1 through C_N can be connected to a Programmable Logic Delay that is built into one memory macro or many memory macros.
In summary, the signal timing adjustment circuit 100 measures the relative performance of logic devices and SRAM cells and adjusts the critical signal timing of memory arrays or macros accordingly.
It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the illustrated signal timing adjustment circuit 100. For example, various different circuits can be provided to implement the Programmable Logic Delay 102, SRAM oscillator 104, latches 106, and the Programmable Logic Delay 108. Also protection against a defect in the SRAM Oscillator can be provided. For example, replacing the latches 106 with scannable latches can provide this Then, if it is determined that there is a defect in the SRAM Oscillator 104, a nominal value would be scanned into the latches to set the Programmable Logic Delay to a nominal delay value. Then, all circuits dependant on this signal timing adjustment circuit 100 could still operate as normal.
FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of an example design flow 200. Design flow 200 may vary depending on the type of IC being designed. For example, a design flow 200 for building an application specific IC (ASIC) may differ from a design flow 200 for designing a standard component. Design structure 202 is preferably an input to a design process 204 and may come from an IP provider, a core developer, or other design company or may be generated by the operator of the design flow, or from other sources. Design structure 202 comprises circuit 100 in the form of schematics or HDL, a hardware-description language, for example, Verilog, VHDL, C, and the like. Design structure 202 may be contained on one or more machine readable medium. For example, design structure 202 may be a text file or a graphical representation of circuit 100. Design process 204 preferably synthesizes, or translates, circuit 100 into a netlist 206, where netlist 206 is, for example, a list of wires, transistors, logic gates, control circuits, I/O, models, etc. that describes the connections to other elements and circuits in an integrated circuit design and recorded on at least one of machine readable medium. This may be an iterative process in which netlist 206 is resynthesized one or more times depending on design specifications and parameters for the circuit.
Design process 204 may include using a variety of inputs; for example, inputs from library elements 208 which may house a set of commonly used elements, circuits, and devices, including models, layouts, and symbolic representations, for a given manufacturing technology, such as different technology nodes, 32 nm, 45 nm, 90 nm, and the like, design specifications 210, characterization data 212, verification data 214, design rules 216, and test data files 218, which may include test patterns and other testing information. Design process 204 may further include, for example, standard circuit design processes such as timing analysis, verification, design rule checking, place and route operations, and the like. One of ordinary skill in the art of integrated circuit design can appreciate the extent of possible electronic design automation tools and applications used in design process 204 without deviating from the scope and spirit of the invention. The design structure of the invention is not limited to any specific design flow.
Design process 204 preferably translates an embodiment of the invention as shown in FIG. 1 along with any additional integrated circuit design or data (if applicable), into a second design structure 220. Design structure 220 resides on a storage medium in a data format used for the exchange of layout data of integrated circuits, for example, information stored in a GDSII (GDS2), GL1, OASIS, or any other suitable format for storing such design structures. Design structure 220 may comprise information such as, for example, test data files, design content files, manufacturing data, layout parameters, wires, levels of metal, vias, shapes, data for routing through the manufacturing line, and any other data required by a semiconductor manufacturer to produce an embodiment of the invention as shown in FIG. 1. Design structure 220 may then proceed to a stage 222 where, for example, design structure 220 proceeds to tape-out, is released to manufacturing, is released to a mask house, is sent to another design house, is sent back to the customer, and the like.
While the present invention has been described with reference to the details of the embodiments of the invention shown in the drawing, these details are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as claimed in the appended claims.
1. A signal timing adjustment circuit for implementing variation tolerant memory array signal timing comprising:
a set delay signal; a logic circuit formed of logic devices, said logic circuit receiving the set delay signal and generating a first delay signal based upon logic devices forming the logic circuit; a memory cell circuit formed of memory cell devices, said memory cell circuit receiving the first delay signal and generating control signals responsive to the first delay signal and based upon memory cell devices forming the memory cell circuit; and a programmable logic delay circuit coupled to said memory cell circuit, said programmable logic delay circuit receiving the control signals and generating a timing adjustment signal.
2. The signal timing adjustment circuit as recited in claim 1, wherein said logic circuit generating the first delay signal includes a logic device pulse generator.
3. The signal timing adjustment circuit as recited in claim 2, wherein said logic device pulse generator generates an output pulse having a width dependent upon a delay of the logic devices forming the logic circuit pulse generator.
4. The signal timing adjustment circuit as recited in claim 1, wherein said memory cell circuit includes a static random access memory (SRAM) oscillator.
5. The signal timing adjustment circuit as recited in claim 4, further includes a plurality of latches connected to the SRAM oscillator.
6. The signal timing adjustment circuit as recited in claim 5, wherein a respective latch of said plurality of latches is coupled to each respective stage of said SRAM oscillator.
7. The signal timing adjustment circuit as recited in claim 6, wherein an output of said latches provides the control signals responsive to the first delay signal and based upon memory cell devices forming the memory cell circuit.
8. The signal timing adjustment circuit as recited in claim 1, wherein said programmable logic delay circuit is formed of a plurality of logic devices, said plurality of logic devices are programmable by the control signals.
9. A signal timing adjustment method for implementing variation tolerant memory array signal timing comprising:
providing a set delay signal; providing a logic circuit formed of logic devices, applying the set delay signal to said logic circuit and generating a first delay signal based upon logic devices forming the logic circuit; providing a memory cell circuit formed of memory cell devices, applying the first delay signal to said memory cell circuit and generating control signals responsive to the first delay signal and based upon memory cell devices forming the memory cell circuit; and providing a programmable logic delay circuit coupled to said memory cell circuit, applying the control signals to said programmable logic delay circuit and generating a timing adjustment signal.
10. The signal timing adjustment method as recited in claim 9, wherein providing a logic circuit formed of logic devices includes providing a logic circuit pulse generator.
11. The signal timing adjustment method as recited in claim 10, wherein generating a first delay signal based upon logic devices forming the logic circuit includes generating an output pulse having a width dependent upon a delay of the logic devices forming said logic circuit pulse generator.
12. The signal timing adjustment method as recited in claim 9, wherein providing a memory cell circuit formed of memory cell devices includes providing a static random access memory (SRAM) oscillator and a plurality of latches connected to the SRAM oscillator.
13. The signal timing adjustment method as recited in claim 12, wherein a respective latch of said plurality of latches is coupled to each respective stage of said SRAM oscillator, and providing an output of said latches for generating the control signals responsive to the first delay signal and based upon memory cell devices forming the memory cell circuit.
14. The signal timing adjustment method as recited in claim 9, wherein providing said programmable logic delay circuit includes forming said programmable logic delay circuit of a plurality of logic devices, and programming said plurality of logic devices by the control signals.
15. A design structure tangibly embodied in a machine readable medium used in a design process, the design structure comprising:
a signal timing adjustment circuit tangibly embodied in the machine readable medium used in the design process, said signal timing adjustment circuit implementing variation tolerant memory array signal timing and said signal timing adjustment circuit including a set delay signal; a logic circuit formed of logic devices, said logic circuit receiving the set delay signal and generating a first delay signal based upon logic devices forming the logic circuit; a memory cell circuit formed of memory cell devices, said memory cell circuit receiving the first delay signal and generating control signals responsive to the first delay signal and based upon memory cell devices forming the memory cell circuit; and a programmable logic delay circuit coupled to said memory cell circuit, said programmable logic delay circuit receiving the control signals and generating a timing adjustment signal, wherein the design structure, when read and used in the manufacture of a semiconductor chip produces a chip comprising said signal timing adjustment circuit.
16. The design structure of claim 15, wherein the design structure comprises a netlist, which describes said signal timing adjustment circuit.
17. The design structure of claim 15, wherein the design structure resides on storage medium as a data format used for the exchange of layout data of integrated circuits.
18. The design structure of claim 15, wherein the design structure includes at least one of test data files, characterization data, verification data, or design specifications.
19. The design structure of claim 15, wherein said logic circuit generating the first delay signal includes a logic device pulse generator, and said logic device pulse generator generates an output pulse having a width dependent upon a delay of the logic devices forming the logic circuit pulse generator.
20. The design structure of claim 15, wherein said memory cell circuit includes a static random access memory (SRAM) oscillator and a plurality of latches connected to the SRAM oscillator; and a respective latch of said plurality of latches is coupled to each respective stage of said SRAM oscillator, and an output of said latches generating the control signals responsive to the first delay signal and based upon memory cell devices forming the memory cell circuit.
| 2008-11-07 | en | 2010-05-13 |
US-201715546494-A | Tire vulcanizer
ABSTRACT
A tire vulcanizer including: a base which supports a lower mold; a beam which supports an upper mold; a tie rod which is disposed to be fixed to one of the base and the beam on one end side thereof and has a plurality of engaged portions provided at predetermined intervals in an axis line direction along an up-and-down direction on the other end side; engaging means which is provided at the other of the base and the beam and engaged with the engaged portion of the tie rod to restrict a movement of the tie rod in the axis line direction; and pressurizing means for pressing the lower mold and the upper mold which are in a mold-closed state, so as to perform mold-clamping.
RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application is a National Phase of International Application Number PCT/JP2017/004538 filed Feb. 8, 2017.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a tire vulcanizer and particularly to a tire vulcanizer provided with a tie rod clamping mechanism capable of adjusting a mold height.
BACKGROUND ART
When manufacturing a tire, a tire vulcanizer is used which makes a raw rubber tire (a green tire), molded into a shape close to that of a finished product in advance, into the shape of a completed tire by putting the raw rubber tire in a mold and performing vulcanization treatment by applying heat and pressure.
This tire vulcanizer is provided with an elevating mechanism for moving the mold up and down and a pressurizing mechanism.
The elevating mechanism is for switching the position of the mold between the fully closed position of the mold at the time of vulcanization and the fully opened position of the mold at the time of loading and unloading of the green tire and is configured so as to move the upper mold supported on a beam, a bolster plate, and the like up and down in an up-and-down direction with, for example, a pair of elevating cylinders as a drive source and with a rail as a guide. Further, the elevating mechanism is configured so as to fix the tie rod at the stage where it is fitted to the fully closed position of the mold, thereby holding the clamped mold in this state.
The pressurizing mechanism is for pressing the upper mold or the lower mold at the fully closed position of the mold and pressurizing the green tire in the upper and lower molds during vulcanization. The pressurizing mechanism is configured so as to press the upper mold by pushing the lower mold upward by driving of a doughnut-shaped piston disposed above the base, for example.
On the other hand, in order to cope with a case of replacement with a mold of a different size according to a tire size, a case where a dimensional difference between a cold mold and a preheated and thermally expanded mold or a dimensional difference due to a manufacturing error of a mold occurs, or the like, a mold height adjustment mechanism for adjusting the position of the mold is provided.
As the configuration of this mold height adjustment mechanism, for example, a method of steplessly adjusting the height of a pressurizing plate for pressurizing a mold by a screw mechanism provided at a beam or a base, a method of steplessly adjusting the length of a tie rod by rotating a screw type tie rod, a method of adjusting a height by providing a plurality of grooves for clamping and fixing a tie rod at the fully closed position of a mold in the tie rod and changing the position of the groove at the time of clamping, or the like is used (refer to, for example, PTL 1 to PTL 5).
CITATION LIST
Patent Literature
[PTL 1] Japanese Patent No. 3254100
[PTL 2] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 04-332607
[PTL 3] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 05-96547
[PTL 4] Japanese Patent No. 3806247
[PTL 4] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2000-6153
[PTL 5] German Patent Application Publication No. 19817822
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Technical Problem
However, in a mold height adjustment mechanism using the method of adjusting the height of the pressurizing plate by the screw mechanism provided at the beam or the base or the method of adjusting a height by rotating the screw type tie rod, the height position can be adjusted steplessly. However, the cost of the apparatus increases due to an electric motor or the like being required to rotationally drive the screw mechanism or the screw type tie rod, the pressurizing plate being required separately, and the like.
Further, in a mold height adjustment mechanism using the method of adjusting a height by providing a plurality of grooves in a tie rod and changing a clamping position, as in PTL 5, a pressurizing cylinder having a stroke greater than or equal to a pitch length of the groove of the tie rod is required. That is, the pressurizing cylinder having a long stroke is required, and therefore, the cost of the apparatus increases. Further, in a case where leakage of a working fluid occurs in the pressurizing cylinder having a long stroke, press opening (opening amount) of an upper mold and a lower mold of a tire vulcanizer becomes large according to the large stroke, and thus there is a concern that a green tire may be rapidly scattered to the outside from the gap between the molds caused by the press opening.
Further, even if the position of the groove is determined in accordance with a mold used in a tire manufacturing company such that the pressurizing cylinder having a long stroke becomes unnecessary, an opportune design is made, and thus a design cost increases. Further, the standardization of parts cannot be achieved, and therefore, adverse effects also occur in terms of a cost and a delivery date.
Further, in the mold height adjustment mechanism using the method of adjusting a height by providing a plurality of grooves in a tie rod and changing a clamping position, it is necessary to put a clamping plate in the groove at an appropriate position among the plurality of grooves, and therefore, position control at the time of fully closing of a mold is required.
Further, in a case where clamping is performed at the time of mounting of a cold mold and the mold is then preheated, the engagement portion between the tie rod and the clamping plate is tightened with a strong force due to the thermal expansion of the mold, and thus there is a concern that the clamping plate may not be detached even after release of the pressurizing force.
Solution to Problem
A tire vulcanizer according to the present invention includes: a base which supports a lower mold; a beam which supports an upper mold; a tie rod which is disposed to be fixed to one of the base and the beam on one end side thereof and has a plurality of engaged portions provided at predetermined intervals in an axis line direction along an up-and-down direction on the other end side; engaging means which is provided at the other of the base and the beam and engaged with the engaged portion of the tie rod to restrict a movement of the tie rod in the axis line direction; and pressurizing means for pressing the lower mold and the upper mold which are in a mold-closed state, so as to perform mold-clamping, and the engaging means includes an engaging member provided so as to be able to advance and retreat in a direction orthogonal to the axis line direction between an engaging position where the engaging member is engaged with the engaged portion of the tie rod to clamp the tie rod and a retracted position where the engaging member is separated from the engaged portion, clamping and holding drive means for switching between an engagement state and a disengagement state of the engaging means with respect to the engaged portion by advancing and retreating the engaging member, a supporting member which supports the engaging means and the clamping and holding drive means with respect to the other of the base and the beam so as to be movable in the axis line direction, and a height adjustment mechanism which advances and retreats the supporting member in the axis line direction within at least a range of a gap between the engaged portions adjacent to each other in the axis line direction.
In the tire vulcanizer according to the present invention, it is preferable that the engaging means and/or the supporting member is disposed with a gap between the engaging means and/or the supporting member and a lower surface of the base or an upper surface of the beam which is the other of the base and the beam, in a state before the tie rod is clamped.
In the tire vulcanizer according to the present invention, it is preferable that the height adjustment mechanism includes a pair of air cylinders disposed back to back with an axis line direction in which a rod advances and retreats being directed in the up-and-down direction, and is configured such that a tip of the rod of the air cylinder on one side is connected to the supporting member and a tip of the rod of the air cylinder on the other side is connected to the other of the base and the beam.
In the tire vulcanizer according to the present invention, it is preferable that a pressurizing force of the air cylinder of the height adjustment mechanism is smaller than a pressurizing force of the pressurizing means.
In the tire vulcanizer according to the present invention, it is preferable that the pressurizing means is a doughnut-shaped pressurizing cylinder.
Advantageous Effects of Invention
In the tire vulcanizer according to the present invention, a non-step mold height adjustment mechanism using an electric motor or the like and another pressurizing plate become unnecessary, and thus it is possible to attain cost reduction and shortening of a delivery date.
Further, the stroke of a doughnut-shaped piston can be reduced, such as reducing the stroke to 20 mm or less, and therefore, the cost does not increase. Accordingly, there is little danger due to press opening.
Further, in a clamping device having a float mechanism, a gap is always provided between the clamping device and a beam (or a base) before clamping, and therefore, for example, even if the mold thermally expands during clamping, if pressurization is released, a clamp can be removed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a front view showing a tire vulcanizer according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a side view showing the tire vulcanizer according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a front view showing a clamping and holding mechanism of the tire vulcanizer according to the embodiment of the present invention and is a diagram showing a state where a pair of engaging members is retracted (a state where engagement and clamping are released).
FIG. 4 is a diagram as viewed in the direction of an arrow on line X1-X1 of FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 is a side view showing the clamping and holding mechanism of the tire vulcanizer according to the embodiment of the present invention and is a diagram showing a state where the pair of engaging members is advanced to clamp and hold a tie rod (an engagement state).
FIG. 6 is a diagram as viewed in the direction of an arrow on line X1-X1 of FIG. 5.
FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D are diagrams showing each step of adjusting a height using a height adjustment mechanism of the clamping and holding mechanism of the tire vulcanizer according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E are diagrams showing each step of adjusting a height using the height adjustment mechanism of the clamping and holding mechanism of the tire vulcanizer according to the embodiment of the present invention and is a diagram showing a difference in engagement state between an engaged portion of the tie rod and engaging means.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
Hereinafter, a tire vulcanizer according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8.
Here, this embodiment relates to a tire vulcanizer for finishing a raw rubber tire (a green tire) molded into a shape close to that of a finished product in advance into the shape of a completed tire by putting the raw rubber tire in a mold and performing vulcanization treatment by applying heat and pressure, at the time of tire manufacturing.
In this embodiment, a tire vulcanizer which is provided with two right and left mold opening and closing devices and in which each of the mold opening and closing devices operates independently will be described as an example. However, the tire vulcanizer according to the present invention does not need to be limited to a configuration having two mold opening and closing devices.
A tire vulcanizer A according to this embodiment is configured to include: a main body frame 1 having a plurality of columns, that is, a central column 1 a and a pair of outer columns 1 b and 1 c, provided to be erect at predetermined intervals in a right-and-left lateral direction T1; two mold opening and closing devices 2 provided on the right and left to be respectively supported by the outer column 1 b on one side and the central column 1 a and the outer column 1 c on the other side and the central column 1 a; a pair of right and left loaders 4 for loading a green tire 3 into each of the mold opening and closing devices 2; and a pair of right and left unloaders 5 for unloading a completed tire (a tire finished into the shape of a completed tire) 3′ subjected to vulcanization treatment from each of the mold opening and closing devices 2, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Further, the tire vulcanizer A is provided with a control device for controlling drive of each mechanism or device of the tire vulcanizer A, an operation panel, and the like.
Each of the mold opening and closing devices 2 is provided with: a base (a bolster plate) 6 supported on the outer column 1 b or 1 c and the central column 1 a and fixedly provided horizontally at a predetermined position in an up-and-down direction T2; a heat insulating plate and a heating plate provided at the base 6; a pressurizing mechanism (pressurizing means) 7 for pressing a lower mold on the base 6 upward; a beam (a bolster plate) 8 disposed above the base 6 and the pressurizing mechanism 7 and supported on the outer column 1 b or 1 c and the central column 1 a so as to be able to advance and retreat and to move up and down in the up-and-down direction T2; a heat insulating plate and a heating plate provided at the beam 8; an elevating mechanism 9 for advancing and retreating the beam 8 and an upper mold supported on the beam 8 in the up-and-down direction T2; and a clamping and holding mechanism (a tie rod clamping mechanism) 10 for holding the beam 8 with respect to the base 6 (the upper mold with respect to the lower mold) at a predetermined relative position.
The elevating mechanism 9 is configured to include: a pair of right and left rails 12 provided at each of the outer columns 1 b and 1 c and the central column 1 a, each connected to each of both right and left end portions of the beam 8 through a bracket 11, and advancing and retreating the beam 8 while guiding the beams 8 in the up-and-down direction T2; and an elevating cylinder (elevating drive means) 13 connected to the beam 8 at a tip portion of a rod thereof and extending and contracting in the up-and-down direction T2 so as to advance and retreat the beam 8 in the up-and-down direction T2.
Further, the elevating mechanism 9 includes a pair of right and left tie rods 15 connected to the beam 8 at an upper end portions (one end side) thereof and provided with an axis line thereof being disposed in the up-and-down direction T2, and a pair of right and left tie rod insertion holes 16 which penetrates the base 6 from the upper surface to the lower surface and through each of which the lower end portion side (the other end side) of each tie rod 15 passes when the tie rod 15 advances downward together with the beam 8, and is configured so as to reliably move the beam 8 up and down along the up-and-down direction T2 by the rails 12.
The pressurizing mechanism 7 is provided with, for example, a doughnut-shaped piston (a doughnut-shaped pressurizing cylinder: pressurizing means) provided on the base 6.
On the other hand, the clamping and holding mechanism 10 is integrally provided on the lower surface side of the base 6 to clamp and hold the lower end portion of the tie rod 15 inserted into the tie rod insertion hole 16 and projecting downward from the lower surface of the base 6, and in this embodiment, the clamping and holding mechanism 10 also serves as a mold height adjustment mechanism.
Specifically, the clamping and holding mechanism 10 of this embodiment is configured to include: a plurality of engaged portions 17 provided on the lower end portion side of the tie rod 15; engaging means 18 which is provided so as to be able to be engaged with and released from the engaged portion 17 and holds the lower end portion of the tie rod 15 by being engaged with the engaged portion 17; clamping and holding drive means 19 for causing the engaging means 18 to be engaged with and released from the engaged portion 17; and a height adjustment mechanism 20, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 6 and 8. The engaging means 18 can also be restated as means for restricting the movement of the tie rod 15 in an axis line direction (the up-and-down direction T2) by being engaged with the engaged portion 17 of the tie rod 15.
The plurality of engaged portions 17 include a plurality of engaged recesses 17 a each annularly connected to extend in a circumferential direction while being recessed radially inward from the outer peripheral surface on the lower end portion side of the tie rod 15 to the axis line center and provided at a predetermined pitch in the axis line direction (T2) (at predetermined intervals in the axis line direction), and a plurality of annular engaged protrusions 17 b each provided to alternate with the engaged recess 17 a in the axis line direction are formed between the engaged recesses 17 a adjacent to each other at a predetermined pitch t2 in the up-and-down direction (refer to FIG. 8(a)). In this way, the outer peripheral surface on the lower end portion side of the tie rod 15 is formed so as to show an approximately saw-blade shape in cross section due to the plurality of engaged portions 17.
The engaging means 18 of this embodiment is formed into a form in which a member formed in a substantially flat plate shape to have, at the center thereof, a concavo-convex-shaped engaging hole 14, which penetrates from the horizontal upper surface to the lower surface and has an inner surface composed of a plurality of stages of (in this embodiment, five-stage) annular engaging protrusions 18 a and engaging recesses 18 b which are respectively engaged with the engaged recesses 17 a and the engaged protrusions 17 b of the engaged portion 17 of the tie rod 15, is divided into two parts along the radial direction from the axis line center of the engaging hole 14.
An engaging member 21 on one side and an engaging member 22 on the other side of the form divided into two parts are supported to be mounted on a supporting member 23, which protrudes downward from the lower surface of the base 6, so as to be located horizontally at the same height and to be able to advance and retreat in a horizontal direction. The engaging member 21 on one side and the engaging member 22 on the other side are connected by an interlocking mechanism 24, and if the engaging member 21 on one side advances forward, the engaging member 22 on the other side advances toward the side of the engaging member 21 on one side in conjunction with the advance of the engaging member 21 on one side, and thus the side ends (side surfaces) facing each other come into contact with each other so as to form a circular engaging hole 14 (refer to FIGS. 5 and 6). Further, if the engaging member 21 on one side retracts rearward, the engaging member 22 on the other side retracts so as to be separated from the engaging member 21 on one side in conjunction with the retraction of the engaging member 21 on one side (refer to FIGS. 3 and 4).
In other words, the engaging means 18 of this embodiment is configured by providing the engaging members 21 and 22 so as to be able to advance and retreat in the direction orthogonal to the axis line direction between an engaging position where the engaging members 21 and 22 are engaged with the engaged portion 17 of the tie rod 15 to clamp the tie rod 15 and a retracted position where the engaging members 21 and 22 are separated from the engaged portion 17.
The clamping and holding drive means 19 is an air cylinder, is supported on the supporting member 23 while being connected to the engaging member 21 on one side at the tip of a rod (a piston rod) thereof, and is disposed below the base 6. Compressed air is supplied to and discharged from the clamping and holding drive means 19 that is the air cylinder, and thus the rod advances and retreats in a front-and-back direction, whereby the engaging member 21 on one side and the engaging member 22 on the other side can be advanced and retreated.
Here, the supporting member 23 is horizontally disposed such that an upper surface (an upper end portion) 23 a thereof is located below an upper surface (an upper end portion) 18 c of the engaging means 18 and faces a lower surface 6 a of the base 6. In this way, a predetermined gap t1 is provided between the upper surface 18 c of the engaging means 18 and the lower surface 6 a of the base 6 in a state where a pair of molds composed of a lower mold and an upper mold is opened. Further, in this embodiment, the gap t1 between the upper surface 18 c of the engaging means 18 and the lower surface 6 a of the base 6 at the time of mold opening is set to be 4 mm (refer to FIGS. 3, 5, 7(a), and 8(a)).
Further, the engaged portion 17 and the engaging means 18 of this embodiment are formed such that the dimension in the up-and-down direction T2 of one stage, that is, the pitch t2 is 15 mm.
Further, the supporting member 23, the engaging means 18 supported on the supporting member 23, and the clamping and holding drive means 19 are made to be able to be advanced and retreated in the up-and-down direction T2 by the height adjustment mechanism 20.
The height adjustment mechanism 20 is provided with a pair of air cylinders 25 and 26, as shown in FIG. 3, and has a configuration in which the air cylinder 25 on one side is connected to the lower end portion side of the supporting member 23 at the tip of a rod (a piston rod) thereof with the axis line direction thereof beings directed in the up-and-down direction and the air cylinder 26 on the other side is connected to the base 6 at the tip of a rod (a piston rod) thereof with the axis line direction thereof being directed in the up-and-down direction.
That is, in this embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism 20 is configured such that the pair of air cylinders 25 and 26 are provided back to back (in opposite directions) and the position of the supporting member 23 in the up-and-down direction T2 can be adjusted by a combination of expansion and contraction of the air cylinder 25 on one side and the air cylinder 26 on the other side. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 (Case 1 to Case 4) which will be described later, a configuration is made such that the supporting member 23 can be set to be at four heights by a combination of expansion and contraction of the air cylinders 25 and 26.
As the pair of air cylinders 25 and 26, very short air cylinders each having a stroke amount corresponding to the pitch t2 of the engaged portion 17 are used. In this embodiment, for example, the stroke amount of the air cylinder 25 on one side is set to be 4 mm and the stroke amount of the air cylinder 26 on the other side is set to be 8 mm.
Further, a stopper 27 with which the supporting member 23 retracting downward comes into contact to restrict the downward retraction amount (the lowering amount) of the supporting member 23 is provided. In this embodiment, the stopper 27 is disposed such that a gap t3 of 12 mm which is three times the gap t1 (4 mm) between the upper surface 23 a of the supporting member 23 and the lower surface 6 a of the base 6 at the time of mold opening is formed between the stopper 27 and the lower surface of the supporting member 23.
An operation when vulcanizing the green tire 3 by using the tire vulcanizer A of this embodiment having the configuration described above will be described.
First, after the green tire 3 is clamped at the loader 4, the loader 4 is raised and rotated to set the green tire 3 in the lower mold on the base 6.
Next, a pressurizing medium such as steam is supplied into the green tire 3 through a bladder, and thus shaping of an unvulcanized tire is performed.
Next, the elevating mechanism 9 is contracted to lower the beam 8, and thus the upper mold held by the beam (the bolster plate) 8 is fitted to the lower mold, so that mold closing is performed. At this time, the four tie rods 15 mounted at diagonal disposition on the beam 8 are respectively inserted into the tie rod insertion holes 16 penetratingly formed in the base 6, and the beam 8 and the upper mold are lowered while being positioned with the rails 12 as guides. In this way, it is possible to suitably fit the upper mold to the lower mold.
Then, at the stage where the upper mold and the lower mold are closed, the lower end portion side of each of the tie rods 15 protruding downward from the lower surface 6 a of the base 6 is clamped and held by the clamping and holding mechanism 10.
Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 6, the engaging member 21 on one side and the engaging member 22 on the other side are horizontally advanced by driving of the clamping and holding drive means 19, whereby the engaging protrusions 18 a and the engaging recesses 18 b of the engaging member 21 on one side and the engaging member 22 on the other side are engaged with the engaged recess 17 a and the engaged protrusion 17 b of the saw-blade-shaped engaged portion 17 of the tie rod 15, which protrudes downward from the lower surface 6 a of the base 6. The engaging means 18 is engaged with the engaged portion 17 of the tie rod 15 in this manner, whereby the tie rod 15 can be held. This state is also shown in Case 4 of FIG. 8 (d), which is a state where the tie rod 15 can be clamped and held with the engagement of the engaging protrusions 18 a and the engaging recesses 18 b of the engaging member 21 on one side and the engaging member 22 on the other side.
On the other hand, at the time of the operation of clamping and holding the tie rod 15 with the clamping and holding mechanism 10 of this embodiment, in Case 1 which is a state where the engaging protrusions 18 a of the engaging members 21 and 22 are not tightly engaged with the engaged recess 17 a of the engaged portion 17 of the tie rod 15, as shown in FIG. 8(a), and Case 2 and Case 3 which are states where the engaging protrusions 18 a of the engaging members 21 and 22 collide with the engaged protrusion 17 b of the engaged portion 17 of the tie rod 15, as shown in FIG. 8(b), the tie rod 15 cannot be clamped and held.
In Case 1, Case 2, and Case 3, it is necessary to adjust a height position such that the tie rod 15 can be clamped and held, as in Case 4 shown in FIG. 8(d). That is, when clamping and holding the tie rod 15, any one of the states of Case 1, Case 2, Case 3, and Case 4 is always created, and in the case of the state of Case 1, Case 2, or Case 3 due to replacement with a mold of a different size according to a tire size, occurrence of a dimensional difference between a cold mold and a preheated and thermally expanded mold or a dimensional difference due to a manufacturing error of a mold, or the like, it is favorable if the state of Case 1, Case 2, or Case 3 is brought into the state of Case 4.
In contrast, the clamping and holding mechanism 10 of this embodiment is provided with the height adjustment mechanism 20 providing a predetermined gap t1 (in this embodiment, 4 mm) between the base 6 and the engaging means 18 and composed of the air cylinder 25 on one side and the air cylinder 26 on the other side for advancing and retreating the supporting member 23, the engaging means 18, and the clamping and holding drive means 19. Further, the engaged portion 17 and the engaging means 18 are configured with a small pitch t2 of 15 mm.
In the tire vulcanizer A of this embodiment which is provided with the clamping and holding mechanism 10 configured in this manner, if the air cylinder 25 on one side is extended from the initial state shown in FIG. 7(a), the supporting member 23 and the engaging means 18 move downward with respect to the base 6, as shown in FIG. 7(b), and thus the gap t1 between the base 6 and the engaging means 18 is increased to 8 mm and the gap t3 between the stopper 27 and the supporting member 23 is reduced to 8 mm. Further, if the air cylinder 26 on the other side is extended from the state shown in FIG. 7(b) and the air cylinder 25 on one side is contracted, the supporting member 23 and the engaging means 18 further move downward with respect to the base 6, as shown in FIG. 7(c), and thus the gap t1 between the base 6 and the engaging means 18 is increased to 12 mm and the gap t3 between the stopper 27 and the supporting member 23 is reduced to 4 mm. Further, if the air cylinder 25 on one side is extended from the state shown in FIG. 7(c), as shown in FIG. 7(d), the gap t1 between the base 6 and the engaging means 18 is increased to 16 mm and the gap t3 between the stopper 27 and the supporting member 23 becomes 0 mm.
In this way, only by extending the air cylinder 25 on one side or the air cylinder 26 on the other side from the state of Case 1 of FIG. 8(a), it is possible to create the state of Case 4 of FIG. 8(d), where the engaged portion 17 and the engaging means 18 are suitably engaged with each other.
Then, at the stage where the state of Case 4 of FIG. 8(d) is created in this manner and the engaging means 18 of the clamping and holding mechanism 10 is engaged with the engaged portion 17 of the tie rod 15, if the doughnut-shaped piston 7 of the pressurizing mechanism is driven, thereby pressing the lower mold against the upper mold, the pressurizing force is transmitted from the lower mold to the upper mold, from the upper mold to the beam 8, and from the beam 8 to the tie rod 15, and thus the tie rod 15 is displaced upward from the state of FIG. 8(d), as shown in FIG. 8(e) (Case 5).
Along with this, the engaging means 18 with which the engaged portion 17 of the tie rod 15 is engaged is pressed upward, and the upper surfaces 23 a and 18 c of the supporting member 23 (and the engaging means 18) come into contact with the lower surface 6 a of the base 6, and thus the gap t1 disappears and a reaction force is generated. In this way, the engaged portion 17 of the tie rod 15 and the engaging means 18 are firmly engaged with each other, and thus the upper mold and the lower mold can be clamped at a predetermined pressure.
Further, in this embodiment, by allowing the supporting member 23 and the engaging means 18 to advance upward and retreat downward by the pair of air cylinders 25 and 26 provided in the opposite directions and advancing and retreating the supporting member 23 and the engaging means 18 within the range of the pitch t2 of 15 mm of each of the engaged portion 17 and the engaging means 18, the state of Case 4 can be reliably created even in the states of Case 1, Case 2, and Case 3 of FIG. 8, and thus the engaged portion 17 and the engaging means 18 are engaged with each other and the tie rod 15 can be clamped and held.
That is, in the tire vulcanizer A of this embodiment, a height position can be adjusted with a small stroke amount. Further, even in a case where the clamping and holding mechanism 10 is configured to be provided with the saw-blade-shaped engaged portion 17 and the engaging means 18, it is possible to steplessly perform the adjustment of the height position.
Further, the force for pressing the supporting member 23 with the pair of air cylinders 25 and 26 to adjust the height position of the engaging means 18 is sufficiently smaller than the force for clamping the upper mold and the lower mold by driving the doughnut-shaped piston 7 of the pressurizing mechanism.
In this way, even in a case where the gap t1 for height adjustment is provided between the base 6 and the engaging means 18, the upper mold and the lower mold can be clamped, and a configuration can be made such that the gap t1 between the base 6 and the supporting member 23 is eliminated by air being compressed and shrunk due to the extended air cylinders 25 and 26 being pressurized when a pressure caused by the driving of the doughnut-shaped piston 7 necessary for the mold clamping is applied, or by the air cylinders 25 and 26 being automatically contracted due to an operation of a relief valve. Accordingly, the upper mold and the lower mold are clamped and the base 6 and the supporting member 23 are brought into contact with each other to secure a reaction force, and thus it is possible to suitably generate the axial force of the tie rod 15 and thus the pressure of clamping the upper mold and the lower mold.
Therefore, in the tire vulcanizer A of this embodiment, a non-step mold height adjustment mechanism of the related art using an electric motor or the like and another pressurizing plate become unnecessary, and thus it is possible to attain cost reduction, and it is possible to efficiently perform height adjustment with a small stroke.
Further, the stroke of the doughnut-shaped piston 7 can also be reduced, such as reducing the stroke to 20 mm or less, for example, and therefore, also in this regard, it is possible to attain cost reduction.
Further, by reducing the stroke of the doughnut-shaped piston 7, it is possible to keep the amount of press opening of the upper mold and the lower mold very small, even in a case where leakage of a working fluid of the piston 7 occurs. In this way, it is possible to prevent the green tire 3 from scattering from the gap between the molds due to press opening. That is, it is possible to minimize a danger due to press opening.
Further, in the clamping and holding mechanism 10 of this embodiment having the height adjustment mechanism 20, the gap t1 is always provided between the clamping and holding mechanism 10 and the base 6 before clamping, and therefore, for example, even if the mold thermally expands during clamping, if pressurization is released, it is possible to easily remove the clamping (to release the engaged state of the engaged portion 17 with the engaging means 18).
An embodiment of the tire vulcanizer according to the present invention has been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and can be appropriately changed within a scope which does not depart from the gist of the invention.
For example, the tie rod 15 is provided with the lower end portion (the one end side) thereof being connected to the base 6, and the tie rod insertion holes 16 penetrating from the lower surface to the upper surface of the beam 8 are provided in the beam 8. Further, the engaged portion 17 is provided on the upper end portion side (the other end side) of the tie rod 15, and the supporting member 23 is mounted with a predetermined gap t1 between the upper surface of the beam 8 and the engaging means 18. That is, the clamping and holding mechanism 10 and the like are provided in a form inverted upside down from this embodiment. Also in such a configuration, it is possible to obtain the same operation and effect as those in this embodiment.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
According to the tire vulcanizer according to the present invention, a non-step mold adjustment mechanism using an electric motor or the like and another pressurizing plate become unnecessary, and thus it is possible to attain cost reduction, and it is possible to efficiently perform height adjustment with a small stroke.
1. A tire vulcanizer comprising:
a base which supports a lower mold; a beam which supports an upper mold; a tie rod which is disposed to be fixed to one of the base and the beam on one end side thereof and has a plurality of engaged portions provided at predetermined intervals in an axis line direction along an up-and-down direction on the other end side; engaging means which is provided at the other of the base and the beam and engaged with the engaged portion of the tie rod to restrict a movement of the tie rod in the axis line direction; and pressurizing means for pressing the lower mold and the upper mold which are in a mold-closed state, so as to perform mold-clamping, wherein the engaging means includes an engaging member provided so as to be able to advance and retreat in a direction orthogonal to the axis line direction between an engaging position where the engaging member is engaged with the engaged portion of the tie rod to clamp the tie rod and a retracted position where the engaging member is separated from the engaged portion, clamping and holding drive means for switching between an engagement state and a disengagement state of the engaging means with respect to the engaged portion by advancing and retreating the engaging member, a supporting member which supports the engaging means and the clamping and holding drive means with respect to the other of the base and the beam so as to be movable in the axis line direction, and a height adjustment mechanism which advances and retreats the supporting member in the axis line direction within at least a range of a gap between the engaged portions adjacent to each other in the axis line direction.
2. The tire vulcanizer according to claim 1, wherein the engaging means and/or the supporting member is disposed with a gap between the engaging means and/or the supporting member and a lower surface of the base or an upper surface of the beam which is the other of the base and the beam, in a state before the tie rod is clamped.
3. The tire vulcanizer according to claim 1, wherein the height adjustment mechanism
includes a pair of air cylinders disposed back to back with an axis line direction in which a rod advances and retreats being directed in the up-and-down direction, and is configured such that a tip of the rod of the air cylinder on one side is connected to the supporting member and a tip of the rod of the air cylinder on the other side is connected to the other of the base and the beam.
4. The tire vulcanizer according to claim 3, wherein a pressurizing force of the air cylinder of the height adjustment mechanism is smaller than a pressurizing force of the pressurizing means.
5. The tire vulcanizer according to claim 1, wherein the pressurizing means is a doughnut-shaped pressurizing cylinder.
| 2017-02-08 | en | 2018-08-09 |
US-201414244206-A | Method for synthesizing frequency and electronic device thereof
ABSTRACT
An electronic device for synthesizing a frequency is provided. The electronic device includes a bank changer configured to output a channel code corresponding to a reference frequency signal and a feedback frequency signal, a channel code mapper configured to generate a changed channel code by applying an offset to the channel code output from the bank changer, and a voltage controlled oscillator configured to control a total capacitance of a plurality of capacitors based on the changed channel code and to oscillate a frequency dependent on the total capacitance.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(a) of a Korean patent application filed on Apr. 3, 2013 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office and assigned Serial number 10-2013-0036462, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to a method for synthesizing a frequency and an electronic device thereof.
BACKGROUND
A frequency synthesizer includes a Voltage Controlled Oscillator (VCO) for generating various frequencies through voltage control and a Phase Locked Loop (PLL) for locking a frequency generated in the voltage controlled oscillator with a feed-back loop to provide improved frequency stability.
The voltage controlled oscillator uses a LC oscillation method in which an oscillation frequency is determined mainly by the inductance of a coil and the capacitance of a capacitor. When the values of the inductor and the capacitor are fixed in the voltage controlled oscillator using the LC oscillation method, an oscillation frequency is changed by changing only input voltage, a very large VCO gain is required, and power consumption and phase noise increase. Therefore, there is suggested a method for changing a resonant frequency by controlling a capacitance of a voltage controlled oscillator based on a channel code. Such a voltage controlled oscillator includes a capacitor bank array having a plurality of capacitors and a plurality of switches and operates according to a binary weighted array method for changing a total capacitance by controlling the plurality of switches according to an input channel code.
In the voltage controlled oscillator using the binary weighted array, the total capacitance which is changed by the channel code needs to have linearity. That is, when the channel code of the voltage controlled oscillator increases uniformly, a capacitance sum corresponding to each channel code need to increase at uniform intervals. However, intervals between total capacitances may be non-uniform due to process variation and/or a fringe capacitance. As a result, this leads to a situation in which frequency steps of oscillation frequencies of the voltage controlled oscillator become non-uniform.
For example, when the value of a channel code input to the voltage controlled oscillator increases gradually, the value of the oscillation frequency of the voltage controlled oscillator needs to increase gradually. However, when the value of the channel code increases gradually as illustrated in FIG. 1, the frequency steps of frequencies corresponding to specific channel codes may become narrow or there may occur an inversion phenomenon in which the frequency decreases when the channel code increases. For example, when a channel code 31 is changed to a channel code 32, there occurs an inversion phenomenon in which a frequency oscillated according to the channel code 31 is lower than a frequency oscillated according to the channel code 32 as illustrated in FIG. 2. In addition, when a channel code 63 is changed to a channel code 64, a phenomenon may occur which frequencies oscillated according to the two channel codes are identical to each other. When a channel code 95 is changed to a channel code 96, there may occur a phenomenon in which the frequency step between a frequency corresponding to the channel code 95 and a frequency corresponding to the channel code 96 is narrower than a frequency step of frequencies corresponding to other channel codes.
When the frequency step size of frequencies oscillated by the voltage controlled oscillator decreases or there occurs the inversion phenomenon, there is a problem in which a frequency lock time increases which is taken to distinguish a desired frequency among two consecutive frequencies in a frequency synthesizer. In addition, in the binary weighted array, a binary search algorithm is used. When an error occurs during searching, there may occur a situation in which a desired frequency is not searched unlike a liner search method. For example, in a case where the inversion phenomenon occurs when the channel code 31 is changed to the channel code 32 as illustrated in FIG. 2, an incorrect capacitor bank code is accessed during the binary search and eventually a desired frequency may be not searched.
Accordingly, a technology for ensuring linearity of a voltage controlled oscillator in order to improve frequency search efficiency is desired.
The above information is presented as background information only to assist with an understanding of the present disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with regard to the present disclosure.
SUMMARY
Aspects of the present disclosure are address at least the above-mentioned problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages below. Accordingly, an aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a method and electronic device for controlling frequency steps of a voltage controlled oscillator in a frequency synthesizer.
Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a method and electronic device for selectively eliminating and rearranging channel codes to be input to a voltage controlled oscillator in order to ensure linearity of the voltage controlled oscillator in a frequency synthesizer.
Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a method and electronic device for rearranging channel codes by applying offsets to channel codes to be input to a voltage controlled oscillator in a frequency synthesizer.
In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device for synthesizing a frequency is provided. The electronic device includes a bank changer configured to output a channel code corresponding to a reference frequency signal and a feedback frequency signal, a channel code mapper configured to generate a changed channel code by applying an offset to the channel code output from the bank changer, and a voltage controlled oscillator configured to control a total capacitance of a plurality of capacitors based on the changed channel code and to oscillate a frequency dependent on the total capacitance.
In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for synthesizing a frequency is provided. The method includes: generating a channel code corresponding to a reference frequency signal and a feedback frequency signal, changing the channel code by applying an offset to the generated channel code, and oscillating a frequency by controlling a total capacitance of a voltage controlled oscillator based on the changed channel code.
In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device for synthesizing a frequency in an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a frequency synthesizer configured to generate a channel code corresponding to a reference frequency signal and a feedback frequency signal, to change the channel code by applying an offset to the generated channel code, and to oscillate a frequency by controlling a total capacitance of a voltage controlled oscillator based on the changed channel code.
Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses various embodiments of the present disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating frequency steps in a voltage controlled oscillator according to the related art;
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating frequency steps non-uniformly according to channel codes in a voltage controlled oscillator according to the related art;
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a block configuration of a frequency synthesizer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a detailed block configuration of the channel code mapper of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example in which channel codes are rearranged in a frequency synthesizer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an operation process of a frequency synthesizer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Throughout the drawings, like reference numerals will be understood to refer to like parts, components, and structures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the present disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the various embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.
The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the present disclosure is provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a component surface” includes reference to one or more of such surfaces.
The present disclosure provides a technology of controlling a frequency offset of a voltage controlled oscillator in a frequency synthesizer included in an electronic device.
FIG. 3 illustrates a block configuration of a frequency synthesizer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 3, a frequency synthesizer may include a phase frequency detector 300, a charge ump 310, a low pass filter 320, an auto bank changer 330, a channel code mapper 340, a voltage controlled oscillator 350, a prescaler 360, a divider 370, a delta-sigma modulator 380.
The phase frequency detector 300 compares an input reference frequency signal with a feedback frequency signal output from the divider 370 to measure a phase difference between the reference frequency signal and the feedback signal and generates and outputs a clock signal indicating measured phase difference. The reference frequency signal may be a signal output from a Temperature Compensated X-tal Oscillator (TCXO).
The charge pump 310 receives the clock signal indicating the phase difference and pushes or pulls charge (or current) of an amount corresponding to the pulse width of the input clock signal. The low pass filter 320 is generally called a loop filter. The low pass filter 320 accumulates and then outputs a charge input by the charge pump 310, filters out a signal corresponding to a preset low frequency band, and provides a result of the filtering to the voltage controlled oscillator 350.
The auto bank changer 330 generates and outputs channel codes for controlling an oscillation frequency of the voltage controlled oscillator 350. For example, when a capacitor bank array included in the voltage controlled oscillator 350 includes M capacitors, the auto bank changer 330 may output M-bit channel codes indicating respective numbers corresponding to 0 to M2−1. That is, the auto bank changer may output M2 channel codes. The auto bank changer 330 compares the reference frequency with the feedback frequency and generate and output a channel code by changing the channel code according to a predetermined method until a channel code for generating an oscillation frequency closest to the reference frequency is selected.
The channel code mapper 340 examines channel codes output from the auto bank changer 330 and eliminates an error channel code which may be problematic. That is, the channel code mapper 340 eliminates channel codes which may cause error among channel codes output from the auto bank changer 330 and provides remaining channel codes to the voltage controlled oscillator 350. In this case, the channel code which may cause error refers to a channel code which makes frequency steps of oscillation frequencies oscillated in the voltage controlled oscillator 350 non-uniform, that is, a channel code of which the frequency step between another channel code is less than a threshold step or which cause the inversion phenomenon. In the following description, a channel code which may cause error is called “an error channel code” for convenience of description. In this case, an error channel code may be determined based on N high-order bits or N high-order bytes of a channel code. For example, the channel code mapper 340 may determine two consecutive codes, of which a first high-order bit or second high-order bit value is changed, among consecutive channel codes as error channel codes. In an example, when channel codes 0000000, 0000001, 0000010, . . . , 0111111, and 1111111 are input from the auto bank changer 330, the channel code mapper 340 may determine channel codes “0011111(31)” and “0100000(32)” of which the second high-order bit is changed from 0 to 1 as error channel codes, determine channel codes “0111111(63)” and “1000000(64)” of which the first high-order bit is changed from 0 to 1 as error channel codes, and determine channel codes “1011111(95)” and “1100000(96)” of which the second high-order bit is changed from 0 to 1 as error channel codes. In this case, the channel code mapper 340 may determine both two channel codes of which the N-th high-order bit value is changed from 0 to 1 as error channel codes, or determine only a channel code having a smaller value or a channel code having a larger value as an error channel code. In addition, the channel code mapper 340 may determine one channel code which makes frequency steps uniform among two channel codes of which the N-th high-order bit is changed as a normal channel code which cause no error, and determine one remaining channel code as an error channel code. In this case, the error channel code may be previously determined according to a predetermined method or be directly input from a manufacturer or a designer before the channel code mapper 340 receives a channel code from the auto bank changer 330.
The channel code mapper 340 rearranges input channel codes by applying offsets respectively to channel codes input from the auto bank changer 330 in order to eliminate an error channel code. In this case, the offsets refer to values to be applied respectively to channel codes in order to eliminate an error channel code and rearrange the channel codes to be input to the voltage controlled oscillator 350. The channel code mapper 340 divides all channel codes into a plurality of sections and applies different offsets to respective channel code sections, thereby eliminating an error channel code. For example, when the error channel codes are “31”, “63”, and “95”, the channel code mapper 340 sets an offset for channel codes 1 to 31 to −1, sets an offset for channel codes 32 to 62 to 0, sets an offset for channel codes 63 to 93 to 1, and sets an offset for channel codes 94 to 127 to 2 such that input channel codes 0 to 127 are rearranged not to include “31”, “63”, and “95”.
According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the channel code mapper 340 may include a storage unit 400 including a plurality of registers 410 and a plurality of offsets 411, an offset determiner 420, and an adder 430 as illustrated in FIG. 4. In the channel code mapper 340, after the offset determiner 420 has determined offsets corresponding to input channel codes based on information about offsets for respective channel codes stored in the storage unit 400, the adder 340 adds the determined offset to the input channel code to output a channel code.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a detailed block configuration of the channel code mapper of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 4, a storage unit 400 includes a plurality of registers 410 indicating error channel codes and stores offsets 411 for respective channel codes determined based on an error channel code. For example, Register #1 may indicate that error channel codes are 31 and 32, Register #2 may indicate that error channel codes are 62 and 63, and Register #3 may indicate that error channel codes are 95 and 96. In another example, Register #1 may indicate that an error channel code is 31, Register #2 may indicate that an error channel code is 63, and Register #3 may indicate that an error channel code is 95. In still another example, the registers may indicate channel code sections divided based on error channel codes. That is, Register #1 may indicate 0 to 31, Register #2 may indicate 32 to 62, Register #3 may indicate 63 to 93, and Register #4 may indicate 95 to 127. In addition, the storage unit 400 stores a plurality of offsets 411. In this case, the plurality of offsets 411 may be mapped to the plurality of channel code sections divided based on error channel codes. For example, the offset for the channel codes 1 to 31 may be mapped to −1, the offset for the channel codes 32 to 62 may be mapped to 0, the offset for the channel codes 63 to 93 may be mapped to 1, and the offset for the channel codes 94 to 127 may be mapped to 2. In this case, the registers and the offsets may be set and changed by external access or automatically in consideration of input channel codes according to a predetermined method.
The offset determiner 420 determines offsets corresponding to channel codes input from the auto bank changer 330 based on the plurality of registers 410 and the plurality of offsets 411. For example, the offset determiner 420 may determine the registers corresponding to the input channel codes by comparing the input channel codes with the values of the respective registers and determine the offsets mapped to the determined registers as the offsets for the input channel codes. The offset determiner 420 outputs the offsets corresponding to the input channel codes to the adder 430. The adder 430 adds the offset output from the offset determiner 420 to the channel code input from the auto bank changer 330 and provides a result value to the voltage controlled oscillator 350.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example in which channel codes are rearranged in a frequency synthesizer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 5, when the error channel codes are set to “31”, “63” and “95” , the channel code mapper 340 adds the offset −1 (520-1) to the channel codes 1 to 31, adds the offset 0 (520-2) to the channel codes 32 to 62, adds the offset 1 (520-3) to the channel codes 63 to 93, and adds the offset 2 (520-4) to the channel codes 94 to 127 and then outputs the channel codes to provide the channel codes rearranged so as not to include the error channel codes 31, 63, and 95 to the voltage controlled oscillator 350.
The voltage controlled oscillator 350 includes the capacitor bank array and changes a total capacitance according to an input channel code, thereby changing an oscillation frequency. In this case, the capacitor bank array may include at least one inductor, a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel to each other, and a plurality of switches connected respectively to the plurality of capacitors. That is, the voltage controlled oscillator 350 changes the total capacitance by tuning on/off the plurality of switches connected to the plurality of capacitors according to an input channel code and generates a frequency dependent on the changed total capacitance. For example, when the capacitor bank array of the voltage controlled oscillator 350 includes M capacitors, the voltage controlled oscillator 350 may receive M-bit channel codes indicating respective numbers corresponding to 0 to M2−1. In this case, the voltage controlled oscillator 350 maps the M bits constituting the M-bit channel code to the M switches respectively connected to the M capacitors to enable the M switches to be turned on/off according to respective values of the M bits. For example, since the first low-order bit to M-th high-order bit of an input M-bit channel code are mapped to a first switch to an M-th switch respectively, the voltage controlled oscillator 350 may change and generate a frequency in such a way that when the n-th bit of a channel code input to the voltage controlled oscillator 350 is 1, a corresponding n-th switch is turned on and the capacitance of a corresponding capacitor is changed. Also, the voltage controlled oscillator 350 may be configured differently according to design manners.
The prescaler 360 and the divider 370 divide the output frequency of the voltage controlled oscillator 350 according to a predetermined ratio and output the same. For example, when the output frequency of the voltage controlled oscillator 350 is 800 MHz, the prescaler 360 divides 800 MHz by 1/100 and outputs 8 MHz. In this case, the ratio at which the divider 370 divides the output frequency may be changed by a signal input from the delta-sigma modulator 380.
The delta-sigma modulator 380 outputs a signal for controlling a ratio at which the divider 370 divides an output frequency.
FIG. 6 illustrates an operation process of a frequency synthesizer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 6, in operation 601, the frequency synthesizer generates a channel code based on a reference frequency and a feedback frequency. In this case, the reference frequency may be a signal output from a TCXO. In addition, the feedback frequency may be a frequency signal output from a voltage controlled oscillator included in the frequency synthesizer.
In operation 603, the frequency synthesizer determines an offset corresponding to the generated channel code. In this case, the frequency synthesizer may determine an error channel code based on N high-order bit values of the channel code and determine an offset value of each channel code based on the error channel code. For example, when it is assumed that a channel code of 7 bits is input, the frequency synthesizer may determine consecutive channel codes “0011111(31)” and “0100000(32)” of which the second high-order bit is changed from 0 to 1 as error channel codes, determine consecutive channel codes “0111111(63)” and “1000000(64) of which the first high-order bit is changed from 0 to 1 as error channel codes, and determine channel codes “1011111(95)” and “1100000(96)” of which the second high-order bit is changed from 0 to 1 as error channel codes. The frequency synthesizer may set an offset for channel codes 1 to 31 to −1, set an offset for channel codes 32 to 62 to 0, set an offset for channel codes 63 to 93 to 1, and set an offset for channel codes 94 to 127 to 2 based on the error channel code in advance. Therefore, the frequency synthesizer may set the offset to −1 when the generated channel code is 5, and set the offset to 0 when the generated channel code is 32.
In operation 605, the frequency synthesizer generates a new channel code by applying the offset to the generated channel code. That is, the frequency synthesizer generates a new channel code by applying the offset to the channel code generated through operation 601, thereby eliminating the error channel code.
In operation 607, the frequency synthesizer which has generated the new channel code controls the capacitance of a voltage controlled oscillator based on the new channel code to oscillate a frequency dependent on the adjusted capacitance. In this case, the frequency synthesizer may change a total capacitance of the voltage controlled oscillator and therefore, oscillate a frequency corresponding to the total capacitance by controlling turning on/off of a plurality of switches connected to a plurality of capacitors included in a capacitor bank array for the voltage controlled oscillator according to the channel code.
The frequency synthesizer may repeatedly perform operation 601 to operation 607 until a desired oscillation frequency is generated.
As described above, the frequency synthesizer eliminates an error channel code from channel codes to be input to the voltage controlled oscillator 350 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, so that the voltage controlled oscillator 350 may generate frequencies at uniform steps. That is, errors in the capacitor bank array are corrected through rearrangement of the channel codes, thereby enabling the frequency synthesizer to normally operate according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. As a result, frequencies in all bands may be stably supported and a lock time is dramatically reduced at the time of changing a channel code, thereby reducing calibration time. When the error channel code is eliminated according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, an error of 1 Least Significant Bit (LSB) may occur due to characteristics of a binary search algorithm. Since the frequency synthesizer is generally designed to be tolerant to the error of 1 LSB, the error is no problem in terms of an entire system. Accordingly, the embodiment of the present disclosure optimizes a channel code without degrading the performance of the frequency synthesizer, thereby rapidly providing stable performance through a self-calibration in a radio frequency integrated circuit without performing a separate operation in a modem.
According to the various embodiments of the present disclosure, the frequency synthesizer which includes a frequency synthesizer having a capacitor bank array employing a binary weighted array selectively eliminates a channel code by applying offsets to channel codes input to the voltage controlled oscillator and therefore, rearranges the channel codes, thereby preventing a phenomenon in which frequency steps of oscillation frequencies of the voltage controlled oscillator are non-uniform. Accordingly, the lock time of the frequency synthesizer may be reduced, and switching between communication methods or between channels may be facilitated, thereby reducing power consumption.
While the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to certain various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. A program command for performing operation implemented by various computers according to the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium. The computer-readable recording medium may include program commands, data files, and data structures in singularity or in combination. The program commands may be those that are especially designed and configured for the present disclosure, or may be those that are publicly known and available to those skilled in the art. Examples of the computer-readable recording medium include magnetic recording media such as hard disks, floppy disks and magnetic tapes, optical recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical recording mediums such as floptical disks, and hardware devices such as ROMs, RAMs and flash memories that are especially configured to store and execute program commands. Examples of the program commands include machine language codes created by a compiler, and high-level language codes that can be executed by a computer by using an interpreter. When all or some of a base station or a relay described in the present disclosure is implemented by a computer program, a computer-readable recording medium storing the computer program is also included in the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the disclosure is defined not by the detailed description of the disclosure but by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope will be construed as being included in the present disclosure.
While the present disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
What is claimed is:
1. An electronic device for synthesizing a frequency, the electronic device comprising:
a bank changer configured to output a channel code corresponding to a reference frequency signal and a feedback frequency signal; a channel code mapper configured to generate a changed channel code by applying an offset to the channel code output from the bank changer; and a voltage controlled oscillator configured to control a total capacitance of a plurality of capacitors based on the changed channel code and to oscillate a frequency dependent on the total capacitance.
2. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the channel code mapper determines an error channel code based on N high-order bits of the channel code and determines an offset for respective channel codes based on the determined error channel code.
3. The electronic device of claim 2, wherein the channel code mapper eliminates the error channel code from channel codes to be provided to the voltage controlled oscillator by applying the offsets for respective channel codes to channel codes output from the bank changer.
4. The electronic device of claim 2, wherein the channel code mapper determines two consecutive channel codes of which at least one bit value of N high-order bits is changed among consecutive channel codes, and determines at least one of the two determined channel codes as an error channel code.
5. The electronic device of claim 4, wherein the channel code mapper determines one channel code of the two channel codes as an error channel code based on frequency steps of oscillation frequencies for channel codes.
6. The electronic device of claim 2, wherein the channel code mapper comprises:
an offset determiner configured to compare the output channel code with the error channel code and to determine an offset for the output channel code; and an adder configured to add the determined offset to the output channel code.
7. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the voltage controlled oscillator:
includes a capacitor bank array including a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel to each other and a plurality of switches respectively connected to the plurality of capacitors, and controls turning on/off of the plurality of switches according to the changed channel code.
8. The electronic device of claim 1, further comprising:
a phase frequency detector configured to output a clock pulse signal corresponding to a phase difference between the reference frequency signal and the feedback frequency signal; a charge pump configured to output charge of an amount according to a clock pulse of the signal output from the phase frequency detector; a low pass filter configured to accumulate and output an input charge, and to filter out a signal corresponding to a predetermined low frequency band before provision to the voltage controlled oscillator; and a divider configured to divide the oscillation frequency of the voltage controlled oscillator by a predetermined ratio and performing feedback to the phase frequency detector.
9. A method for synthesizing a frequency, the method comprising:
generating a channel code corresponding to a reference frequency signal and a feedback frequency signal; changing the channel code by applying an offset to the generated channel code; and oscillating a frequency by controlling a total capacitance of a voltage controlled oscillator based on the changed channel code.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the changing of the channel code comprises:
determining an error channel code based on N high-order bits of the channel code; and determining offsets for respective channel codes based on the determined error channel code.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising:
eliminating the error channel code from channel codes to be provided to the voltage control oscillator by applying the offsets for respective channel codes to the channel codes.
12. The method of claim 10, wherein the determining of the error channel code comprises determining two consecutive channel codes of which at least one bit value of N high-order bits is changed among consecutive channel codes, and determining at least one of the two determined channel code as an error channel code.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the determining of the at least one of the two determined channel codes as the error channel code comprises determining one channel code of the two channel codes as an error channel code based on frequency steps of oscillation frequencies for channel codes.
14. The method of claim 10, wherein the changing of the channel code comprises:
determining an offset for the output channel code by comparing the generated channel code with the error channel code; and adding the determined offset to the generated channel code .
15. The method of claim 9, wherein:
the voltage controlled oscillator includes a capacitor bank array including a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel to each other and a plurality of switches respectively connected to the plurality of capacitors, and turns on/off of the plurality of switches according to the changed channel code.
16. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
outputting a clock pulse signal corresponding to a phase difference between the reference frequency signal and the feedback frequency signal; outputting charge of an amount according to a clock pulse of the output signal; accumulating and outputting an input charge and filtering out a signal corresponding to a predetermined low frequency band before provision to the voltage controlled oscillator; and dividing an oscillation frequency of the voltage controlled oscillator according to a predetermined ratio and performing feedback.
17. An electronic device for synthesizing a frequency, the electronic device comprising:
a frequency synthesizer configured to generate a channel code corresponding to a reference frequency signal and a feedback frequency signal, to change the channel code by applying an offset to the generated channel code, and to oscillate a frequency by controlling a total capacitance of a voltage controlled oscillator based on the changed channel code.
18. The electronic device of claim 17, wherein the frequency synthesizer determines an error channel code based on N high-order bits of a channel code and determines offsets for respective channel codes based on the determined error channel code.
19. The electronic device of claim 18, wherein the frequency synthesizer eliminates the error channel code from channel codes to be provided to the voltage controlled oscillator by applying the offsets for respective channel codes to channel codes output from the bank changer.
20. The electronic device of claim 18, wherein the frequency synthesizer determines two consecutive channel codes of which at least one bit value of N high-order bits is changed among consecutive channel codes, and determines at least one of the two determined channel code as an error channel code.
| 2014-04-03 | en | 2014-10-09 |
US-3622301-A | Condition-based, auto-thresholded elevator maintenance
ABSTRACT
Variable thresholds ( 662, 663 ) are generated in response to an average defect rate ( 669, 690 ) generated under certain conditions ( 683 - 687, 696 - 698 ), excesses of which can set an internal flag ( 670 ). If an information request ( 720 ) or service personnel visit to the elevator site ( 721 ) occur, the internal flag, or the upward adjustment of the average defect rate ( 691 ) can generate a maintenance flag ( 773 ) which ultimately results in a maintenance recommendation message related to the particular parameter having a notable defect.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This invention relates to generating maintenance recommendation messages in response to the rate of occurrence of notable events or conditions exceeding variable thresholds which are continuously adjusted in dependence upon said rate of occurrence.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Elevator maintenance is currently scheduled in response to the amount of time which has elapsed since the previous maintenance, or in response to the number of operations of an elevator, subsystem or component since the previous maintenance. This results in performing unnecessary maintenance on some equipment, and performing less than adequate maintenance on other equipment.
[0003] A recent innovation is disclosed in commonly owned copending U.S. patent applications Ser. No. 09/898,853, filed Jul. 3, 2001 and Ser. No. 09/899,007, filed on Jul. 3, 2001. In said prior pair of applications, a large number of elevator door events and conditions are monitored, and maintenance messages are provided to assist service personnel in response to occurrence of certain notable events. In the systems disclosed in said applications, in some instances, the occurrence of a notable event only a single time (such as an average value being too high) will cause maintenance messages to be generated; in other cases (such as a door opened or closed position being wrong), the maintenance message will be generated only after a threshold number of occurrences of that notable event, but that threshold number is fixed. While those systems provide condition-related maintenance messages, rather than being based upon elapsed time or number of operations alone, the need for service is still not tailored to the particular elevator. As an example, it may happen that in one elevator, that certain notable events or conditions may occur rather frequently, even though there is nothing wrong with any components of the elevator, and there is no service which, when performed, will alter the situation; but it may happen in another elevator that the same notable events or conditions occurring the same or fewer number of times may be indicative of a faulty component for which service is required: the foregoing systems do not separate therebetween.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
[0004] Objects of the invention include: reducing unnecessary elevator maintenance; improving elevator maintenance to the level which is required; providing the proper level of maintenance to elevators; elevator maintenance which can take into account the variation in condition of parameters between elevators, which are altered by deviations in the environment and by deviation in the maintenance provided thereto; provision of maintenance recommendations which permit service personnel to concentrate on elevator conditions that are likely to disrupt normal elevator operations; improved elevator service quality; and reduced elevator service cost.
[0005] This invention is predicated on the perception that the occurrence of notable events or notable values of parameters, herein referred to as “defects”, may or may not be indicative of the need to replace or to provide service to a component or subsystem of the elevator. This invention is further predicated on the discernment of the fact that deterioration of elevator components, subsystems, or adjustments are best indicated by the trends in notable elevator events or conditions.
[0006] According to the present invention, the occurrence of events or conditions which are deemed notable with respect to the need for elevator maintenance, herein referred to as “defects”, are utilized to generate operation-averaged rate of occurrence of such defects, which in turn are utilized to generate thresholds for each such defect, the thresholds in turn being utilized to signal the need for maintenance recommendation messages. According to the invention, for each possible defect being monitored, there is a finite but variable algorithm period, which may for instance be on the order of when several defects have occurred, when the number of operations exceed 2,000 operations, or after the elapse of 14 days. At the end of each algorithm period, the rate of defects (number of defects ratioed to the total number of operations of the related element or subsystem) is calculated; then a new threshold deviation is calculated based upon the established average defect rate and the number of operations during the algorithm period; then upper and lower thresholds are calculated based on the recently calculated threshold deviation and the established average defect rate.
[0007] An internal flag is generated if the new defect rate exceeds a maximum upper threshold, or if the new defect rate and the next prior defect rate exceed their respective upper thresholds. The average defect rate is updated if three rates in a row either exceed or are less than corresponding thresholds; upward adjustments of the average defect rate being limited by number of operations and time since a maintenance flag was generated during a visit of service personnel.
[0008] The invention comes into play when there is either a request for information (such as from a central elevator monitoring facility) or a visit by service personnel. In either such case, a maintenance recommendation message will be indicated for any parameter for which there was an upward adjustment of the average rate of defects without a subsequent downward adjustment thereof, or if an internal flag had been generated for that parameter since the last visit of service personnel, and no downward adjustment of the average defect rate had occurred since then.
[0009] The particular maintenance recommendation message depends on the parameter which causes it, and other related factors, examples of said messages being set forth in the prior pair of applications.
[0010] The maintenance recommendation messages of the invention may be indicated only when requested by either a remote maintenance facility issuing a request for information, or by service personnel indicating that a maintenance visit is ongoing. On the other hand, the invention may be used to generate alerts and alarms in a fashion similar to that known to the prior art, or used otherwise.
[0011] The conditions under which maintenance recommendation messages are given differ significantly from the prior art. First, these messages are condition-dependent, being dependent upon the actual parameters of the elevator indicating notable events or conditions, called defects herein. Furthermore, not every notable event or condition is acted upon, the ones which are generated in accordance with the present invention are acted upon only when the rate of occurrence of defects exceeds variable, automatically updated thresholds for that particular parameter in that particular elevator, based upon recent operation of that elevator. Thus, only circumstances indicative of a degradation of elevator performance will result in maintenance recommendation messages being indicated, thereby limiting maintenance to that which is truly necessary in that particular elevator at that particular time.
[0012] Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent in the light of the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments thereof, as illustrated in the accompanying drawing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The following figures herein are high level logic flow diagrams of functions of the invention as follows:
[0014]FIG. 1 main flow;
[0015]FIG. 2 learning;
[0016]FIG. 3 evaluate internal flag;
[0017]FIG. 4 update threshold;
[0018]FIG. 5 data memory;
[0019]FIG. 6 evaluate maintenance flag; and
[0020]FIG. 7 data resume.
[0021] FIGS. 8A-8H are illustrations of processing on a common time base.
[0022]FIG. 9 is a plot of defects as a function of related operations.
MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0023] It is contemplated that the present invention will be utilized working with defects of the sort described in the prior pair of applications. The invention typically will be used in a system which monitors some number of parameters, such as, for example, between 50 and 60 parameters as appear in the prior pair of applications. In the embodiment herein, for each parameter, there is a complete set of defect rate processing software that operates only with respect to that individual parameter. The software described in the figures herein is therefore the software required for a single parameter, which will be multiplied as many times as necessary so as to provide a set of similar software for each of the parameters being monitored. The invention, however, may be utilized in a system in which only one set of software is provided, and each parameter is treated in turn by the set of software, followed by the next parameter in turn being treated by the same software. The implementation of multi-parameter software is well within the skill of the art in the light of the figures herein and the teachings hereinafter.
[0024] Herein, a defect is a notable event, which may result from an operation being too fast or too slow or lasting too long, or a parameter being too irregular, a position being wrong, and the like. A wide variety of examples are set forth in the prior pair of applications. In this embodiment, the number of operations may be the number of times that a door opens or closes, or the number of times that a door-related button switch is pressed, or the number of runs of the elevator car, and so forth, related to the defect being monitored.
[0025] For door operations, the complete opening and closing of the door is considered one operation; door operations correspond to a large number of parameters related to the elevator car door and landing doors. For landing doors, each parameter is maintained separately for each of the landing doors. For door open and close buttons, car call and landing call buttons, each stroke of a button is an operation of that button.
[0026] Factors referred to hereinafter are initialized as follows:
[0027] k=0
[0028] dCTR=0
[0029] oCTR=0
[0030] OIFACUM=0
[0031] OUAACUM=0
[0032] OMFVACUM=20,001
[0033] TAP=0
[0034] TMFV=0
[0035] LEARNING FLG=SET
[0036] INT FLG=RESET
[0037] UAR FLG=RESET
[0038] INFO FLG=RESET
[0039] VISIT FLG=RESET
[0040] VISITED FLG=RESET
[0041] The events described hereinafter in FIG. 1 are only effective when the routine is in the WAIT state 610. In FIG. 1, each time an operation corresponding to this parameter occurs, it will cause an operation event 611 and be incremented into an operation counter, oCTR, by a step 612. Each time a defect in this parameter occurs (a defect being a notable event or condition), it will cause a defect event 616 and be incremented by a step 617 into a defect counter, dCTR for this particular parameter. At the start of each day, a new day event 618 reaches a step 619 to increment an algorithm period timer, TAP. A first test 625 determines if the number of defects, d, of the parameter under consideration exceeds two. Since the defect count is initialized at zero, test 625 will initially be negative, reaching a test 626 to determine if the number of related operations exceeds 2,000. Initially, test 626 is negative, so a test 627 determines if 14 days have elapsed since the learning process began, as indicated by the algorithm period timer, TAP, which is incremented once each day by step 619. Initially, it will not, so a negative result of test 627 returns to the wait state 610, where it will remain until the next event 611, 616, 618 occurs in FIG. 1, after which the process is repeated. The process passing through steps and tests 625-627 will repeat following any event until eventually, either the number of defects or operations, or the lapse of time, will cause an affirmative result of one of the tests 625-627. An affirmative result of one of these tests denotes the end of an algorithm period, following which various calculations are made. Although not preferred, if desired, the algorithm periods may be demarcated by only one of the tests 625-627, or by other sets of tests.
[0042] A test 630 is reached to determine if a learning flag is set or not. Initially, it will be set (as shown in the initialized items at the top of FIG. 2), so an affirmative result of test 630 reaches a learning subroutine 631 (FIG. 2) through a transfer point 632. A step 633 calculates the rate, r, of defect generation as the ratio of the number of defects, dCTR, to the number of corresponding operations, oCTR. A test 637 determines if the most recently generated rate of defects exceeds a maximum upper threshold UTMAX; the maximum and minimum upper thresholds (referred to more fully hereinafter) are established by elevator experts, and are not changed throughout the life of the elevator utilizing this invention. If the most recent rate of defect exceeds the maximum upper threshold for that parameter, then that rate is ignored by causing the program to reach the wait state 610 through a return point 638. But if the most recently generated defect rate, r, does not exceed the maximum upper threshold, UTMAX, a negative result of test 637 reaches a step 639 to increment a learning counter, k, which was initialized at zero so it points to the first one of K learning steps, which is generally some number between three and six, and may or may not differ from one parameter to another, as desired. Then a step 640 stores the current number of defects as the number of defects for the learning step k, and a step 641 stores the current number of operations as the number of operations for the current learning step. A test 644 determines if the learning steps equal the total number of required learning steps, K. If not, the process restores the Tap, d and o counters to zero in steps 645-647, reverts to the main program in FIG. 1 through the return point 638, and then reaches the wait state 610, and will repeat once more. As used herein, “RETURN” signifies returning to the point in FIG. 1 from which the transfer was made.
[0043] The process of FIG. 2 continues, responding to events in FIG. 1, until all the learning steps, K, have been fulfilled. Then an average defect rate, R, is generated in a step 650 as the summation, for all of the K learning steps, of the stored value of defect rate, dk, divided by the summation, for all of the K learning steps, of the stored value of the number of operations, ok. A step 651 resets the learning flag, which signals the end of the learning subroutine 631, and a step 652 resets the algorithm period designator, i (described hereinafter) to zero. Then a test 653 determines if the newly calculated average defect rate, R, for that parameter, is less than some minimal value, such as one-half the reciprocal of the average number of operations during the K learning steps; if it is, then it is set to that value in a step 654; otherwise step 654 is bypassed. Then steps 645-647 restore the counters to zero, and the program returns to the main routine of FIG. 1 through transfer point 638, and thence to the wait state 610. Learning (for this parameter) is never again performed during the life of the elevator, unless it is following a complete elevator overhaul.
[0044] When learning is complete, any of the events 611, 616, 618 (FIG. 1) will increment the corresponding counters and accumulators and reach the series of tests 625-627 to determine if the end of an algorithm period has been reached, in the fashion described hereinbefore. If not, the program reaches the wait state 610 to await the next event 611, 616, 618.
[0045] In all of the processing that follows, the subscript i denotes successive algorithm periods. In FIGS. 8A-8H the plain vertical lines demarcate algorithm periods; the vertical arrows indicate information requests or visits. For reasons described hereinafter, the data collected in one algorithm period is processed in the next algorithm period along with the results of processing in preceding algorithm periods, i−1 and i−2. The current processing period is i.
[0046] Eventually, one of the tests 625-627 will be affirmative reaching the test 630, which is negative throughout the remaining life of the elevator with which the present invention is related. This reaches a subroutine 656, FIG. 3, through a transfer point 657, which evaluates whether or not an internal flag, indicative of a notable event, should be generated, by means of a series of algorithmic steps that are performed at the end of each corresponding algorithm period. A test 658 checks a visited flag, described hereinafter; generally, it will not be set, thereby reaching a test 659 to determine if i is zero, which it will be only in the first pass through the algorithm. If i>0, a step 660 generates a rate of defect for period i, ri, as equal to the number of defects, di, subdivided by the number of operations, oi. Then a step 661 generates a deviation, σi, as the square root of: (a) the product of (1) the current average rate and (2) one minus the current average rate, (b) divided by the number of operations, oi. Then a step 662 generates an upper threshold for this period, UTi, as the maximum of either (1) a fixed, minimum value of the upper threshold, UTMIN, or (2) the average defect rate, R, plus 2.33 times the current deviation, σi. The value 2.33 is the known constant for a deviation for which there is a 1% chance that the value of the sample is out of the region of interest. Utilizing the maximum of step 662 ensures that the upper threshold does not go below some minimum amount determined by experts to be the least possible value for an upper threshold of the particular parameter. However, the invention may be used without considering any UTMIN. A step 663 sets the lower threshold, LTi, equal to the average defect rate minus 2.33 times the current deviation.
[0047] Tests now determine whether or not to set an internal flag, which may be used under certain circumstances to generate a maintenance recommendation request, as is described hereinafter. A test 666 determines if i is greater than one; this is required for these tests, which involve information from algorithm period i−1. If not, the tests will await the next algorithm period, reverting to FIG. 1 through a return point 667, which leads in turn to an update threshold subroutine. But if i is greater than 1, a test 669 determines if the current defect rate exceeds the maximum upper threshold; if so, a step 670 sets the internal flag. Then, the internal flag operations accumulator, oIFACUM, is reset to zero in a step 671. The accumulated value of operations initialized in step 671 is used in a manner related only to internal flags, as described hereinafter. On the other hand, if test 669 is negative, a test 672 determines if the current value of defect rate, ri, exceeds the current upper threshold, UTi. If it does, a test 673 determines if the defect rate for the next preceding algorithm period, ri−1, exceeds the upper threshold for the previous algorithm period, UTi−1. If both tests 672 and 673 are affirmative, then the steps 670 and 671 establish an internal flag as described hereinbefore. If the test 669 and either of the tests 672 or 673 are negative, the steps 670 and 671 are bypassed. Although it is not preferred, step 670 may set the internal flag in response to an affirmative result of test 672, without considering the prior algorithm period (without test 673). Then the program reverts to FIG. 1 through the return point 667.
[0048] Since the tests in FIG. 4 involve information from algorithm period i−2, a test 677 determines if i is greater than 2; if not, no update can be performed employing i−2, so the routine reverts to FIG. 1 through a return point 693. But if i>2, a first step 679 generates a new value of average defect rate, RNEW, as (a) the existing average defect rate, R, plus (b) one-half of the difference between (1) a newly calculated arithmetical mean of the defect rate over three algorithm periods and (2) the existing average defect rate. The newly calculated mean of the defect rate is the ratio of the summations of the values of r and o of the current cycle, i, and the next preceding two cycles, i−1, i−2, as shown in step 679 of FIG. 4. As used herein, “average” does not mean the “arithmetical mean”, but the quasi-integrated value derived in step 679. Once the new rate is calculated, a test 680 determines if it constitutes an upward adjustment or a downward adjustment of the average defect rate. Assume it is an upward adjustment, a series of tests 683-685 determine if the defect rate for the last three algorithm periods respectively exceed the corresponding upper thresholds for the last three periods. If so, the average defect rate may be adjusted upwardly provided it falls within an operational period which is within 20,000 operations of the last prior maintenance recommendation message (maintenance flag, described hereinafter with respect to FIG. 6) generated in response to a site visit by service personnel, as indicated by the operations accumulator, OMFVACUM, and within six months (TMFV) of the last time that a maintenance recommendation message was generated in response to a visit to the elevator site by service personnel, indicated by tests 686 and 687 being affirmative. If the defect rate exceeded the corresponding upper threshold for three algorithm periods in a row (or such other number of periods as may be selected in any embodiment), within the time and operations constraint described above, affirmative results of tests 683-687 reach a step 690 which sets the average defect rate, R, equal to the newly created defect rate, RNEW, . Then, a flag which memorizes the upward adjustment of the average defect rate, UAR, is set in a step 691. And a step 692 restores to zero an accumulator, OUAACUM, which keeps track of the number of operations since the last upward adjustment of the average defect rate. If any of tests 683-687 is negative, the average defect rate, R, is not adjusted upwardly. However, although it is not preferred, either or both of the tests 686 or 687 may be omitted in any embodiment of the invention, if desired. The update subroutine then reverts to the main routine of FIG. 1 through a return point 693.
[0049] On the other hand, if test 680 indicates that the newly generated average defect rate is less than the current average defect rate, a plurality of tests 696-698 determine if the defect rates in the last three algorithm periods were less than the lower respective thresholds for the corresponding periods. If so, affirmative results of all three tests 696-698 (or such other number of tests as may be selected in any embodiment) reach a step 699 to cause the average defect rate, R, to be set equal to the newly calculated defect rate, RNEW. This is the only function of the lower thresholds. A step 700 resets the internal flag, which may have previously been set in step 670 (FIG. 3), because a downward adjustment which occurs after an internal flag will negate the creation of a maintenance flag as a result of the internal flag (the only function of the internal flag, as is described more fully with respect to FIG. 6 hereinafter). Similarly, a step 701 will reset the flag memorizing the upward adjustment of the average defect rate, UAR, so that there is not an upward adjustment which has not been followed by a downward adjustment, thereby negating the creation of a maintenance flag and related recommendation, as described with respect to FIG. 6, hereinafter. Although not preferred, steps 700 and 701 could be omitted in a particular embodiment of the invention, if desired. Then the routine reverts to FIG. 1 through the return point 693.
[0050] After the internal flag and update routines of FIGS. 3 and 4, a series of housekeeping steps 708-717 (FIG. 1) close out the current algorithm period and prepare for the next period. Step 708 increments the value of i so as to point to the next algorithm period; having done that, steps 709 and 710 store the values of the d CTR and o CTR as di and oi for the next algorithm period. Then, steps 711-713 increment the value in the accumulators for the number of operations since an upward adjustment (OUA), since an internal flag was generated (OIF), and since a maintenance flag is generated in response to a visit (OMFV). The time since the maintenance flag was generated as a result of a visit (TMFV) has added to it the extent of the present algorithm period (TAP) in a step 714. Then steps 715-717 restore the d and o counters and the algorithm period timer to zero. The routine then reverts to the wait state 610.
[0051] The routines of FIGS. 1, 3 and 4 continue to operate, possibly resulting in upward or downward adjustment of the average defect rate, which in turn results in adjusting the thresholds (steps 661-663, FIG. 3) and possibly setting the internal flag for this parameter (step 670, FIG. 3). The upward adjustments of the thresholds or setting the internal flag may result in the setting of a maintenance flag in FIG. 6, which is the instruction to issue a maintenance recommendation message corresponding to this parameter, as described hereinafter.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 1, an information request (INFO REQ) is an event initiated by off-site service personnel or equipment, for elevator condition information to be sent (such as over telephone lines) to a central monitoring station. A VISIT is the operation of a switch or the like by service personnel visiting the elevator site. These events may result in a maintenance flag, which in turn causes a maintenance recommendation message. Either an information request event or a visit event will cause performance of the steps and tests somewhat in the same fashion as does the conclusion of an algorithm period, as described hereinbefore. This is to provide updated information so as to determine whether or not a maintenance flag should be set, which in turn will cause the provision of a maintenance recommendation message, either to the remote area which initiated the information request, or to the on-site service personnel which cause the visit event. When an information request is processed, the algorithm period in which it is received is resumed (meaning that the count in the o counter and in the d counter are carried forward), regardless of whether the information request is received early in an algorithm period (FIG. 8B), requiring combining algorithm periods (FIG. 8C) or is received late enough in an algorithm period so that the algorithm period is treated as normal (FIG. 8A). The resumption occurs because of two things: the info request flag causes the o and d counts for algorithm period i+1 to be restored to the values they had before being combined with the counters of algorithm period i, and bypassing the steps 780-791, which start a new algorithm period. If an information request is received (FIG. 8A) when the value in the o counter exceeds half the value of oi, the algorithm period i+1 is resumed as shown in FIG. 8D; the difference between the situation of FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B is that in FIG. 8B the data for algorithm period i must be restored whereas in the situation of FIG. 8A, no restoration is required. In the case of a visit, a new algorithm period is started at the end of processing for that visit (FIG. 8E). In the case of either an information request or a visit, if the data of two periods are combined (FIG. 8C) then only one iteration of processing is required (FIGS. 8C and 8E). On the other hand, if the values in the algorithm period within which the information request or visit is received are sufficiently great (FIG. 8A) so that no combination occurs, two iterations of processing are required (FIGS. 8G and 8H), the firs to process algorithm period i and the second to process algorithm period i+1 (FIG. 8G, which becomes period i in FIG. 8H).
[0053] The occurrence of an information request or a visit results in a corresponding event 720, 721, respectively. The info request event sets a corresponding flag in a related step 722. Any algorithm period interrupted by an information request will be resumed after processing. To do this, a data memory subroutine 724 is reached through a transfer point 725 in FIG. 5. The involved algorithm period, iMEM, is stored in a step 730, and the current values of o and d are stored as oMEM and dMEM in steps 731 and 732. Similarly, memory values of the o accumulators, TMFC (described hereinafter), internal flag and UAR flag are stored in steps 733-738. The routine then reverts to FIG. 1 through a return point 739.
[0054] Information requests and visits are not processed until learning is complete; a test 743 reverts to the wait state 610 in such a case.
[0055] Since an information request or a visit could occur at any time during an algorithm period, either of these may occur just after the completion of a prior algorithm period (arrow, FIG. 8B), or some greater time after the completion of a prior algorithm period (arrow, FIG. 8A). A test 744 determines if the operations counter, oCTR, currently has a higher setting than half of the number of operations in the previous algorithm period, oi. If it does (FIG. 8A), then the current algorithm period for that parameter is treated as a complete algorithm period, and processing will proceed through a transfer point 745 to the routines 656 and 676 (FIGS. 3 and 4) as described hereinbefore. In such a case, the data allocated to algorithm period i is processed in the routines 656 and 676 as in FIG. 8G. In the case of a visit, the data collected at that time, relating to algorithm period i+1, is processed in a next algorithm period, after the algorithm period, i, is incremented, as shown in FIG. 8E. After a visit, a new algorithm period is always started, without restoring any data. Therefore, once the processing in FIGS. 3 and 4 is completed in the subroutines 656 and 676 for period i, a plurality of steps 747-753 (identical to steps 708-714) are performed to advance to the next algorithm period, and then the subroutines 656,676 of FIGS. 3 and 4 are again reached through a transfer point 756 to perform the processing of FIG. 8H.
[0056] On the other hand, if the current algorithm period does not have more than half of the number of operations of the previous period (FIG. 8B), test 744 is negative (FIG. 1) and the number of operations of the two periods and the number of defects of the two periods are combined (FIG. 8C) in a pair of steps 757, 758 (FIG. 1). The accumulators are incremented by the o counter in steps 759-761 and the time since a maintenance flag occurred during a visit is incremented by the duration of the last algorithm period in step 762. And then the internal flag and update subroutines 656, 676 of FIGS. 3 and 4 are reached through a transfer point 764.
[0057] An evaluate maintenance flag subroutine 765 is reached in FIG. 6 through a transfer point 766. In FIG. 6, a first test 767 determines if 20,000 operations have occurred since the last time that the average defect rate, R, was adjusted upwardly. If so, a maintenance flag will not be established based upon an upward adjustment of R. However, if 20,000 operations have not occurred, an affirmative result of test 767 reaches a test 768 to determine if the UAR flag was set in step 691 (FIG. 4) and not yet reset (by a downward adjustment of R) in step 701, FIG. 4. An affirmative result of test 768 therefore indicates that there has been an upward adjustment of the average defect rate (and thus, of the thresholds) since the last visit, not followed by a downward adjustment, within the last 20,000 operations. If either test 767 or test 768 is negative, then a test 771 determines if there have been 20,000 operations since an internal flag was set; the accumulator, OIFACUM, is reset upon the establishment of an internal flag at step 671 in FIG. 3. If 20,000 operations have not occurred, a test 772 determines if the internal flag is set. If it is, that means there has been no downward adjustment of the average defect rate (and thus, of the thresholds) since the internal flag was set, since it otherwise would have been reset at step 700 in FIG. 4. In FIG. 6, if there were an upward adjustment or an internal flag not followed by a downward adjustment, within 20,000 operations, an affirmative result of either test 768 or 772 will reach a step 773 to indicate that a maintenance flag should be generated, which may be used to cause generation of a corresponding maintenance message of the type described in the aforementioned copending applications. Then, FIG. 1 is reverted to through a return point 774.
[0058] If the processing through the evaluate maintenance flag subroutine 765 is as a result of a visit rather than an info request, a negative result of a test 777 will reach a step 780 to set a visited flag. This is used in FIG. 3 to prevent performing any algorithmic operations in the first algorithm period following the second pass of processing after a visit (FIG. 8H), so that only data collection occurs in the ensuing algorithm period. In FIG. 3, an affirmative result of test 658 reaches a step 778 that resets the visited flag and causes the remainder of FIG. 3 to be bypassed, so that processing of data collected during the algorithm period following period i in FIG. 8H (which has already been processed) will not be processed again as data is being collected within the next algorithmic period.
[0059] In FIG. 1, a step 781 increments i; a series of steps 782-784 reset the o and d counters and the algorithm timer for the next algorithm period. A plurality of steps 785-788 restore the time accumulated and the three operations accumulators to zero, since these all keep track of operations and time subsequent to a visit. Then, steps 789, 790 reset the internal and UAR flags, since the occurrence of the internal flag or the UAR flag is significant only when it is set after a visit. Then the routine reverts to the wait state 610 to await another operation, defect or new day.
[0060] On the other hand, if the processing through subroutine 765 was as a result of an information request (the info flag was set in step 722), the data combined just before the info request (FIG. 8C) must be restored for the algorithm periods i and i+1, as indicated in FIG. 8D. An affirmative result of test 777 reaches step 797 to reset the information request flag. Then, a data resume subroutine 801 is reached in FIG. 7 through a transfer point 802.
[0061] All of the settings of steps 730-738 in FIG. 5 are now reversed by respectively corresponding steps 830-838 in FIG. 7 so as to restore the last algorithm period (FIG. 8D). Then the program reverts to FIG. 1 through a return point 839, to await another operation defect or new day.
[0062] If desired in any implementation of the invention, the visit interrupt will not be recognized if the next previous visit of service personnel is within two weeks of the present time; this is because it is better to use older, complete data than to use only the relatively incomplete data that could be assembled in the two-week period (a single algorithm period of time). In such a case, a maintenance flag may be retained for two weeks, to be used in response to a visit within that time. Although not preferred, the maintenance flag may be generated, if desired in any embodiment, in response only to visits (and not information requests), or in response only to information requests (and not visits); or in response to one or more other particular events.
[0063] In some parts of the world, landing doors, which block the access to the elevator hoistway from hallways, may be hinged to swing open and closed rather than sliding vertically or horizontally (swing doors). Many of these use hydraulic door closers, which occasionally lose oil pressure, causing the door to not close properly. This results in a high ratio of landing door rebounds per door operation (Parameter No. 6, FIG. 3, of said pair of applications). In FIG. 9 there is shown a simplified example of monitoring swing-door rebounds, illustrating how the thresholds are varied and the maintenance flags created. In FIG. 9, the circles (whether or empty or not) denote the defect rate, r, which in FIG. 9 varies between near zero and about 11%, and those circles having an asterisk therein denote defect rates which have resulted in generating an internal flag. In this example of FIG. 9, each algorithm period contains 500 door operations, with an initial average defect rate, R, of just over 2%. In FIG. 9, the X's denote mechanic visits, which are assumed to occur about every two months, which may translate to about every 5,000 operations. Each X which has a square around it indicates that a maintenance flag has been generated for the swing door rebound parameter. The upper and lower thresholds are the dotted lines beginning just below 4% and just below 1%, respectively.
[0064] In FIG. 9, the defect rate for all of the algorithm periods up to and including period 46 are below the upper threshold; note that the fact that there are defect rates below the lower threshold is relevant only when adjusting the thresholds by adjusting the average defect rate, R. In the 50th algorithm period, an internal flag is generated because both the 49th and 50th (consecutive) algorithm periods are above the current threshold for each of the periods (which in this case are the same). The fifth visit by service personnel will generate a maintenance flag because of the internal flag generated in the 50th algorithm period. The 54th algorithm period will result in generation of an internal flag as will the 55th algorithm period. In addition, since at the 55th algorithm period there are three consecutive algorithm periods in a row which exceed the corresponding upper threshold, the average defect rate, R, is adjusted upwardly at that time, resulting in new upper and lower thresholds with a larger value of σ, as evidenced by the thresholds having a greater spread after the 55th algorithm period than they have before the 55th algorithm period. In the sixth mechanic visit, a maintenance flag will be generated as a consequence of the internal flag generated in the 55th algorithm period. Note that performance improved somewhat after the fifth visit, around the 50th through 54th algorithm periods, but then deteriorated significantly thereafter. Thus, the mechanic did not fix the problem adequately during the fifth visit. On the other hand, following the sixth visit, the performance improves significantly, meaning that the service personnel did fix the problem.
[0065] At the 65th algorithm period, the thresholds are adjusted downwardly because there are three algorithm periods in a row within which the defect rate is below the lower threshold. At the 77th algorithm period, the thresholds are again adjusted downwardly.
[0066] At the 100th algorithm period, the thresholds are again adjusted downwardly. In algorithm period 131, an internal flag is generated because there are two consecutive defect rates above the upper threshold. In algorithm period 132, an internal flag is also generated; however, the threshold is not adjusted upwardly because there have been more than 20,000 operations of the door since the sixth visit, which is the last visit in which a maintenance flag was generated (step 773 and test 772). Internal flags continue to be generated through the 140th algorithm period which coincides with the 14th visit, thereby generating a maintenance flag. After the 14th visit, there will be three algorithm periods in a row (139, 140, 141) in which the defect rate exceeds the corresponding threshold thereby causing the threshold to increase in algorithm period 141. Shortly thereafter, at algorithm period 146, there are three consecutive defect rates below the lower threshold so the threshold is adjusted downwardly once more. Although not illustrated, maintenance flags may of course be generated at other than visits or response to information requests.
[0067] In general, the present invention may be utilized with respect to those notable events and conditions in the prior pair of applications in which the generation of a maintenance message is dependent upon the ratio of the number of occurrences of the abnormality to the number of related operations, which in said aforementioned applications utilized fixed thresholds. In some of those, the thresholds are known by experts to require a certain fixed threshold, in which case the present invention would not be utilized.
[0068] All of the aforementioned patent applications are incorporated herein by reference.
[0069] Thus, although the invention has been shown and described with respect to exemplary embodiments thereof, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing and various other changes, omissions and additions may be made therein and thereto, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
We claim:
1. A method of determining when one or more specific maintenance recommendation message, each relating to a specific corresponding parameter of an elevator, should be generated, said method comprising:
(a) monitoring conditions and/or events related to said parameter to determine any such conditions or events which are deemed notable with respect to elevator maintenance, and generating defect indications in response thereto; (b) in each of a series of sequential algorithm periods—
(i) recording the number of said defect indications generated;
(ii) recording the number of operations of an elevator element related to said parameter;
(iii) providing a defect rate indication as a ratio of the number of said defect indications to the related number of said operations for an algorithm period;
(c) periodically generating an average defect rate indication from said number of defect indications and said number of operations recorded during a plurality of said periods including one or more periods prior to said each period; (d) in said each algorithm period—
(iv) generating a deviation indication in response to said average defect rate indication and said related number of operations;
(v) generating an upper threshold indication in response to said average defect rate indication and said deviation indication; and
(vi) selectively generating a maintenance flag indication, denoting that a maintenance recommendation message relating to said parameter should be generated, in response to at least one of (1) the number of said defect indications recorded in at least one of said periods exceeding the corresponding one of said upper threshold indications generated in said at least one period, and (2) said step (c) resulting in an upward adjustment of said average defect rate.
2. A method according to claim 1 wherein:
said periods are demarcated by at least one of (a) a predetermined number of defects recorded in said step (i), (b) a predetermined number of operations recorded in said step (ii), or (c) a predetermined period of time.
3. A method according to claim 1 wherein said step (v) comprises:
generating said maintenance flag indication in response to said number of defects exceeding said corresponding upper threshold indication in a selected plurality of said periods.
4. A method according to claim 3 wherein:
said selected plurality of periods are mutually contiguous.
5. A method according to claim 3 wherein said step (v) comprises:
generating said maintenance flag indication in response to said step (c) resulting in an upward adjustment of said average defect rate in a specific plurality of said periods.
6. A method according to claim 5 wherein:
there are more of said specific plurality of said periods than said selected plurality of periods.
7. A method according to claim 5 wherein:
said specific plurality of periods are mutually contiguous.
8. A method according to claim 1 wherein said step (c) comprises:
generating a new value of said average defect rate indication in any one of said periods in response to said number of said defect indications exceeding said corresponding upper threshold indication in a plurality of said periods.
9. A method according to claim 1 wherein said step (v) comprises:
generating said maintenance flag indication in response to said step (c) resulting in an upward adjustment of said average defect rate in a plurality of said periods.
10. A method according to claim 1 wherein said step (c) comprises:
periodically generating a new value of said average defect rate indication as
(i) the existing average defect rate indication plus
(ii) one-half of the difference between (1) a newly calculated arithmetical mean of said defect rate over a plurality of said periods and (2) the existing average defect rate indication.
11. A method according to claim 1 further comprising:
generating a lower threshold indication in response to said average defect rate indication and said deviation indication.
12. A method according to claim 11 wherein said step (c) comprises:
generating a new value of said average defect rate indication in any one of said periods in response to said corresponding number of said defect indications being less than said corresponding lower threshold indication in a plurality of said periods.
13. A method according to claim 11 wherein:
said average defect rate is adjusted downwardly.
14. A method according to claim 8 wherein said step (c) further comprises:
generating a new value of said average defect rate indication in any one of said periods in response to said number of said defect indications exceeding said corresponding upper threshold indication in a plurality of said periods.
15. A method according to claim 1 wherein said step (v) comprises:
selectively generating said maintenance flag indication following a particular event.
16. A method according to claim 15 wherein:
said maintenance flag is generated only following a particular event.
17. A method according to claim 15 wherein said particular event is at least one of one of (i) a visit to said elevator by maintenance personnel or (ii) a request that information about the condition of the elevator be provided.
18. A method according to claim 1 wherein:
said step (c) results in adjusting said average defect rate upwardly only if the total number of said operations, occurring since said maintenance flag was generated concurrently with said visit, is less than a related threshold number of operations.
19. A method according to claim 1 wherein:
said step (c) results in adjusting said average defect rate upwardly only if the total lapse of time, since said maintenance flag was generated concurrently with said visit, is less than a related threshold amount of time.
20. A method according to claim 1 wherein said step (v) comprises:
selectively generating said maintenance flag indication following a particular event in response to the number of said defect indications recorded in at least one of said periods exceeding said corresponding upper threshold indication, and said step (c) does not thereafter and prior to said particular event result in a downward adjustment of said average defect rate.
21. A method according to claim 1 wherein said step (v) comprises:
selectively generating said maintenance flag indication following a particular event in response to said step (c) resulting in an upward adjustment of said average defect rate and said step (c) does not thereafter and prior to said particular event result in a downward adjustment of said average defect rate.
22. A method according to claim 1 wherein:
said step (v) comprises:
selectively generating said maintenance flag indication following a particular event in response to the number of said defect indications recorded in one of said periods exceeding said corresponding upper threshold only if the total number of said operations, since the number of said defect indications recorded in one of said periods exceeded said corresponding threshold, is less than a related threshold number of operations.
23. A method according to claim 1 wherein:
said step (v) comprises:
selectively generating said maintenance flag indication following a particular event in response to said step (c) resulting in an upward adjustment of said average defect rate only if the total number of said operations, since said step (c) resulted in an upward adjustment of said average defect rate, is less than a related threshold number of operations.
| 2001-12-28 | en | 2003-07-03 |
US-201816179622-A | Box Head Connector
ABSTRACT
A connector is provided that minimizes the surface profile of a connection between a header and a vertical member. The portion of the connector that engages the side surface of the vertical member and the horizontal member has a notched section such that the connector does not over-lie the flaring lower portion of the header.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a connector for making a connection between two structural members in a building, and in particular for joining a header to a vertical upright.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,634,889, invented by di Girolamo, Torres and Abdel-Rahman teaches an L-shaped bracket for making such a connection between a header and a vertical upright where the header does not rest upon a top surface of the vertical stud, but instead abuts the vertical face of the stud. The L-shaped bracket attaches to the underside of the header and to the vertical face of the stud. A side flange projects from the portion of the L-shaped bracket attached to the underside of the header. The side flange overlies a portion of a side surface of the header and at least a portion of a vertical side surface of the stud. The L-shaped bracket is connected to the header and to the vertical stud with fasteners and the side flange is connected to the header and the vertical stud with fasteners.
U.S. Pat. No. 8,615,942, invented by Dennis P. Lafreniere teaches a hanger for making a connection between a header and a vertical jamb stud where the header does not rest upon a horizontal surface of the jamb stud. The hanger has a back member which is attached to the vertical stud and a seat and side members which receive the header.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a connection between a vertical member and a horizontal member made with a connector where the end of the horizontal member abuts or lies closely adjacent the vertical end face of the of the vertical member such that the vertical member does not have a ledge or other supporting surface on which the horizontal member rests.
The present invention provides a connector for the connection where the connector minimizes the surface profile of the connection. This object is accomplished by providing the portion of the connector that engages the side surface of the vertical member and the horizontal member with a notched or coped section such that the side plate of the connector does not over-lie the flaring lower portion of the header. This prevents what is called dry-wall build-up. In most building situations the connection will be covered with dry-wall or gypsum board panels. Preferably, the underlying structural member for the dry-wall panels are generally uniform in profile such that dry-wall can be attached to the underlying members and the outer surface of the dry-wall panels present a uniform flat profile.
The present invention also provides a connector where the openings for the fasteners that attach the connector to the vertical supporting members and the horizontally disposed supported member are arranged in such a manner that different sizes of vertical support members and horizontal supported members can be used with the connector, while minimizing the number of fasteners that are needed to make the connector and support desired loads imposed on the connection.
The arrangement of fastener openings on the side plate for attachment to the vertically disposed members can accommodate vertical members that are 1⅝″, 2″, 2½″, 3″ and 3½″ wide. The connector is dimensioned and the fastener openings are placed in the connector such that two vertical columns of fasteners can be placed side-by-side in a vertical member that is only 1⅝″ wide. Similarly, if two vertical members will be used to carry the load of the connection, the openings in the connector are arranged such that a vertical column of fasteners can be placed in both of the vertical studs.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the connection of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a close-up perspective view of the connection of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the connection of the present invention with the fasteners placed in different locations for attachment to the vertically disposed jamb studs.
FIG. 4 is a close-up perspective view of the connection of FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 is a partially exploded view of the connection of FIG. 3.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of connector of the present invention for attaching to the opposite sides of the vertical and horizontal member.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the connector of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is cross-sectional end view of the connection of FIG. 3.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a connection of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The connection 1 of the present invention is made between a horizontal member 2 and a vertical member 3. The horizontal member has an end 4, a bottom face 5 and at least one side face 6. As shown in FIG. 1, the horizontal member has a second side face 7.
The horizontal member can be made up of a number of component pieces. As shown in the figures, the horizontal member is made up of a plurality of C-shaped members. A bottom c-shaped member or track 8 is oriented such that its central web member 9 is disposed horizontally, and the central web member of the bottom c-shaped member constitutes the bottom surface or face of the header. The track 9 has two side flanges 10 and 11 projecting away from the central web in the same direction. Small return flanges can also be provided on the track. The header is also formed with a pair of c-shaped members or side member 12 and 13 where the central web members of the upstanding c-shaped members are disposed vertically. The C-shaped members each have a central web member and two end flange members projecting from the central web member in the same direction at the edges of the central web member. The bottom c-shaped member 8 supports and partially encloses the upstanding c-shaped members 12 and 13. Each of the side members 12 and 13 is situated in the bottom c-shaped member 8 such that one of the end flange members of the bottom c-shaped member interfaces with the central web of one of the upstanding c-shaped members. The lower end flanges of each of the upstanding c-shaped members interfaces with the central web of the bottom c-shaped member. The central webs of the side members and the end flanges of the bottom c-shaped member make up the side faces of the horizontal member. The horizontal member can also have a top track 14 that is also a c-shaped member that rests on the side members 12 and 13.
The side faces of the horizontal member formed in this manner with the bottom c-shaped member receiving the upstanding c-shaped members is not perfectly flat as the side or end flanges of the bottom c-shaped member jut out a little more than the surfaces of the central webs of the side members. This flaring or jutting out of the end flanges of the bottom c-shaped member makes it difficult to connect the horizontal header to the vertical members while keeping a low profile.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, in the connection between a vertical member and a horizontal member made with the connector of the present invention, the end of the horizontal member abuts or lies closely adjacent the vertical end face of the vertical member. The vertical member does not have a ledge or other supporting surface on which the horizontal member rests.
As shown in FIG. 1, the connector 15 has a first plate 16 which attaches to the underside of the header and a second plate 17 which is connected to the web vertical face 18 of the stud or vertical member. The first and second plates are joined to each other at a bend. In the connection, the first plate is disposed horizontally and the second plate is disposed vertically. The first and second plates are disposed orthogonally to each other with the first plate interfacing with the bottom surface of the horizontal member and the second plate interfacing with the web vertical face of the vertical member. A side flange 19 projects from the second plate. The side flange is disposed orthogonally to the second plate and is joined to the second plate at a vertical bend. The side flange extends upwardly along the vertical side surface 20 of the vertically disposed stud and is bent back away from the opening bounded by the vertical member and the horizontal member and toward the vertical member. The side flange is spaced away or at least does not overlie the side surface of the horizontal member. The side flange extends along the end of the horizontal member. The side flange has an extension 21 that extends in the plane of the side flange along the side surface of the horizontally disposed header. The side flange and extension together overlie a portion of a side surface of the header and a portion of a vertical side surface of the stud. The first and second plates are connected to the header and to the vertical member with fasteners 22 and the side flange and extension and connected to the header and the vertical stud with fasteners 22. The extension of the side flange is dimensioned so that the side flange of the connector does not over-lie the flaring lower portion of the header. There is a free space in the connector between the extension and the first plate. The extension does not overlie the side flange of the bottom track of the horizontal member. The connector is made with fastener openings 23 for receiving fasteners.
A relatively small gusset dart 24 is provided at the bend between the first and second plates. The gusset dart is formed from material from the first and second plates. The gusset dart has a central rib 25 that extends from the first plate to the second plate and flaring side walls 26 and 27.
As shown in the FIGS. 2, 4 and 9, the side flange of the connector is attached to the vertical member, and the vertical member that receives fastener can be made up of one or two separate members, commonly known as jamb studs. The first jamb stud 28 is closer to the horizontal member and the horizontal member abuts or lies closely adjacent the jamb stud 28. The second jamb stud 29 is disposed closely adjacent to the first jamb stud 28. The jamb studs 28 and 29 can be different sizes.
The extension is preferably formed with two columns of openings 30 and 31. The columns of openings are arranged vertically on the connector when the connector is installed as shown in the figures. The side flange is formed with three columns of openings 32, 33 and 34. The two columns of openings closest to the extension are arranged closer to each other than are the two columns of openings arranged farther from the extension. That is to say, the closest column of openings to the extension 32 and the middle column of openings 33 are spaced closer to each other than the middle column of openings 33 and the farthest column of openings 34 from the extension. The closest opening to the extension 32 and the middle column of openings 33 are preferably spaced 23/32″ from each other. The middle column of openings 33 and the farthest column of openings 34 from the extension are spaced 45/32″ from each other. The closest column of openings to the extension and middle column of openings on the side flange are preferably spaced from the extension so that when the first jamb stud has side flanges that are only 1⅝″ wide fasteners can be provided in both of the closest and middle column of openings and be received in the jamb stud. Two side-by-side columns of fasteners in the jamb stud makes for a strong connection. This arrangement is shown in FIG. 2. When two jamb studs are used that have side flanges that are 1⅝″ wide and they are disposed next to each other with their side flanges aligned and the webs of the studs in parallel and spaced apart, fasteners can be placed in the closest column of openings to the extension and the farthest column of opening from the extension and each stud receives only the fasteners in the overlying column of openings. This balances the load on each of the studs. This arrangement is shown in FIG. 4.
I claim:
1. A connection between a horizontal member and one or more vertically disposed members, formed with a connector, the connection comprising:
a. the horizontal member having a bottom face, an end and one or more side surfaces; b. one or more vertical members extending orthogonally to the horizontal member with the horizontal member extending horizontally and the one or more vertical members extending vertically, with one of the one or more vertical members being closest to the end of the horizontal member, and the end of the horizontal member abutting or lying closely adjacent to a web vertical face of the one or more vertical members closest to the end of the horizontal member, the one or more vertical members extending past and above the end of the horizontal member and having vertical side surfaces: c. the connector attached to the horizontal member and to at least one of the one or more vertical members, the connector including,
1. a first plate which attaches to the bottom face of the header with one or more fasteners;
2. a second plate which attaches to the web vertical face of the one or more vertical members closest to the end of the horizontal member with one or more fasteners;
3. a planar side flange projecting along the vertical side surfaces of the one or more vertical members with the planar side flange being joined to at least one of the vertical side surfaces of the one or more vertical members with one or more fasteners;
4. a side flange extension that extends in the plane of the side flange and extends along one of the one or more side surfaces of the horizontal member with the side flange extension being joined to one of the one or more side surfaces of the horizontal member with one or more fasteners.
2. The connection of claim 1, wherein the horizontal member comprises:
a. a bottom c-shaped track, having a central web member and two side flanges projecting away from the central web member in the same direction, the bottom c-shaped track being oriented such that the central web member is disposed horizontally and constitutes the bottom face of the horizontal member; b. a pair of upstanding c-shaped side members, each having a central web member and two end flanges projecting away from the central web member in the same direction, where the central web members of the c-shaped side members are disposed vertically and the bottom c-shaped track supports and partially encloses the upstanding c-shaped side members with one of the end flanges of each of the upstanding c-shaped members interfacing with the central web member of the bottom c-shaped track and portions of the central web members of the upstanding c-shaped side members and the side flanges of the bottom c-shaped track making up at least portions of the one or more side surfaces of the horizontal member.
3. The connection of claim 2, wherein:
the one or more side surface faces of the horizontal member has a flaring lower portion where the side flanges of the bottom c-shaped member jut out more than the central webs of the upstanding c-shaped side members.
4. The connection of claim 3, wherein:
the side flange extension is attached to the side flange so that the side flange extension of the connector does not over-lie the flaring lower portion of the header.
5. The connection of claim 1, wherein:
there is a free space in the connector between the side flange extension and the first plate.
6. The connection of claim 2, wherein:
the side flange extension of the connector does not overlie the side flange of the c-shaped bottom track of the horizontal member.
7. The connection of claim 1, wherein:
the side flange is formed with three columns of openings arranged vertically, a column of openings closest to the side flange extension, a column of openings farthest from the side flange extension and a middle column of openings.
8. The connection of claim 7, wherein:
the column of openings closest to the side flange extension and the middle column of openings are arranged closer to each other than are the middle column of openings and the farthest column of openings from the side flange extension.
9. The connection of claim 7, wherein:
fasteners are received in the closest column of openings to the side flange extension and the middle column of openings and the fasteners received in the closest column of openings to the side flange extension and the middle column of openings are received in a single one of the one or more vertical members.
10. The connection of claim 9, wherein:
the column of openings farthest from the side flange extension does not receive any fasteners.
11. The connection of claim 7, wherein:
fasteners are received in the closest column of openings to the side flange extension and the farthest column of openings from the side flange extension and the fasteners received in the closest column of openings to the side flange are received in one of the one or more vertical members and the fasteners received in the farthest column of openings from the side flange extension are received in a different one of the one or more vertical members.
12. The connection of claim 11, wherein:
the middle column of openings does not receive any fasteners.
13. The connection of claim 1, wherein:
the second plate is attached to the first plate at an orthogonal bend
14. The connection of claim 13, wherein:
the second flange is joined to the second plate at an orthogonal bend and
15. The connection of claim 14, wherein:
the side flange and the side flange extension are only connected to the first plate through the connection to the second plate
16. The connection of claim 15, wherein the horizontal member comprises:
a. a bottom c-shaped track, having a central web member and two side flanges projecting away from the central web member in the same direction, the bottom c-shaped track being oriented such that the central web member is disposed horizontally and constitutes the bottom face of the horizontal member; b. a pair of upstanding c-shaped side members, each having a central web member and two end flanges projecting away from the central web member in the same direction, where the central web members of the c-shaped side members are disposed vertically and the bottom c-shaped track supports and partially encloses the upstanding c-shaped side members with one of the end flanges of each of the upstanding c-shaped members interfacing with the central web member of the bottom c-shaped track and portions of the central web members of the upstanding c-shaped side members and the side flanges of the bottom c-shaped track making up at least portions of the one or more side surfaces of the horizontal member.
17. The connection of claim 16, wherein:
the side flange extension of the connector does not overlie the side flange of the c-shaped bottom track of the horizontal member.
18. The connection of claim 1, wherein:
the side flange extension is preferably formed with two columns of openings arranged vertically for receiving the one or more fasteners.
19. The connection of claim 1, wherein:
one or more gusset darts are provided at the bend between the first and second plates.
20. The connection of claim 19, wherein:
the one or more gusset darts have central ribs that extend from the first plate to the second plate and flaring side walls.
| 2018-11-02 | en | 2019-05-09 |
US-201113209024-A | Method and apparatus for dark current and blooming supression in 4t cmos imager pixel
ABSTRACT
A method and apparatus for operating an imager pixel that includes the act of applying a relatively small first polarity voltage and a plurality of pulses of a second polarity voltage on the gate of a transfer transistor during a charge integration period.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to semiconductor devices, and more particularly, to dark current and blooming suppression in imager pixels.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
CMOS image sensors are increasingly being used as relatively low cost imaging devices. A CMOS image sensor circuit includes a focal plane array of pixel cells, each one of the cells includes a photo-conversion device, such as e.g., a photogate, photoconductor, or photodiode having an associated charge accumulation region within a substrate for accumulating photo-generated charge. Each pixel cell may include a transistor for transferring charge from the charge accumulation region to a sensing node, and a transistor for resetting the sensing node to a predetermined charge level prior to charge transference. The pixel cell may also include a source follower transistor for receiving and amplifying charge from the sensing node and an access transistor, for controlling the readout of the cell contents from the source follower transistor.
In a CMOS image sensor, the active elements of a pixel cell perform the necessary functions of: (1) photon to charge conversion; (2) accumulation of image charge; (3) transfer of charge to the sensing node; (4) resetting the sensing node to a known state; (5) selection of a pixel for readout; and (6) output and amplification of a signal representing pixel charge from the sensing node.
CMOS image sensors of the type discussed above are generally known as discussed, for example, in Nixon et al., “256×256 CMOS Active Pixel Sensor Camera-on-a-Chip,” IEEE Journal of Solid-State Circuits, Vol. 31(12), pp. 2046-2050 (1996); and Mendis et al., “CMOS Active Pixel Image Sensors,” IEEE Transactions on Electron Devices, Vol. 41(3), pp. 452-453 (1994). See also U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,140,630, 6,177,333, 6,204,524, 6,310,366, 6,326,652, and 6,333,205, assigned to Micron Technology, Inc., the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
A typical four transistor (4T) CMOS imager pixel 150 is shown in FIG. 1A. The pixel 150 includes a photo-conversion device 100, which may be implemented as a pinned photodiode, transfer transistor 110, floating diffusion region FD, reset transistor 120, source follower transistor 130 and row select transistor 180. The photo-conversion device 100 is connected to the floating diffusion region FD by the transfer transistor 110 when the transfer transistor 110 is activated by a transfer gate control signal TX.
The reset transistor 120 is connected between the floating diffusion region FD and a pixel supply voltage Vpix. A reset control signal RST is used to activate the reset transistor 120, which resets the floating diffusion region FD to the pixel supply voltage Vpix level as is known in the art.
The source follower transistor 130 has its gate connected to the floating diffusion region FD and is connected between an array supply voltage Vaa and the row select transistor 180. The source follower transistor 130 converts the charge stored at the floating diffusion region FD into an electrical output voltage signal PIX OUT. The row select transistor is controllable by a row select signal SEL for selectively connecting the source follower transistor 130 and its output voltage signal PIX OUT to a column line 190 of a pixel array.
FIG. 1B illustrates a simplified timing diagram for the readout and photo-charge integration operations for the pixel 150 illustrated in FIG. 1A. FIG. 1B illustrates a first readout period 181 in which previously stored photo-charges are readout of the pixel 150. During this first readout period 181, the reset control signal RST is pulsed to activate the reset transistor 120, which resets the floating diffusion region FD to the pixel supply voltage Vpix level. While the SEL signal is high, a sample and hold reset signal SHR is pulsed to store a reset signal Vrst (corresponding to the reset floating diffusion region FD) on a sample and hold capacitor of a sample and hold circuit (not shown in FIG. 1A or 1B). The transfer control signal TX is then activated to allow photo-charges from the photo-conversion device 100 to be transferred to the floating diffusion region FD. While the SEL signal remains high, a sample and hold pixel signal SHS is pulsed to store a pixel signal Vsig from the pixel 150 on another sample and hold capacitor of the sample and hold circuit.
During the integration period 191, the reset control signal RST, transfer control signal TX and sample and hold signals SHR, SHS are set to a ground potential GRND. It is during the integration period 191 that the photo-conversion device accumulates photo-charge based on the light incident on the photo-conversion device. After the integration period 191, a second readout period 171 begins. During the second readout period 171, the photo-charges accumulated in the integration period 191 are readout of the pixel 150 (as described above for period 181).
One common problem associated with conventional imager pixel cells, such as pixel cell 150, is dark current, that is, current generated as a photo-conversion device signal in the absence of light. As shown in the potential diagram of FIG. 1C, dark current 161 may be caused by many different factors, including: photosensor junction leakage, leakage along isolation edges, transistor sub-threshold leakage, drain induced barrier lower leakage, gate induced drain leakage, trap assisted tunneling, and pixel fabrication defects. One example of a defect is an interstitial vacancy state in the charge carrier-depletion region. This defect causes increased thermal generation of electron-hole pairs, which may be collected in the photo-conversion device 100 (FIG. 1A) and effectively lower overall image quality.
Accordingly, a pixel having a decreased dark current without negative blooming effects is desired. Also needed is a simple method of fabricating and operating such a pixel.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention provides a method of operating an imager pixel such that dark current and the factors that cause dark current in imagers are reduced. The invention permits a reduction in dark current without a reduction in pixel capacity and without causing blooming.
The above and other features and advantages are achieved in an exemplary embodiment of the invention by a method of operating an imager pixel that includes the act of applying a relatively small first voltage and a plurality of pulses of a second voltage on the gate of a transfer transistor during a charge integration period. The first voltage being a small negative voltage and the second voltage being a small positive voltage. When a small negative voltage is applied to the transfer gate, electrons that would normally create dark current problems will instead recombine with holes thereby substantially reducing dark current. When the small positive voltage pulses are applied, a depletion region is created under the transfer transistor gate, which creates a path for dark current electrons to be transferred to a pixel floating diffusion region.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing and other advantages and features of the invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of exemplary embodiments provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1A illustrates a conventional four transistor (4T) pixel cell circuit;
FIG. 1B illustrates a timing diagram for operating the pixel circuit of FIG. 1A in a conventional manner;
FIG. 1C illustrates a voltage potential diagram for the pixel circuit of FIG. 1A when operated in accordance with the FIG. 1B timing diagram;
FIG. 2 illustrates a timing diagram for operating the pixel circuit of FIG. 1A in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 3A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the pixel cell of FIG. 1A when operated in accordance with the FIG. 2 timing diagram;
FIG. 3B illustrates a voltage potential diagram for the pixel circuit of FIG. 1A when operated in accordance with the FIG. 2 timing diagram;
FIGS. 4A-4B are histograms comparing how negative voltage and positive voltage, respectively, reduce dark current in an experimental pixel;
FIG. 5 shows an imager constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and
FIG. 6 shows a processor system incorporating at least one imager constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof and illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like reference numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and that structural, logical and electrical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
The terms “wafer” and “substrate” are to be understood as including silicon, silicon-on-insulator (SOI), silicon-on-sapphire (SOS), and silicon-on-nothing (SON) technology, doped and undoped semiconductors, epitaxial layers of silicon supported by a base semiconductor foundation, and other semiconductor structures. Furthermore, when reference is made to a “wafer” or “substrate” in the following description, previous process steps may have been utilized to form regions or junctions in the base semiconductor structure or foundation. In addition, the semiconductor need not be silicon-based, but could be based on silicon-germanium, germanium, or gallium-arsenide.
The term “pixel” or “pixel cell” refers to a picture element unit cell containing a photo-conversion device and active devices such as transistors for converting electromagnetic radiation to an electrical signal. For purposes of illustration, a portion of a representative pixel cell is illustrated in the figures and description herein, and typically fabrication of all pixel cells in an image sensor will proceed concurrently and in a similar fashion.
One possible solution to reducing the dark current generation underneath the transfer transistor gatestack is to apply a negative voltage on the transfer transistor's gate. The negative voltage attracts electron-hole pairs to the surface, decreasing the depletion region there and effectively covering the interstitial vacancy state. Accordingly, with a negative voltage applied to the transfer transistor gate, thermally generated electron-hole pairs will likely recombine before the photo-conversion device can collect them. This solution, however, tends to aggravate another problem, referred to as blooming. Blooming occurs when the storage capacity of the photo-conversion device is full and electrons are still being generated even though the photo-conversion device is full. The extra electrons can bloom to several locations. The extra electrons may attempt to diffuse by jumping across isolation barriers into adjacent pixels, corrupting their signals. Alternatively, the electrons may travel through the substrate and be collected in other areas of the pixel or in periphery circuit devices. The floating diffusion region is the intended and most desirable place for the extra electrons to be collected. The floating diffusion region has considerable capacity to store these stray electrons during imager operation and the signal on the floating diffusion region is cleared or reset before the pixel signal is actually read.
Positively biasing the transfer transistor gate makes extra electrons more likely to bloom through the transfer transistor to the floating diffusion region. However, applying a negative bias to the transfer transistor gate, which is desirable to prevent dark current penetration, makes it more difficult for the extra electrons to bloom to the floating diffusion region, thus causing blooming into other undesirable regions of a pixel or adjacent pixels. Moreover, as suggested above, a positively biased transfer transistor gate increases the dark current as a result of a larger depletion region under the transfer transistor gate.
The inventor has determined that the accumulation of dark charges from dark current generated underneath a transfer transistor can be substantially reduced by applying a relatively small negative voltage to the gate of the transfer transistor during an integration period followed by also applying positive voltage pulses to the gate of the transfer transistor during the same integration period.
FIG. 2 illustrates a timing diagram for operating the pixel circuit of FIG. 1A in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 illustrates two readout periods 220, 221 and an integration period 320. The two readout periods are the same as the conventional readout periods described above in respect to FIG. 1B. That is, during this first readout period 220, for example, the reset control signal RST is pulsed to activate the reset transistor, which resets the floating diffusion region FD to the pixel supply voltage Vpix level. While the SEL signal is high, a sample and hold reset signal SHR is pulsed to store a reset signal Vrst (corresponding to the reset floating diffusion region FD) on a sample and hold capacitor of a sample and hold circuit (such as sample and hold circuit 761 of FIG. 7). The transfer control signal TX is activated to allow photo-charges from the photo-conversion device 100 to be transferred to the floating diffusion region FD. While the SEL signal is still high, a sample and hold pixel signal SHS is pulsed to store a pixel signal Vsig from the pixel on another sample and hold capacitor in the sample and hold circuit.
Referring now to FIGS. 2, 3A and 3B, dark electrons are generated underneath the gate of the transfer transistor 110 in the region 350 next to the pinned photodiode photosensor 100. The inventor has determined that by applying a relatively small negative voltage to the gate of the transfer transistor 110 during the integration period 320, the concentration of holes 360 in the region underneath the transfer transistor gate increases (as shown in FIG. 3A). When this happens, dark electrons generated from the surface states under the transfer transistor 110 gate and/or from the bulk substrate of the pixel quickly recombine, leaving only a relatively small probability that the electrons will get captured by the photo-conversion device. Thus, dark current and the factors that cause dark current are substantially reduced.
The value of the small negative voltage depends on the threshold voltage of the transfer transistor, but a desired range for the voltage is from slightly less than 0V to a negative voltage with an absolute value higher than the absolute value of the threshold voltage of the transfer transistor. For a regular CMOS-imager process, the absolute value of the threshold voltage and lower limit of the voltage range corresponds to about (−0.8)V. The minimum negative voltage could be limited by electric static discharge (ESD) circuits in the real CMOS-imager design. In this and all other examples, the voltage on the gate of the transfer transistor 110 (FIG. 3A) is referenced to the substrate voltage. FIG. 3B illustrates how different voltages VTX effect the depletion region underneath the transfer transistor gate. That is, when the voltage VTX is set to 0V, the region underneath the transfer transistor is similar to the region depicted in FIG. 1C for the conventional pixel operation. When the voltage VTX is set to −0.3V, there is a depletion region 380 having a first slope underneath the transfer transistor. When the voltage VTX is set to −0.5V, there is a depletion region 390 having a second slope underneath the transfer transistor. The manner in which different positive transfer gate voltages VTX effect the reduction of dark current is described below with reference to FIG. 4B.
The inventor has also determined that the accumulation of the dark charges 300 can be substantially reduced by applying a plurality of positive voltage pulses to the gate of the transfer transistor 110 during the integration period 320. The application of the positive voltage pulses on the gate of the transfer transistor 110 creates a depletion region 330 underneath the transfer transistor (TX) gate. The depletion region 330 serves as a path for the dark electrons 300 to reach the floating diffusion region FD, as shown in FIG. 3A. Due to the difference in potentials between the photodiode photo-conversion device 100 and the floating diffusion region FD, the dark carriers 300 flow to the floating diffusion region FD and are drained away during a subsequent reset operation instead of being captured by the photo-conversion device 100.
The value of the positive voltage pulses depends on the threshold voltage of the transfer transistor 110, but a desired range for the voltage is from slightly greater than 0V to a voltage greater than a threshold voltage of the transfer transistor 110. For a regular CMOS-imager process, the threshold voltage and upper limit of the voltage range corresponds to about 0.8V. The maximum positive voltage could be limited by ESD circuits in the real CMOS-imager design. FIG. 4B illustrates how different voltages VTX effect the depletion region underneath the transfer transistor 110 gate. That is, when the voltage VTX is set to 0V, the region underneath the transfer transistor is similar to the region depicted in FIG. 1C for the conventional pixel operation. When the voltage VTX is set to 0.3V, there is a depletion region 330 having a first slope underneath the transfer transistor 110. When the voltage VTX is set to 0.5V, there is a depletion region 330 having a second slope underneath the transfer transistor 110.
FIGS. 4A-4B are histograms illustrating how the invention reduced dark current in an experiment. FIG. 4A is a histogram showing dark current across the test pixel array when no voltage and small negative voltages are applied to the transfer transistor gate. Curve 410 represents the dark current when no voltage is applied to the transfer transistor gate. Curves 420, 430, 440, and 450 represent the dark current when −0.1, −0.2, −0.3, −0.5 volts, respectively, are applied to the transfer transistor gate.
FIG. 4B is a histogram showing dark current across the test pixel array when no voltage and small positive voltages are applied to the transfer transistor gate. Curve 445 represents the dark current when no voltage is applied to the transfer transistor gate. Curves 455, 465, 475, 485, and 495 represent the dark current when 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 volts, respectively, are applied to the transfer transistor gate.
FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary imager 700 that may utilize any embodiment of the invention. The Imager 700 has a pixel array 705 comprising pixels constructed as described above with respect to FIG. 1A, or using other pixel architectures. Row lines are selectively activated by a row driver 710 in response to row address decoder 720. A column driver 760 and column address decoder 770 are also included in the imager 700. The imager 700 is operated by the timing and control circuit 750, which controls the address decoders 720, 770. The control circuit 750 applies the negative polarity voltage and the plurality of positive polarity voltage pulses to the control gate during the integration period. The control circuit 750 also controls the row and column driver circuitry 710, 760 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention (i.e., FIG. 2).
A sample and hold circuit 761 associated with the column driver 760 reads a pixel reset signal Vrst and a pixel image signal Vsig for selected pixels. A differential signal (Vrst-Vsig) is amplified by differential amplifier 762 for each pixel and is digitized by analog-to-digital converter 775 (ADC). The analog-to-digital converter 775 supplies the digitized pixel signals to an image processor 780 which forms a digital image.
FIG. 6 shows a system 1000, a typical processor system modified to include an imaging device 1008 (such as the imaging device 700 illustrated in FIG. 7) of the invention. The processor system 1000 is exemplary of a system having digital circuits that could include image sensor devices. Without being limiting, such a system could include a computer system, camera system, scanner, machine vision, vehicle navigation, video phone, surveillance system, auto focus system, star tracker system, motion detection system, image stabilization system, and data compression system, and other systems employing an imager.
System 1000, for example a camera system, generally comprises a central processing unit (CPU) 1002, such as a microprocessor, that communicates with an input/output (I/O) device 1006 over a bus 1020. Imaging device 1008 also communicates with the CPU 1002 over the bus 1020. The processor-based system 1000 also includes random access memory (RAM) 1004, and can include removable memory 1014, such as flash memory, which also communicate with the CPU 1002 over the bus 1020. The imaging device 1008 may be combined with a processor, such as a CPU, digital signal processor, or microprocessor, with or without memory storage on a single integrated circuit or on a different chip than the processor.
It should be noted that the invention has been described with reference to photo-conversion devices, but it should be appreciated that the invention may be utilized with any type of photosensor used in an imaging pixel circuit such as, but not limited to, photogates, photoconductors, photodiodes and pinned photodiodes and various configurations of photodiodes and pinned photodiodes.
It should also be appreciated that the small voltage does not need to be applied during the entire integration period. That is, the small voltage may be applied for only a portion of the charge integration period. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the plurality of voltage pulses do not need to be applied during the entire integration period. That is, the plurality of voltage pulses may be applied for only a portion of the charge integration period. It should also be appreciated that the imager of the invention could be designed to include all of the embodiments of the invention with a user selectable or application specific selectable option to determine which embodiment is performed during the operation of imager.
The processes and devices described above illustrate, preferred methods and typical devices of many that could be used and produced. The above description and drawings illustrate embodiments, which achieve the objects, features, and advantages of the present invention. However, it is not intended that the present invention be strictly limited to the above-described and illustrated embodiments. Any modification, though presently unforeseeable, of the present invention that comes within the spirit and scope of the following claims should be considered part of the present invention.
1-33. (canceled)
34. A method of operating a pixel cell comprising:
applying a first polarity voltage to a transfer transistor adjacent a photosensor in a substrate to lower a depletion region associated with the photosensor during a charge integration period; and applying a plurality of pulses of a second polarity voltage to the transfer transistor to facilitate the movement of electrons to a floating diffusion region during the charge integration period.
35. The method of claim 34, wherein the act of applying the first polarity voltage comprises applying a negative voltage and the act of applying the pulses of the second polarity voltage comprises applying a positive voltage.
36. The method of claim 34, wherein the second polarity voltage is greater than approximately 0.0 volts, but no more than approximately the threshold voltage of the transfer transistor.
37. The method of claim 34, wherein the second polarity voltage is less than 0.8 volts.
38. The method of claim 34, wherein the first polarity voltage is less than approximately 0.0 volts, but has an absolute value no greater than the threshold voltage of the transfer transistor.
39. The method of claim 38, wherein the first polarity voltage is less than 0 volts and greater than approximately −0.6 volts.
40. The method of claim 34, further comprising an act of exposing the photosensor to light during a charge integration period.
41. A method of operating a pixel cell comprising:
applying a first polarity voltage to a gate electrode adjacent a photo sensitive region in a substrate to lower a depletion region associated with the photo sensitive region during a charge integration period; and applying a plurality of pulses of a second polarity voltage to the gate electrode to facilitate the transfer of accumulated charge to a floating diffusion region subsequent to the charge integration period.
42. The method of claim 41, wherein the act of applying the first polarity voltage and the act of applying the pulses of the second polarity voltage comprise applying opposite polarities.
43. The method of claim 41, wherein the act of applying the first polarity voltage comprises applying a negative voltage and the act of applying the pulses of the second polarity voltage comprises applying positive voltages.
44. The method of claim 41, further comprising an act of exposing the photo sensitive region to light during a charge integration period.
45. A method of operating a pixel cell comprising:
applying a first polarity voltage to a transfer transistor adjacent a photosensor in a substrate to lower a depletion region associated with the photosensor during a first portion of a charge integration period; and applying a plurality of pulses of a second polarity voltage to the transfer transistor to facilitate the movement of electrons to a floating diffusion region during a second portion of the charge integration period.
46. The method of claim 45, wherein the act of applying the first polarity voltage and the act of applying the pulses of the second polarity voltage comprise applying opposite polarities.
47. The method of claim 45, wherein the act of applying the first polarity voltage comprises applying a negative voltage and the act of applying the pulses of the second polarity voltage comprises applying a positive voltage.
48. The method of claim 47, where the act of applying the negative voltage comprises attracting electron-hole pairs to a top surface of the photosensor.
49. The method of claim 45, further comprising an act of exposing the photo sensitive region to light during a charge integration period.
50. The method of claim 45, wherein the first portion of the charge integration period and the second portion of the charge integration period are the same portion of the charge integration period.
| 2011-08-12 | en | 2011-12-08 |
US-201916282133-A | Circuit board and manufacturing method thereof
ABSTRACT
A circuit board is obtained by forming a wiring pattern on an insulating member. The circuit board includes a first circuit board and a second circuit board. The first circuit board is obtained by providing a first wiring pattern on a first insulating board. The first wiring pattern has a first thickness which falls within a range from the maximum allowable thickness to the minimum allowable thickness. The second circuit board is obtained by providing a second wiring pattern on a second insulating board. The second wiring pattern has a second thickness which is thinner than the minimum allowable thickness of the first wiring pattern.
This application is based on and claims the benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-063751, filed on Mar. 29, 2018, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a circuit board and a method of manufacturing it.
Related Art
Conventionally, under an environment in which a machine tool is used, a cutting fluid is converted into mist so as to be adhered to a circuit board within an electrical/electronic device. Hence, a wiring pattern is corroded (electrolytically corroded) so as to be broken, and thus a failure occurs in the device. The cause of electrolytic corrosion of a wiring pattern is not limited to a cutting fluid, and the electrolytic corrosion may be caused by humidity (water). In order to prevent the failure caused by the electrolytic corrosion or the corrosion of the wiring pattern as described above, various methods of detecting degradation of a circuit board are proposed.
As one method, there is a technology in which a degradation detection pattern having a structure that is degraded more easily than a normal wiring pattern is provided in a circuit board. For example, patent document 1 discloses a circuit board where a pattern in which the width of a conductor is narrower than the other wiring patterns is provided and a circuit board where a pattern in which an insulation distance between conductors is narrower than them is provided.
Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 3952660
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
However, the pattern in which the width of a conductor is narrower than the other wiring patterns or the pattern in which an insulation distance between conductors is narrower than them is present, and thus the yield in the manufacturing process of the circuit board is decreased.
The present invention is made in view of the foregoing problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a circuit board which can reduce a decrease in yield and which can detect degradation and a method of manufacturing such a circuit board.
(1) The present invention relates to a circuit board (for example, a circuit board 10 which will be described later) in which a wiring pattern is provided on an insulating member, and in which the wiring pattern includes: a first wiring pattern (for example, a first wiring pattern 111 which will be described later) which has a first thickness (for example, a first thickness T1 which will be described later) that falls within a range from the maximum allowable thickness (for example, the maximum allowable thickness T11 which will be described later) to the minimum allowable thickness (for example, the minimum allowable thickness T12 which will be described later); and a second wiring pattern (for example, a second wiring pattern 121 which will be described later) which has a second thickness (for example, a second thickness T2 which will be described later) that is thinner than the minimum allowable thickness.
(2) Preferably, in the circuit board of (1), in the second wiring pattern, the width (for example, a width W2 which will be described later) of conductors (for example, conductors 122 which will be described later) of the second wiring pattern is substantially the same as the width (for example, a width w1 which will be described later) of conductors (for example, conductors 112 which will be described later) of the first wiring pattern, and the magnitude (for example, the magnitude G2 of a distance which will be described later) of a distance between the conductors of the second wiring pattern is substantially the same as the magnitude (for example, the magnitude G1 of a distance which will be described later) of a distance between the conductors of the first wiring pattern.
(3) Preferably, the circuit board of (1) or (2) includes: a first circuit board (for example, a first circuit board 11 which will be described later) in which the first wiring pattern is provided on a first insulating board (for example, a first insulating board 110 which will be described later); and a separate circuit member (for example, a second circuit board 12 which will be described later) in which the second wiring pattern is provided on a separate insulating member (for example, a second insulating board 120 which will be described later), which is separate from the first circuit board and which is connected to the first circuit board.
(4) The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a circuit board which includes: a step (for example, a first board production step S11) of forming, on a first insulating board, a first wiring pattern which has a first thickness that falls within a range from the maximum allowable thickness to the minimum allowable thickness so as to produce a first circuit board; a step (for example, a second board production step S12 which will be described later) of forming, on a separate insulating member, a second wiring pattern which has a second thickness that is thinner than the minimum allowable thickness so as to produce a separate circuit member; and a step (for example, a board connection step S13 which will be described later) of connecting the separate circuit member to the first circuit board.
According to the present invention, an object is to provide a circuit board which can reduce a decrease in yield and which can detect degradation and a method of manufacturing such a circuit board.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a plan view of a circuit board according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the circuit board shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3A is a side cross-sectional view of a first circuit board in the circuit board shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3B is a side cross-sectional view of a second circuit board in the circuit board shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a relationship between the first thickness of a first wiring pattern and the second thickness of a second wiring pattern; and
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method of manufacturing the circuit board shown in FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A circuit board according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to drawings. The configuration of the circuit board 10 will first be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. FIG. 1 is a plan view of the circuit board 10. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the circuit board 10. FIG. 3A is a side cross-sectional view of a first circuit board 11 in the circuit board 10. FIG. 3B is a side cross-sectional view of a second circuit board 12 in the circuit board 10. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a relationship between the first thickness of a first wiring pattern and the second thickness of a second wiring pattern.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the circuit board 10 is a board on which a wiring pattern is provided, and is applied to a machine tool, a robot controller or the like. An insulating board on which the wiring pattern is provided is a board that has insulation properties, and is not limited as long as a wiring pattern is provided on an insulating board such that a circuit board can be formed. As a typical example of the insulating board, c which is mainly formed of resin is mentioned. As another example, a ceramic board which is mainly formed of ceramic is mentioned. The circuit board 10 includes the first circuit board 11, the second circuit board 12 which serves as a separate circuit member, a pad 13 and a solder joint portion 14.
As shown in FIG. 3A, the first circuit board 11 is obtained by providing a first wiring pattern 111 on a first insulating board 110. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 4, the first wiring pattern 111 is formed with conductors 112 which have a first thickness T1 that falls within a range from a maximum allowable thickness T11 to a minimum allowable thickness T12. For example, the “maximum allowable thickness T11” and the “minimum allowable thickness T12” are respectively an upper limit value and a lower limit value in the manufacturing tolerance of the thickness. In FIG. 3A, W1 represents the width of the conductors 112, and G1 represents the magnitude of a distance between the conductors 112. As shown in FIG. 1, the outside shape of the first circuit board 11 agrees with the outside shape of the circuit board 10 in plan view.
As shown in FIG. 3B, the second circuit board 12 is obtained by providing a second wiring pattern 121 on a second insulating board 120 serving as a separate insulating member. As shown in FIGS. 3B and 4, the second wiring pattern 121 has a second thickness T2 (whose upper limit value is represented by T21) which is thinner than the minimum allowable thickness T12 of the first wiring pattern 111. A difference T3 between the minimum allowable thickness T12 of the first thickness T1 of the first wiring pattern 111 and the upper limit value T21 of the second thickness T2 of the second wiring pattern 121 is preferably a difference large enough to significantly identify a difference between both the thicknesses even with consideration given to the manufacturing tolerance of the thickness of the wiring pattern.
The conductor of a wiring pattern generally has a copper foil layer and a plating layer in the direction of the thickness. When the thickness of the conductor is changed, the thickness of the copper foil layer may be changed, the thickness of the plating layer may be changed or the thicknesses of both thereof may be changed.
As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, in the second wiring pattern 121, the width W2 of the conductors 122 of the second wiring pattern 121 is substantially the same as the width w1 of the conductors 112 of the first wiring pattern 111, and the magnitude G2 of the distance between the conductors 122 of the second wiring pattern 121 is substantially the same as the magnitude G1 of the distance between the conductors 112 of the first wiring pattern 111 (G2≈G1). The “substantially the same” here is said to be regarded as the same in a range for achieving the effects of the embodiment of the present invention, and they may differ in the range.
As shown in FIG. 1, the second circuit board 12 is located inward of a corner portion of the circuit board 10 in plan view. As long as the first circuit board 11 and the second circuit board 12 are connected to each other, the position of the second circuit board 12 is not limited to the position described above.
On the second circuit board 12, the second wiring pattern 121 which serves as a degradation detection pattern is preferably arranged in a position to which oil mist derived from a cutting fluid is easily adhered.
A method of manufacturing the circuit board 10 will then be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the method of manufacturing the circuit board 10 shown in FIG. 1.
As shown in FIG. 5, the method of manufacturing the circuit board 10 (see FIGS. 1 to 4) includes a first board production step S11, a second board production step S12 and a board connection step S13.
The first board production step S11 is a step of forming the first wiring pattern 111 on the first insulating board 110 so as to produce the first circuit board 11.
The second board production step S12 is a step of forming the second wiring pattern 121 on the second insulating board 120 so as to produce the second circuit board 12.
The board connection step S13 is a step of connecting the second circuit board 12 to the first circuit board 11 with the pad 13 and the solder joint portion 14. The steps S11 to S13 described above are performed so as to complete the circuit board 10.
For example, effects below are achieved by the circuit board 10 of the present embodiment. The circuit board 10 of the present embodiment is the circuit board 10 in which the wiring pattern is provided on the insulating board, and the wiring pattern includes: the first wiring pattern 111 which has the first thickness T1 that falls within the range between the maximum allowable thickness T11 and the minimum allowable thickness T12; and the second wiring pattern 121 which has the second thickness T2 that is thinner than the minimum allowable thickness T12.
Hence, the second wiring pattern 121 of the second circuit board 12 is used as the degradation detection pattern, and thus it is possible to detect degradation without provision of a pattern in which the width of conductors is narrower than the other wiring patterns or a pattern in which the insulation distance between conductors is narrower than them. Hence, as compared with a case where the pattern in which the width of conductors is narrower than the other wiring patterns is provided and a case where the pattern in which the insulation distance between conductors is narrower than them is provided, the structure of the wiring is simple, and thus it is possible to reduce a decrease in yield.
In the second wiring pattern 121 on the circuit board 10 of the present embodiment, the width W2 of the conductors 122 of the second wiring pattern 121 is substantially the same as the width w1 of the conductors 112 of the first wiring pattern 111, and the magnitude G2 of the distance between the conductors 122 of the second wiring pattern 121 is substantially the same as the magnitude G1 of the distance between the conductors 112 of the first wiring pattern 111. Hence, a difference between the first wiring pattern 111 and the second wiring pattern 121 is mainly the difference between the thicknesses. Hence, degradation can be detected mainly based on the difference between the thicknesses.
The circuit board 10 of the present embodiment includes: the first circuit board 11 in which the first wiring pattern 111 is provided on the first insulating board 110; and the second circuit board 12 in which the second wiring pattern 121 is provided on the first insulating board 110, which is separate from the first circuit board 11 and which is connected to the first circuit board 11. Hence, without masking for changing the thicknesses being performed, it is possible to easily produce the second wiring pattern 121 whose thickness is different from that of the first wiring pattern 111.
The present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, and various modifications and variations are possible. For example, although in the embodiment described above, the second circuit board 12 is connected to the first circuit board 11 with the pad 13 and the solder joint portion 14, there is no limitation to this configuration. A region in which the second wiring pattern 121 is formed is covered with a masking tape (such as a film), and after the first wiring pattern 111 is formed, in which the first wiring pattern 111 is formed is covered with a masking tape (such as a film) and thus the second wiring pattern 121 whose thickness is different from that of the first wiring pattern 111 can be formed.
Although in the embodiment, the separate circuit board is obtained by providing the second wiring pattern 121 on the second insulating board 120, there is no limitation to this configuration. The separate circuit board may be obtained by providing the second wiring pattern on an insulating member (for example, a member whose thickness is large or a member having a block shape) which serves as a separate insulating member and which does not have a plate shape. The description on the insulating board discussed above is also applied to the separate insulating member.
EXPLANATION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
10 circuit board
11 first circuit board
110 first insulating board
111 first wiring pattern
112 conductor
12 second circuit board (separate circuit member)
120 second insulating board (separate insulating member)
121 second wiring pattern
122 conductor
13 pad
14 solder joint portion
T1 first thickness
T11 maximum allowable thickness
T12 minimum allowable thickness
T2 second thickness
T21 upper limit value of second thickness
W1, W2 width
G1, G2 magnitude of distance
What is claimed is:
1. A circuit board in which a wiring pattern is provided on an insulating member,
wherein the wiring pattern includes: a first wiring pattern which has a first thickness that falls within a range from a maximum allowable thickness to a minimum allowable thickness; and a second wiring pattern which has a second thickness that is thinner than the minimum allowable thickness.
2. The circuit board according to claim 1, wherein in the second wiring pattern, a width of conductors of the second wiring pattern is substantially the same as a width of conductors of the first wiring pattern, and a magnitude of a distance between the conductors of the second wiring pattern is substantially the same as a magnitude of a distance between the conductors of the first wiring pattern.
3. The circuit board according to claim 1, comprising: a first circuit board in which the first wiring pattern is provided on a first insulating board; and a separate circuit member in which the second wiring pattern is provided on a separate insulating member, which is separate from the first circuit board and which is connected to the first circuit board.
4. A method of manufacturing a circuit board comprising: a step of forming, on a first insulating board, a first wiring pattern which has a first thickness that falls within a range from a maximum allowable thickness to a minimum allowable thickness so as to produce a first circuit board;
a step of forming, on a separate insulating member, a second wiring pattern which has a second thickness that is thinner than the minimum allowable thickness so as to produce a separate circuit member; and a step of connecting the separate circuit member to the first circuit board.
| 2019-02-21 | en | 2019-10-03 |
US-202318114750-A | Mechanical bypass of a valve body
ABSTRACT
A mechanical bypass for a shock assembly is disclosed herein. The assembly has a damper chamber having a compression portion and a rebound portion. There is further an external reservoir in fluid communication with the rebound portion of the damper chamber via a flow path. A valve is coupled with the flow path, the valve to meter a flow of the working fluid through the flow path. A bypass port to the external reservoir is provided in the flow path and bypasses the valve. A mechanical relief valve is provided in the bypass port to block a fluid flow though the bypass port until a blow-off pressure that is higher than a normal operating pressure and less than a burst pressure of the damping chamber is provided thereon.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims priority to and benefit of co-pending U.S. Pat. Application No. 16/798,171, filed on Feb. 21, 2020, entitled “MECHANICAL BYPASS OF A VALVE BODY” by Strickland et al., and assigned to the assignee of the present application, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
The application 16/798,171 claims priority to and benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/809,447, filed on Feb. 22, 2019, entitled “MECHANICAL BYPASS OF ELECTRONIC VALVE BODY” by Strickland et al., and assigned to the assignee of the present application, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the invention generally relate to methods and apparatus for use in vehicle suspension. Particular embodiments of the invention relate to methods and apparatus useful for vehicle shock absorbers.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Vehicle suspension systems typically include a spring component or components and a damping component or components that form a suspension to provide for a comfortable ride, enhance performance of a vehicle, and the like. for example, a hard suspension is important on a racetrack while a soft suspension is nice for driving to the grocery store. Travel in the suspension can also be modified depending upon the terrain. For example, a trip to the grocery store does not call for a lot of suspension travel, but for a drive down a fire road that includes lots of different bumps, holes, ruts, washboards, etc. a longer suspension travel would make the ride more enjoyable, reduce the damage that the rough terrain transferred to the vehicle frame, and provide increased traction and speed capabilities. Thus, the suspension system is almost always a collection of compromises to obtain the best performance over the range of different possible encounters. However, as with every collection of compromises, an advancement in one area almost always incurs a new problem or set of problems that require further advancement, analysis, and invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a rear shock absorber including a damper, external reservoir and helical spring.
FIG. 2 is a section view showing a shock absorber with a damping assembly having a secondary, bottom out damping assembly.
FIG. 3A is a section view showing a bottom out piston entering a bottom out cup during a compression stroke of a shock absorber.
FIG. 3B is a section view showing the bottom out cup of FIG. 3A with the bottom out piston fully engaged and sealed therein.
FIG. 3C is a section view of the bottom out cup of FIGS. 3A & 3B showing a blow-off valve and an active valve in communication with the bottom out cup.
FIG. 3D is a similar view as shown in FIG. 3C showing a blow-off valve and an active valve having a second configuration in communication with the bottom out cup.
FIG. 4A is a section view showing the bottom out piston being removed from the cup and a piston shaft having a fluid path formed in its interior for providing fluid communication between the bottom out cup and the rebound portion of the damping chamber during the rebound stroke.
FIG. 4B is a section view similar to FIG. 4A with an active valve having a second configuration for controlling the bottom out and a reservoir, in accordance with an embodiment.
FIG. 4C is a section view similar to FIG. 4A with a non-active valve controlling the bottom out an active valve having a second configuration for controlling flow to the reservoir, in accordance with an embodiment.
FIG. 4D is a section view similar to FIG. 4A with an active valve having a second configuration for controlling the bottom out and second active valve controlling the flow to a reservoir, in accordance with an embodiment.
FIG. 4E is a section view similar to any of FIGS. 4A-4D that also includes a mechanical bypass to the reservoir, in accordance with an embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a control arrangement for an active valve, in accordance with an embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a control system based upon any or all of vehicle speed, damper rod speed, and damper rod position, in accordance with an embodiment.
FIG. 7 is an enlarged section view showing an active bottom out valve and a plurality of valve operating cylinders in selective communication with an annular piston surface of the valve, in accordance with an embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an embodiment for an active bottom out valve operation scheme, in accordance with an embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a damping force chart that illustrates compression and damping ranges of the damping system, in accordance with an embodiment.
The drawings referred to in this description should be understood as not being drawn to scale except if specifically noted.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of various embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to represent the only embodiments in which the present invention may be practiced. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided merely as an example or illustration of the present invention, and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. In some instances, well known methods, procedures, objects, and circuits have not been described in detail as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present disclosure.
Further, in the following discussion, the term “active”, as used when referring to a valve or damping component, means adjustable, manipulatable, etc., during typical operation of the valve. For example, an active valve can have its operation changed to thereby alter a corresponding damping characteristic from a “soft” damping setting to a “firm” damping setting by, for example, adjusting a switch in a passenger compartment of a vehicle. Additionally, it will be understood that in some embodiments, an active valve may also be configured to automatically adjust its operation, and corresponding damping characteristics, based upon, for example, operational information pertaining to the vehicle and/or the suspension with which the valve is used. Similarly, it will be understood that in some embodiments, an active valve may be configured to automatically adjust its operation, and corresponding damping characteristics, to provide damping based upon received user input settings (e.g., a user-selected “comfort” setting, a user-selected “sport” setting, and the like). Additionally, in many instances, an “active” valve is adjusted or manipulated electronically (e.g., using a powered solenoid, or the like) to alter the operation or characteristics of a valve and/or other component. As a result, in the field of suspension components and valves, the terms “active”, “electronic”, “electronically controlled”, and the like, are often used interchangeably.
In the following discussion, the term “manual” as used when referring to a valve or damping component means manually adjustable, physically manipulatable, etc., without requiring disassembly of the valve, damping component, or suspension damper which includes the valve or damping component. In some instances, the manual adjustment or physical manipulation of the valve, damping component, or suspension damper, which includes the valve or damping component, occurs when the valve is in use. For example, a manual valve may be adjusted to change its operation to alter a corresponding damping characteristic from a “soft” damping setting to a “firm” damping setting by, for example, manually rotating a knob, pushing or pulling a lever, physically manipulating an air pressure control feature, manually operating a cable assembly, physically engaging a hydraulic unit, and the like. For purposes of the present discussion, such instances of manual adjustment/physical manipulation of the valve or component can occur before, during, and/or after “typical operation of the vehicle”.
It should further be understood that a vehicle suspension may also be referred to using one or more of the terms “passive”, “active”, “semi-active” or “adaptive”. As is typically used in the suspension art, the term “active suspension” refers to a vehicle suspension which controls the vertical movement of the wheels relative to vehicle. Moreover, “active suspensions” are conventionally defined as either a “pure active suspension” or a “semi-active suspension” (a “semi-active suspension” is also sometimes referred to as an “adaptive suspension”). In a conventional “pure active suspension”, a motive source such as, for example, an actuator, is used to move (e.g. raise or lower) a wheel with respect to the vehicle. In a “semi-active suspension”, no motive force/actuator is employed to adjust move (e.g. raise or lower) a wheel with respect to the vehicle. Rather, in a “semi-active suspension”, the characteristics of the suspension (e.g. the firmness of the suspension) are altered during typical use to accommodate conditions of the terrain and/or the vehicle. Additionally, the term “passive suspension”, refers to a vehicle suspension in which the characteristics of the suspension are not changeable during typical use, and no motive force/actuator is employed to adjust move (e.g. raise or lower) a wheel with respect to the vehicle. As such, it will be understood that an “active valve”, as defined above, is well suited for use in a “pure active suspension” or a “semi-active suspension”.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shock absorber 100. The shock absorber of FIG. 1 includes a helical spring 115, a damper housing 120 with a piston and chamber (not shown) and an external reservoir 125 having a floating piston (not shown) and pressurized gas to compensate for a reduction in volume in the main damper chamber of the shock absorber as the piston shaft 130 moves into the damper body. Fluid communication between the main chamber of the damper and the external reservoir 125 may be via a flow channel including an adjustable needle valve. In its basic form, the damper works in conjunction with the helical spring and controls the speed of movement of the piston shaft by metering incompressible fluid from one side of the damper piston to the other, and additionally from the main chamber to the reservoir, during a compression stroke (and in reverse during the rebound or extension stroke).
In one example, illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 6,446,771 (which patent is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety), a shock absorber includes an additional piston located at an end of the piston shaft and designed to enter a completely closed cup-shaped member as the shock absorber approaches complete compression. The arrangement adds an additional fluid metering damping piston and therefore additional damping, as the shock nears the end of its stroke.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,029,958, which is also incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, provides an increase in damping as the shock is compressed by using a pin and hole arrangement. As illustrated in FIG. 1 of the ‘958 patent, the piston has an aperture formed in its center and the aperture serves as a fluid path during a first portion of the shock’s compression stroke. As the piston moves nearer the bottom out position, a pin mounted at a bottom end of the damper chamber contacts the aperture and prevents further fluid communication. In this manner, damping is increased by eliminating a metering path for the fluid.
FIG. 2 is a section view showing a damping assembly 200 of a shock absorber shown in an axially extended position. A damping piston 210 is fixed relative to a shaft 215, both of which are axially movable relative to a housing or chamber 220. The piston 210 is equipped with fluid paths therethrough to permit damping fluid within the chamber 220 to be metered through the piston 210. For example, when the shaft 215 moves into the chamber 220, fluid moves from a first side (the compression portion) to an opposite side (the rebound portion) of the chamber 220 through the paths formed in the piston 210. Additionally, fluid must move through a flow path from the chamber 220 into the external reservoir 125, thereby causing a reservoir floating piston to compress a gas chamber in the external reservoir 125. A configuration of a side reservoir, including a floating piston, is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,374,028 which patent is entirely incorporated herein by reference.
Also visible in FIG. 2 is a bottom out control feature. In one embodiment, the bottom out control feature utilizes a bottom out piston 250 connected at the end of the shaft 215 and spaced from the damping piston 210. The bottom out piston is constructed and arranged to engage a bottom out cup 275 formed at the lower end of the chamber 220. As will be explained herein in more detail, the bottom out cup and bottom out piston operate with various damping devices including a pressure relief or “blow-off” valve and an active valve to provide bottom out control.
However, various bottom out control features (both similar to the bottom out cup described herein, and using other bottom out control layouts, parts, systems, etc.) have been utilized in different shock set-ups such as those discussed in mountain bike forums, shock setup forums, and patents including patent 8,550,223 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. However, the utilization of an active valve 350 to control any type of fluid flow pathways in a bottom out control feature has not been implemented prior to this disclosure. Moreover, the active valve 350, although described herein in a method of operation and design is not limited to the embodiment of a bottom out control feature using a bottom out cup, but could be easily added to any fluid flow pathway(s) that are a part of a bottom out control feature, system, or setup.
Example Active Bottom Out Valve
The active valve 350, in accordance with embodiments, includes a nipple 370, a body 355, and mating threads 390. In brief, body 355 is rotationally engaged with the nipple 370. A male hex member extends from an end of the body 355 into a female hex profile bore formed in the nipple 370. Such engagement transmits rotation from the body 355 to the nipple 370 while allowing axial displacement of the nipple 370 relative to the body 355. Therefore, while the body does not axially move upon rotation, the threaded nipple 370 interacts with mating threads 390 formed on an inside diameter of the bore to transmit axial motion, resulting from rotation and based on the pitch of the threads 390, of the nipple 370 towards and away from an orifice 400 and between a closed and fully open positions. Of note, depending on the movement of the body 355, the nipple 370 may occupy a position within respect to orifice 400 such that nipple 370 completely blocks orifice 400, partially blocks orifice 400, or does not block orifice 400 at all.
For example, active valve 350, when open, permits a first flow rate of the working fluid through orifice 400. In contrast, when active valve 350 is partially closed, a second flow rate of the working fluid though orifice 400 occurs. The second flow rate is less than the first flow rate but greater than no flow rate. When active valve 350 is completely closed, the flow rate of the working fluid though orifice 400 is statistically zero.
In one embodiment, instead of (or in addition to) restricting the flow through orifice 400, active valve 350 can vary a flow rate through an inlet or outlet passage within the active valve 350, itself. See, as an example, the electronic valve of FIGS. 2-4 of U.S. Pat. 9,353,818 which is incorporated by reference herein, in its entirety, as further example of different types of “electronic” or “active” valves). Thus, the active valve 350, can be used to meter the working fluid flow (e.g., control the rate of working fluid flow) with/or without adjusting the flow rate through orifice 400.
As can be seen in FIGS. 2-4E, due to the active valve 350 (or 450) arrangement, a relatively small solenoid (using relatively low amounts of power) can generate relatively large damping forces. Furthermore, due to incompressible fluid inside the damping assembly 200, damping occurs as the distance between nipple 370 and orifice 400 is reduced. The result is a controllable damping rate. Certain active valve features are described and shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,120,362; 8,627,932; 8,857,580; 9,033,122; and 9,239,090 which are incorporated herein, in their entirety, by reference.
It should be appreciated that when the body 355 rotates in a reverse direction than that described above and herein, the nipple 370 moves away from orifice 400 providing at least a partially opened fluid path.
FIG. 3A is a section view showing the bottom out piston 250 entering the bottom out cup 275 during a compression stroke of the shock absorber. The direction of movement of the piston 250 is illustrated by arrow 280. The bottom out piston includes a piston ring or piston seal 251 for axially slideable engagement with an inner diameter of the bottom out cup 275. In the embodiment of FIG. 3A, the upper end of the bottom out cup has a diameter that tapers outwards (i.e. larger) permitting, initially in the stroke, some fluid to pass through an annular area formed between the bottom out piston seal 251 and the inner diameter of the cup 275. The piston by-pass flow of fluid through the annular area and into a compression portion 222 of chamber 220 is illustrated by arrow 281.
FIG. 3B is a section view showing the bottom out cup 275 of FIG. 3A with the bottom out piston 250 fully engaged therein. As the piston completely engages the cup 275, damping is increased because the shaft 215 can only progress further as fluid (e.g. substantially incompressible) is moved from the bottom out cup through one of two flow paths (e.g., flow path 301, and flow path 302) leading back into the compression portion 222 of chamber 220 (and ultimately also into external reservoir 125 if one is used).
FIG. 3B also shows various adjustable damping mechanisms that work in conjunction with the bottom out cup and piston. At an end of flow path 301 is a pressure relief or “blow-off” valve 300, a high-speed compression circuit that operates at a blow-off threshold, typically due to a relatively rapid event like the rapid compression of the shock absorber. The blow-off valve 300 selectively allows fluid flow from the bottom out cup 275 to the compression portion 222 of chamber 220 at shaft speeds (in the direction of arrow 280) that create fluid pressures within the bottom out cup above the blow-off threshold pressure during engagement of piston 250 with bottom out cup 275. The blow-off valve generally includes a valve opening, a blow-off valve 300 (or piston) and a compression spring 305. The blow-off pressure is determined by a combination of the spring rate of the spring 305, the preload on the spring 305 and the area of the blow-off valve 300 that is subject to fluid pressure from the bottom out cup 275. When fluid pressure in the cup rises above the predetermined (e.g. preset) threshold, the piston is forced away from the piston seat and allows fluid to flow through the valve opening and into the compression portion 222, thus lowering the pressure within the bottom out cup 275. The blow-off valve 300 is primarily a safety device and is typically set to crack or “blow-off”, thereby allowing fluid flow into the compression portion of chamber 220, at a pressure that is relatively high but still low enough to prevent excess pressure build up in the bottom out cup 275 from damaging the shock or the vehicle in which the shock is integrated.
Visible in FIGS. 3A-D, at an end of fluid flow path 302 is an active valve 350. Active valve 350 is operable to provide an easily and readily adjustable damping feature operable with the bottom out cup 275 and piston 250. In FIGS. 3A-B the active valve 350 is shown in an open position whereby fluid may flow through an orifice 400. In FIGS. 3C-D, the valve is shown in a closed position wherein orifice 400 is fully obstructed. The active valve 350 is disposed in a bore formed in the damper housing cap. The active valve 350 assembly consists of a solenoid 506 (of FIG. 5 ), body 355, nipple 370, and mating threads 390.
In one embodiment, the active valve 350 is a live valve. That is, one or more of components of active valve 350 (e.g., body 355, nipple 370, mating threads 390, or the like) will be actuated automatically based on actual terrain conditions. In operation of the active valve 350, a solenoid electronically turns body 355. As body 355 is turned, the indexing ring 360 consisting of two opposing, outwardly spring-biased balls 380 rotates among indentions formed on an inside diameter of a lock ring 354. The interaction between the balls and the indentions locks the body 355 at each rotational location until the balls 380 are urged out of the indentations by additional rotational force input provided to body 355. The result is that the body 355 will index at various points of its rotation so that positioning of the body 355, and the corresponding setting of active valve 350, is maintained against vibration of the shock and the vehicle while in use.
As the body 355 rotates, so does the valve or nipple 370 at an opposite end of the valve from the head. The body 355 is rotationally engaged with the nipple 370. A male hex member extends from an end of the body 355 into a female hex profile bore formed in the nipple 370. Such engagement transmits rotation from the body 355 to the nipple 370 while allowing axial displacement of the nipple 370 relative to the body 355. Therefore, while the body does not axially move upon rotation, the threaded nipple 370 interacts with mating threads 390 formed on an inside diameter of the bore to transmit axial motion, resulting from rotation and based on the pitch of the threads 390, of the nipple 370 towards and away from an orifice 400 and between a closed and fully open positions.
In one embodiment, the live operation includes an active signal received by a receiver at active valve 350 from a computing device. For example, the user would have an app on a smart phone (or other computing device) and would control the settings via the app. Thus, when the user wanted to adjust the flowrate of the fluid through orifice 400, they would provide the proper command from the computing device and it would be received at active valve 350 which would then automatically operate body 355 causing nipple 370, to close, open, partially close, or partially open orifice 400 to meter the fluid flow.
In operation, the blow-off valve 300 and active valve 350 operate independently of each other but each is designed to permit fluid to pass from the bottom out cup 275 to the compression portion 222 of the chamber 220 in order to lessen the increase in damping effect (i.e. the “increase” being over that due to the piston 210 and the external reservoir 125 during the majority of the compression stroke) when the bottom out piston 250 engages the bottom out cup. Even when active valve 350 is completely closed with no fluid entering the compression portion of the chamber through the metering active valve 350 (i.e. the bottom out damping rate is very high), the damping rate will decrease to some extent when a threshold pressure of blow-off valve 300 is reached, thereby opening blow-off valve 300 and allowing fluid to flow from the bottom out cup 275 to the compression portion of the chamber 220 via flow path 302 and independently of orifice 400.
FIG. 3D is a similar view as shown in FIG. 3C showing a blow-off valve and an active valve having a second configuration in communication with the bottom out cup. FIG. 3D illustrates a section view similar to that of FIG. 3C. As such, and for purposes of clarity, only the differences between FIGS. 3C-3D will be discussed.
FIG. 3D shows an active valve that is operable to provide an easily and readily adjustable damping feature operable with the bottom out cup 275 and piston 250 with another embodiment of an active valve 450 (as shown in detail in FIG. 7 ) which is a different configuration than active valve 350, but which operates in the same overall manner and with the same processes as described with respect to FIGS. 3A-C, except that the control of the fluid flow is performed through active valve 450 as it passes through orifice 400.
FIG. 4A is a section view showing the shaft 215 with another damping mechanism operable in conjunction with the bottom out cup 275 and piston 250 and also to operate prior to engagement of the piston in the cup. As indicated by movement direction arrow 465 in FIG. 4A, the bottom out piston 250 is shown being removed from the bottom out cup 275. In the embodiment of FIG. 4A, the shaft 215 includes a fluid path formed in its interior and provides for fluid communication between the bottom out cup 275 and a rebound portion 221 of the chamber 220 during the rebound stroke. The path and direction of flow in the embodiment is illustrated by arrow 465. The path winds through a bore in the shaft that is formed coaxially with the centerline of the shaft. At one end, the fluid path including 475, terminates at a lower end of the bottom out piston 250 and at an upper end, the path terminates at an aperture(s) 460 intersecting the path designated by arrow 465 and leading into the chamber 220.
An adjustment mechanism described herein in relation to FIG. 2 , and terminating in bullet shaped member (e.g. adjustable needle valve) 231 permits the volume of fluid flow, upon opening of the check valve 475, to be set by a user. As shown in FIG. 2 , shaft 215 includes a mounting eye 225 (or clevis) at one end thereof. The mounting eye 225 includes a valve adjuster 230 which is user-adjustable and movable in and out (e.g. by threaded engagement) of the eye in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of shaft 215. Shaft 215 also includes a coaxially mounted shaft 235 therein, where shaft 235 is axially movable relative to shaft 215. An end 232 of valve adjuster 230 contacts an end of shaft 235 and rotational movement of valve adjuster 230 causes axial movement of shaft 235 relative to shaft 215. Such axial movement of shaft 235 changes the position of a needle valve 231 inside the shaft and thereby adjusts the low speed fluid flow rate and maximum fluid flow rate though the piston shaft (in the direction that is not blocked by a check valve 475) and thereby allows manual adjustment of the damping rate.
In addition to a fluid path, the shaft 215 of the embodiment is provided with an adjustable and reversible check valve 475 installed at an upper end of the path and permitting fluid to selectively move in one direction while preventing fluid from moving in an opposite direction. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A, fluid is only permitted to move toward the lower end of the bottom out piston 250 (as indicated by arrow 465) and is checked in the reverse direction. The check valve 475 is spring loaded to open at a predetermined (set) fluid pressure in the direction of permitted flow (the direction shown by arrow 465). Varying spring preload will vary the fluid pressure at which the check valve is set to crack.
In one embodiment, as shown, damping of the shock absorber is reduced in the extending or rebound direction, because the fluid flow through the shaft permits a quicker extension or “rebound” of the shaft by permitting an additional volume of fluid to move from the rebound portion 221 of the chamber 220 to the region below the bottom out piston 250 (which, following bottom out, flows into the bottom out cup below piston 250), thus reducing force required to retract the bottom out piston 250 from the cup 275 and therefore, the shaft 215 and permitting a quicker extension. In another embodiment, not shown, the check valve 475 is reversed and damping on the compression stroke is reduced by the allowance of additional fluid flow through the shaft 215 and along path designated by arrow 465 but in an opposite direction from the one shown in FIG. 4A as direction of arrow 465. Reversing the check valve from the shown embodiment results in the valve member 476 and seat 477 being oriented towards the bottom out piston.
In order to facilitate easy reversal and adjustment of the check valve, the bore of shaft 215 is provided with threads to accept a check valve cartridge 485. The check valve cartridge 485 is further secured within the shaft 215 by a threaded nut 486. The check valve cartridge 485 and the nut 486 are flush or below flush relative to the lower end of the shaft 215 and fit therein without additional shaft diameter or length, so that there is no interference with the interface between or operation or assembly of the piston 250 and the shaft 215. The shaft 215 having the provision for a modular check valve cartridge 485 allows for other interchangeable valve configurations without modifying surrounding hardware. For instance, the check valve cartridge 485 may be equipped with fluid flow resistors (chokes), filters or other micro-fluidic devices as, for example, are illustrated in The Lee Company Technical Hydraulic Handbook, which is copyright 1996 by The Lee Company and entirely incorporated by reference herein, or any suitable combination of the foregoing as may be desirable for the tailoring of flowing fluid characteristics. Further, the inclusion of such cartridge check valve requires no additional length in the overall shaft 215/piston 250 assembly.
In one embodiment the damping assembly 200 and bottom out feature are configured and operated, at the user’s discretion, without the check valve 475 (or check valve cartridge 485) installed. In that embodiment fluid may flow along the path designated by arrow 465 in either direction, thereby reducing damping characteristics in both the rebound and compression strokes to the extent allowed by adjustment of the needle valve 231. Alternatively, the needle valve may be completely closed into an adjacent end of check valve cartridge 485 thereby excluding fluid flow in both directions along the path designated by arrow 465.
In one embodiment (not shown) the bottom out chamber or “cup” is located proximate an end of the damping chamber corresponding to the hole through which the shaft enters that chamber. A “bottom out piston” surrounds the shaft and is axially movable relative thereto (there though). The primary damping piston includes a connector which connects it to the bottom out piston and the connector is capable of bearing tension between the two pistons but not compression. A simple embodiment of such a connector may include a flexible cable. The bottom out piston is forced into the bottom out cup by direct engagement of the “topping out” primary damping piston at near full extension of the shock absorber. In extended positions of the shock absorber the connector between the primary and bottom out pistons is slack. As the shock absorber is compressed to near bottom out position, the connector is placed in tension and begins to pull the bottom out piston from within the bottom out cup thereby creating a suction (or vacuum) within the bottom out cup. The bottom out cup includes a metering valve, in principle as described herein, for metering fluid through a path between (into) an interior of the bottom out cup (such interior formed by the cup and the engaged bottom out piston) and (from) the rebound chamber thereby relieving the vacuum while creating an increased damping effect near bottom out. It is contemplated that the “bottom out cup” and “bottom out piston” may include many varied embodiments while retaining adjustability.
Each damping mechanism described is usable with a bottom out cup and piston to provide a variety of selectable and/or adjustable damping options in a shock absorber near the end of a compression stroke (and some throughout either stroke) or beginning of a rebound stroke. Embodiments described herein may also be adapted to work with dampers generally as if the bottom out piston 250 and the bottom out cup described herein where the damping piston and cylinder. For example, active valve 350 can be initially set to permit a predetermined amount of fluid to flow between the cup and the compression portion 222 chamber 220 of the vehicle damping assembly 200. The blow-off valve 300, depending upon its setting, permits fluid flow in the event that pressure in the cup exceeds the threshold pressure of the blow-off valve circuit. Operation of the blow-off valve is in part determinable by the setting of active valve 350 as its more or less metering of fluid operates to lessen or increase, respectively, the fluid pressure in the bottom out cup. Also, the reversible check valve 475 in the hollow shaft can be arranged to reduce damping in either the compression or the rebound stroke of the piston.
Referring still to FIGS. 3A-4E, in various embodiments of the present invention, damping assembly 200 includes a bottom out orifice 400 whose flow rate (or size of opening) is adjusted by the operation of nipple 370 of active valve 350, such that the flowrate of the fluid between the cup and the compression portion 222 of chamber 220 of the damper, via orifice 400 is automatically adjustable using active valve 350 to move nipple 370 closer to or further from orifice 400. In one such embodiment, active valve 350 is solenoid operated, hydraulically operated, pneumatically operated, or operated by any other suitable motive mechanism. Active valve 350 may be operated remotely by a switch or potentiometer located in the cockpit of a vehicle or attached to appropriate operational parts of a vehicle for timely activation (e.g. brake pedal) or may be operated in response to input from a microprocessor (e.g. calculating desired settings based on vehicle acceleration sensor data) or any suitable combination of activation means. In like manner, a controller for active valve 350 may be cockpit mounted and may be manually adjustable or microprocessor controlled or both or selectively either.
It may be desirable to increase the damping rate or effective stiffness of damping assembly 200 when moving a vehicle from off-road to on highway use. Off-road use often requires a high degree of compliance to absorb shocks imparted by the widely varying terrain. On highway use, particularly with long wheel travel vehicles, often requires more rigid shock absorption to allow a user to maintain control of a vehicle at higher speeds. This may be especially true during cornering or braking.
One embodiment is a four-wheeled vehicle having damping assembly 200 to automatically control the fluid flow between the cup and the compression portion 222 of chamber 220. As such, the damper is automatically adjustable using active valve 350 at each (of four) wheel.
For example, the opening size of orifice 400 which controls the flowrate of the fluid between the cup and the compression portion 222 of chamber 220 is automatically adjusted by active valve 350 (including, for example, a remotely controllable active valve). In one embodiment, each of the front shock absorbers may be electrically connected with a linear switch (such as that which operates an automotive brake light) that is activated in conjunction with the vehicle brake. When the brake is moved beyond a certain distance, corresponding usually to harder braking and hence potential for vehicle nose dive, the electric switch connects a power supply to a motive force generator for active valve 350 in the front shocks causes active valve 350 to automatically move body 355 and/or nipple 370 and cause nipple 370 to open, close, or partially close fluid flow through orifice 400.
In so doing, the reduction in fluid flow rate through orifice 400 increases the stiffness of that shock. As such, the front shocks become more rigid during hard braking. Other mechanisms may be used to trigger the shocks such as accelerometers (e.g. tri-axial) for sensing pitch and roll of the vehicle and activating, via a microprocessor, the appropriate amount of rotation of active valve 350 to cause nipple 370 to open, close, or partially close orifice 400 (and corresponding adjustment of the size of orifice 400 modifies the flowrate of the fluid between the cup and the compression portion 222 of chamber 220 for the corresponding damping assembly 200) for optimum vehicle control.
In one embodiment, a vehicle steering column includes right turn and left turn limit switches such that a hard turn in either direction activates the appropriate adjustment of active valve 350 to cause nipple 370 to open, close, or partially close orifice 400 (and corresponding adjustment of the size of orifice 400 modifies the flowrate of the fluid between the cup and the compression portion 222 of chamber 220 for the corresponding damping assembly 200) of shocks opposite that direction (for example, a hard, right turn would cause more rigid shocks on the vehicle’s left side). Again, accelerometers in conjunction with a microprocessor (e.g., a comparer) and a switched power supply may perform the active valve 350 activation function by sensing the actual g-force associated with the turn (or braking; or acceleration for the rear shock activation) and triggering the appropriate amount of rotation of active valve 350 to cause nipple 370 to open, close, or partially close orifice 400 (and corresponding adjustment of the size of orifice 400 modifies the flowrate of the fluid between the cup and the compression portion 222 of chamber 220 for the corresponding damping assembly 200) at a predetermined acceleration threshold value (e.g., a g-force).
FIGS. 4B-4E each illustrate a section view similar to that of FIG. 4A. As such, and for purposes of clarity, only the differences between each of FIGS. 4B-4E will be discussed. In FIGS. 4B-4E, active valve 350 is replaced with another configuration of an active valve (e.g., active valve 450 described in detail in FIG. 7 ). FIGS. 4B-4E also include an external reservoir 125 that is in fluid communication with the chamber 220 for receiving and supplying working fluid as the piston 210 moves in and out of the chamber 220. The external reservoir 125 includes a reservoir cylinder 416 in fluid communication with the compression portion 222 of chamber 220 via the fluid conduit 408. The external reservoir 125 also includes a floating piston 414 with a volume of gas on a backside 418 (“blind end” side) of it, the gas being compressible as the reservoir cylinder 416, on the “frontside” 412 fills with working fluid due to movement of the piston 210 into the chamber 220. Certain features of reservoir type dampers are shown and described in U.S. Pat. No 7,374,028, which is incorporated herein, in its entirety, by reference.
FIG. 4B has an active valve 450 having a second configuration for controlling the bottom out (as described in detail in FIG. 7 ), external reservoir 125 and an (optional) non-active valve 479 for controlling the flow between the external reservoir 125 and the vehicle damping assembly 200 as indicated by flow arrows 444 b, in accordance with an embodiment. In one embodiment, active valve 450 is a live valve as described in further detail in FIGS. 5-7 while non-active valve 479 refers to a manual valve that may be adjustable but is not electronically adjustable. In one embodiment, active valve 450 will be actuated automatically based on actual terrain conditions. For example, active valve 450 is operated as discussed in FIGS. 5-7 to open, close or partially allow flow through orifice 400 to modify the flowrate of the fluid between the cup and the compression portion 222 chamber 220 of the vehicle damping assembly 200.
In one embodiment, the live operation includes an active signal received by a receiver at active valve 450 from a computing system. Thus, to meter (or adjust) the flowrate of the fluid between the cup and the compression portion 222 chamber 220 of the vehicle damping assembly 200, via orifice 400, the command would be provided from the computing system and received at active valve 450 which would then automatically open, close or partially allow fluid flow through orifice 400.
FIG. 4C is a section view similar to FIG. 4A with a non-active valve 479 controlling the bottom out and active valve 450 having a second configuration for controlling flow to the external reservoir 125, in accordance with an embodiment. In other words, a non-active valve 479 is used in place of the active valve 450 in the bottom-out configuration and an active valve 450 b is used to meter the fluid between the external reservoir 125 and the vehicle damping assembly 200 via fluid conduit 408. As discussed herein, active valve 450 b can open or close the flow path (e.g., fluid conduit 408) between the external reservoir 125 and the vehicle damping assembly 200 as indicated by flow arrows 444 b.
In one embodiment, active valve 450 b is a live valve as described in further detail in FIGS. 5-7 while non-active valve 479 refers to a manual valve that may be adjustable but is not electronically adjustable. In one embodiment, active valve 450 b will be actuated automatically based on actual terrain conditions. For example, active valve 450 b is operated as discussed in FIGS. 5-7 to open, close or partially allow flow through fluid conduit 408 to modify the flowrate of the fluid between the external reservoir 125 and the vehicle damping assembly 200.
In one embodiment, the live operation includes an active signal received by a receiver at active valve 450 b from a computing system. Thus, to meter (or adjust) the flowrate of the fluid between external reservoir 125 and the vehicle damping assembly 200, via fluid conduit 408, the command would be provided from the computing system and received at active valve 450 b which would then automatically open, close or partially allow fluid flow through fluid conduit 408.
FIG. 4D is a section view similar to FIG. 4A with an active valve 450 having a second configuration for controlling the bottom out and second active valve 450 b (which is similar to the active valve 350 and/or 450 as described herein, except that it is provided in fluid conduit 408 instead of orifice 400), in accordance with an embodiment. In FIG. 4D, external reservoir 125 is similar to external reservoir 125 of FIG. 4C in that active valve 450 b is provided in the fluid conduit 408 which can open or close the flow path between the external reservoir 125 and the vehicle damping assembly 200 as indicated by flow arrows 444.
In one embodiment, both the active valve 450 and active valve 450 b are live valves as described in further detail in FIGS. 5-7 . In one embodiment, active valve 450 and/or active valve 450 b will be actuated automatically based on actual terrain conditions. For example, active valve 450 and/or active valve 450 b are operated as discussed in FIGS. 5-7 to open, close or partially allow flow through the different flow paths to modify the flowrate of the fluid through the different flow paths.
In one embodiment, the live operation includes an active signal received by a receiver at active valve 450 and/or active valve 450 b from a computing system. Thus, to adjust the flowrate of the fluid between the cup and the compression portion 222 chamber 220 of the vehicle damping assembly 200, via orifice 400, the command would be provided from the computing system and received at active valve 450 which would then automatically open, close or partially allow fluid flow through orifice 400. Similarly, the computing system can provide an active signal received by a receiver at active valve 450 b to adjust the flowrate of the fluid between the cup and the compression portion 222 chamber 220 of the vehicle damping assembly 200, via orifice 400, the would be provided from the computing system and received at active valve 450 b which would then automatically open, close or partially allow fluid flow through orifice 400.
Although two active valves are shown in FIG. 4D, it is understood that any number of active valves corresponding to any number of fluid channels (e.g., bottom out channels, external reservoir channels, bottom out channels, etc.) for a corresponding number of vehicle suspension dampers could be used alone or in combination. That is, one or more active valves could be operated simultaneously or separately depending upon needs in a vehicular suspension system. For example, a suspension damper could have one, a combination of, or each of an active valve(s) and or inert valves: for an internal bottom out, for an external bottom out, for a fluid conduit 408 to the external reservoir 125, etc. In other words, anywhere there is a fluid flow path within a damping assembly 200, an active valve could be used. Moreover, the active valve could be alone or used in combination with other active valves, and/or other inert valves, at other fluid flow paths to automate one or more of the damping performance characteristics of the damping assembly. Moreover, additional switches could permit individual operation of separate active valves.
FIG. 4E is a section view similar to any of FIGS. 4A-4D that also includes a mechanical bypass to the reservoir 125. For purposes of clarity, in FIG. 4E, only the minimal configuration is provided. It should be appreciated that FIG. 4E could be formed on any of FIGS. 4A-4D and as such, the chamber 220 and reservoir 125 are shown (for purposes of clarity) without the clutter that can be found in the previous figures. In FIG. 4E, the focus has been made on the mechanical blow off coupled with any electronic valve that creates a restriction, such that the blow off can prevent unsafe pressures in the event of certain terrain inputs, or shock malfunction. Moreover, the blow off can supplement the tuning of, for example, a high-speed compression curve as shown in one embodiment in chart 900 of FIG. 9 . In one embodiment, the mechanical blow off consists of a secondary port 493 that is added to fluid conduit 408 and that includes a relief valve 491 and vents to the reservoir. In one embodiment, the relief valve 491 is controlled with a pre-loaded shim stack 492. In another embodiment, the relief valve 491 could be controlled or set via a means other than a shim stack 492. In general, relief valve 491 has zero flow during normal operation but opens at a pressure that is higher than the normal operating pressure and less than the burst pressure. In one embodiment, the relief valve 491 relieves the pressure into the mote within the reservoir 125.
In general, there is a fluid pathway (e.g., secondary port 493) against the shim stack 492, adjusting the preload of shim stack 492, and/or valve thickness, valve combinations, etc. can be used to control the flow and to provide a relief valve or additional tunability.
In one embodiment, relief valve 491 it is a third circuit, e.g., a high-speed circuit, that is added to the active valve 450 b. In other words, there is a low speed circuit through the middle, a high-speed circuit through the piston and now the higher high-speed circuit through into the reservoir 125.
In one embodiment, the relief valve 491 is preset at the factory. In another embodiment, relief valve 491 is manually adjustable by a party accessing relief valve 491 and changing the relief valve burst pressure by rebuilding shim stack 492, modifying shim stack 492, replacing shim stack 492, etc. In yet another embodiment, relief valve 491 could be manually adjustable with an exterior adjustment feature. In one embodiment, relief valve 491 could be automatically adjustable such as active valve 450 b.
Thus, relief valve 491 is able to be added to an existing damping architecture, with minimal modification and without requiring additional damping chamber modification, retooling, etc. Further, in one embodiment, for fitment purposes, the form factor is the same when the relieve valve 491 is added to the damping architecture.
In one embodiment, by guiding the blow-off into reservoir 125, the opportunity for external leakage of any fluids is removed and the fluid remains within the damper. Further, since relieve valve 491 is coupled with a simple flow path (e.g., secondary port 493), it is unlikely that any foreign particulates would impede the action of relieve valve 491.
For example, if a restriction is created in the accompanying active valve 450 b that stops active valve 450 b from operating properly (e.g., debris, contaminant particles, magnetic particulates, etc.) or if there is a boost valve issue that is hydraulic, (e.g., the pressure in the chamber that holds the boost valve closed increases, then the boost valve will be unable to open due to the overwhelming pressure in the chamber), relieve valve 491 will vent the fluid into reservoir 125 to prevent unsafe pressures from accruing within the damping assembly.
For example, if active valve 450 b is subjected to smaller particles within the fluid (seal pieces, ferrous debris, excessive shock, and the like which alone or in combination) that cause a blockage (failure, reduced operational range/capabilities, etc.) of the flow path 444 b. Such a blockage would cause a failure in flow path 444 b and reduce pressure relieving aspects, shock assembly performance, etc. of active valve 450 b. When active valve 450 b is exposed to such a failure/blockage/reduced operational performance event, the buildup in pressure would increase and could cascade into an overpressure situation as one or more terrain features were additionally encountered.
In one embodiment, such a cascade into an overpressure situation would cause the damping assembly 200 to surpass its manufacturing tolerances and could result in a catastrophic failure.
However, by using relieve valve 491 (set at a blow-off pressure lower than the lowest of the damping assembly 200 manufacturing tolerances failure point), the cascading event would be resolved with relieve valve 491 venting into reservoir 125 to reduce the overpressure situation and little or no additional damage being incurred to the damping assembly 200. As such, safety would be significantly enhanced while rebuilding costs, salvageability, and the like, for damping assembly 200 would be significantly reduced. E.g., where the differences in costs would be based on fixing the active valve 450 b failure issues, removing the foreign contaminants, and putting the damping assembly 200 back in service; versus replacing the entire damping assembly 200 due to a catastrophic failure that caused some type of fracture, break, ejection, shattering, or the like.
These safety features are also important in the event of certain terrain inputs that would move damping assembly 200 past its safe operating pressures even if the active valve 450 b was operating properly, e.g., as shown in damping force chart 900.
For example, if damping assembly 200 is deep in the compression cycle and a further compression event occurs (e.g., an encountered terrain feature) such that damping assembly 200 reaches the damping point in the compression cycle where there is about to be enough built up pressure to threaten the structural integrity of damping assembly 200; the pressure build up will overcome the opening pressure of the shim stack 492 at which time relieve valve 491 will open and the fluid will be vented into reservoir 125 before the fluid pressure reaches the level to threaten the structural integrity of active valve 450 b and/or damping assembly 200.
In one embodiment, after the relieve valve 491 opens and vents the fluid into reservoir 125, the fluid remains within damping assembly 200 and as such damping assembly 200 will remain useable (although possibly reduced in functionality, performance, etc.). For example, the compression event caused relieve valve 491 to vent fluid into reservoir 125. However, when damping assembly 200 decompresses, the fluid vented into reservoir 125 will be pulled back into damping assembly 200 via the normal fluid flow channels. Further, the relieve valve 491 shim stack 492 will return to the closed position since the pressure has been reduced. As such, damping assembly 200 would not have a reduced fluid load, and would be able to continue the normal flow path operations.
Moreover, if the debris cleared (or the hydraulic pressure behind the boost valve lowered, etc.) then it would allow damping assembly 200 to return to the same operational capability as prior to the venting of relieve valve 491.
In one embodiment, if the malfunction did not clear, damping assembly 200 would operate at the reduced capability and each time the overpressure situation occurred, the relieve valve 491 would open and vent into reservoir 125. While this would likely incur damage to damping assembly 200, it would allow for a vehicle to continue on to a safe/repair/etc. facility.
In one embodiment, when relieve valve 491 does vent, a signal may be provided to the cab of the vehicle (or other location, device, etc.) to let the operator know of the occurrence.
In one embodiment, when relieve valve 491 does vent, the vehicle may be automatically placed in a low-performance mode, such that the vehicle cannot be subjected to additional impacts that would cause further damage to the suspension, to the vehicle, or to others due to the likely degraded performance of the damping assembly 200.
Although it is shown in reservoir 125 area of damping assembly 200, in one embodiment, the relieve valve 491 could be located in the base valve as an additional feature. Further, although in one embodiment, it is a part of damping assembly 200 that contains active valve 450 b, in one embodiment, relieve valve 491 could also be used in a damping assembly that does not have an active valve. In other words, it could be used in any base valve.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a control arrangement 500 for a remotely-operated active valve 350. As illustrated, a signal line 502 runs from a switch 504 to a solenoid 506. Thereafter, the solenoid 506 converts electrical energy into mechanical movement and rotates body 355 within active valve 350, In one embodiment, the rotation of body 355 causes indexing ring 360 consisting of two opposing, outwardly spring-biased balls 380 to rotate among indentions formed on an inside diameter of a lock ring 354.
As the body 355 rotates, nipple 370 at an opposite end of the valve is advanced or withdrawn from an opening in orifice 400. For example, the body 355 is rotationally engaged with the nipple 370. A male hex member extends from an end of the body 355 into a female hex profile bore formed in the nipple 370. Such engagement transmits rotation from the body 355 to the nipple 370 while allowing axial displacement of the nipple 370 relative to the body 355. Therefore, while the body does not axially move upon rotation, the threaded nipple 370 interacts with mating threads 390 formed on an inside diameter of the bore to transmit axial motion, resulting from rotation and based on the pitch of the threads 390, of the nipple 370 towards or away from an orifice 400, between a closed position, a partially open position, and a fully or completely open position.
Adjusting the opening of orifice 400 modifies the flowrate of the fluid between the cup and the compression portion 222 of chamber 220 thereby varying the stiffness of a corresponding damping assembly 200. While FIG. 5 is simplified and involves control of a single active valve 350, it will be understood that any number of active valves corresponding to any number of fluid channels (e.g., bypass channels, external reservoir channels, bottom out channels, etc.) for a corresponding number of vehicle suspension dampers could be used alone or in combination. That is, one or more active valves could be operated simultaneously or separately depending upon needs in a vehicular suspension system. For example, a suspension damper could have one, a combination of, or each of an active valve(s): for a bottom out control, an internal bypass, for an external bypass, for a fluid conduit to the external reservoir 125, etc. In other words, anywhere there is a fluid flow path within a damping assembly 200, an active valve could be used. Moreover, the active valve could be alone or used in combination with other active valves at other fluid flow paths to automate one or more of the damping performance characteristics of the damping assembly. Moreover, additional switches could permit individual operation of separate active bottom out valves.
As discussed, a remotely-operable active valve 350 like the one described above is particularly useful with an on-/off-road vehicle. These vehicles can have more than 20″ of shock absorber travel to permit them to negotiate rough, uneven terrain at speed with usable shock absorbing function. In off-road applications, compliant damping is necessary as the vehicle relies on its long travel suspension when encountering often large off-road obstacles. Operating a vehicle with very compliant, long travel suspension on a smooth road at road speeds can be problematic due to the springiness/sponginess of the suspension and corresponding vehicle handling problems associated with that (e.g. turning roll, braking pitch). Such compliance can cause reduced handling characteristics and even loss of control. Such control issues can be pronounced when cornering at high speed as a compliant, long travel vehicle may tend to roll excessively. Similarly, such a vehicle may include excessive pitch and yaw during braking and/or acceleration. With the remotely-operated active valve 350, the working size of orifice 400 is automatically adjusted thereby modifying the communication of fluid between the cup and the compression portion 222 of chamber 220 for the corresponding damping assembly 200. Correspondingly, the damping characteristics of damping assembly 200 can be changed.
In addition to, or in lieu of, the simple, switch-operated remote arrangement of FIG. 5 , the remotely-operable active valve 350 can be operated automatically based upon one or more driving conditions, and/or automatically or manually utilized at any point during use of a vehicle. FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a control system 600 based upon any or all of vehicle speed, damper rod speed, and damper rod position. One embodiment of the arrangement of FIG. 6 is designed to automatically increase damping in a shock absorber in the event a damper rod reaches a certain velocity in its travel towards the bottom end of a damper at a predetermined speed of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the control system 600 adds damping (and control) in the event of rapid operation (e.g. high rod velocity) of the damping assembly 200 to avoid a bottoming out of the damper rod as well as a loss of control that can accompany rapid compression of a shock absorber with a relative long amount of travel. In one embodiment, the control system 600 adds damping (e.g., adjusts the size of the opening of orifice 400 by causing nipple 370 to open, close, or partially close orifice 400) in the event that the rod velocity in compression is relatively low but the rod progresses past a certain point in the travel.
Such configuration aids in stabilizing the vehicle against excessive low-rate suspension movement events such as cornering roll, braking and acceleration yaw and pitch and “g-out.”
FIG. 6 illustrates, for example, a control system 600 including three variables: wheel speed, corresponding to the speed of a vehicle component (measured by wheel speed transducer 604), piston rod position (measured by piston rod position transducer 606), and piston rod velocity (measured by piston rod velocity transducer 608). Any or all of the variables shown may be considered by logic unit 602 in controlling the solenoids or other motive sources coupled to active valve 350 for changing the working size of the opening of orifice 400 by causing nipple 370 to open, close, or partially close orifice 400. Any other suitable vehicle operation variable may be used in addition to or in lieu of the variables discussed herein, such as, for example, piston rod compression strain, eyelet strain, vehicle mounted accelerometer (or tilt/inclinometer) data or any other suitable vehicle or component performance data.
In one embodiment, the piston’s position within the damping chamber is determined using an accelerometer to sense modal resonance of the suspension damper. Such resonance will change depending on the position of the piston and an onboard processor (computer) is calibrated to correlate resonance with axial position. In one embodiment, a suitable proximity sensor or linear coil transducer or other electromagnetic transducer is incorporated in the damping chamber to provide a sensor to monitor the position and/or speed of the piston (and suitable magnetic tag) with respect to a housing of the suspension damper.
In one embodiment, the magnetic transducer includes a waveguide and a magnet, such as a doughnut (toroidal) magnet that is joined to the cylinder and oriented such that the magnetic field generated by the magnet passes through the rod and the waveguide. Electric pulses are applied to the waveguide from a pulse generator that provides a stream of electric pulses, each of which is also provided to a signal processing circuit for timing purposes. When the electric pulse is applied to the waveguide, a magnetic field is formed surrounding the waveguide. Interaction of this field with the magnetic field from the magnet causes a torsional strain wave pulse to be launched in the waveguide in both directions away from the magnet. A coil assembly and sensing tape is joined to the waveguide. The strain wave causes a dynamic effect in the permeability of the sensing tape which is biased with a permanent magnetic field by the magnet. The dynamic effect in the magnetic field of the coil assembly due to the strain wave pulse, results in an output signal from the coil assembly that is provided to the signal processing circuit along signal lines.
By comparing the time of application of a particular electric pulse and a time of return of a sonic torsional strain wave pulse back along the waveguide, the signal processing circuit can calculate a distance of the magnet from the coil assembly or the relative velocity between the waveguide and the magnet. The signal processing circuit provides an output signal, which is digital or analog, proportional to the calculated distance and/or velocity. A transducer-operated arrangement for measuring piston rod speed and velocity is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,952,823 and that patent is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
While transducers located at the suspension damper measure piston rod velocity (piston rod velocity transducer 608), and piston rod position (piston rod position transducer 606), a separate wheel speed transducer 604 for sensing the rotational speed of a wheel about an axle includes housing fixed to the axle and containing therein, for example, two permanent magnets. In one embodiment, the magnets are arranged such that an elongated pole piece commonly abuts first surfaces of each of the magnets, such surfaces being of like polarity. Two inductive coils having flux-conductive cores axially passing therethrough abut each of the magnets on second surfaces thereof, the second surfaces of the magnets again being of like polarity with respect to each other and of opposite polarity with respect to the first surfaces. Wheel speed transducers are described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,986,118 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6 , the logic unit 602 with user-definable settings receives inputs from piston rod position transducer 606, piston rod velocity transducer 608, as well as wheel speed transducer 604. Logic unit 602 is user-programmable and, depending on the needs of the operator, logic unit 602 records the variables and, then, if certain criteria are met, logic unit 602 sends its own signal to active valve 350 (e.g., the logic unit 602 is an activation signal provider) to cause active valve 350 to move into the desired state (e.g., adjust the flow rate by adjusting the distance between nipple 370 and orifice 400). Thereafter, the condition, state or position of active valve 350 is relayed back to logic unit 602 via an active valve monitor or the like.
In one embodiment, logic unit 602 shown in FIG. 6 assumes a single active valve 350 corresponding to a single orifice 400 of a single damping assembly 200, but logic unit 602 is usable with any number of active valves or groups of active valves corresponding to any number of orifices, or groups of orifices. For instance, the suspension dampers on one side of the vehicle can be acted upon while the vehicles other suspension dampers remain unaffected.
While the examples illustrated relate to manual operation and automated operation based upon specific parameters, in various embodiments, active valve 350 can be remotely-operated and can be used in a variety of ways with many different driving and road variables and/or utilized at any point during use of a vehicle. In one example, active valve 350 is controlled based upon vehicle speed in conjunction with the angular location of the vehicle’s steering wheel. In this manner, by sensing the steering wheel turn severity (angle of rotation), additional damping (by adjusting the corresponding size of the opening of orifice 400 by causing nipple 370 to open, close, or partially close orifice 400) can be applied to one damping assembly 200 or one set of vehicle suspension dampers on one side of the vehicle (suitable for example to mitigate cornering roll) in the event of a sharp turn at a relatively high speed.
In another example, a transducer, such as an accelerometer, measures other aspects of the vehicle’s suspension system, like axle force and/or moments applied to various parts of the vehicle, like steering tie rods, and directs change to position of active valve 350 (and corresponding change to the working size of the opening of orifice 400 by causing nipple 370 to open, close, or partially close orifice 400) in response thereto. In another example, active valve 350 is controlled at least in part by a pressure transducer measuring pressure in a vehicle tire and adding damping characteristics to some or all of the wheels (by adjusting the working size of the opening of orifice 400 by causing nipple 370 to open, close, or partially close orifice 400) in the event of, for example, an increased or decreased pressure reading. In one embodiment, active valve 350 is controlled in response to braking pressure (as measured, for example, by a brake pedal (or lever) sensor or brake fluid pressure sensor or accelerometer). In still another example, a parameter might include a gyroscopic mechanism that monitors vehicle trajectory and identifies a “spin-out” or other loss of control condition and adds and/or reduces damping to some or all of the vehicle’s dampers (by adjusting the working size of the opening of orifice 400 by causing nipple 370 to open, close, or partially close orifice 400 chambers) in the event of a loss of control to help the operator of the vehicle to regain control.
FIG. 7 is an enlarged view showing an embodiment of a remotely operable active valve 450. Although FIG. 7 shows the active valve 450 in a closed position (e.g. during a rebound stroke of the damper), the following discussion also includes the opening of active valve 450. Active valve 450 includes a valve body 704 housing a movable piston 705 which is sealed within the body. The piston 705 includes a sealed chamber 707 adjacent an annularly-shaped piston surface 706 at a first end thereof. The chamber 707 and annular piston surface 706 are in fluid communication with a port 725 accessed via opening 726. Two additional fluid communication points are provided in the body including an inlet 702 and an outlet 703 for fluid passing through the active valve 450.
Extending from a first end of the piston 705 is a shaft 710 having a cone-shaped valve member 712 (other shapes such as spherical or flat, with corresponding seats, will also work suitably well) disposed on an end thereof. The cone-shaped member 712 is telescopically mounted relative to, and movable on, the shaft 710 and is biased toward an extended position due to a spring 715 coaxially mounted on the shaft 710 between the member 712 and the piston 705. Due to the spring biasing, the cone-shaped member 712 normally seats itself against a seat 717 formed in an interior of the valve body 704.
As shown, the cone shaped member 712 is seated against seat 717 due to the force of the spring 715 and absent an opposite force from fluid entering the active valve 450 along orifice 400 (of FIGS. 3B-3D). As member 712 telescopes out, a gap 720 is formed between the end of the shaft 710 and an interior of member 712. A vent 721 is provided to relieve any pressure formed in the gap. With a fluid path through the active valve 450 (from 703 to 702) closed, fluid communication is substantially shut off from the rebound side of the cylinder into the valve body (and hence through the bottom out back to the compression side) and its “dead-end” path is shown by arrow 719.
In one embodiment, there is a manual pre-load adjustment on the spring 715 permitting a user to hand-load or un-load the spring using a threaded member 708 that transmits motion of the piston 705 towards and away from the conical member, thereby changing the compression on the spring 715.
Also shown in FIG. 7 is a plurality of valve operating cylinders 751, 752, 753. In one embodiment, the cylinders each include a predetermined volume of fluid 755 that is selectively movable in and out of each cylindrical body through the action of a separate corresponding piston 765 and rod 766 for each cylindrical body. A fluid path 770 runs between each cylinder and port 725 of the valve body where annular piston surface 706 is exposed to the fluid.
Because each cylinder has a specific volume of substantially incompressible fluid and because the volume of the sealed chamber 707 adjacent the annular piston surface 706 is known, the fluid contents of each cylinder can be used, individually, sequentially or simultaneously to move the piston a specific distance, thereby effecting the damping characteristics of the system in a relatively predetermined and precise way.
While the cylinders 751-753 can be operated in any fashion, in the embodiment shown each piston 765 and rod 766 is individually operated by a solenoid 775 and each solenoid, in turn, is operable from a remote location of the vehicle, like a cab of a motor vehicle or even the handlebar area of a motor or bicycle (not shown). Electrical power to the solenoids 775 is available from an existing power source of a vehicle or is supplied from its own source, such as on-board batteries. Because the cylinders may be operated by battery or other electric power or even manually (e.g. by syringe type plunger), there is no requirement that a so-equipped suspension rely on any pressurized vehicle hydraulic system (e.g. steering, brakes) for operation. Further, because of the fixed volume interaction with the bottom out valve there is no issue involved in stepping from hydraulic system pressure to desired suspension bottom out operating pressure.
In one embodiment, e.g., when active valve 450 is in the damping-open position, fluid flow through orifice 400 provides adequate force on the member 712 to urge it backwards, at least partially loading the spring 715 and creating fluid path 701 from the orifice 400 into a rebound portion 134 of the vehicle damping assembly 200.
The characteristics of the spring 715 are typically chosen to permit active valve 450 (e.g. member 712) to open at a predetermined bottom out pressure, with a predetermined amount of control pressure applied to port 725, during a compression stroke of vehicle damping assembly 200. For a given spring 715, higher control pressure at port 725 will result in higher bottom out pressure required to open the active valve 450 and correspondingly higher damping resistance in orifice 400 (more compression damping due to the bottom out). In one embodiment, the control pressure at port 725 is raised high enough to effectively “lock” the bottom out closed resulting in a substantially rigid compression damper (particularly true when a solid damping piston is also used).
In one embodiment, the valve is open in both directions when the valve member 712 is “topped out” against valve body 704. In another embodiment however, when the valve piston 705 is abutted or “topped out” against valve body 704 the spring 715 and relative dimensions of the active valve 450 still allow for the cone member 712 to engage the valve seat 717 thereby closing the valve. In such embodiment backflow from the rebound side of the chamber 220 to the compression side is always substantially closed and cracking pressure from flow along orifice 400 is determined by the pre-compression in the spring 715. In such embodiment, additional fluid pressure may be added to the inlet through port 725 to increase the cracking pressure for flow along orifice 400 and thereby increase compression damping through the bottom out over that value provided by the spring compression “topped out.” It is generally noteworthy that while the descriptions herein often relate to compression damping bottom out and rebound shut off, some or all of the bottom out channels (or channel) on a given suspension unit may be configured to allow rebound damping bottom out and shut off or impede compression damping bottom out.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart 800 of an example method of operational incorporation for an active bottom out valve operation in accordance with an embodiment. Although, a number of uses can and will be realized as active valve 450 is utilized to provide an active valve or semi-active valve bottom out zone, the following is one of a plurality of possible examples that could utilize the many additional capabilities that have heretofore remained unavailable to a manually adjustable bottom out zone.
In one embodiment, during tuning of a suspension and specifically each shock absorber 100 of the suspension, the ride zone portion of the shock absorber is setup to have low damping and the bottom out zone has a heavier damping (than the ride zone portion) to prevent bottom out on square edge hits when the electronics can’t respond. However, large discrepancies in the damping settings between the ride zone and the BOC can cause the transition between the two damping settings to become noticeable and intrusive.
Without active valve 450 in the BOC (e.g., in a manual adjustable BOC), a compromise tune is utilized between the damping characteristics of the main piston and the damping characteristics of the BOC to reduce the feel during the damping transition between the ride zone and the BOC.
In one embodiment, by utilizing at least one active valve 450 in shock absorber 100, the tuning of the damping characteristics of the ride zone portion and/or the bottom out zone of the shock absorber 100 can be tuned with significantly less compromise than the manually adjustable setup.
For example, when there is an active valve 450 that provides adjustable damping to the BOC, the bottom out zone damping can electronically vary based on terrain and/or rider behavior. For example, more damping when the system/rider/mapping prioritizes bottoming resistance and less damping when the system/rider/mapping prioritizes quality feel. Moreover, because of the location of the active valve 450 in the BOC there is minimal hysteresis effect and the adjustments of the active valve 450 could occur very quickly.
In another embodiment, when there is plurality of active valve 450, e.g., an active valve that provides adjustable damping to the damping portion and one that provides adjustable damping to the BOC, the ride zone damping and the bottom out zone damping can be jointly and/or independently varied based on terrain, rider behavior, speed, feel, etc. That is, more ride zone and/or bottom out zone damping when the system/rider/mapping prioritizes bottoming resistance and less ride zone and/or bottom out zone damping when the system/rider/mapping prioritizes quality feel.
At 810, the initial suspension tune setting is established. E.g., in one embodiment, the initial tune sets the ride zone portion of the shock absorber range of operation has low damping and the BO zone portion of the shock absorber range of operation to have heavier damping (than the ride zone portion) to prevent bottom out on square edge hits.
At 820, the active valve 450 BOC (or damping or both bottom out and damping) setting(s) is checked (as described in detail in FIGS. 5-7 ) for its present damping characteristic settings and is adjusted as needed.
At 830, the bottoming resistance is prioritized and the damping of active valve 450 is adjusted to provide more damping.
At 840, the quality feel is prioritized and the damping of active valve 450 is adjusted to provide less damping.
Although a single flowchart is shown, it should be appreciated that the flowchart 800 could be similarly utilized by each of a plurality of active valves within the single shock absorber; by every of a plurality of active valves within the single shock absorber; by an active valve in each of a plurality of shock absorbers within a vehicle suspension; by a plurality of active valves in a plurality of shock absorbers within a vehicle suspension; by every active valve in a plurality of shock absorbers within a vehicle suspension; and by every active valve in every shock absorber within a vehicle suspension.
FIG. 9 is a damping force chart 900 that illustrates compression and damping ranges of the damping system as discussed in detail in the discussion of FIG. 4E herein.
The foregoing Description of Embodiments is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise form described. Instead, example embodiments in this Description of Embodiments have been presented in order to enable persons of skill in the art to make and use embodiments of the described subject matter. Moreover, various embodiments have been described in various combinations. However, any two or more embodiments could be combined. Although some embodiments have been described in a language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed by way of illustration and as example forms of implementing the claims and their equivalents.
What we claim is:
1. An assembly comprising:
a damper chamber having a compression portion and a rebound portion; a damping piston coupled to a piston shaft, said damping piston disposed in said damper chamber and axially movable relative to said damper chamber, said damping piston separating said compression portion from said rebound portion; an external reservoir in fluid communication with the rebound portion of the damper chamber via a flow path, the external reservoir to receive and supply a working fluid as the damping piston moves in and out of the damper chamber; a valve coupled with said flow path, said valve to meter a flow of said working fluid through said flow path; a bypass port to the external reservoir formed in the flow path and bypassing the valve; and a mechanical relief valve provided in said bypass port to block a fluid flow though said bypass port until a blow-off pressure that is higher than a normal operating pressure and less than a burst pressure of said damper chamber is provided thereon.
| 2023-02-27 | en | 2023-07-20 |
US-201615156676-A | Ofdm transmission and reception for non-ofdm signals
ABSTRACT
Methods and apparatuses for Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) communication of non-OFDM radio signals are disclosed. The non-OFDM radio signals are force-modulated into OFDM signals. In one example, a non-OFDM signal is received and is processed into an OFDM signal to produce a created OFDM signal. An actual OFDM signal is also received and is processed together with the created OFDM signal.
RELATED APPLICATIONS
This Application is a Continuation of and claims benefit from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/256,709 that was filed Apr. 18, 2014, and that is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/153,801 (U.S. Pat. No. 8,718,211), filed Jun. 6, 2011 (issued May 6, 2014), and that is a Continuation U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/899,248 (U.S. Pat. No. 7,970,085), filed Sep. 5, 2007 (Issued Jun. 28, 2011), and that claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 6(928,114; filed May 8, 2007, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
Numerous current and most emerging wireless technologies are based on Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) where the transmitter uses an Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) and the receiver uses Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)—both in baseband. When implemented in a Software Defined Radio (SDR), non-OFDM based schemes require a separate software module running in parallel to OFDM based schemes when simultaneous radio transmission is desired. This can cause a performance problem and increased complexity in signaling between the operating system (OS) and the hardware (HW).
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
The present invention relates to methods and apparatuses for OFDM communication of non-OFDM radio signals. To increase the effectiveness of wireless communication, and therefore the utility, of mobile devices that communicate wirelessly, wireless devices may include processors and methods to allow non-OFDM signals to be processed in software configured to process OFDM signals. In this regard, the non-OFDM radio signals are force-modulated into OFDM signals and processed along with the actual OFDM.
In one embodiment, a method of operating a computing device to accommodate non-OFDM signals is disclosed. The method includes receiving a non-OFDM signal; processing the non-OFDM signal into a created OFDM signal; and processing the created OFDM signal,
In another embodiment, a method of operating a computing device to accommodate non-OFDM signals is disclosed. The method includes receiving anon-OFDM signal; processing the non-OFDM signal into an OFDM signal to produce a created OFDM signal; receiving an actual OFDM signal; and processing the actual OFDM signal with the created OFDM signal.
In still another embodiment, an apparatus for operating a computing device to accommodate non-OFDM signals is provided. The apparatus includes a first receive circuit configurable to receive a non-OFDM signal and a first processor configurable to process the non-OFDM signal to produce a created OFDM signal. A second receive circuit is configurable to receive an OFDM signal and a second processor is configurable to process the actual OFDM, signal together with the created OFDM signal and to execute an FFT on the signals.
The foregoing is a non-limiting summary of the invention, which is defined by the attached claims:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various figures is represented by a like numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. In the drawings:
FIG. 1 is a graphical representation of a subdivision of the channel bandwidth into narrowband sub-channels of equal width;
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a multi carrier OFDM digital communication system;
FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an illustrative process in accordance with embodiments of the invention;
FIG. 4 is a diagram of an illustrative computer system environment in which embodiments of the invention may be implemented; and
FIG. 5 is an exemplary computing device that may be used in accordance with embodiments of the invention,
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
This disclosure addresses the need in prior art systems for separate software modules running in parallel to handle both non-OFDM based schemes and OFDM based schemes when simultaneous radio transmission is desired. In one aspect, this problem is addressed by force-modulating non-OFDM signals into OFDM signals. The non-OFDM signal is received and is processed to produce a created OFDM signal. An actual OFDM signal is also received and is processed together with the created OFDM signal. In this it manner, non-OFDM signals to be processed in software configured to process OFDM signals, it should be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to single access OFDM and that multiple access OFDMA may be employed.
By way of example, if a user is using a Bluetooth headset, together with browsing the Internet (e.g., on MSN) using a wireless connection, the headset is communicating wirelessly with the computer and the computer is communicating wirelessly to the Internet connection. Using Software Defined Radio (SDR), both Bluetooth modulation and the connection to the Internet can be employed. However, the Bluetooth communication employs non-OFDM transmission whereas the wireless connection to the Internet employs OFDM transmission. Accommodating for this mixed-signal is more complex with more signaling between the different radios as compared to a single-type signal between radios. The inventors have appreciated that if the non-OFDM signal (ex., Bluetooth signal) is transformed into an OFDM or OFDM-like signal, then just one module and/or one executable file to handle the signals need be employed. Using suitable FFT and IFFT algorithms for the signals, different radios are not required.
Data is typically transmitted at high speed and is sent through a serial to parallel converter. The data is transferred from serial to a 52 parallel stream. By way of example, if data is transmitted at 52 megabit per second, each stream would be 1 megabit per second. The 52 streams are then processed via an IFFT algorithm. The signal may then be transformed from parallel to serial again and transmitted over the channel. At the receiver, the inverse operation is performed, namely the data is sent through an FFT algorithm.
Continuing with this example, at this point, the bandwidth that is available is effectively chopped into sub-channels. For example, a 20 MHz channel transmitting into 52 sub-channels, results in each channel being about 300 KHz.
According to an aspect of this invention, the SDR controller (the control channel) decides how to transmit an OFDM signal as follows. The Operating System (OS) knows that it must transmit two different wireless protocols, e.g., both WiFi and Bluetooth. That is, there is a request for transmitting in one wireless mode (e.g., WiFi) and there is another request for transmitting in another wireless mode (e.g., Bluetooth). In this case, the OS recognizes that the OFDM operation has come over 52 sub-channels and each sub-channel is equivalent to approximately 300 KHz. This information is captured by the controller of the SDR and is fed to a module that indicates transmitting the non-OFDM signal (e.g., the Bluetooth signal). The system then makes sure that the Bluetooth connection is channelized to 300 KHz. In this regard, the Bluetooth is about 1 MHz of bandwidth so data is transmitted over the Bluetooth channel and each channel is a continuous 1 MHz. With regard to the OFDM signal (e.g., the WiFi signal), the signal is transmitted over 52 sub-channels and each sub-channel is approximately 380+ KHz wide (i.e., 20 MHz divided by 52 sub-channels). In this case, the Bluetooth stream is transmitting at a certain data rate of about 1 MHz, which will require approximately 3 sub-channels. That is, the stream is split it into three sub-channels. Thus, with the OFDM signal (e.g., WiFi being transmitted over 52 sub-channels (serial to 52 parallel streams) and the non-OFDM signal (e.g., Bluetooth) being transmitted over 3 sub-channels, a total of 55 sub-channels exist.
An IFFT of the 55 sub-channels is then performed. On the receiver side, the WiFi receiver is performing 52 sub-channel FITs and the Bluetooth receiver is performing 3 sub-channel FFTs. In this manner, the same executable module of the SDR is employed. The same hardware is available for use and the complexity of transmitting simultaneous radio is much less in this case than transmission of Bluetooth and WiFi separately.
Thus, a signal that is otherwise non-OFDM (e.g., Bluetooth) is made to appear as though it is OFDM, which can then be processed along with the OFDM signals.
If implemented in software, the signals are software combined and is processed in the same module.
It should be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to transmittina Bluetooth and WiFi; rather the invention contemplates OFDM transmission and reception of non-OFDM signals and OFDM signals. Similarly, the sub-channels available are not limited to the example provided. Rather, the maximum number of sub-channels is limited by the processor speed.
A further example is discussed below.
In one embodiment, Wi-Fi 802.11 n and Bluetooth 1 are embedded in a laptop using SDR. That is, there is a single RF front end that is used for both communication protocols while the baseband and MAC protocol are implemented in software.
The Wi-Fi PHY implements an OFDM modulation scheme as described in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/637,449, titled “Cognitive Multi-User OFDMA”, filed Dec. 12, 2006 and Ser. No. 11/635,869, titled “System Capability Discovery for Software Defined Radio”, filed Dec. 8, 2006, each of which is assigned to the assignee of the present application and each of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The Bluetooth device implements a form of GFSK modulation. But the Bluetooth can still be communicated in an OFDM based framework.
In OFDM the available channel bandwidth W is subdivided into a number of equal-bandwidths called sub-channels, where the bandwidth of each sub-channel is sufficiently narrow so that the frequency response characteristics of the sub-channels are nearly ideal. Such a subdivision of the overall bandwidth into smaller sub-channels is illustrated in FIG. 1. Thus, K=W/Δf sub-channels is created, where different information symbols can be transmitted simultaneously in the K sub-channels. With each sub-channel, a carrier is associated as follows:
x k(t)=sin 2πf k t, k=0,1, . . . , K−1 [1]
where fk is the mid-frequency in the kth sub-channel.
By selecting the symbol rate 1/T on each of the sub-channels o be equal to the separation Δf of adjacent subcarriers, the subcarriers are orthogonal over the symbol interval T, independent of the relative phase relationship between sub carriers; i.e.,
where fk−n/T, n=1, 2, . . . , independent of the values of the phases φk and φj.
With an OFDM system having K sub-channels, the symbol rate on each sub carrier is reduced by a factor of N relative to the symbol rate on a single carrier system that employs the entire bandwidth W and transmits data at the same rate as OFDM, Hence, the symbol interval in the OFDM system is T=KTs, where Ts is the symbol interval in the single-carrier system.
It should be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to dividing the channel into a sub-channels of a certain width. Instead, the channel may be divided into sub-channels of narrower width than that described here. In this manner, the non-OFDM signal may determine how finely to divide the channels into appropriately sized sub-channels
The modulator and demodulator in an OFDM system are efficiently implemented by use of the FFT algorithm to compute the DFT/IDFT. The basic block diagram of the OFDM is illustrated in FIG. 2. At block 20, a serial-to-parallel buffer subdivides the information sequence into frames of Bf bits. The Bf bits in each frame are parsed into K groups, where the i th group is assigned bi bits.
Hence,
A multi-carrier modulator, as illustrated at block 22, may be viewed as generating K independent QAM sub-channels, where the symbol rate for each sub-channel is UT and the signal in each sub-channel has a distinct QAM constellation. Hence, the number of signal points for the i−th sub-channel is Mi=2b. At block 24 a cyclic prefix is added to reduce the effect of intersymbol interference from neighboring symbols. Then the parallel sequence is multiplexed back into a serial stream of bits, and inputted to a digital to analog converter (D/A) at block 26 that renders the digital symbols into analogue before up converting to the RF frequency of interest and radiating with an antenna.
The receive side is the reciprocal of transmission. The receive RIF signal is intercepted by an antenna shown at 28, down converted in frequency before it is digitized by an analogue to digital converter (A/D) at block 30, multiplex from a serial stream to a parallel stream. At block 32 the prefix added in transmission is removed. FFT is preformed, at block 34, on the parallel sequence. This followed by a detector at block 36, to decide on the bits, which is then input to a parallel to serial multiplexer, at block 38.
The complex-valued signal points corresponding the information signals on the K sub-channels may be denoted by Xk, k=0, 1, . . . , K−1. These information symbols {Xk} represent the values of the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) of a multi-carrier OFDM signal x(t), where the modulation on each subcarrier is QAM. Since x(t) must be a real-valued signal, its N-point DFT {Xk} must satisfy the symmetry property XN−k=X*k. Therefore, we create N=2K symbols from K information symbols by defining:
X N−K =X* K , k=1,2, . . . , K−1
X 0 =Re(X 0)
X N =Im(X 0) [4]
Note that the information symbol X0 is split into two parts, both of which are real. If the new sequence of symbols is denoted as (X′k, k=0, 1, . . . , N−1) the N-point inverse DFT (IDFT) yields the real-valued sequence:
where 1/√{square root over (N)} is simply a scale factor.
This sequence {Xn, 0≦n≦N−1} corresponds to samples of the multicarrier OFDM signal x(t), consisting of K subcarriers,
Continuing with this example, at this point, the OFDM has as an input {Xn, 0≦n ≦N−1} and an output {Xn, 0≦n ≦N−1}.
Regarding the Bluetooth modulation, the USK signal, which is the typical modulation protocol employed with Bluetooth, can be represented by
s(t, α)=A cos(2πf c t+φ(t, α)),
where
Eb is the energy per data bit;
fc is the carrier frequency;
α is the random input stream having data bits αi;
φ(t, α) is the output phase deviation, given by
In GFSK, a single bit is transmitted over multiple symbols. This may be accomplished by using a pulse shaping filter with impulse response g(t) given by
where Q(t) is the standard Q-function
By introducing controlled intersymbol interference, the spectral occupancy of the signal is substantially reduced.
Rewriting the above equation [7], then
where L s the length of g(t), and
For Bluetooth with BbT=0.5, L=2, which means that a single data bit is spread over two consecutive symbol intervals.
Bluetooth uses 1 MHz channelization. If an SDR is used that includes 802.11a/g/n, the sub-channels are ˜384 KHz. Therefore, three sub-channels would be sufficient to cover each Bluetooth transmission/reception. In this manner, the OFDM based cognitive radio is employed for OFDM based schemes and non-OFDM based schemes, Any loss in the non-matched filter is likely to be small.
The Bluetooth signal is multiplexed in software into three separate streams, each with ⅓rd the data rate. These streams are then input to the same OFDM modulator used to transmit the 802.11n signal.
FIG. 3 is an illustrative flowchart of one embodiment for transmitting data. At block 60, the bandwidth needed is represented by W. At block 62, a decision is made whether the bandwidth needed, W, is greater than the bandwidth of a sub-channel Δf. If W>Δf, then the process proceeds to block 64, where the bandwidth is partitioned into K sub-channels, where K=W/Δf. At block 66, OFDM processing is performed with K number of sub-channels. At block 68, the signal is transmitted.
If the bandwidth W is not divided evenly and extra bandwidth remains that cannot take up an entire sub-channel, then, in one embodiment, the remaining bandwidth can be assumed to be a power loss. In another embodiment, the bandwidth can be divided so that the sub-channels exceed the bandwidth. In this case, the extra sub-channel can be considered noise. In yet another embodiment, as described in block 70, the sub-channel can be divided into further sub-channels such that a new Δf provided. In this manner, on the one hand, power loss is limited and on the other hand noise is limited, in the example shown, the sub-channels are divided in half, however, it should be appreciated that the sub-channels can be divided into thirds, fourths, fifths, sixths or any other divisor, as the present invention is not limited in this respect. The process then continues at block 72 with the new parameters. Without being limited to theory, as a general rule, if either a power loss or noise (that is, the remaining bandwidth) is limited to less than about 5% to 10%, then dividing the sub-channels into further sub-channels may not be necessary.
Referring again to block 66, the signals may be processed using, for example, an FFT. In one embodiment, the FFT is programmed to process each of the sub-channels for the OFDM signals. This same FFT is used to process the non-OFDM signals, however because the FFT is programmed to process the larger number of total sub-channels for the OFDM signals, when it is time to process the non-OFDM signals, some of the sub-channels are zeroed out. For example, suppose the FFT is programmed to process 52 sub-channels for the OFDM signal, then this same FFT will attempt to process 52 sub-channels for the non-OFDM signals but there may only be 3 sub-channels having signal data. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the remaining 49 sub-channels are set to zero.
In another embodiment, the FFT can be programmed to process three sub-channels, rather than the 52 sub-channels. In this example, the non-OFDM signals are efficiently processed and no zeroing occurs, but then each set of three remaining sub-channels for the OFDM signals will be processed separately, thereby requiring many more routines of the FFT.
The aspects of the present invention described herein can be implemented on any of numerous computer system configurations and are not limited to any particular type of configuration, FIG. 4 illustrates one example of a computer system on which aspects of the invention can be implemented, although others are possible.
The computer system of FIG. 4 includes communication network 100, wireless access point 102, one or more wireless computing devices 106 configured to transmit and receive OFDM signals with the wireless access point 102, one or more wireless devices 108 configured to transmit and receive non-OFDM signals with the one or more wireless computing devices 106, and wired computing devices 114 and 116. Communication network 100 can be any suitable communication medium or media for exchanging data between two or more computers (e,g., a server and a client), including the Internet. The wireless client devices can be any suitable computing device with wireless communication capabilities. Several exemplary mobile computing devices can be employed, including a laptop, a personal digital assistant, and a smart phone. While FIG. 4 includes communication network 100 with wired devices 114 and 116, embodiments of the invention can be used in systems that do not include a wired network,
FIG. 5 schematically shows an illustrative computing device 200 that may be used in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. FIG. 5 is intended to be neither a depiction of necessary components for a computing device to operate with embodiments of the invention nor a comprehensive depiction. Computing device 200 comprises front end radio hardware 202 to communicate wirelessly, e.g., with wireless access point 102 or with other devices 108. Device 200 also comprises a network adapter 204 to communicate over a computer network using other (possibly non-wireless) methods, a display adapter 206 to display information to a user of the device, and an input adapter 208 to receive commands from the user. Device 200 further comprises computer-readable media 212 for storing data to be processed and/or instructions to be executed by a processor 210. Processor 210 enables processing of data and execution of instructions. The data and the instructions may be stored on the computer-readable media 212 and may, for example, enable communication between components of the computing device 200. The data and instructions may comprise an operating system 214 and software defined radio drivers 216. SDR drivers 216 may comprise data and instructions to carry out many functions typically done in hardware-implemented radios. The functions performed by drivers 216 may complement the functions of front end radio hardware 202, such that all desired functions may be performed by the combination of hardware and software.
Front end radio hardware 202 may be any suitable radio hardware performing any combination of functions. These functions may include modulation (i.e., mixing a data signal into a high frequency transmission signal), filtering (i.e., parsing data out of a received signal), analog-to-digital or digital-to-analog conversion, signal generation (i.e., transmitting the data), etc. Front end 202 may be implemented to perform a minimum of the required functions that need to be performed at the hardware level, with the remaining functions being implemented by SDR drivers 216. The present function is not limited to use with systems that decide the responsibilities of the hardware and software in any particular way. Front end 202 may comprise an antenna, a programmable radio-frequency waveform generator/decoder that spans a wide radio spectrum, an array of fast analog to digital converters, and/or serializers/de-serializers to convert analog data into computer-processable bytes and vice versa. A set of tunable analog filters may also be employed to comply with mandated spectrum masks. These hardware components are merely illustrative, as invention not limited to use on systems having any particular hardware.
SDR drivers 216, in addition to performing radio functions, may transmit control instructions to the tunable circuitry of front end 202 to customize the hardware of the front end 202 according to a particular wireless protocol.
It should be appreciated that one embodiment of the invention is directed to use with a computing device having programmable circuitry (e.g., the front end hardware 202 and the SDR drivers 216) that is programmable by control instructions to generate and/or receive signals according to a wireless protocol, including, for example, the process described herein with regard to handling both OFDM and non-OFDM signals. Again, this programmable circuitry can take any suitable form and include any collection of directly programmable circuitry (e.g., a programmable processor) and circuitry that interacts with directly programmable circuitry to enable communication according to a wireless protocol.
It should be appreciated that the embodiments of the present invention described herein are not limited to being practiced with the type of computing device illustrated in FIG. 5, and that embodiments of the invention can be practiced with any suitable computing device. The front end 202 and adapters 204-208 may be implemented as any suitable hardware, software, or combination thereof, and may be implemented as a single unit or multiple units. Similarly, computer-readable media 212 may be implemented as any medium or combination of media for storing data and instructions for access by a processing device.
Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodiment of this invention, it is to be appreciated that various alterations, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art.
Such alterations, modifications, and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure, and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way of example only.
The above-described embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in any of numerous ways. For example, the embodiments may be implemented using hardware, software or a combination thereof. When implemented in software, the software code can be executed on any suitable processor or collection of processors, whether provided in a single computer or distributed among multiple computers.
Further, it should be appreciated that a computer may be embodied in any of a number of forms, such as a rack-mounted computer, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, or a tablet computer. Additionally, a computer may be embedded in a device not generally regarded as a computer but with suitable processing capabilities, including a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a smart phone or any other suitable portable or fixed electronic device.
Also, a computer may have one or more input and output devices. These devices can be used, among other things, to present a user interface. Examples of output devices that can be used to provide a user interface include printers or display screens for visual presentation of output and speakers or other sound generating devices for audible presentation of output. Examples of input devices that can be used for a user interface include keyboards, and pointing devices, such as mice, touch pads, and digitizing tablets. As another example, a computer may receive input information through speech to recognition or in other audible format.
Such computers may be interconnected by one or more networks in any suitable form, including as a local area network or a wide area network, such as an enterprise network or the Internet. Such networks may be based on any suitable technology and may operate according to any suitable protocol and may include wireless networks, wired networks or fiber optic networks.
Also, the various methods or processes outlined herein may be coded as software that is executable on one or more processors that employ any one of a variety of operating systems or platforms. Additionally, such software may be written using any of a number of suitable programming languages and/or conventional programming or scripting tools, and also may be compiled as executable machine language code or intermediate code that is executed on a framework or virtual machine.
In this respect, the invention may be embodied as a computer readable medium (or multiple computer readable media) (e.g., a computer memory, one or more floppy discs, compact discs, optical discs, magnetic tapes, flash memories, circuit configurations in Field Programmable Gate Arrays or other semiconductor devices, etc.) encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more computers or other processors, perform methods that implement the various embodiments of the invention discussed above. The computer readable medium or media can be transportable, such that the program or programs stored thereon can be loaded onto one or more different computers or other processors to implement various aspects of the present invention as discussed above.
The terms “program” or “software” are used herein in a generic sense to refer to any type of computer code or set of computer-executable instructions that can be employed to program a computer or other processor to implement various aspects of the present invention as discussed above. Additionally, it should be appreciated that according to one aspect of this embodiment, one or more computer programs that when executed perform methods of the present invention need not reside on a single computer or processor, but may be distributed in a modular fashion amongst a number of different computers or processors to implement various aspects of the present invention.
Computer-executable instructions may be in many forms, such as program modules, executed by one or more computers or other devices. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc, that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Typically the functionality of the program modules may be combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments.
Also, data structures may be stored in computer-readable media in any suitable form. For simplicity of illustration, data structures may be shown to have fields that are related through location in the data structure. Such relationships may likewise be achieved by assigning storage for the fields with locations in a computer-readable medium that conveys relationship between the fields. However, any suitable mechanism may be used to establish a relationship between information in fields of a data structure, including through the use of pointers, tags or other mechanisms that establish relationship between data elements.
Various aspects of the present invention may be used alone, in combination, or in a variety of arrangements not specifically discussed in the embodiments described in the forgoing and is therefore not limited in its application to the details and arrangement of components set forth in the foregoing description or illustrated in the drawings. For example, aspects described in one embodiment may be combined in any manner with aspects described in other embodiments.
Also, the invention may be embodied as a method, of which an example has been provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.
Use of ordinal terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements.
Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.
What is claimed is:
1. A method performed on a computing device that includes radio hardware, the method comprising:
receiving, via the radio hardware over a plurality of subchannels, a radio signal comprising a modulated first plurality of parallel streams of first data and a modulated second plurality of parallel streams of second data; demodulating, by the computing device, the modulated first plurality of parallel streams of the first data and the modulated second plurality of parallel streams of the second data resulting in the first plurality of parallel streams of the first data and the second plurality of parallel streams of the second data; converting, by the computing device, the first plurality of parallel streams of the first data to a serial version of the first data; and converting, by the computing device, the second plurality of parallel streams of the second data to a serial version of the second data.
2. The method of claim 1 where the radio signal comprises a combination of an Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (“OFDM”) signal and a Bluetooth signal.
3. The method of claim 2 where the plurality of subchannels comprises fifty-five subchannels.
4. The method of claim 3 where the modulated first plurality of parallel streams of the first data is received over fifty-two of the plurality of subchannels.
5. The method of claim 3 where the modulated second plurality of parallel streams of the second data is received over three of the plurality of subchannels.
6. The method of claim 3 where the OFDM signal comprises the modulated first plurality of parallel streams of the first data.
7. The method of claim 3 where the Bluetooth signal comprises the modulated second plurality of parallel streams of the second data.
8. A computing device comprising:
radio hardware via which the computing device receives a radio signal comprising a modulated first plurality of parallel streams of first data and a modulated second plurality of parallel streams of second data; a demodulator via which the computing device demodulates the modulated first plurality of parallel streams of the first data and the modulated second plurality of parallel streams of the second data resulting in the first plurality of parallel streams of the first data and the second plurality of parallel streams of the second data; and at least one processor via which the computing device converts the first plurality of parallel streams of the first data to a serial version of the first data and also converts the second plurality of parallel streams of the second data to a serial version of the second data.
9. The computing device of claim 8 where the radio signal comprises a combination of an Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (“OFDM”) signal and a Bluetooth signal.
10. The computing device of claim 9 where the plurality of subchannels comprises fifty-five subchannels.
11. The computing device of claim 10 where the modulated first plurality of parallel streams of the first data is received over fifty-two of the plurality of subchannels.
12. The computing device of claim 10 where the modulated second plurality of parallel streams of the second data is received over three of the plurality of subchannels.
13. The computing device of claim 10 where the OFDM signal comprises the modulated first plurality of parallel streams of the first data.
14. The computing device of claim 10 where the Bluetooth signal comprises the modulated second plurality of parallel streams of the second data.
15. At least one memory that comprises computer-readable instructions that, based on execution by a computing device that includes at least one processor, memory, a demodulator, and radio hardware, configure the computing device to perform actions comprising:
receiving, via the radio hardware over a plurality of subchannels, a radio signal comprising a modulated first plurality of parallel streams of first data and a modulated second plurality of parallel streams of second data; demodulating, by the demodulator, the modulated first plurality of parallel streams of the first data and the modulated second plurality of parallel streams of the second data resulting in the first plurality of parallel streams of the first data and the second plurality of parallel streams of the second data; converting, by the at least one processor, the first plurality of parallel streams of the first data to a serial version of the first data; and converting, by the at least one processor, the second plurality of parallel streams of the second data to a serial version of the second data.
16. The at least one memory of claim 15 where the radio signal comprises a combination of an Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (“OFDM”) signal and a Bluetooth signal.
17. The at least one memory of claim 16 where the plurality of subchannels comprises fifty-five subchannels.
18. The at least one memory of claim 17 where the modulated first plurality of parallel streams of the first data is received over fifty-two of the plurality of subchannels.
19. The at least one memory of claim 17 where the modulated second plurality of parallel streams of the second data is received over three of the plurality of subchannels.
20. The at least one memory of claim 17 where the OFDM signal comprises the modulated first plurality of parallel streams of the first data, or where the Bluetooth signal comprises the modulated second plurality of parallel streams of the second data.
| 2016-05-17 | en | 2016-09-08 |
US-94213910-A | Apparatus for preventing vehicular traffic movement in prohibited direction
ABSTRACT
The object of the invention is a device for preventing the driving of vehicles in the forbidden direction, which is made possible by a physical stopping of vehicles that are driving in the wrong direction, while the traffic signals separately allow a driving in the direction of access to the highway.
The device for preventing the driving of vehicles in the forbidden direction has spring elements ( 1, 10 ) placed in a housing ( 2 ) placed in a channel ( 2 ) constructed across the direction of travel, wherein the projecting part ( 1 a, 10 a ) of the spring element when driving in the right direction will bend and thus allow the vehicle to pass, while when driving in the wrong direction the tires of the vehicle will be punctured, so that further travel of the vehicle in the prohibited direction is not possible.
The object of the invention is a device for preventing the driving of vehicles in the forbidden direction, which is made possible by a physical stopping of vehicles that are driving in the wrong direction, while the traffic signals separately allow a driving in the direction of access to the highway. The invention comes under section E01F 13/10 of the international patent classification.
The technical problem that the proposed invention successfully solves is the design of such a device for physical stopping of a vehicle that is driving in the forbidden or wrong [direction], which will enable in simple fashion a physical stopping of the vehicle with puncturing of the tires of the vehicle so that it is not possible to continue driving with the vehicle.
Solutions for this technical problem can be found in systems for monitoring the movement of vehicles and, when a vehicle is found to be driving in the wrong direction, actuating of road barriers that physically stop the vehicle. An example of such a solution is described in the French patent document No. 2 879 793. This solution requires a major intervention in the existing road infrastructure with replacement of electronic components and the barrier mechanism itself; it is also necessary to provide an energy source for the operation.
There are also solutions that work on the principle of a physically actuated barrier, that is, usually steel spikes or similar elements that pierce the rubber of a vehicle if they are approached from the wrong direction, while in the proper approach from the permitted direction these spikes by means of various mechanisms sink into the foundation and thoroughfare is possible. Thus, in German patent document No. 36 31 315 is described a solution, wherein a channel is made across the direction of travel, in which is placed a mechanism that pushes a lever into the channel in event of the proper direction of travel, or holds it by means of a spring in the upper position when the direction of travel is wrong and thereby punctures the tires of the vehicle. Similar design solutions are also described in the patent documents U.S. Pat. No. 4,097,170, U.S. Pat. No. 5,192,158, U.S. Pat. No. 7,025,526 and WO 2009/123485. In all cited documents, the solution is such that there are elements which puncture the tires of a vehicle driving in the wrong direction, movably placed in a channel or removable base (such as in U.S. Pat. No. 7,025,526), so that when a vehicle is moving in the right direction the tires move over them and they are sunk into the base by various mechanisms, but if moving in the wrong direction they are lifted upright so as to puncture the tires. In all described devices, the retraction or raising of the elements is dependent on their movement either by means of spring elements or mechanisms that contain a lot of movable parts (such as in document WO 2009/123485). Sine the raised barriers are subjected to weather changes (ice, water) and also soiling (dust, mud, etc.), the movement of the vehicle stopping elements on the axles of the spring mechanisms or various movable constructions is questionable in lengthy use.
The technical problem which the proposed invention solves satisfactorily is a design solution for such a device to prevent the travel of vehicles in the prohibited direction, making possible a physical prevention of further travel by means of a projecting part of a spring element placed in a channel constructed across the direction of travel, wherein the projecting part of the spring element when driving in the right direction will bend and thus allow the vehicle to pass, while when driving in the wrong direction the tires of the vehicle will be punctured, so that further travel of the vehicle in the prohibited direction is not possible.
We shall explain the invention more closely with a sample embodiment and figures, which show:
FIG. 1 the spring element of the device for preventing driving in the forbidden direction in side view;
FIG. 2 the spring element seen in the driving direction;
FIG. 3 a double spring element seen in the driving direction;
FIG. 4 a side view in cross section of the device for preventing vehicles from driving in the forbidden direction;
FIG. 5 plan view of the device for preventing vehicles from driving in the forbidden direction.
The device of the invention for preventing the driving of vehicles in the forbidden direction, which is made possible by a physical stopping of vehicles that are driving in the wrong direction, while the traffic signals so permit, is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, while FIGS. 1 to 3 show only the spring element. The spring element 1 is formed as a spring element, having at one end an ear 1 b, while the other projecting end 1 a is preferably sharpened and placed at an acute angle with respect to the horizontally installed spring element 1 in the housing 2 of the device according to the invention.
The device of the invention for preventing the driving of vehicles in the forbidden direction, which is made possible by a physical stopping of vehicles, has spring elements 1 placed at appropriate distances in a housing 2 so that these lie in a troughlike channel of the housing 2. At the upper edge of the channel of the housing 2 run two rods 4, 5, of which the rod 5 is shoved through the ears 1 b of spring elements 1 lying in the troughlike channel of the housing 2, while the rod 4 offers support to the projecting ends 1 a of the spring elements 1, while at the same time the rods 4, 5 serve as guideways for intermediate bearing plates 3, which separate the individual spring elements 1 from each other and at the same time provide the necessary firmness to the overall connection of the device according to the invention. The channel 2 in which the spring elements 1 are placed can also serve at the same time to drain away the water that collects on the roadway.
The spring element 1 can also be made as a double spring element 10, which is shown in FIG. 3. The spring element 10 has the same function as with the described spring element 1, wherein during use the rod 5 is shoved through the ears 10 b of the spring elements 10 lying in the troughlike channel of the housing 2, while the rod 4 offers support to the projecting double ends 10 a of the spring elements 10. The double projecting ends 10 a offer stronger resistance to the tires of a vehicle traveling in the forbidden direction.
The device for preventing the driving of vehicles in the forbidden direction, which is made possible by a physical stopping of vehicles that are driving in the wrong direction, while the traffic signals so permit, is used such that the housing 2 is installed in the roadway in the wrong direction of travel. The housing 2 with the spring elements 1 placed inside is set up so that preferably the sharpened projecting end 1 a of the spring element 1 is placed at an acute angle relative to the horizontally installed housing 2 and faces the direction from which traffic is prohibited.
When the wheels of a vehicle that is moving in the permitted direction drive across the projecting ends 1 a or 10 a of a spring element 1,10, they will bend so that the tires of the vehicles are not damaged, whereas if the vehicle is driving in the forbidden direction the projecting ends 1 a,10 a of the spring element 1,10 are driven into the wheel and will puncture the tire, so that further travel of the vehicle in the prohibited direction is no longer possible.
In winter conditions, it is possible to assure the operation of the device of the invention in a simple known way by using, for example, an electrical heating cable, which prevents the formation of ice and, thus, a limiting of the operation of the device.
The device for preventing a travel of vehicles in the prohibited direction by making possible a physical stopping of the vehicle according to the invention as described above completely solves the technical problem and furthermore the device, which does not have movable parts or parts running on axles, is easy to fabricate, install and use and it does not require major servicing interventions between operations.
1. Device for preventing the travel of vehicles in the forbidden direction,
characterized in that spring elements (1, 10) are placed in a housing (2) at appropriate distances so as to lie in a troughlike channel of the housing (2), while at the upper edge of the channel of the housing (2) run two rods (4, 5), of which the rod (5) is shoved through the ears (1 b, 10 b) of spring elements (1, 10) lying in the troughlike channel of the housing (2) and, together with the rod (4), they present guideways for intermediate bearing plates (3).
2. Device for preventing the travel of vehicles in the forbidden direction according to claim 1,
characterized in that, the housing (2) with the spring elements (1,10) placed therein is situated such that preferably the projecting end (1 a,10 a) of the spring element (1) faces the direction from which traffic is prohibited.
3. Device for preventing the travel of vehicles in the forbidden direction according to claim 2,
characterized in that, the projecting end (1 a,10 a) of the spring element (1) is preferably placed at an acute angle with respect to the horizontally installed spring element (1,10) in the housing (2) of the device according to the invention.
4. Device for preventing the travel of vehicles in the forbidden direction according to claims 1 to 3,
characterized in that,
the projecting end (1 a,10 a) of the spring element (1) is sharpened.
| 2010-11-09 | en | 2011-08-18 |
US-79110710-A | Gas Pump with Limiting Pressure Feature
ABSTRACT
A method and apparatus for pressurizing a fillable-structure, wherein a space defined by the pump, an untraversed plunger, and a closure is a volume, V t , and a stop to limit the travel of the plunger along the pump so a volume, V b , remains within the space defined by the pump, the fully traversed plunger, and the closure. Traversal or manipulation of the plunger expresses gas from the pump to the Tillable-structure wherein the pressurization of the fillable-structure is limited by the ratio of V t to V b whereby the fillable-structure can not be pressurized beyond a pressure P max .
FIELD
The present invention relates to a gas pump comprising a stop mechanism wherein the stop mechanism limits the amount of pressure that can be inserted into a volume to be filled by a predetermined value. The present invention may be used to pump air, or other gasses, into structures such as inflatable toys, balloons, mattresses, rafts, and toys or other structures of fixed volume finable by a gas.
BACKGROUND
The embodiments of the present invention described herein are directed towards a need that has not been addressed by previous implementations of air or gas pumps. Previous types of pumps do not adequately address scenarios where over-pumping can occur by an operator of a gas pump. Over-pumping may occur where the operator is unaware of the pressure at which a structure being filled with a gas will reach the upper limit of its structural integrity and rupture. Further, each relevant structure having a compartment fellable by a gas will vary in its tensile strength and ability to withstand pressure without rupturing. Alternatively, even where a structure does not rupture, its structural integrity may become so degraded by the pressure forces exerted upon it that it is no longer safe to use or may no longer have the ability to effectively serve its intended purpose.
Alternatively, it may be desirable to only have a specified limited pressurization in a fillable volume for a given purpose, in excess of which would be undesirable.
Accordingly, it is desirable to have a gas pump which will not allow the pump operator, or actuator, to cause over-pumping of a fillable structure. The present invention, disclosed herein, provides an efficient, cost-effective means for limiting the pressure that can be inserted into a volume to be filled by a predetermined value. Inflatable structures contemplated by this invention include, but are not limited to, inflatable toys, balloons, mattresses, rafts, and toys or other structures of fixed volume.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A method and apparatus for pumping gas into a fillable structure is provided featuring a pressure limiting feature, wherein the pump, a closure sealing a first opening of the pump at a first end having a one-way valve allowing only the egress of gas from the pump into a volume to be filled, a second opening on the pump at the opposite end, a plunger sealing the second opening and configured to slide along or traverse the pump and thereby express gas from the pump through the one-way valve, wherein a space defined by the pump, the fully traversed plunger, and the closure is a volume, Vt, and a stop to limit the travel of the plunger along the container so a volume, Vb, remains within the space defined by the container, the plunger, and the closure and the pressurization of the volume to be filled is limited by the ratio of Vt to Vb and the volume to be filled can not be pressurized beyond a pressure, Pmax.
DRAWINGS
While the accompanying claims set forth features of an apparatus and method for limiting pressure as disclosed herein with particularity, embodiments of the device and method may be best understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, of which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a sectional view of a gas pump as exists in the prior art.
FIG. 2 illustrates a sectional view of a pump with a limited pressure feature, as disclosed herein.
FIG. 3 illustrates a sectional view of a pump with a limited pressure feature, as disclosed herein, wherein the stop is comprised of a separation between two chambers of the pump.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention claims priority from United States Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/183,811, filed Jun. 3, 2009, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference thereto.
FIG. 1 is a sectional view of a gas pump 100 as existing in the prior art. The apparatus comprises a pump 101 having a long axis and enclosing a volume of gas, Vt. A first opening 102 on said pump 101 is located at the first end of the long axis wherein said first opening 102 includes a one-way valve for the egress of gas from said pump 101 into a volume to be inflated. A second opening 103 is located on the opposite end of said pump 101. A plunger 104 sealing said second opening 103 is configured to slide along the long axis of the pump 101. The gas having volume Vt may be expressed from the pump through the one-way valve located at the first opening 102. Upon full traversal of the plunger 104 along the long axis of the pump 101, all the gas in volume Vt is expressed through the one-way valve located at the first opening 102. The target fillable structure substantially receives all of the gas expressed from the pump 101.
In instances where the gas pump 100 has a third opening located on the long axis of the pump 101, the third opening may have a one-way valve which allows the ingress of gas to said pump 101. As the operator, or actuator, retracts the plunger 104, the pump 101 having volume Vt fills again with gas. The source of the gas may be atmospheric, an external gas container, a compressor, or any other relevant means of providing gas thereto. The plunger 104 may then be manipulated again to express the entirety of the gas into the target finable structure.
All possible target fillable structures have a maximum pressure value, Pmax. Pmax may be a function of the tensile strength of the materials comprising the Tillable structure. If a fillable structure attains an internal pressure beyond Pmax, then the structure may rupture. Even where the structure does not rupture, its structural integrity may become so degraded by the pressure forces exerted upon it that it no longer is either safe to use or may no longer have the ability to effectively serve its intended purpose. Alternatively, it may be desirable to have a limited amount of pressure in a fillable structure, where pressure in excess of the stated amount is undesirable.
Accordingly, over repeated manipulations of the plunger 104, or even a single manipulation, the target fillable structure may attain an internal pressure which is in excess of the ideal pressure, Pmax, recommended for that particular structure. Theoretically, through over-pumping, the internal pressure of the gas inside the finable structure can approach infinity. As stated, over-pumping may lead to rupturing of the fillable structure or, alternatively, conditions which are dangerous or negatively impact the utility of the fillable structure. This result is undesirable.
As disclosed in FIG. 2, the present invention improves upon the prior art and solves the problems caused by over-pumping by implementing a stop 205 to create a buffer zone having a volume Vb. In a preferred embodiment, the stop 205 is a ribbing or molding extruding from a fixed location on the interior of the pump 201. However, the stop 205 may be comprised of any suitable means capable of limiting the travel distance of the plunger 204. In a first alternative embodiment, the stop 205 is a post. In a second alternative embodiment, the stop 205 comprises a separation of two chambers of the pump 201. In a further alternative embodiment, the stop 205 may be slidable along the long axis of the pump 201 through an adjustment means accessible to the operator, or actuator, to achieve an ideal allocation of volume Vb.
The stop 205 operates to limit the distance along the long axis of the pump 201 that the plunger 204 can travel. The buffer zone is the volume of gas present in between the location of the stop 205, across which the plunger 204 cannot travel, and the first opening 202. Whereupon the plunger 204 has fully traversed the long axis of the pump 201, the gas comprising volume Vt, less volume Vb, may be expressed into the target finable structure.
The stop 205 must be located at an ideal position within the pump 201 in view of Pmax. The ideal location of the stop 205 (i.e. the necessary volume of the buffer zone, Vb) may be determined by the following equation:
V b=(V t P 0)/P max
The above equation assumes an ideal system, wherein no heat transfers to or from the environment of the pump and its components occurs. In the above equation, Vb is the desired volume of the buffer zone to be determined; Vt is the total volume of the pump 201; P0 is the initial pressure of the gas within volume Vt; and Pmax is the maximum pressure, or ideal pressure, of the target fillable structure, dependent upon the specifications and intended use of the structure. Accordingly, the stop 205 is positioned along the long axis, adjacent to the first opening as offset by volume Vb of the pump 201. If, however, it is desirable to have an operator, or actuator, perform multiple manipulations of the plunger 204, then the position of stop 205 may be adjusted accordingly, preserving the ratio between Vt and Vb. Furthermore, where practical considerations of scale between the pump 201 and the target fillable structure require, the ratio between Vt and Vb may be adjusted accordingly.
Manipulation of the plunger 204 may cause several different scenarios. The first instance is the “initial state,” the target fillable structure having a maximum pressure value of Pmax, contains no gas and the plunger 204 has not yet been manipulated. Manipulation of the plunger 204 will result in the entirety of the gas comprising volume Vt, less the volume comprising volume Vb, to be expressed to the target finable structure. However, if the pressure of the gas within the target fillable structure is equal to or greater than Pmax during manipulation or traversal of the plunger 204, or upon full manipulation or traversal of the plunger 204, then the pressure within volume Vb will equal Pmax and no further gas will be expressed into the fillable structure. Accordingly, the present invention limits the pressure of the gas in the fillable structure to not exceed maximum compressed air pressure, or Pmax, by the ratio of the total volume of the pump, Vt, to the volume of the buffering zone, Vb.
In a second instance, a gas is already present in the target fillable structure and the pressure of the gas within the structure has not yet exceeded Pmax. Here, the operator, or actuator, may continue to pump until the pressure of the target fillable structure equals Pmax, whereupon further pumping will not be possible, as described above. Accordingly, the problem in the prior art of possible over-pumping is addressed by the present invention.
It should be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the configuration and shape of the pump 201 may take several forms, including, but not limited to, a hand-pump, a foot-pump, a box-pump, a circular pump, or an oval pump. Accordingly, pumps envisioned by the present invention may not have a long axis. Further, a pump may be constructed of any suitable rigid or flexible material. In instances where a flexible material is used, the plunger may be the actual structure of the pump being compressed or traversed. Accordingly, it is to be appreciated that the embodiments discussed are exemplary and not limiting in the construction of the invention disclosed herein.
1. An apparatus for the pressurization of a container with a gas comprising:
a pump; a closure sealing a first opening on the pump at a first end having a one-way valve allowing only the egress of gas from the pump into the container; a second opening on the pump at the opposite end; a plunger sealing the second opening of the pump and configured to slide from the opposite end of the pump towards the closure and thereby express the gas from the pump through the one-way valve into the container, wherein a space defined by the pump, the uncompressed plunger, and the closure is a volume, Vt; and a stop to limit the travel of the plunger along the pump so a volume, Vb, remains within the space defined by the pump, the fully traversed plunger, and the closure.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the stop is a rib inside the pump.
3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the stop is a post inside the pump.
4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the stop is comprised of a separation between two chambers of the pump.
5. The apparatus according to claim 1, where Vt/Vb>1.0.
6. The apparatus according to claim 1, where Vt/Vb is between 0.5 and 2.0.
7. The apparatus according to claim 1, where Vt/Vb is equal to 1.0.
8. The apparatus according to claim 1, where Vt/Vb is between 2.0 and 4.0.
9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a third opening on the pump is located on the exterior perimeter of the pump having a one-way valve allowing only the ingress of gas to the pump.
10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the container is a fixed volume.
11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the container is an inflatable volume.
12. A method for pressurizing a container comprising the steps of:
providing a container to be pressurized up to a pressure, Pmax; providing a pump, the pump having a closure at a first opening on the pump at a first end having a one-way valve allowing only the egress of gas from the pump into the container and a second opening on the pump at the opposite end; sliding the plunger along the pump and thereby expressing gas from the pump through the one-way valve, wherein the space defined by the pump, the uncompressed plunger, and the first opening is a volume, Vt, and wherein traversal of the plunger along the pump to pressurize the container is limited by a stop such that a volume, Vb, remains within the space defined by the pump, the fully traversed plunger and the closure and the pressurization of the container is limited by the ratio of Vt to Vb whereby the container can not be pressurized beyond a pressure, Pmax.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the stop is a rib inside the pump.
14. The method of claim 12, wherein the stop is a post inside the pump.
15. The method of claim 12, wherein the stop is comprised of a separation between two chambers of the pump.
16. The method of claim 12, where Vt/Vb>1.0.
17. The method of claim 12, where Vt/Vb is between 0.5 and 2.0.
18. The method of claim 12, where Vt/Vb is equal to 1.0.
19. The method of claim 12, where Vt/Vb is between 2.0 and 4.0.
20. The method of claim 12, wherein a third opening on the pump is located on the exterior perimeter of the pump having a one-way valve allowing only the ingress of gas to the pump.
21. The method of claim 12, wherein the container is a fixed volume.
22. The method of claim 12, wherein the container is an inflatable volume.
23. A method for pressurizing a container comprising the steps of:
providing a container of fixed volume to be pressurized up to a pressure, Pmax; providing a pump having a, the pump having a closure at a first opening on the pump at a first end having a one-way valve allowing only the egress of gas from the pump into the container and a second opening on the pump at the opposite end; sliding the plunger along the pump and thereby expressing gas from the pump through the one-way valve, wherein the space defined by the pump, the uncompressed plunger, and the first opening is a volume, Vt, and wherein traversal of the plunger along the pump to pressurize the container is limited by a stop such that a volume, Vb, remains within the space defined by the pump, the fully traversed plunger and the closure and the pressurization of the container is limited by the ratio of Vt to Vb whereby the container can not be pressurized beyond a pressure, Pmax.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein the stop is a rib.
25. The method of claim 23, wherein the stop is a post inside the pump.
26. The method of claim 23, wherein the stop is comprised of a separation between two chambers of the pump.
27. The method of claim 23, where Vt/Vb>1.0.
28. The method of claim 23, where Vt/Vb is between 0.5 and 2.0.
29. The method of claim 23, where Vt/Vb is equal to 1.0.
30. The method of claim 23, where Vt/Vb is between 2.0 and 4.0.
31. The method of claim 23, wherein a third opening on the pump is located on the exterior perimeter of the pump having a one-way valve allowing only the ingress of gas to the pump.
| 2010-06-01 | en | 2010-12-09 |
US-32876106-A | Information display apparatus
ABSTRACT
An information display apparatus which displays additional information together with contents to be displayed on a predetermined display element, includes a display section for displaying the contents to be displayed and the additional information in different areas in a format depending on an attribute of the contents to be displayed.
The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2005-072428, filed Mar. 15, 2005, is expressly incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an information display apparatus which displays additional information together with the contents to be displayed on a predetermined display element.
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventionally, a technology of this type is, for example, an information display apparatus which displays contents to be displayed by over lapping additional information on a gray scale (displaying a so-called watermark) for avoiding a leak or falsification of the contents to be displayed (refer to JP-A-2004-213128).
Additionally, a display section which can display the above-mentioned contents to be displayed can be a cholesteric liquid crystal or twisted nematic display element, etc. with storing capability.
SUMMARY
With an apparatus using a display element with storing capability by combining the above-mentioned conventional technologies, contents to be displayed can be displayed with additional information overlapping on gray scale. However, since it is generally difficult to allow a display element with storing capability to express appropriate gray scale, there is the possibility that contents to be displayed and additional information cannot be clearly recognized because they are displayed as overlapping each other.
The present invention has been developed to solve the above-mentioned problems with the conventional technologies, and aims at providing an information display apparatus capable of preventing contents to be displayed and browsing information from being unclearly displayed using a display element having poor expression on gray scale.
To solve the above-mentioned problems the information display apparatus according to the present invention displays additional information together with the contents to be displayed on a predetermined display element, and includes a display section for displaying the contents to be displayed and the additional information in different areas in a format depending on the attribute of the contents to be displayed.
The display section can display the contents to be displayed by a layout having a predetermined free space, and display the additional information in the free space.
Furthermore, the display section can scale down and display the contents to be displayed, and display the additional information in a free space generated by the scaledown.
Additionally, the display section can display the contents to be displayed as is when there is a free space at the same position on each page of the contents to be displayed, and display additional information in a free space at the same position.
The display element can be a display element with storing capability which maintains a display state even after power supply stops.
With the above-mentioned configuration, contents to be displayed and additional information can be prevented from overlapping each other. Therefore, unlike the method of displaying additional information as overlapping contents to be displayed on gray scale (in a watermark format), the contents to be displayed and the additional information can be prevented from being unclearly displayed by a display element having poor expression on gray scale.
Furthermore, the additional information can include the information about current and past users who display the contents to be displayed.
With the above-mentioned configuration, for example, when contents data is communicated among a plurality of users, the communication path can he surveyed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a block. diagram of the internal configuration of the information display apparatus to which the present invention is applied.
FIG. 2 is an explanatory view showing the configuration of user information.
FIGS. 3A to 3C are explanatory views showing the configuration of document data.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the fingerprint authenticating process.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory view showing the display state of the display panel of the operation unit.
FIGS. 6A and 6B are flowcharts of the key release process and the browsing information composing process.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory view showing the display state of the display panel of the operation unit.
FIG. 8 is an explanatory view showing the display state of the display panel of the display unit.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the display-with-browsing-information process.
FIGS. 10A to 10C are explanatory views showing the operation of the information display apparatus.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
An embodiment of the information display apparatus according to the present invention is described below by referring to the attached drawings.
Configuration of Information Display Apparatus
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the internal configuration of an information display apparatus 1 to which the present invention is applied. The information display apparatus 1 includes an operation unit 2 for performing various operations such as an operation of selecting contents to be displayed, an operation of recognizing a fingerprint, an operation of inputting a password, etc. as shown in FIG. 1, and a display unit 3 for displaying the selected contents. Configuration of Operation Unit
The operation unit 2 includes a CPU (central processing unit) 10, a program storage unit 20, a display drive unit 30, a fingerprint read unit 40, a keyboard 50, a data I/F (interface) 70, and a power supply 60.
The CPU 10 reads a program about various processes stored in the program storage unit 20 and data about the program and executes it according to the various directive information input from the fingerprint read unit 40 and the keyboard 50, and controls the entire operation unit 2. Then, the CPU 10 stores the process results of the executed various processes in the program storage unit 20, and outputs the drawing data for display (drawing) of the process results to the display drive unit 30.
The program storage unit 20 is configured by non-volatile memory. The program storage unit 20 stores various programs for control of each unit of the display unit 3 and data (for example, information about a user (hereinafter also referred to as “user information”) permitted to browse the contents by the information display apparatus 1). The user information is configured by, as shown in FIG. 2, an ID number (user ID) set for a user, data indicating the feature of the fingerprint of a user (fingerprint feature data), and the date and time when the operation unit 2 authenticates the user (authenticating time).
The display drive unit 30 directly drives a display panel 30 a, and allows the drawing data (various process results) output by the CPU 10 to be displayed (drawn) on .a display panel 30 a.
The fingerprint read unit 40 reads the fingerprint pattern of a finger when a user traces an object by a finger, and outputs the information about the read fingerprint pattern to the CPU 10.
When various keys such as a numeric key, a character key, etc. are pressed, the keyboard 50 outputs the information about the operated key to the CPU 10.
The data I/F 70 is an interface for communicating data with the display unit 3.
The power supply 60 is configured by a primary battery or a secondary battery. The power supply 60 supplies power for appropriate operation of each unit to the entire operation unit 2.
Functional Units of Operation Unit
A fingerprint authentication unit 100 and a key release unit 110 are functional units realized by the CPU 10.
The fingerprint authentication unit 100 performs a fingerprint authenticating process when a contents display request is issued. When the fingerprint authenticating process is performed, the unit first reads the information about a fingerprint pattern from the fingerprint read unit 40, and detects the fingerprint feature data matching the fingerprint pattern from the user information. Then, the unit detects the user information corresponding to the detected fingerprint feature data, and sets the authenticating time about the user ID (authenticates the user).
When the authenticating time is set in the fingerprint authenticating process, the key release unit 110 performs a key release process. When the key release process is performed, the unit receives from the display unit 3 the password (hereinafter also referred to as a “document key”) set in the contents specified in the display request (hereinafter also referred to as “contents to be displayed”), and determines whether or not the document key matches a user input password. When they match each other, a matching notification is transmitted to the display unit 3. When they do not match, it transmits a nonmatching notification to the display unit 3.
Configuration of Display Unit
On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 1, the display unit 3 includes a data I/F 200, a storage 210, a program storage unit 230, NVRAM 240, a graphic accelerator 250, a display drive unit 260, a display panel 260 a, an input control unit 270, an HI (human interface) device 270 a, and a power supply 280.
The data I/F 200 is to communicate data between the operation unit 2 and the display unit 3, and is configured by, for example, a communication interface, etc.
The storage 210 is configured by non-volatile memory. The storage 210 stores an information group about contents to be displayed (hereinafter also referred to as “document data”). The document data is configured by, as shown in FIG. 3A, document metadata (file name, title, number of thumbnails, document direction, page number, browser history), thumbnail block information, page block information, band information, thumbnail image data, and page image data. The browsing information is configured by the information about the generator of a document code (printer code), and the information about a user who displays the contents (browser code) in this order as shown in FIG. 3B. The thumbnail block information is configured by an ID, an offset to data, and a data size as shown in FIG. 3C.
The CPU 220 reads and executes a program relating to various processes and the data relating to the programs stored in the program storage unit 230 according to various kinds of directive information input from the input control unit 270, and controls the entire display unit 3. The CPU 220 performs various processes to draw and display on the display panel 260 a the contents to be displayed and stored in the storage 210, and stores the process result in the NVRAM 240.
The program storage unit 230 is configured by non-volatile memory. The program storage unit 230 stores various programs to control each unit of the display unit 3.
The NVRAM 240 is configured by non-volatile memory (memory which maintains stored memory even after power-off) such as FRAM (ferroelectric random access memory), MRAM (magnetoresistive random access memory), nvSRAM (non-volatile static random access memory), etc. When the CPU 220 performs various processes, the NVRAM 240 stores the process results.
The graphic accelerator 250 is hardware for performing a drawing process on an image to be displayed on the display panel 260 a according to an instruction from the CPU 220. Practically, the graphic accelerator 250 develops data of a page image input by the CPU 220. The graphic accelerator 250 outputs to the display drive unit 260 the image data for drawing graphics obtained in the drawing process on the display panel 260 a.
The display drive unit 260 directly controls the display panel 260 a, and draws an image of the image data input from the graphic accelerator 250 on the display panel 260 a. Practically, the display drive unit 260 is provided with a pixel write unit 261 to which the graphic accelerator 250 inputs image data. The display drive unit 260 refers to the image data input to the pixel write unit 261, and drives an X driver and a Y driver of the display panel 260 a, thereby drawing an image of the input image data on the display panel 260 a.
The display panel 260 a is configured by a display device with storing capability (display device which maintains a display screen even after power-off) of high pixel density (multiple pixels) of an A4 size image. The display panel 260 a displays pixel data on a predetermined pixel according to the control of the display drive unit 260. The display panel 260 a can be, for example, an electrophoresis display, a cholesteric liquid crystal display, an electrodeposition display, etc.
The input control unit 270 has the function of an interface for controlling a signal input from the HI device 270 a to the CPU 220. The input control unit 270 performs a predetermined process according to the information input from the HI device 270 a, and outputs the process result to the CPU 220.
The HI device 270 a is configured by an input device such as a cross-shaped direction button indicating the up, down, left, and right directions, a button-shaped determination button which can be pressed, etc. The HI device 270 a can accept a directive input from a user to the display unit 3.
The power supply 280 is configured by a primary battery or a secondary battery. The power supply 280 supplies electric power for appropriately operating each unit in the entire display unit 3.
Functional Units of Display Unit
A browsing information composing unit 300, an analysis/format unit 310, and a drawing process unit 320 are functional units realized by the CPU 220 and the graphic accelerator 250.
When an authenticating time is set in the fingerprint authenticating process, the browsing information composing unit 300 performs a browsing information composing process. Then the browsing information composing process is performed, the unit transmits a document key of the contents to be displayed to the display unit 3, and determines whether or not the operation unit 2 has transmitted a matching notification. If the operation unit 2 has transmitted the matching notification, a display-with-browsing-information process is performed. If a nonmatching notification is transmitted, a message notifying that the contents cannot be displayed is displayed.
The browsing information composing unit 300 sets a style based on the attribute of a page image of document data of the contents to be displayed, and the analysis/format unit 310 performs a display-with-browsing-information process of adding browsing history represented by a title contained in the document data of the contents to be displayed and a two-dimensional bar code and an information group including the user ID received in step S302 (hereinafter referred to also as “browsing information”) to the drawing component of the document data for which the style has been set.
The analysis/format unit 310 arranges the data of the page image contained in the document data stored in the storage 210 based on the style set by the browsing information composing unit 300 for each display unit such as a page, etc., and develops the data to the drawing component of the specified style
The analysis/format unit 310 also develops the entire document data or the first portion to be displayed to a drawing component in advance to display the contents to be displayed on the display panel 260 a, and allows the NVRAM 240 to store the developed document data, user information and browsing history. The format of the image data generated by the analysis/format unit 310 is also referred to as an “intermediate format”.
The drawing process unit drawing process unit 320 processes the data in the intermediate format to be displayed, and generates a bit map depending on the number of pixels of the display panel 260 a. That is, the drawing process unit 320 performs a process of linearly analyzing a graphic form such as a continuous straight line, a Bezier curve, a polygon, etc. (process of analyzing to a predetermined vector sum), and performs a series of processes of expressing in a bit map a vector image contained in the data in an intermediate format such as calculating a pixel position as a passage point of a straight line, an arc, etc. Then, the drawing process unit 320 outputs the mapped data to the display drive unit 30.
Operation of Information Display Apparatus
The fingerprint authenticating process executed by the fingerprint authentication unit 100 (CPU 10) of the operation unit 2 according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 4. The fingerprint authenticating process is a process executed in response to a request to display contents from a user, and controls the display drive unit 30 in step S101 as shown in FIG. 4, and a fingerprint request screen display process of displaying on the display panel 30 a a message prompting a user to perform an operation of tracing the fingerprint read unit 40 by a finger (for example, “The fingerprint is to be authenticated. Trace the fingerprint read unit by a finger.”) is performed as shown in FIG. 5.
In step S102, the fingerprint read unit 40 reads the information about the fingerprint pattern information.
Then, in step S103, it is determined whether or not the feature of the fingerprint pattern matches the feature of the registered fingerprint pattern of the user based on the information about the fingerprint pattern read in step S102 and the fingerprint feature data about the user information stored in the program storage unit 20. When they match (YES), control is passed to step S104. When they do not match (NO), control is passed to step S107.
In step S104, the user ID corresponding to the fingerprint feature data for which it is determined in step S103 that the features match with the fingerprint pattern is detected, and the current time is set as the authenticating time for the user ID.
Then, control is passed to step S105, and it is determined whether or not one or more hours have passed from the authenticating time set in step S104 or a power cutoff instruction has been issued by a user. If one or more hours have passed from the authenticating time set in step S104 or a power cutoff instruction has been issued (YES), then control is passed to step S106. Otherwise (NO), the determination is repeatedly performed.
In the above-mentioned step S106, the authenticating time of the user information stored in the program storage unit 20 is first set to “0”, thereby terminating the arithmetic process.
On the other hand, in step S107, it is determined whether or not the frequency of performing the process in step S102 after starting the arithmetic process is higher than the threshold (reentry upper limit frequency). If the frequency is higher than the reentry upper limit frequency (YES), the arithmetic process is terminated. If it is equal to or less than the reentry upper limit frequency (NO), control is passed to step S107.
The key release process performed by the key release unit 110 (CPU 10) of the operation unit 2 is explained below by referring to the flowchart shown in FIG. 6A. The key release process is performed if the authenticating time is set in the fingerprint authenticating process. As shown in FIG. 6A, in step S201, it is determined whether or not there is a user whose authenticating time is set in the user information. If there is the user (YES), control is passed to step S202. If there is no corresponding user (NO), then the arithmetic process is terminated.
In step S202, a request signal for request to transmit a document key of contents to be displayed is transmitted to the display unit 3, and the document key output by the display unit 3 is received.
Then, control is passed to step S203, to plurality of the password request screen display process of controlling the display drive unit 30 to display on the display panel 30 a the message to prompt a user to input a password (for example, “Input your password.”) using the keyboard 50 as shown in FIG. 7.
Then, control is passed to step S204 to determine whether or not the document key received in step S202 matches the password input through the keyboard 50. If they match (YES), control is passed to step S205. If they do not match (NO), then control is passed to step S206.
In step S205, the matching notification notifying that the document key received in step S202 matches the password input through the keyboard 50, and the user ID corresponding to the authenticating time set in the fingerprint authenticating process are transmitted to the display unit 3, and then the arithmetic process is terminated.
On the other hand, it is determined in step S206 whether or not the frequency of performing the process in step S203 after starting the arithmetic process is higher than the threshold (reentry upper limit frequency). If it is higher than the reentry upper limit frequency (YES), then control is passed to S207. If it is equal to or lower than the reentry upper limit frequency (NO), then control is passed to step S203.
In the above-mentioned step S207, after transmitting to the display unit 3 a nonmatching notification notifying that the document key received in step S202 does not match the password input through the keyboard 50, the arithmetic process terminates.
Then, the browsing information composing process performed by the browsing information composing unit 300 of the display unit 3 and the analysis/format unit 310 (CPU 220) is explained according to the flowchart in FIG. 6B. The browsing information composing process is performed when the authenticating time is set in the fingerprint authenticating process. When the operation unit 2 outputs a request signal to the display unit 3 in step S301 as shown in FIG. 6B, the document key of contents to be displayed is transmitted to the operation unit 2, and control is passed to step S302.
In step S302, after receiving a matching notification or a nonmatching notification transmitted from the operation unit 2, control is passed to step S303
In step S303, it is determined whether or not a matching notification has been received in step S302. When a matching notification is received (YES), control is passed to step S304. When a nonmatching notification is received (NO), control is passed to S305.
In step S304, after the display-with-browsing-information process is performed, the arithmetic process terminates.
In step S305, as shown in FIG. 8, after performing the document display prohibition notification process of displaying on the display panel 30 a a message notifying that the contents to be displayed cannot be displayed (for example, “Since the password cannot be reset, the document cannot be displayed.”), the arithmetic process terminates.
The display-with-browsing-information process performed in step S304 of the browsing information composing process is described below according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 9. In the display-with-browsing-information process, it is determined in step S401 shown in FIG. 9 whether or not the format of the data of the page image contained in the document data of contents to be displayed permits a page layout to be set. Practically, it is determined whether or not the page image data includes text data (text base). If it refers to a text base (YES), control is passed to step S402. If it does not refer to a text base (NO), control is passed to step S405.
In step S402, the drawing data of browsing information is generated in a predetermined size.
Then, in step S403, a free space is allocated at the lower right corner of a page template where a page layout for display of page image data of contents to be displayed to display the drawing data generated in step S402.
Then, in step S404, first based on the page template where a free space is formed in step S403, the layout of the data of the page image of the contents to be displayed is set. Then, as shown in FIG. 10A, the data of the page image whose layout is set is displayed on the display panel 260 a, and the drawing data generated in step S402 is displayed in the free space provided in step S403 in the first contents display process, thereby terminating the arithmetic process.
On the other hand, in step S405, a free space formed at the same position is detected from the data of the page image of each page contained in the document data of the contents to be displayed.
Next, in step S406, it is determined whether or not there is a rectangular free space which has each side of more than 1 cm and formed along the edge of each page in the free space detected in step S405. If there is the rectangular free space (YES), control is passed to step S407. If there is no such free space (NO), control is passed to step S409.
In step S407, drawing data of the browsing information to be displayed in the free space for which it is determined YES in step S406 is generated.
In step S408, as shown in FIG. 10B, the data of the page image of the contents to be displayed is displayed as is on the display panel 260 a, and the drawing data generated in step S407 in the free space for which it is determined YES in step S406 is displayed in the second contents display process, thereby terminating the arithmetic process.
On the other hand, in step S409, drawing data of the browsing information is generated in a predetermined size.
Then, in step S410, as shown in FIG. 10C, the drawing data generated in step S409 is displayed at the lower right corner on the display panel 260 a, and simultaneously the data of the page image of the contents to be displayed is scaled down and displayed at the upper left corner on the display panel 260 a in such a way that these displayed data do not overlap each other in the third contents display process, thereby terminating the arithmetic process.
Practical Operation of Information Display Apparatus
The operation of the information display apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is described below by referring to a practical example.
First, assuming that the operation of a user displaying contents is performed on the operation unit 2. Then, the fingerprint authentication unit 100 (CPU 10) of the operation unit 2 performs the fingerprint authenticating process, and the fingerprint request screen display process is performed in step S101 as shown in FIG. 4. Then, the display drive unit 30 displays the message “The fingerprint is to be authenticated. Trace the fingerprint read unit by the finger.” on the display panel 30 a as shown in FIG. 5.
At the message, the user traces the fingerprint read unit 40 by the finger. Then, the fingerprint read unit 40 reads the fingerprint pattern of the finger which has traced the unit. In step S102, when the information about the read fingerprint pattern is read, and the user ID refers to a user of “0010001”, the determination in step S103 is “YES”, and the current time is set as the authenticating time of the user ID in step S104.
Then, the key release unit 110 (CPU 10) of the operation unit 2 performs the key release process, the determination in step S201 is “YES” as shown in FIG. 6A, and the request signal requesting the transmission of a document key is transmitted to the display unit 3 in step S202.
Furthermore, the browsing information composing unit 300 (CPU 220) of the display unit 3 receives a request signal transmitted from the operation unit 2 in step S201 as shown in FIG. 6B, and a key of the document to be displayed is transmitted to the operation unit 2.
Then, in the key release process by the operation unit 2, the document key transmitted from the display unit 3 is received in step S202, and the password request screen display process is performed in step S203. The display drive unit 30 displays the message “Enter your password.” on the display panel 30 a as shown in FIG. 7.
At the message, the user operates the keyboard 50 and inputs an appropriate password. Then, the determination in step S204 is “YES”, and a matching notification notifying that the received document key and the password input through the keyboard 50 match, and the user ID corresponding to the authenticating time are transmitted to the display unit 3 in step S205.
Then, in the browsing information composing process by the display unit 3, a matching notification transmitted from the operation unit 2 is received in step S302, the determination in step S303 is “YES”, and the display-with-browsing-information process is performed in step S304 as shown in FIG. 9.
Assuming that the page image data contained in the document data of the contents to be displayed includes text data, the determination in step S401 is “YES”, and the drawing data of the browsing information including the title contained in the document data of the contents to be displayed, browsing information, and the received user ID are generated in step S402. Then, in step S403, a free space for display of the drawing data of the browsing information is provided at the lower right corner of a page template, and the first contents display process is performed in step S404. The NVRAM 240, the graphic accelerator 250, and the display drive unit 260 sets the layout of the data of the page image of the contents to be displayed is set based on the page template in which the free space is formed. Then, as shown in FIG. 10A, the data of the page image for which the layout is set is displayed on the display panel 260 a, and the drawing data of the browsing information is displayed in the provided free space.
On the other hand, assuming that the page image data contained in the document data of the contents to be displayed does not include text data. Then, the determination in step S401 is “NO”, a free space formed at the same position is detected in step S405 from the page image data of each page contained in the document data of the contents to be displayed. Also assume that there is a rectangular free space which has each side of 1 cm or more and is formed along the edge of each page in the detected free space. Then, the determination in step S406 is “YES”, the drawing data of the browsing information to be displayed in the free space is generated in step S407, and the second contents display process is performed in step S408. Next, the NVRAM 240, the graphic accelerator 250, and the display drive unit 260 displays as is the date of the page image of the contents to be displayed on the display panel 260 a and the drawing data of the browsing information is displayed in the free space as shown in FIG. 10B.
Assume that there is no rectangular free space which has each side of 1 cm of more and is formed along the edge of each page in the free space detected in step S405. Then, the determination in step S406 is “NO”, the drawing data of the browsing information is generated in a predetermined size in step S409, and the third contents display process is performed in step S410. The NVRAM 240, the graphic accelerator 250, and the display drive unit 260 display the drawing data of the browsing information at the lower right corner of the display panel 260 a, and simultaneously scale down and display on the display panel 260 a the data of the page image of the contents to be displayed in such a way that these data do not overlap each other as shown in FIG. 10C.
As described above, in the information display apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, contents to be displayed and browsing information are displayed in different areas in the format depending on the attribute of contents to be displayed. Therefore, contents to be displayed and browsing information can be prevented from overlapping each other. Therefore, unlike the method of displaying browsing information as overlapping contents to be displayed on gray scale (in a watermark format), the contents to be displayed and the browsing information can be prevented from being unclearly displayed by a display element having poor expression on gray scale.
Furthermore, the browsing information can include the information about current and past users (browsing information) who display the contents to be displayed. Therefore, for example, when contents data is communicated among a plurality of users, the communication path can be surveyed.
As described above, steps S401 to S410 shown in FIG. 9 configure the display section described in the scope of the claims for the patent.
The information display apparatus according to the present invention is not limited to the applications of the above-mentioned embodiments, and can be appropriately variable within the scope of the gist of the present invention.
In the embodiments above, contents to be displayed are displayed on the display panel 260 a, but the method for outputting them is not limited to the application. For example, the displayed contents to be displayed can be printed.
1. An information display apparatus which displays additional information together with contents to be displayed on a predetermined display element, comprising
a display section for displaying the contents to be displayed and the additional information in different areas in a format depending on an attribute of the contents to be displayed.
2. The information display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the display section displays the contents to be displayed by a layout having a predetermined free space, and displays the additional information in the free space.
3. The information display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the display section scales down and displays the contents to be displayed, and displays the additional information in a free space generated by the scaledown.
4. The information display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the display section displays the contents to be displayed as is when there is a free space at the same position on each page of the contents to be displayed, and displays additional information in a free space at the same position.
5. The information display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the additional information includes information about current and past users who display the contents to be displayed.
6. The information display apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the display element is a display element with storing capability which maintains a display state even after power supply stops.
| 2006-01-10 | en | 2006-09-21 |
US-202217720071-A | Dental absorption roll device and method of use
ABSTRACT
A dental absorption roll device and method of use provides a pair of absorptive rolls that are tethered at both ends by a cord/thread is disclosed. The absorptive rolls are stuffed between one each side of mouth near the teeth being worked on. The absorptive rolls are fabricated from an absorbent material to absorb excess saliva generated during the dental procedure. The absorptive rolls absorb saliva, and maintain space in the mouth for better viewing of the teeth. The cord is forcibly introduced into the space between the teeth; thereby mounting device to teeth. The mounted cord generates tension between the absorption rolls and the teeth. This helps retain the absorption rolls in their respective position on each side of the mouth, one roll on the cheek side, and the other roll next to the tongue. Such secure placement of absorptive rolls allows dental professional to work alone.
RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119 of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 63/174,396 filed Apr. 13, 2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
This disclosure relates generally to a dental apparatus, and more particularly to an apparatus to keep a dry field around one or more teeth.
BACKGROUND
Conventionally, cotton rolls are held in place with the fingers of the clinician to keep the space around one or more teeth dry during any kind of operations on the teeth. Typically, an assistant would have to assist as the loose cotton rolls move around.
It is thus desirable to provide an apparatus that eliminates the manual help required by other assistants/technicians to hold the cotton rolls in a particular and also provide absorption capabilities
SUMMARY
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed. The present invention relates generally to an apparatus to keep a dry field around one or more teeth and a method thereof.
The present invention in one aspect discloses an apparatus to keep a dry field around one or more teeth. The apparatus comprises a plurality of rolls defined by an absorbent body. The apparatus comprises a pliable absorptive member connecting each of the plurality of rolls. In an embodiment, the pliable absorptive member comprises a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. In an embodiment, the first portion of the pliable absorptive member is inserted across the first roll and the second roll such that the inserted first portion of the pliable absorptive member is in a direction perpendicular to a length of the first roll and the second roll. In an embodiment, a portion of the pliable absorptive member inserted from the first roll towards the second roll defines the first portion. In an embodiment, a second portion of the pliable absorptive member is disposed along a length of the second roll. In an embodiment, the third portion of the pliable absorptive member is inserted across the second roll and the first roll such that the inserted third portion of the pliable absorptive member is in a direction perpendicular to the length of the first roll and the second roll. In an embodiment, a portion of the pliable absorptive member inserted from the second roll towards the first roll defines the third portion. In another embodiment the apparatus is constructed by attaching two cords perpendicular to the of the first roll and the second roll.
The present invention discloses another aspect for a method for keeping a dry field around one or more teeth using the disclosed apparatus. The method comprises pulling a pair of absorption cords apart until the cords and a pair of attached absorption rolls are generally perpendicular to each other. The method comprises aligning the cords, such that the absorption roll is in place to be positioned between the gums and the teeth. The method comprises introducing the cords between adjacent spaces between teeth, whereby the device mounts to the teeth. The method comprises adjusting the absorption rolls along the channel that forms between the gums and the cheek to a desired position, such that the cheeks are separated from the teeth, and the teeth are more visible. The method comprises removing the absorptive rolls from between the cheek and the gums, and removing the cords from between the spaces in the teeth.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles.
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary apparatus to keep a dry field around one or more teeth, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 illustrates the plurality of rolls positioned around teeth in a mouth, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the apparatus, showing a position of a single cord relative to the plurality of rolls, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary method for using apparatus for keeping a dry field around one or more teeth, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.
At the outset, it should be clearly understood that like reference numerals are intended to identify the same structural elements, portions, or surfaces consistently throughout the several drawing figures, as may be further described or explained by the entire written specification of which this detailed description is an integral part. The drawings are intended to be read together with the specification and are to be construed as a portion of the entire “written description” of this invention as required by 35 U.S.C. § 112.
The term absorptive rolls and plurality of rolls have been used interchangeably and refer to the same component of the apparatus. The term cords and pliable absorptive member have been used interchangeably and refer to the same component of the apparatus.
One objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus to a dental professional such that no assistance is required from an assistance to hold cotton rolls between the cheeks and the teeth. Another objective of the present invention is to isolate the teeth and keep the teeth dry during dental procedures. In one aspect, the absorptive rolls 102 a-b includes at least one of the following materials: cotton, cellulose pulp fibers, and natural fibers.
In another aspect, the cords 106 a-b can be non-elastic, rigid, semi-elastic, or elastic material. In another aspect, the absorptive rolls 102 a-b comprise a cylindrical shape. Another objective is to enable the dental professional to work alone, without requiring assistance in holding the cotton rolls in place between the gum and the teeth. Yet another objective is to enable successful isolation and placement of dental bonding materials used in a dental procedure, and also allows the dental professional to work independently.
Another objective is to place the rolls on each side of the mouth—one roll on the cheek side, and the other roll next to the tongue. An exemplary objective is to provide an inexpensive way to manufacture a dental absorption roll device.
Additional objectives are to provide an easy-to-use dental absorption roll device. In an embodiment, the apparatus may be commercially named as Dentaboat which is a construction of two cotton rolls attached together with an elastic or non-elastic cord/thread.
The present invention relates generally to a dental absorption roll device and method of use. More so, the dental absorption roll device provides a pair of absorptive rolls that are tethered at both ends by a cord; whereby the cord is forcibly introduced into the space between the teeth, on each side of the mouth—one roll on the cheek side, and the other roll next to the tongue in order to mount the device to the teeth and generate tension between teeth and absorptive rolls to minimize movement and displacement of absorptive rolls from between the cheeks and the gum.
A dental absorption roll device and method of use provides a pair of absorptive rolls that are tethered at both ends by a cord. The absorptive rolls are stuffed between one each side of mouth near the teeth being worked on. The absorptive rolls are fabricated from an absorbent material to absorb excess saliva generated during the dental procedure, and also absorb liquid compositions introduced into the mouth during the dental procedure. The absorptive rolls absorb saliva, and maintain space in the mouth for better viewing of the teeth. The cord is forcibly introduced into the space between the teeth; thereby mounting device to teeth. The mounted cord generates tension between the absorption rolls and the teeth. This helps retain the absorption rolls in their respective position on each side of the mouth, one roll on the cheek side, and the other roll next to the tongue. This secure placement of absorptive rolls allows dental professional to work alone. Absorptive rolls serve the dual purpose of absorbing saliva, and maintaining space between the cheeks and gums for better viewing of the teeth.
Cords, which are joined to both absorptive rolls, are forcibly introduced into the space between the teeth; thereby mounting the entire device to the teeth. In this manner, mounting the cords to the teeth generates tension between absorptive rolls and the teeth. Tension serves to better tether absorptive rolls, helping retain absorptive rolls in their respective position on each side of the mouth, one roll on the cheek side, and the other roll next to the tongue. This secure placement of absorptive rolls allows the dental professional to work alone, without requiring assistance in holding the rolls in place between the gum and the teeth.
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary apparatus to keep a dry field around one or more teeth dental, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 1, dental absorption roll device 100 (also termed as apparatus 100) comprises a pair of absorptive rolls 102 a-b (termed as plurality of rolls) that work together inside the mouth of a patient being operated on in the dental procedure.
In one embodiment, pair of absorptive rolls 102 a-b have substantially the same shape and dimensions and are defined by an absorbent cylindrical body 112 having a pair of free ends 104 a-b. Such absorptive materials that comprise absorbent body 112 may include, without limitation, cotton, cellulose pulp fibers, and natural fibers. In one embodiment, absorptive rolls 102 a-b are between 3″ to 7″ in length. However, device 100 is scalable, such that smaller or larger dimensions may be used. For example, if used with animals, the rolls have a larger diameter and length.
In operation, absorptive rolls 102 a-b arranged in a generally spaced-apart, parallel relationship. However, absorptive rolls 102 a-b have enough flexibility to be malleable and adjusted around the curvature of the teeth. Absorptive rolls 102 a-b can also align in a nonparallel relationship with each other, depending on their position in the mouth. However, in most operational procedures, absorptive rolls 102 a-b are substantially parallel while placed in the mouth between the gums and the cheeks. For example, the apparatus 100 (i.e., dental absorption roll device 100) to keep a dry field around one or more teeth comprises a plurality of rolls (i.e., absorptive rolls 102 a-b) that are defined by an absorbent body. Each of the plurality of rolls are made at least one of cotton, cellulose pulp fibers, and natural fibers. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of rolls is cylindrical in shape. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of rolls is configured to absorb saliva within the mouth and around the one or more teeth and other fluids that may be dispensed within the mouth while performing the dental procedures.
In an embodiment, in an open position, each of the plurality of rolls are pulled in an outward direction in the open position, the each of the plurality of rolls are placed on either side of one or more tooth, wherein the plurality of rolls fit between gums and opposing sides of the one or more tooth. In an embodiment, in a closed position, each of the plurality of rolls are disposed adjacent to each other.
FIG. 2 illustrates the plurality of rolls (i.e., absorptive rolls 102 a-b) positioned around teeth and adjacent to a cheek having two separate threads, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In essence, absorptive rolls 102 a-b fit between the teeth and cheek on opposing sides of the teeth. Specifically, the rolls are introduced on each side of the teeth 120, i.e. one roll adjacent the cheek 122 and gum line 123, and the other roll inside the mouth 124. The dental procedure may include a simple tooth examination, or a more complex root canal. Any dental procedure that requires the cheek to be separated from the gums and teeth so as to enable the dental professional to view the teeth more clearly can benefit from device 100.
Referring to FIG. 2, device 100 includes a pair of cords 106 a-b (106 a is the first portion and 106 b is the second portion) that serve to tether the absorptive rolls 102 a-b in the aforementioned configuration. Cords 106 a-b are defined by a pair of cord ends 108 a-b that fixedly join with the absorptive rolls 102 a-b, and specifically near the free ends 104 a-b of the absorptive rolls 102 a-b. However, cords 106 a-b can also be placed closer to the center of the absorptive rolls 102 a-b in some embodiments. In one embodiment, cord ends 108 a-b are integral to the body of the absorptive rolls 102 a-b.
In one embodiment, cords 106 a-b are elastic in nature, allowing stretching and increased manipulative positions for cords 106 a-b and the absorptive rolls 102 a-b. Due to the elastic configuration of the cords 106 a-b, absorptive rolls 102 a-b may be pulled apart, twisted, and otherwise manipulated for better fit into the mouth. In one possible embodiment, cords 106 a-b are arranged in a spaced-apart relationship with each other while holding the absorptive rolls 102 a-b. In another embodiment, cords 106 a-b are arranged in a perpendicular relationship with the absorptive rolls 102 a-b. However, as absorptive rolls 102 a-b are manipulated in the mouth more acute or obtuse angles between cords 106 a-b and absorptive rolls 102 a-b may occur.
Cords 106 a-b are configured to fit into the space between teeth. Thus, the cords 106 a-b also serve to mount device 100 into the mouth by squeezing between the tight space between teeth. This fixed mounting configuration of cords 106 a-b serves as a tether to generate tension (shown as arrow 110) between cords 106 a-b while placed between the gum and the cheek. This tethering configuration helps minimize movement of absorptive rolls 102 a-b while positioned between the gums and the teeth. The tension also keeps absorptive rolls 102 a-b in place so that the dental professional does not need a second pair of hands to hold absorptive rolls 102 a-b in place. Cords 106 a-b, in essence, do this job. This frees the hands of the dental professional to work solely on the dental procedure, and negates the need for an assistant.
FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the apparatus, showing a position of a single cord/thread relative to the plurality of rolls, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 illustrates the plurality of rolls (i.e., absorptive rolls 102 a-b) having one continuous thread 106 c, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 100 (i.e., dental absorption roll device 100) further comprises a pliable absorptive member connecting each of the plurality of rolls. Continuous thread 106 c is preferably comprised of an elastic material but it may be comprised of a non-elastic thread. The pliable absorptive member is configured to restrict mobility of each of the plurality of rolls when placed on either side of one or more tooth. In an embodiment, the pliable absorptive member connecting each of the plurality of rolls fits into a space between teeth, whereby the elastic cord generates tension between the plurality of rolls for minimizing movement from between gums and teeth.
FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary method 400 for using apparatus (i.e., dental absorption roll device 100) for keeping a dry field around one or more teeth, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Method 400 may include an initial step 402 of pulling a pair of absorption cords apart until the cords and a pair of attached absorptive rolls 102 a-b are generally perpendicular to each other. A gentle tugging motion is sufficient force to prepare the device for introduction into the mouth. Another step 404 comprises aligning the cords, such that the absorption roll is in place to be positioned between the gums and the teeth. This may include holding the cords above the teeth that are to be worked on.
Yet another step 406 includes introducing the cords between adjacent spaces between teeth, whereby the device mounts to the teeth. The cords are pulled apart and forcibly squeeze between the space. As the absorptive rolls 102 a-b fit on each side of the mouth, one roll on the cheek side, and the other roll next to the tongue. The device is mounted to the teeth and a tension is generated between the absorptive rolls 102 a-b and the teeth. This helps retain the absorptive rolls 102 a-b in a fixed position during the dental procedure.
Yet another step 408 includes adjusting the absorptive rolls along the channel that forms on each side of the mouth, one roll on the cheek side, and the other roll next to the tongue, such that the cheeks are separated from the teeth and the teeth are more visible. At this point, the absorptive rolls 102 a-b begin to absorb the lever and moisture from the mouth. Also, the dental professional does not require assistance in separating the cheek from the gums. A final step 410 may include removing the absorptive rolls 102 a-b from between the cheek and the gums, and removing the cords from between the spaces in the teeth. This step 410 may be performed after the dental procedure has been completed.
Various embodiments of the invention provide method and an apparatus for keeping a dry field around one or more teeth while performing dental procedures. The claimed apparatus isolates the teeth and keeps it dry so that the dental professional can work simultaneously on other things. By implementation of the claimed limitations, the clinician does not need anyone to assist in holding loose cotton rolls in place. Successful isolation and placement of dental bonding materials adds to the longevity filling material used and allows the operator to work independently.
The claimed steps as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed steps enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies.
The illustrated steps are set out to explain the exemplary embodiments shown, and it should be anticipated that ongoing technological development will change the manner in which particular functions are performed. These examples are presented herein for purposes of illustration, and not limitation. Further, the boundaries of the functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternative boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. Alternatives (including equivalents, extensions, variations, deviations, etc., of those described herein) will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein. Such alternatives fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments.
It is intended that the disclosure and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of disclosed embodiments being indicated by the following claims. In some embodiments, any combination of shapes, sizes, and textures of rolls and the pliable flexible member may be used.
Although the process-flow diagrams show a specific order of executing the process steps, the order of executing the steps may be changed relative to the order shown in certain embodiments. Also, two or more blocks shown in succession may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence in some embodiments. Certain steps may also be omitted from the process-flow diagrams for the sake of brevity. In some embodiments, some or all the process steps shown in the process-flow diagrams can be combined into a single process.
Since many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalence.
What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus to keep a dry field around one or more teeth, the apparatus comprising:
a first roll and a second of roll each defined by an absorbent cylindrical body; a first cord and a second cord connecting the first roll to the second roll, wherein a first end of the first cord is connected to the first roll and a second end of the first cord is connected to the second roll such that the first cord is in a direction perpendicular to a length of the first roll and the second roll, and wherein a first end of the second cord is connected to the second roll and a second end of the second cord is connected to the first roll such that the second cord is in a direction perpendicular to a length of the first roll and the second roll.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first roll and the second roll each have a first end a second end, and wherein the first end of the first cord is connected to the first end of the first roll and a second end of the first cord is connected to the first end of the second roll, and wherein a first end of the second cord is connected to the first end of the second roll and a second end of the second cord is connected to the second end of the first roll.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cords connecting the first roll and the second of roll are elastic.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first cord and second cord are parallel to each other and the first roll and the second of roll are of an equal length.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cords connecting each of the plurality of rolls fit into a space between teeth.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of rolls are made at least one of cotton, cellulose pulp fibers, and natural fibers.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the first and the second rolls is cylindrical in shape.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein in a closed position, each of the plurality of rolls are disposed adjacent to each other.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first and the second cord is a single continuous elastic member.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the first and the second rolls is configured to absorb saliva within the mouth and around the one or more teeth.
11. A method for keeping a dry field around one or more teeth, the method comprising:
pulling a pair of absorption cords apart until the cords and a pair of attached absorption rolls are generally perpendicular to each other; aligning the cords, such that the absorption roll is in place to be positioned between the gums and the teeth; introducing the cords between adjacent spaces between teeth, whereby the device mounts to the teeth; adjusting the absorption rolls along the channel that forms between the gums and the cheek to a desired position, such that the cheeks are separated from the teeth, and the teeth are more visible; and removing the absorptive rolls from between the cheek and the gums, and removing the cords from between the spaces in the teeth.
| 2022-04-13 | en | 2022-10-13 |
US-201816118881-A | Device for Controlling Longitudinal Guidance of a Vehicle Designed to Be Driven in an at Least Partly Automated Manner
ABSTRACT
A device is provided for controlling longitudinal guidance of a vehicle designed to be driven in an at least partly automated manner. The vehicle includes an actuation element for having a driver control longitudinal guidance, the actuation element being blockable within predefined limit positions in accordance with a variable representing the degree of automation of the vehicle and a first condition. The actuation element can be unblocked in accordance with the variable representing the degree of automation of the traveling vehicle and at least one second condition.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of PCT International Application No. PCT/EP2017/054322, filed Feb. 24, 2017, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 from German Patent Application No. 10 2016 203 398.0, filed Mar. 2, 2016, the entire disclosures of which are herein expressly incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a device for controlling the longitudinal guidance of a vehicle that is designed to be driven in an at least partly automated manner, wherein an actuation element can be blocked within predefined position limits in accordance with a degree of automation of the driving and in accordance with a first condition. The invention further relates to a method for controlling a pedal system and to a non-transitory computer-readable medium.
Vehicles are increasingly being equipped with driver assistance functions that permit supported, partly automated, highly automated or completely automated driving, such as to relieve the driver of routine tasks or to support the driver in critical situations. The greater the degree of automation, the greater the demands on the sensors, actuators and computing units that support the driving function. For reasons of safety, such as in the event of an unsafe state or if a driving function does not work in the way the driver expects, but also owing to a not yet fully developed set of rules governing the assumption of responsibility in the event of an accident, the driver of this type of vehicle therefore must be able to take control of driving the vehicle within a short period of time. In this context, the problem of a so-called control-resumption request is known in the form of graphical or acoustic driver information that appears when a driver assistance system is experiencing a malfunction or has reached its limits.
For example, driver assistance functions of this type can actively engage in or at least partly assume the longitudinal guidance or in the lateral guidance of the vehicle. Numerous variants of distance-dependent speed regulation functions (adaptive cruise control) and steering assistants and/or congestion assistants are known. Driver assistance functions can assume a multitude of driving tasks, including highly automated or automated driving. Some systems of this type offer partly highly varied degrees of automation. The degree of automation can vary significantly within a route as a result of diverse boundary conditions.
During the active control by driver assistance functions of this type, the driver is no longer required, sometimes for longer periods of time, to actively actuate the accelerator pedal or the brake pedal himself for the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle, maintain a particular pedal angle or track the pedal angle due to a change in the gradient of the roadway or the speed of a vehicle traveling ahead. This results in the disadvantage that the driver's foot must remain ready to act in an uncomfortable position for longer periods of time. Without special measures, the driver's foot has to often hover in a cramped position above one of the pedals. Alternatively, the foot can be angled or rested next to the pedals, which impedes a quick reaction when a necessary actuation of a particular pedal must be made. This also increases the risk that the driver could mistake the acceleration and brake pedals in a surprising situation. Moreover, the vehicle's driver can (may) also sleep at the wheel during highly automated or fully automated driving. In this case, the risk of inadvertently actuating one of the pedals increases.
An accelerator pedal module that performs the additional function of “foot rest,” in which the accelerator pedal module itself serves directly as a foot rest for the driver's foot, is known from each of the German patent documents DE 10 2008 054 621 A1, DE 10 2008 054 622 A1, DE 10 2008 054 625 A1 and DE 10 2008 054 626 A1. This corresponding basic principle is solved structurally in different ways in the aforementioned documents. For example, DE 10 2008 054 621 A1 proposes operatively connecting a friction element to a pedal element of the accelerator pedal module. The friction element is arranged on a shaft journal of the pedal element. In order to structurally implement the accelerator pedal module, DE 10 2008 054 622 A1 proposes that the pedal element of the accelerator pedal module has a pedal arm, on which a spring, in particular a tension spring or a compression spring, is provided. DE 10 2008 054 621 A1 provides implementing the additional function of the accelerator pedal module as a foot rest by a section-by-section modification to the force/path characteristic curve of the accelerator pedal module. DE 10 2008 054 626 A1 provides that the pedal element of the accelerator pedal module has a swing arm, which is connected to a foot rest functional element or is integrated into the foot rest functional element. Common to all variants is the fact that the additional function is activated when an automatic control is activated, especially when an automatic speed control is activated. Furthermore, the additional function of “foot rest” can also be combinable with a stop-and-go function or with environmental functions, such as an environmental mode for reducing consumption and pollution, and with camera systems.
It is desirable to provide an accelerator pedal module and a method that ensures improved comfort for the driver on the one hand and increased safety on the other hand and that is functionally improved.
This problem is solved by an accelerator pedal module, a method for controlling a pedal module and a non-transitory computer-readable medium according to the features of the independent claims. Advantageous configurations are found in the dependent claims.
The invention proposes a device for controlling the longitudinal guidance of a vehicle that is designed to be driven in an at least partly automated manner and that comprises at least one actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance by a driver, wherein the at least one actuation element can be blocked within predefined position limits in accordance with a variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and in accordance with a first condition. The device is distinguished by the fact that the blocking of the actuation element can be suspended in accordance with the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and a second condition.
The device can include a pedal module or can be installed together with a pedal module. In particular, the actuation element is a pedal that can be actuated by the driver's foot. In particular, the pedal of the accelerator pedal module is an accelerator pedal for controlling the engine output of the vehicle. However, the pedal of the accelerator pedal module can also be a brake pedal or a combined pedal that makes it possible both to control the acceleration and to slow down the vehicle. Alternatively, it can also be an actuation element that can be actuated by the driver's hand, e.g., a joystick, a so-called “hand throttle.” The actuation element is preferably configured for substantially continuous control of the longitudinal dynamics of the vehicle. For example, it is an accelerator pedal or a manual actuation element for continuous control, especially readjustment, of vehicle velocity.
The device can be configured such that at least two first conditions must be determined and verified in each instance. Accordingly, the device can be configured such that at least two second conditions must be determined and verified in each instance.
The invention allows a pedal of the accelerator pedal module to be blocked at a particular angle during a driving function provided for at least partly automated driving, wherein it is possible to rest the driver's foot on the pedal in question without unintentionally actuating the pedal. This function of the “foot rest” does not occur immediately upon activating the driving function, but rather only once a particular degree of automation has been achieved and, preferably, after it has additionally been verified that a (particular) user action was or is detected and/or recognized as sufficient during a predetermined interval of time before, or at the moment when, the degree of automation is achieved. The latter represents the first condition.
The user action is preferably a particular user action by the driver. A particular user action in this instance can be understood to be an action by the user involving at least one particular actuation element of the vehicle, particularly to control the longitudinal guidance and/or lateral guidance of the vehicle. Furthermore, the particular user action by the driver can refer to a combination of actions by the driver involving at least two different actuation elements of the vehicle, particularly within a particular (narrowly defined) interval of time.
The verification of the particular user action as the first condition can include, for instance, whether the pedal had not been actively actuated and/or whether there was no contact between the driver's foot and the pedal for the predetermined interval of time before the moment the degree of automation is achieved. Moreover, the user action can also be a particular control gesture by the driver, which is detected using control gesture recognition means and which is associated with the driving of the vehicle. For example, the user action can be a confirmation of vehicle information that was displayed in connection with a (current or upcoming) partially automated or highly automated drive.
A particular user action can also include, for example, detecting the driver's identity and/or the driver having his or her identity (actively) detected, e.g., by biometric information. In this way, it is possible to determine that the driver is informed of the risks or conditions of an automated drive and is authorized to engage it.
The first condition can also be a setting in the vehicle carried out by the vehicle's driver, with which a desire to block the pedal during at least partly automated driving is explicitly or implicitly expressed. To this end, the driver can, for instance, actuate an actuation element or make a selection with a corresponding meaning from a context menu.
By the combination of increased safety and increased comfort for the driver of a vehicle that is configured for at least partly automated driving, the disadvantages that exist in the prior art are redressed.
In a hazardous situation, the driver can thus act or react from the foot position that is familiar to him or her from manual driving and/or from the already existing haptic contact between the foot and a particular pedal. It is also possible in this way to significantly reduce an amount of time, such as the time required for the driver to find the pedal to be actuated haptically or kinesthetically (in the event of a sudden control-resumption request by a driver assistance function). Furthermore, a sovereignty and so-called subjective safety of the driver, especially in dealing with the vehicle, during at least partly automated driving are significantly increased as a result of the invention.
The pedal module, in particular at least one pedal of the pedal module, can be equipped with at least one sensor for detecting a user action. The sensor can be designed for detecting a user action that is carried out or attempted independently of a significant change in the pedal position, e.g., the pedal angle. For example, the at least one sensor can be a (substantially) flat sensor, such as a piezoelectric or capacitive sensor, which detects the presence of the driver's foot on the associated pedal.
The term “degree of automation” should be understood in the description to mean a proportion of the driving tasks that can occur substantially automatically or a ratio of the driving tasks that can be performed automatically to the driving tasks that the driver must perform. The degree of automation can be expressed and/or represented by a qualitative or quantitative variable representing the degree of automation. In particular, the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle is a variable that is current, based on the current boundary conditions and/or based on the recent past and/or near future.
The actual degree of automation that can be achieved (without a significant increase in risk) by the driver assistance functions known from the prior art can be highly variable as a function of multiple boundary conditions, such as concrete traffic situations, properties of the traffic, special situations related to construction, the behavior of other road users in the vicinity, the quality of navigation data, the (typically insufficient) real-time capability of vehicle-external data, etc. For example, the variable representing the degree of automation can be assumed to be high when the degree of automation increases and has exceeded a particular value and/or can be assumed to be low when it decreases and has fallen below a predetermined value. It is especially preferable for a cumulative value of the degree of automation over time to be taken into account.
Measurements or category values defined by the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), for example, can serve as variables representing the degree of automation. For example, these can be classes or category values for the following degrees of automation:
A1: supported driving;
A2: partly automated driving;
A3: highly automated driving;
A4: automatic driving;
A0: degree of automation unknown or low-confidence statements.
In addition, the variable representing the degree of automation takes into account particular aspects of the achievable and/or appropriate degree of automation individually, selectively or in particular combinations. For instance, a variable representing the degree of automation of the drive can also be considered in the control unit selectively, with reference to at least two different aspects of the automation of the movement of the vehicle and/or for two or more different driver assistance functions of the vehicle, e.g., with regard to: a longitudinal guidance of the vehicle and/or a lateral guidance of the vehicle and/or performing a lane change and/or performing a passing maneuver and/or driver information, especially in connection with the vehicle guidance.
All of the features of the invention discussed here can be applied separately and differently for different aspects of the automation.
The variable representing the degree of automation can also be determined depending on the specifications of the driver and/or the driver's previously stored actuation history and/or parameters that are stored in a back end and accessible by the vehicle or other practical criteria (e.g., type of road, etc.), and/or the variable can take these criteria into account.
Particularly preferably, the device according to the invention is configured to determine a variable representing the degree of automation of the vehicle for the current or, especially in the interval of time of +/−2 seconds, predicted degree of automation. In particular, this can also take place for a near future (e.g., in a range between 1 and 30 seconds). In particular, the pedal system can be configured to detect, especially read, a value of the degree of automation from further devices within or outside of the vehicle.
Where the present description mentions blocking, this should be understood to be an at least partially mechanical locking of the pedal and/or a restriction of movement, e.g., within particular position limits or pedal angle values. A significantly increased resistance to movement in the pedal also falls under the term “locking.” The predetermined position limits and/or the blocking hose can affect one or more degrees of freedom of the pedal. For example, the pedal and/or the mechanism for blocking is configured in such a way that it is retained substantially within the predetermined position limits by one or more actuators. The actuators can be, for example, those actuators that serve to provide adaptive control of so-called pedal force feedback.
As described, the predetermined position limits of the pedal are a pedal angle. Furthermore, the position can be a three-dimensional (3D) position, for example, when the pedal is not rotated about an axis to be actuated thereof but rather is slid, rocked or a parallel stroke is carried out.
At the same time the pedal is blocked, the actuation behavior of at least one (involved) pedal changes. The change in actuation behavior can occur in the pedal module as a result of the blocking and/or by a corresponding electronic control carried out at the same time. In particular, the influence the driver exerts on the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle can be considerably restricted, inhibited or limited to an emergency function.
The blocking can take the form of an electromechanical, especially electromagnetic, restriction of the movement of the pedal. Alternatively or additionally, the pedal can be held within the prescribed limits by the influence, in particular the controlled or regulated influence, of actuators. Moreover, it is possible that the opposing force of a pedal in question is varied by one or more parameters.
The first condition can thus depend upon the current degree of automation, the degree of automation determined (predicted) for the near future and a change trend in the degree of automation. The degree of automation can depend upon a particular driving profile or a driver profile. Degrees of automation can also be applied for different aspects of automating the movement of the vehicle and/or for different driver assistance functions of the vehicle relating to a longitudinal guidance and/or a lateral guidance of the vehicle.
According to the invention, the blocking of the pedal can be suspended in accordance with a variable representing the degree of automation and a second condition. For example, a blocking of the pedal for safety reasons, e.g., when the driver is sleeping during a highly automated drive, can be suspended only if the driver is sufficiently awake and alert. In a simple case, the second condition can be a setting in the vehicle that is or has been made by the driver and with which the desire to suspend the blocking of the pedal is expressed.
The second condition, i.e., determining the second condition, can in this case depend upon the first condition or can be considered dependent on a first condition.
In particular, the blocking can be suspended when the current degree of automation or the degree of automation determined for the (near) future exceeds a predetermined value. The degree of automation can then be assumed to be low enough when the degree of automation sinks in accordance with the classes or categories described above, for example, and has fallen below a particular value. The second condition can thus likewise depend upon the current degree of automation, the degree of automation determined (predicted) for the near future and a change trend in the degree of automation. Similarly, it is possible that the second condition is dependent upon a particular driving profile or driver profile.
According to an advantageous embodiment, the second condition can include a control-resumption request regarding a longitudinal guidance of the vehicle to be carried out by the driver. The control-resumption request can be generated by the vehicle, such as the system for at least partly automatic driving and/or can be communicated to the driver via a human-machine interface. This can occur, for example, as a function of a completed or expected reduction in the degree of automation and/or as a function of the currently prevailing traffic situation.
The control-resumption request can be a so-called take-over request (TOR) or a hands-on request (HOR) or an explicit request to actuate the pedal and/or a different actuation element (especially the steering wheel) of the vehicle. In the case of an HOR, the driver is requested to place his or her hands and/or feet on the respective actuation elements in order to be able to take corrective measures, if necessary.
This kind of approach can be especially practical when an “essential driving task” involving longitudinal and/or lateral guidance of the vehicle is to be performed. An essential driving task of this type can be additional acceleration desired by the driver and in relation to an already implemented by the at least partly automated driving or a slowing of the vehicle, which should be executed or carried out in addition to or in relation to the acceleration or deceleration determined by the vehicle automation system.
The second condition can depend upon an urgency of the control-resumption request and/or a criticality of a current or shortly expected traffic situation.
According to an advantageous embodiment, the first condition is designed as a user action, in particular a certain user action, which was or is detected during a predetermined interval of time before or at the moment when the degree of automation is achieved. It is especially preferred that the first condition includes the information as to whether at least one actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle and/or an actuation element for controlling the lateral guidance of the vehicle has not been actively actuated for a prescribed interval of time. This includes that there has been no foot contact or hand contact by a driver with the actuation element to control the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle and/or the actuation element for controlling the lateral guidance of the vehicle.
According to a further advantageous embodiment, the at least one first condition and/or the at least one second condition of at least one variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle includes a particular automation for the driving of the vehicle in the near future. Here, the device can be configured to block the actuation element when a degree of automation determined for the near future (e.g., in a range between 1 and 30 seconds) exceeds a predetermined value.
According to a further advantageous embodiment, the at least one second condition includes an action by the driver that exceeds a predetermined value by the actuation element for controlling the lateral guidance of the vehicle. The device can here be configured to suspend the blocking when an action by the driver, in conjunction with the actuation element for controlling the lateral guidance of the vehicle, is detected that exceeds a predetermined value. Particularly preferably, an action by the driver can include touching, especially gripping, the actuation element for controlling the lateral guidance of the vehicle. In particular, the actuation element for controlling the lateral guidance of the vehicle can be a steering wheel of the vehicle. Furthermore, the actuation element for controlling the lateral guidance of the vehicle can also be configured as a joystick or the like. The actuation element for controlling the lateral guidance of the vehicle can be installed together with the actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle or can have the same or adjacently arranged handle surfaces.
Grasping, especially gripping, the actuation element for controlling the lateral guidance of the vehicle can be detected by at least one sensor, in particular a capacitive or inductive sensor on the actuation element. A sensor such as this also permits the detection of whether a particular value of a contact surface (gripping surface) and/or a force, in particular a gripping force by the driver, has been exceeded. Especially preferably, the device is configured to detect the driver action on a steering wheel of the vehicle and to check whether the action exceeds a predetermined value. Moreover, the device is configured to suspend a blocking of the actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle depending upon the verification of the detected driver action on the steering wheel of the vehicle.
According to a further advantageous embodiment, the at least one second condition includes a control-resumption request regarding a longitudinal guidance of the vehicle to be carried out by the driver, which can be detected by the vehicle. This kind of control-resumption request can be a request generated by a driver assistance function that is issued when the driver should take over at least the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle. A control-resumption request such as this can be issued, for example, as a function of (changed) environmental conditions or a change in the state or operating mode of a driver assistance function.
According to a further advantageous embodiment, the second condition includes a control-resumption request regarding a lateral guidance of the vehicle to be carried out by the driver of the vehicle, in particular a readiness of steering and/or a steering action. The second condition that releases the blocking of the pedal is determined when a steering wheel sensor detects a gripping force and/or a particular steering action. The readiness of steering can be detected by a so-called hands-on sensor on the steering wheel and/or with the aid of a camera arranged in the interior of the vehicle. Sensors such as these, e.g., on a capacitive basis, are known to a person skilled in the art. The steering action can be recognized by a steering angle sensor or a steering force sensor. The second condition is fulfilled, for example, when an increased gripping force that exceeds a particular value is ascertained in one or two places on the steering wheel and a simultaneous application of force on one of the pedals by the driver's foot is detected.
The device can thus be configured to suspend the blocking when it is determined using the vehicle, e.g., by a driver assistance function, that the driver, who should be ready to steer, has at least one steering action to carry out. The driver can then also be offered a possibility, with the request to carry out a (particular) steering action, of performing a corresponding longitudinal guidance of the vehicle stemming from the context of a particular maneuver.
According to a further advantageous embodiment, the at least one second condition is or includes a recognition of the willingness and/or capability by the driver to take over a driving task, in particular the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle. The willingness to take over can be recognized on the basis of a combination of multiple criteria. For example, an analysis of body gestures can be utilized for this purpose, such as a gesture for actuating the steering wheel and/or a gesture for actuating a pedal and/or a (quick) bodily movement, for instance, from a reclined posture to a ready-to-drive posture. The willingness and/or capability to take over can be established by an interior camera in the vehicle, such as when the detected hands of the driver move (quickly) to the steering wheel or grip it. The readiness to actuate the accelerator pedal module can similarly be recognized. A combination of these gestures is also possible.
Alternatively or additionally, the suspension of the blocking can be prevented in the event that the driver is not capable of taking over or also can be linked to other conditions.
The capability to take over can additionally be recognized based on driving actions by the driver. To this end, an interior camera and the like can be used as sensors. Likewise, an inability to take over can be detected on the basis of multiple critical operating errors committed by the driver.
According to a further advantageous embodiment, the at least one first condition and/or the at least one second condition is dependent on a necessity and/or handling recommendation to carry out a particular maneuver as determined by the vehicle. To this end, for example, information regarding a corresponding maneuver can be provided to the driver of the vehicle, possibly in the form of an instruction. For example, it is determined based on an assessment of the environment that any influence by the driver on the pedal can be counterproductive during a dynamic maneuver by the vehicle that is necessary for safety reasons. In such a case, the pedal is temporarily blocked. An unblocking occurs with an alternative or a safety-related operating procedure. As a further example, it can be determined based on the assessment of the environment that a particular maneuver or at least the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle during this maneuver should exceptionally be performed by the driver. In this instance, information about this maneuver is issued to the driver, for example, in the form of an instruction. A suspension of the blocking of the pedal accordingly occurs.
According to a further advantageous embodiment, the at least one first condition and/or the at least one second condition is dependent on one or more of the following parameters determined by the vehicle: attention status, viewing direction, sight accommodation of the driver, driver status detection, in particular an alertness status, sleeping status, blinking detection, microsleep detection by the driver.
The particular roadway areas and/or objects on which the driver is focused are practical when determining the attention state. Objects can be currently relevant road users, a vehicle located in front of one's own vehicle or also a vehicle driving behind one's own vehicle. Thus, it can be tested as an additional condition whether the driver is actually looking or has looked at the roadway before completely suspending the blocking and/or transitioning the pedal to a manual mode. It is also possible to check, e.g., by eye-tracking, whether the driver has looked at a roadway area and/or an object on the roadway or through a rear-view mirror when this is relevant to the actuation of the pedal.
Driver status detection includes in particular a general state of the driver that is relevant for the driving and/or his or her currently prevailing state with regard to the driving task. The pedal can be blocked when it is determined, for example, that the driver has fallen asleep or is not concentrating. Furthermore, depending on expected need for the driver's participation in the driving action, the driver can first be awakened, and the blocking of the accelerator pedal can then be suspended.
According to a further advantageous embodiment, the at least one first condition and/or the at least one second condition are provided to the computing unit of a mobile user device, which detects these at least partly with a sensor in the user device. This means that when the pedal is blocked or the blocking is suspended, information from an application (called an “app”) running on a mobile user device is processed. In this way, an application of this type can evaluate the driver's bodily state as a driver parameter and expand into controlling the pedal.
In particular, the mobile user device is a user device that can be (is) taken along with the vehicle, such as a smartphone, tablet, smart watch, so-called smart glasses or smart clothing. It is especially preferred that the mobile user device be a user device that can be (is) worn on the driver's body. In particular, at least one of the driver parameters is a parameter regarding the driver's body that is detected with the sensor of the user device, such as a fatigue parameter, sleep parameter, pulse, so-called brain waves, such as alpha, beta and theta waves, or values correlating therewith. The mobile user device can include an appropriate or appropriately configured interface for exchanging data with the vehicle and/or with the device and for operating with the device, such as by the app.
According to a further advantageous embodiment, a blocking of the actuation element can be performed substantially stagelessly or at least in two stages, wherein at least one parameter of the blocking, especially at least one predetermined position limit, depends upon a qualitative and/or quantitative parameter of at least the first condition.
The blocking of the actuation element in at least two stages can be understood as at least two position limits, e.g., angular limits, at or from which the mobility of the actuation element is restricted.
A further advantageous embodiment provides that a suspension of the blocking occurs stagelessly or at least in two stages. Here, at least one parameter of the suspension of the blocking, depending upon a qualitative and/or quantitative parameter, can be related in particular to the at least one second condition. In particular, it is possible that the at least one parameter of the suspension of the blocking is designed as an interval of time, which characterizes the time before at least one first particular suspension state or a particular stage of the suspension of the blocking is achieved. In other words, a blocked pedal can also be “loosened” gradually or in delayed stages, i.e., it can be moveable or actuatable by the driver. The suspension of the blocking can occur here as a function of which second condition or combination of at least two second conditions are fulfilled and/or of a quantitative parameter of the second condition.
According to a further advantageous embodiment, the predetermined position limits for at least one automated driving mode of the vehicle lie outside of further position limits that are defined by the driver for at least partly manual driving. For example, the pedal can be pushed further toward the driver and/or can assume a different angle. In doing so, a more comfortable pedal position for a long automatic drive can be achieved. The pedal can also be (actively) moved within the predetermined position limits when in the highly automated mode, for example, to increase comfort or reduce immobility of the muscles.
According to a further advantageous embodiment, at least one of the predetermined position limits is dependent upon one or more of the following criteria: a degree of automation relevant to the current drive; a velocity range relevant to the current drive; a current seat position or seat setting by the driver; a body position or pose of the driver; the driver in question; an alertness state of a driver. In other words, the predetermined position limits of the pedal can be set in accordance with body size, seat position or as desired by the driver with regard to an automatic driving rather than at least one position that serves a purpose for the actuation of the pedal by the driver. The latter occurs in a driving mode with or without a low level of automation. The predetermined position limits can be varied before or during the automated drive. In particular, as a function of the above criteria, the pedal can be set in a mode with corresponding position limits and possibly with a massage function. In this way, the blocked pedal can improve the comfort of the driver or can be adapted to special requirements.
A further advantageous embodiment provides that the predetermined position limits are selected in terms of their angles and/or their positions such that they are located between a first position range, which brings about an acceleration of the vehicle in an at least partly manual driving mode of the vehicle, and a second position range, which brings about a deceleration of the vehicle in the at least one partly manual driving mode of the vehicle. This embodiment variant can be employed in an electrically driven vehicle, for example, in which both the acceleration and deceleration can be controlled with one pedal. In this case, the predetermined position limits during highly automated driving can lie between a position for vehicle acceleration and a position for vehicle deceleration.
Moreover, it may be practical to select the predetermined position limits to be variable. Alternatively, the predetermined position limits can be modified depending upon the vehicle acceleration. In the event that the driver takes over at least the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle, he or she can receive a more or less appropriate, adapted starting position for continuing the control of the vehicle. A largely seamless transition into the precise adjustable manual acceleration can then be carried out by the driver without an acceleration jump.
A further advantageous embodiment provides that a third condition, which is an alternative to the first condition, is checked and, if applicable, is processed instead of the second condition for the determination of whether the blocking of the pedal should be released. In particular, the alternative third condition can be utilized to check a driver identity or to control a value for driver authorization, such as the authorization to control the vehicle with the aid of a driver assistance function.
It is likewise possible that a fourth condition, which is an alternative to the second condition, is checked and, if applicable, is processed instead of the second condition for the determination of whether the blocking of the pedal should be released. The fourth condition can thus depend upon a mechanical or electromechanical influence on the pedal, steering wheel or another actuation element of the vehicle by the driver. The fourth condition can be utilized, for example, to check the driver identity or to control a value for driver authorization, such as the authorization to control the vehicle without the aid of a driver assistance function.
In this context, it is additionally possible that the third condition and/or the fourth condition depend upon a combination of predetermined force applications by the driver on the steering wheel, wherein the force applications can be detected by pattern recognition. For example, a back-and-forth movement or a defined manual influence, such as a combination of particular force applications, on the steering wheel can in this case be monitored and detected. The third condition and/or the fourth condition can additionally depend upon a combination of actuations of at least two different actuation elements of the vehicle.
According to a further embodiment, the third condition is fulfilled when a pressure exerted on the pedal by the driver's foot, in particular a certain pressure sequence or pressure direction, can be detected. In other words, the pedal can be shifted into a manual operating state or mode with a mechanical redundancy, i.e., without regard for further criteria. In this variant, this means that, when the first and/or second conditions are fulfilled at the same time, they can be overridden by the third and/or fourth conditions. Thus, a simple mechanical and/or electromechanical redundancy, especially an ASIL (automotive safety integrity level)-capable redundancy, can be implemented. The redundant fourth condition here can include a pressure, in particular repeated pressure, on the pedal that exceeds a particular force. Alternatively, a lateral force application or force acting in an opposite direction, brought about by a foot under the pedal, can represent the presence of the fourth condition.
To solve the problem, a vehicle with means for at least partly automated driving and a pedal system is further proposed, wherein the pedal system is configured in accordance with the above description. The vehicle offers the same advantages as those discussed above in connection with the pedal system according to the invention.
The invention further proposes a method for operating an at least partly automated driving of a vehicle having the device described above. The method includes the following steps: detecting a variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle; detecting the presence of at least one first condition and/or at least one second condition; initiating the blocking of an actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle within predetermined position limits as a function of the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and the at least one first condition. The method is distinguished in that the suspension of the blocking of an actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle is initiated as a function of the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and the at least one second condition.
The method according to the invention offers the same advantages as those described above in connection with the pedal system according to the invention.
The method can be further developed in accordance with the description above.
Finally, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is proposed that can be loaded directly into the internal memory device of a digital computer and comprises software code segments, with which the steps of the method described here are executed when the product is running on the computer. In particular, the computer is a computer unit of the vehicle or of the pedal module. The non-transitory computer-readable medium can be stored on a memory medium, such as a USB memory stick, a DVD, a CD-ROM, a hard drive or the like. The non-transitory computer-readable medium can likewise be transmittable via a communications link (wireless or by wire).
The accelerator pedal according to the invention permits objective safety to be increased and the risk of operating errors to be decreased. Because the driver does not have to hold his or her foot as tensely by using the accelerator pedal as a foot rest during an automated driving mode, an increase in subjective safety results. Moreover, the driver's comfort is significantly improved. Another advantage is the reduction of take-over time, should control of the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle be necessary, since the foot is already located on the correct pedal before the take-over of control. A further advantage consists in that it is possible to avoid acceleration jumps during a take-over of the longitudinal guidance after a highly automated driving mode, as a result of which both driving comfort and safety are increased during vehicle driving.
Hereafter, the invention is explained in greater detail on the basis of an exemplary embodiment in the drawing.
Other objects, advantages and novel features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of one or more preferred embodiments when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a device according to the invention for controlling the longitudinal guidance of a vehicle designed to be driven in an at least partly automated manner.
FIG. 2 is a state diagram that illustrates the control according to the invention of the accelerator pedal on the basis of an exemplary embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a device according to the invention in the form of a pedal module 10 for controlling the longitudinal guidance of a vehicle 1 designed to be driven in an at least partly automated manner. Only for the purposes of illustration, the pedal module 10 has a single pedal 11 as an actuation element, which serves to control the engine output, for example, and is colloquially known as the gas pedal. Alternatively, the pedal 11 can also be a brake pedal or a combined pedal that makes it possible both to control the acceleration and to slow down the vehicle.
Depending on a respective position, e.g., a pedal angle relative to a starting position, a corresponding signal 15 representing the position and/or movement of the accelerator pedal is transmitted to a computer unit 13 of the pedal module 10. The computer unit 13 is configured to process the signal 15 and to transmit a control parameter 17 as a result of the processing to a further computer unit 18 for the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle. The computer unit 18 itself is linked to systems, such as actuators, sensors and the like, which are not shown in greater detail in the figure, for the at least partly automated driving of the vehicle 1. The computer unit 18 permits a (partly) automated operation of the vehicle with different degrees of automation. The degrees of automation can exist as classes or category values, as defined by the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA). For example, these include:
A1: supported driving;
A2: partly automated driving;
A3: highly automated driving;
A4: automatic driving;
A0: degree of automation unknown or low-confidence statements.
If the vehicle 1 is operated with the aid of automatic speed regulation, such as cruise control (degree of automation A1) or adaptive cruise control (degree of automation A2), then the actuation of the pedal 11 by the driver of the vehicle 1 is superfluous. In order to end the automatic speed regulation at any time, for instance, in the event of a sudden dangerous situation, the driver's foot should remain as close to the pedal 11 as possible.
To provide increased comfort for the driver at the same time, the driver can leave or place his or her foot on a pedal plate of the pedal 11 when the pedal 11 is blocked and serves as a “foot rest,” according to the embodiment described here.
The blocking of the pedal 11 occurs as soon as the computer unit 18 for at least partly automated driving issues the information indicating that the degree of automation is sufficiently high and that it has been determined as a condition at the same time that, for example, the pedal 11 has not been actively actuated and/or that there has been no foot contact with the pedal 11 by the driver for a predetermined interval of time. The first condition can also be a setting in the vehicle that the blocking of the pedal 11 during an automated drive with an insufficiently high degree of automation is desired. That the driver will probably not be required to actuate the pedal during the next, relatively long period of time can be considered as a further criterion. In this instance, the pedal 11 can be used as a foot rest.
The device can be configured such that a variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle 1 and the at least one first condition and/or the at least one second condition for blocking and/or for suspending the blocking of the at least one pedal 11 must lie within predetermined position limits at the same time and/or within a predefined time interval, e.g., from 1 to 5 seconds.
When transitioning from manual driving into the (partly or highly) automated driving mode, a haptic effect or vibration is generated by an actuator 12 of the pedal 11 so that the driver can perceive the mode transition. If the driver does not want to block the pedal 11, then brief pressure on the pedal or performing a particular other actuation action during the mode change is sufficient to prevent the blocking of the pedal 11. It is practical to visualize the mode change or additionally emit a tone.
Along with the transition of the pedal 11 into the (partly or highly) automated mode, the pedal 11 leaves its position used for manual driving and transforms into the previously described foot rest. The foot rest can be adjusted automatically or according to the driver's wishes so as to achieve a seat position that is comfortable for the driver.
This adjustment remains in this case without any effect on the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle, in particular vehicle acceleration.
If a driver is required to take over a driving task, a signal, e.g., a so-called take-over request (TOR) or a hands-on request (HOR) or a foot-on request (FOR), is sent to the driver of the vehicle by the computer unit 18. When the driver then grips the steering wheel, the blocking is suspended. The suspension of the blocking can occur immediately or in stages. Thus, the pedal 11 is fully or partly released to resume control of the acceleration or deceleration of the vehicle.
During a mode change from automated driving to manual mode, a further haptic effect by the actuator 12 occurs on the pedal 11. Preferably, this haptic effect can be differentiated from the haptic effect that occurs on the pedal 11 during the transition from manual mode to automated driving. This ensures that the driver has sensed the mode change, and so a sudden, excessively large acceleration or deceleration due to the foot resting on the pedal 11 can be avoided.
Furthermore, the driver can also bring about the suspension of the blocking of the pedal without a control-resumption request. This happens, for example, by pressing together on the steering wheel grip with both hands or by another predefined effect or predefined force or combination thereof. In particular, other actuation elements can be actuated or a function can be selected from a pull-down menu via a human-machine interface.
FIG. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment in the form of a simplified state diagram. The manual mode is identified as the first state with reference sign 201; the automated mode is identified as the second state with reference sign 202. The reference signs 203, 204 and 205 represent state transitions between the first state 201 of the manual mode and the second state 202 of the automated mode.
The manual mode serves to control the acceleration and/or deceleration of the vehicle by the driver by the deliberate actuation of the pedal 11. In other words, the pedal 11 is pressed down by the driver in the conventional manner in order to increase engine output, for example. In the highly automated mode, the pedal is blocked or can be moved within particular position limits. Thus, the pedal can be used as an ergonomic foot rest, wherein an application of force on the blocked pedal has no effect on the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle, especially acceleration.
The transition from the first state 201 of the manual mode into the second state 202 of the automated driving occurs in dependence upon the degree of automation of the driving and upon a first condition 203. At this point, it is verified whether the pedal had not been actively actuated and/or whether there was no contact between the driver's foot and the pedal for a predetermined interval of time. The first condition can also be a setting in the vehicle that the blocking of the pedal 11 during an automated drive with an insufficiently high degree of automation is desired.
The transition from the second state 202 of the automated driving into the first state 201 of the manual driving occurs in dependence upon the degree of automation of the driving (e.g., the current degree of automation or the degree of automation determined for the future exceeds a predetermined value) and when a second condition is fulfilled. The second condition can include, for instance, a control-resumption request regarding a longitudinal and/or lateral guidance of the vehicle to be carried out by the driver, such as a braking process or steering intervention on very bendy roads.
The state transition 205 permits a transition from the second state 202 of automatic driving to the first state 201 of the manual mode with the aid of a redundant condition, e.g., when the automation stops or fails. If an alternative or redundant condition such as this is fulfilled, then it takes precedent over the state transition 204. The alternative or redundant condition can be, for example, a back-and-forth movement and/or a specifically defined influence on the steering wheel. The alternative or redundant condition can likewise be a combination of actuations of two or more different actuation elements of the vehicle.
A further alternative condition involves a particular pressure exerted on the pedal 11 by the driver's foot or a pressure sequence or pressure direction on the pedal 11. In particular, state transitions relevant to safety can be created in this way.
LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS
1 Vehicle
10 Pedal module
11 Pedal
12 Actuator
15 Signal (representing the position/movement of the pedal)
17 Control parameter
18 Computer unit
201 First state
202 Second state
203 State transition
204 State transition
205 State transition
The foregoing disclosure has been set forth merely to illustrate the invention and is not intended to be limiting. Since modifications of the disclosed embodiments incorporating the spirit and substance of the invention may occur to persons skilled in the art, the invention should be construed to include everything within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
What is claimed is:
1. A device for controlling longitudinal guidance of a vehicle that is designed to be driven in an at least partly automated manner, comprising:
an actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance by a driver, wherein the actuation element is blockable within predefined position limits in accordance with a variable representing a degree of automation of driving of the vehicle and in accordance with a first condition, wherein blocking of the actuation element is suspendable in accordance with the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and a second condition.
2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first condition is designed as a particular user action that is detectable during a predetermined time interval before or at a moment when the degree of automation is achieved.
3. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first condition and the second condition of a variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle includes a particular automation for the driving of the vehicle in a near future.
4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second condition includes an action by the driver that exceeds a predetermined value by the actuation element for controlling lateral guidance of the vehicle.
5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second condition includes a control-resumption request regarding the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle to be carried out by the driver, which is detected by the vehicle.
6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second condition includes a control-resumption request regarding lateral guidance of the vehicle to be carried out by the driver of the vehicle, including at least one of a readiness of steering and a steering action.
7. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second condition is a recognition of at least one of willingness and capability by the driver to take over a driving task.
8. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first condition and the second condition is dependent on at least one of a necessity and a handling recommendation to carry out a particular maneuver as determined by the vehicle.
9. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first condition and the second condition is dependent on one or more of the following parameters determined by the vehicle:
attention status, viewing direction, and sight accommodation of the driver; driver status detection, including alertness status, sleeping status, blinking detection, and microsleep status of the driver.
10. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first condition and the second condition is detected by a sensor in a mobile user device and provided to a computing unit of the mobile user device.
11. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a blocking of the actuation element is substantially stageless, wherein a parameter of the blocking is dependent on at least one of a qualitative and a quantitative parameter of the first condition.
12. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein predetermined position limits for an automated driving mode of the vehicle lie outside of further position limits that are defined by the driver for at least partly manual driving.
13. The device as claimed in claim 12, wherein at least one of the predetermined position limits is dependent on one or more of the following criteria:
a degree of automation relevant to a current drive; a velocity range relevant to the current drive; a current seat position or seat setting of the driver; a body position or pose of the driver; the driver; an alertness state of the driver.
14. The device as claimed in claim 12, wherein the predetermined position limits are selected in terms of at least one of their angles and positions such that they are located between a first position range, which brings about an acceleration of the vehicle in an at least partly manual driving mode of the vehicle, and a second position range, which brings about a deceleration of the vehicle in the least one partly manual driving mode of the vehicle.
15. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a third condition, which is an alternative to the first condition, is checked and, if applicable, is processed instead of the first condition for a determination of whether the actuation element is blocked.
16. The device as claimed in claim 11, wherein a fourth condition, which is an alternative to the second condition, is checked and, if applicable, is processed instead of the second condition for a determination of whether the blocking of the actuation element is released.
17. The device as claimed in claim 16, wherein at least one of the third condition and the fourth condition is dependent on a combination of predetermined force applications by the driver on a steering wheel, wherein the force applications can be detected by pattern recognition.
18. The device as claimed in claim 17, wherein the third condition is fulfilled when a pressure exerted on the actuation element by a driver's foot is detectable.
19. A device having means for at least partly automated driving of a vehicle and having a pedal module, wherein the pedal module comprises:
an actuation element for controlling longitudinal guidance by a driver, wherein the actuation element is blockable within predefined position limits in accordance with a variable representing a degree of automation of driving of the vehicle and in accordance with a first condition, wherein blocking of the actuation element is suspendable in accordance with the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and a second condition.
20. A method for operating an at least partly automated driving of a vehicle having a device for controlling longitudinal guidance of a vehicle that is designed to be driven in an at least partly automated manner, including an actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance by a driver, wherein the actuation element is blockable within predefined position limits in accordance with a variable representing a degree of automation of driving of the vehicle and in accordance with a first condition, wherein blocking of the actuation element is suspendable in accordance with the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and a second condition, the method comprising:
detecting a variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle; detecting fulfillment of at least one of a first condition and a second condition; initiating the blocking of the actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle within predetermined position limits as a function of the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and the first condition; and initiating suspension of the blocking of the actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle as a function of the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and the second condition.
21. A non-transitory computer-readable medium that can be loaded directly into an internal memory device of a computer and includes software code segments, with which steps are executed when the non-transitory computer-readable medium is running on the computer for operating an at least partly automated driving of a vehicle having a device for controlling longitudinal guidance of a vehicle that is designed to be driven in an at least partly automated manner, including an actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance by a driver, wherein the actuation element is blockable within predefined position limits in accordance with a variable representing a degree of automation of driving of the vehicle and in accordance with a first condition, wherein blocking of the actuation element is suspendable in accordance with the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and a second condition, the steps comprising:
detecting a variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle; detecting fulfillment of at least one of a first condition and a second condition; initiating the blocking of the actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle within predetermined position limits as a function of the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and the first condition; and initiating suspension of the blocking of the actuation element for controlling the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle as a function of the variable representing the degree of automation of the driving of the vehicle and the second condition.
| 2018-08-31 | en | 2018-12-27 |
US-66470605-A | Water-Dispersed Polyurethane Composition
ABSTRACT
The water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention comprises a polyisocyanate component (a), a polyol component (b), and water as the essential components, wherein, at least, an isocyanate compound represented by general formula (I) below is used as the polyisocyanate component (a). The water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention is excellent in adhesiveness, water resistance, corrosion resistance, heat resistance, weather resistance, water repellency, oil repellency, and the like, and can be suitably used as paint for surface-treated steel plates.
wherein R 1 represents an alkyl group having 10 to 30 carbon atoms, R 2 represents —N═C═O or —NH—C(═O)C—O— R 1 , and A represents a residue other than two —N═C═O groups derived from a diisocyanate.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a water-dispersed polyurethane composition, and more particularly, relates to a water-dispersed polyurethane composition that contains a nurate compound having a long-chain alkyl group as a polyisocyanate component and can provide coating films excellent in adhesiveness, water resistance, weather resistance, corrosion resistance, water repellency, oil repellency, and the like.
BACKGROUND ART
Polyurethane resins are widely used for paint, adhesive, binder, coating agent, and the like since they provide coating films and molded articles with abrasion resistance, adhesiveness, non-stickiness, rubber elasticity, and the like. Recently, a number of water-dispersed polyurethane compositions have been reported from the viewpoints of safety such as countermeasure against environmental pollution and occupational hygiene. However, water-dispersed polyurethane compositions have a problem that they are inferior in water resistance, heat resistance, tensile property, or other properties compared to solvent-based compositions or solvent-free compositions.
When used as paint, the water-dispersed polyurethane composition needs excellent adhesiveness to a substrate as well as physical properties such as water resistance, heat resistance, and tensile property. Furthermore, it also needs excellence in weather resistance, corrosion resistance, water repellency, oil repellency, and the like in order to maintain high durability. Particularly when a water-dispersed polyurethane composition is used as paint for surface-treated steel plates, especially high corrosion resistance is required; however, there is not yet obtained any composition with satisfactory performance.
For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a hard adhesive material that is smoothly peeled off, which contains the reaction product of a polyisocyanate with a monofunctional aliphatic derivative as a major component. However, even suggestion is not given regarding application of the reaction product to water-dispersed polyurethane in combination with a polyol component and an anionic group-containing compound.
Patent Document 2 proposes, in order to improve water repellency and oil repellency of fiber substrates, a fluoropolymer obtained by reacting a polyoxyalkylene-containing substance with a reaction product of a polyisocyanate with a fluoroalcohol. However, when the fluoropolymer is used, for example, as paint for steel plates, it is not preferable because of poor adhesiveness.
Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-506187A
Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H11-511814A
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a water-dispersed polyurethane composition that is excellent in adhesiveness, water resistance, corrosion resistance, heat resistance, weather resistance, water repellency, oil repellency, and the like and suitably used in paint for surface-treated steel plates.
Means for Solving the Problems
The present inventors have found, as a result of the intensive studies, that the above object can be achieved by using a nurate compound having a long-chain alkyl group as a polyisocyanate component and have achieved the present invention.
In other words, the present invention provides a water-dispersed polyurethane composition comprising a polyisocyanate component (a), a polyol component (b), and water as essential components, wherein, at least, an isocyanate represented by general formula (I) below is used as the polyisocyanate component (a).
wherein R1 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 30 carbon atoms, R2 represents —N═C═O or —NH—C(═O)O—R1, and A represents a residue other than two —N═C═O groups derived from a diisocyanate.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention will be explained in detail.
The isocyanate compound represented by general formula (I), which is used as polyisocyanate component (a) in the present invention (hereinafter, may be simply called “component (a)”), can be obtained by adding a long-chain alcohol to a nurate form (trimer) of diisocyanate.
The diisocyanate that can form a nurate form includes, for example, aromatic diisocyanates such as tolylene diisocyanate, diphenylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate, p-phenylene diisocyanate, xylylene diisocyanate, 1,5-naphthylene diisocyanate, 3,3′-dimethyldiphenyl-4,4′-diisocyanate, dianisidine diisocyanate, and tetramethylxylylene diisocyanate; alicyclic diisocyanates such as isophorone diisocyanate, dicyclohexylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate, trans- and/or cis-1,4-cyclohexane diisocyanate, and norbornene diisocyanate; aliphatic diisocyanates such as 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate, 2,2,4- and/or 2,4,4-trimethylhexamethylene diisocyanate, and lysine diisocyanate; and mixtures thereof.
Among these diisocyanates, there is(are) preferably used one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate, dicyclohexylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate, and isophorone diisocyanate, especially 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate, because the resultant water-dispersed polyurethane composition is further excellent in adhesiveness, corrosion resistance, strength, and the like.
Here, the nurate form of diisocyanate can be obtained, for example, by polymerizing of the diisocyanate by a known method with a known catalyst, for example, tertiary amine, quaternary ammonium salt, Mannich base, alkali metal salt of fatty acid, alcoholate, or the like, in an inert solvent such as methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, methyl ethyl ketone, and dioxane, or in a plasticizer. Here, the plasticizer includes phthalate esters such as diethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, mixed alkyl phthalates wherein each alkyl group has 7 to 11 carbon atoms (hereinafter may be called “C7-C11”), butyl benzyl phthalate; and hexanol benzyl phthalate, phosphate esters such as tricresyl phosphate and triphenyl phosphate, adipate esters such as di-2-ethylhexyl adipate, and trimellitate esters such as (C7-C11-mixed alkyl) trimellitate. When the polymerization is conducted in a highly volatile solvent, it is preferred to substitute the solvent with an appropriate higher boiling solvent, for example, a plasticizer, in the final step.
The long-chain alcohol to be added to the nurate form includes, linear or branched alcohols having 10 to 30 carbon atoms such as decanol, undecanol, dodecanol, tridecanol, tetradecanol, pentadecanol, hexadecanol, heptadecanol, octadecanol, nonadecanol, eicosanol, heneicosanol, docosanol, tricosanol, tetracosanol, pentacosanol, hexacosanol, heptacosanol, octacosanol, nonacosanol, and triacontanol.
Among these long-chain alcohols, a long-chain alcohol having 15 to 25 carbon atoms, especially n-octadecanol, is preferably used because the resultant water-dispersed polyurethane composition is further excellent in water repellency and lubricity.
The method for producing the isocyanate represented by general formula (I) from such a nurate form and long-chain alcohol is not specifically limited. The isocyanate may be readily produced, for example, by a method in which 1 to 2 molar equivalents of the long chain alcohol is added, at a time or stepwise, to the nurate form of diisocyanate and the mixture is heated to proceed the reaction.
As polyisocyanate component (a) used in the present invention, although the isocyanate represented by general formula (I) may be used alone, it is preferred to use the isocyanate represented by general formula (I) in combination with a diisocyanate.
The diisocyanate includes, for example, aromatic diisocyanates such as tolylene diisocyanate, diphenylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate, p-phenylene diisocyanate, xylylene diisocyanate, 1,5-naphthylene diisocyanate, 3,3′-dimethyldiphenyl-4,4′-diisocyanate, dianisidine diisocyanate, and tetramethylxylylene diisocyanate; alicylic diisocyanates such as isophorone diisocyanate, dicyclohexylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate, trans- and/or cis-1,4-cyclohexane diisocyanate, and norbornene diisocyanate; aliphatic diisocyanates such as 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate, 2,2,4- and/or 2,4,4-trimethylhexamethylene diisocyanate, and lysine diisocyanate; and the mixtures thereof. The diisocyanate may be used in a modified form such as a carbodiimide- or biuret-modified form, or may be used in a blocked isocyanate in which the isocyanate groups are blocked with any kind of blocking agent. Of these, preferably used are dicyclohexylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate and isophoronediisocyanate, and especially preferably used is dicyclohexylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate.
As component (a), there may be used a polyisocyanate having three or more isocyanate groups, where necessary. The polyisocyanate includes, for example, tri- or higher-functional isocyanates such as triphenylmethane triisocyanate, 1-methylbenzene-2,4,6-triisocyanate, dimethyltriphenylmethane tetraisocyanate, and the mixtures thereof; modified derivatives, such as carbodiimide-, isocyanurate-, or biuret-modified form, of these tri- or higher-functional isocyanates; blocked isocyanates in which the isocyanate groups in these polyisocyanates are blocked with various blocking agents; isocyanurate trimers, or biuret trimers of diisocyanates listed above; and the like.
On polyisocyanate component (a) used in the present invention, there is no particular limitation except that it contains the isocyanate represented by general formula (I) as an essential component. However, as for the contents of the isocyanate, the above diisocyanate, and the above polyisocyanate in component (a), the content of the isocyanate represented by general formula (I) is preferably 10 to 90% by mass and especially preferably 20 to 80% by mass, and the content of the diisocyanate [except trifunctional modified forms such as biuret-form] is preferably 10 to 90% by mass and especially preferably 20 to 80% by mass, and that the polyisocyanate is preferably less than 20% by mass and especially preferably less than 10% by mass.
Polyol component (b) used in the present invention (hereinafter simply called “component (b)”) is composed of a diol component having two hydroxyl groups that react with isocyanate groups in the polyisocyanate component serving as component (a) to form a urethane bond, and where necessary, a polyol component having three or more hydroxyl groups in the molecule. Here, there is no limitation on the composition ratio or the like.
The diol component and polyol component used in polyol component (b) include, for example, low-molecular-weight polyols, polyetherpolyols, polyesterpolyols, polyesterpolycarbonatepolyols, crystalline or non-crystalline polycarbonatepolyols, and the like.
The low-molecular-weight polyols include, for example, aliphatic diols such as ethylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol, 2-butyl-2-ethyl-1,3-propanediol, 1,4-butanediol, neopentyl glycol, 3-methyl-2,4-pentanediol, 2,4-pentanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 3-methyl-1,5-pentanediol, 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol, 2,4-diethyl-1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, 1,7-heptanediol, 3,5-heptanediol, 1,8-octanediol, 2-methyl-1,8-octanediol, 1,9-nonanediol, 1,10-decanediol, and ethylene oxide- and/or propylene oxide-adduct of bisphenol A; alicyclic diols such as cyclohexanedimethanol and cyclohexanediol; trihydric or higher polyols such as trimethylolethane, trimethylolpropane, hexitols, pentitols, glycerin, polyglycerin, pentaerythritol, dipentaerythritol, and tetramethylolpropane.
The polyetherpolyols include, for example, homoadducts of ethylene oxide such as diethylene glycol and triethylene glycol, homoadducts of propylene oxide such as dipropylene glycol and tripropylene glycol, ethylene oxide- and/or propylene oxide-adducts of the above low-molecular-weight polyols, polytetramethylene glycol, and the like.
The polyesterpolyols include a polyesterpolyol obtained by direct esterification and/or ester-exchange reaction of a polyol such as the above low-molecular-weight polyols with a less than stoichiometric quantity of one or more reagents selected from the group consisting of polycarboxylic acids, ester-forming derivatives (ester, anhydride, halide, and the like) of the polycarboxylic acids, lactones, and hydroxycarboxylic acids obtained by ring-opening hydrolysis of the lactones. The polycarboxylic acid includes, for example, aliphatic dicarboxylic acids such as oxalic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid, pimeric acid, suberic acid, azelaic acid, sebacic acid, dodecanedioic acid, 2-methylsuccinic acid, 2-methyladipic acid, 3-methyladipic acid, 3-methylpentanedioic acid, 2-methyloctanedioic acid, 3,8-dimethyldecanedioic acid, 3,7-dimethyldecanedioic acid, hydrogenated dimer acid, and dimer acid; aromatic dicarboxylic acids such as phthalic acid, terephthalic acid, isophthalic acid, and naphthalenedicarboxylic acid; alicyclic dicarboxylic acids such as cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid; tricarboxylic acids such as trimellitic acid, trimesic acid, and trimer of castor oil fatty acid; and tetracarboxylic acids such as pyromellitic acid. The ester-forming derivatives of the polycarboxylic acids include, for example, anhydrides of the polycarboxylic acids, halides such as chlorides and bromides of the polycarboxylic acids, lower aliphatic esters such as methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, and amyl esters of the polycarboxylic acids. The lactones include γ-caprolactone, δ-caprolactone, ε-caprolactone, dimethyl-ε-caprolactone, δ-valerolactone, γ-valerolactone, γ-butyrolactone, and the like.
When a polyesterdiol is used as the diol component of polyol component (b) relating to the present invention, the resultant water-dispersed polyurethane composition is further excellent in water resistance and tensile property, which is preferred. Such polyesterdiol can be obtained from a dicarboxylic acid and a lower-molecular-weight diol. The polyesterdiol preferably has a molecular weight of 500 to 3000 in term of number-average molecular weight.
The water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention is a composition in which a polyurethane obtained by using component (a) and component (b) as essential components is dispersed in water. The polyurethane may be dispersed by forced emulsification using a reactive or nonreactive emulsifier. However, if the polyurethane is spontaneously emulsified by method (1) in which anionic group-introducing compound (c1) and anionic group neutralizer (dl) are additionally used as essential components, method (2) in which cationic group-introducing compound (c2) and cationic group neutralizer (d2) are additionally used as essential components, method (3) in which a polyethylene oxide unit is introduced into the main-chain or side-chain of polyurethane, or a method combining these, the polyurethane is more readily dispersed in water and the composition is further excellent in chemical resistance; thus such method is preferred.
Anionic group-introducing compound (c1) used in method (1) (hereinafter, may be simply called “component (c1)”) is a compound used for introducing an anionic group into the polyurethane. The purpose of introducing an anionic group is to impart dispersibility in water to the polyurethane by neutralizing the anionic group with anionic group neutralizer (d1). The anionic group includes carboxyl group, sulfonic acid group, phosphonic acid group, boric acid group, and the like. Preferable are carboxyl group and/or sulfonic acid group because of the excellent dispersibility in water and ease in introduction to the polyurethane.
The anionic group-introducing compound (c1) includes, for example, carboxyl group-containing polyols such as dimethylolpropionic acid, dimethylolbutanoic acid (dimethylolbutyric acid), and dimethylolvaleric acid and sulfonic acid group-containing polyols such as 1,4-butanediol-2-sulfonic acid. An anionic group-containing diol is preferably used as anionic group-introducing compound (c1), because the content (number density) of anionic groups introduced is easily adjusted and the workability is good. The amount of anionic group-introducing compound (c1) to be used is preferably 5 to 1000 moles and more preferably 10 to 500 moles relative to 100 moles of the total of the diol component and polyol component present in polyol component (b). If the amount is less than 5 moles, the dispersion stability is sometimes insufficient, while if it is over 1000 moles, the water resistance of coating films and the like obtained from the water-dispersed polyurethane composition is sometimes lowered.
When anionic group-introducing compound (c1) is used, in general, anionic group neutralizer (d1) (hereinafter, simply also called “component (d1)”) is used at the same time. Anionic group neutralizer (d1) is a compound that neutralizes the anionic group in anionic group-introducing compound (c1) to impart water dispersibility to the polyurethane. Specific examples thereof include tertiary amines such as trilakylamines including trimethylamine and triethylamine, N,N-dialkylalkanolamines, and N-alkyl-N,N-dialkanolamines and basic compounds such as ammonia, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and lithium hydroxide. The amount of anionic group neutralizer (d1) to be used is preferably 0.2 to 2.0 moles and more preferably 0.5 to 1.5 moles per mole of anionic group in anionic group-introducing compound (c1), since significant excess or deficiency of component (d1) is likely to deteriorate water resistance, strength, stretching property, or other properties of coating films and the like obtained from the water-dispersed polyurethane composition.
Cationic group-introducing compound (c2) used in method (2) (hereinafter, may be simply called “component (c2)”) is a compound used for introducing a cationic group into the polyurethane. The purpose of introducing an cationic group is to provide polyurethane with dispersibility in water by neutralizing the cationic group with cationic group neutralizer (d2). The cationic group includes secondary amino groups, tertiary amino groups, quaternary ammonium groups, and the like. Tertiary amino groups are preferred because they provide good dispersibility in water and are easily introduced into the polyurethane.
Cationic group-introducing compound (c2) includes, for example, N,N-dialkylalkanolamines, N-alkyl-N,N-dialkanolamines such as N-methyl-N,N-diethanolamine and N-butyl-N,N-diethanolamine, trialkanolamines, and the like. Cationic group-containing diols are preferably used as cationic group-introducing compound (c2), because the content (number density) of cationic groups introduced is easily adjusted and the workability is good. The amount of cationic group-introducing compound (c2) to be used is preferably 5 to 1000 moles and more preferably 10 to 500 moles relative to 100 moles of the total of the diol component and polyol component present in polyol component (b). If the amount is less than 5 moles, the dispersion stability is sometimes insufficient, while if it is over 1000 moles, the water resistance of coating films and the like obtained from the water-dispersed polyurethane composition is sometimes lowered.
When cationic group-introducing compound (c2) is used, in general, cationic group neutralizer (d2) (hereinafter, may be simply called “component (d2)”) is used at the same time. Cationic group neutralizer (d2) is a compound that neutralizes the cationic group in cationic group-introducing compound (c2) to provide the polyurethane with water dispersibility. Specific examples thereof include organic carboxylic acids such as formic acid, acetic acid, lactic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, and citric acid, organic sulfonic acids such as p-toluenesulfonic acid and alkylsulfonic acids, inorganic acids such as hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, nitric acid, and sulfonic acid, epoxy compounds such as epihalohydrine, agents for forming quaternary ammonium such as dialkyl sulfates and alkyl halides. The amount of cationic group neutralizer (d2) to be used is preferably 0.2 to 2.0 moles and more preferably 0.5 to 1.5 moles per mole of cationic groups in cationic group-introducing compound (c2), since significant excess or deficiency of component (d2) is likely to deteriorate water resistance, strength, stretching property, or other properties of coating films and the like obtained from the water-dispersed polyurethane composition.
In method (3), polyethylene oxide units are introduced into the main-chain or side-chain of polyurethane by using nonionic group-introducing compound (c3) having a polyethylene oxide unit (hereinafter, may be simply called “component (c3)” or “nonionic group-introducing compound (c3)”). The nonionic group-introducing compound (c3) includes ethylene oxide polyaddition products or ethylene oxide/propylene oxide copolyaddition products of the above low-molecular-weight polyols and other nonionic group-introducing compounds shown below.
Such other nonionic group-introducing compounds include, for example, ethylene oxide polyaddition product or ethylene oxide/propylene oxide copolyaddition product of ammonia or low-molecular-weight amines having two or more active hydrogens such as methylamine, ethylamine, aniline, phenylenediamine, and isophoronediamine; reaction products of a nurate form (trimer) of diisocyanate with polyethylene glycol monoalkyl ether or polyethylene glycol monoalkyl ester; and the like.
Nonionic group-introducing compound (c3) is used in such an amount that the content of polyethylene oxide units in the polyurethane is 1% by mass or more, particularly preferably 1 to 30% by mass and more preferably 3 to 20% by mass. If the content of polyethylene oxide unit in the polyurethane is less than 1% by mass, the dispersion stability is likely to be reduced, whereas a content over 30% by mass sometimes lowers the water resistance of coating films and the like obtained from the water-dispersed polyurethane composition.
As anionic group-introducing compound (c1), cationic group-introducing compound (c2), and nonionic group-introducing compound (c3), two or more compounds may be used in combination for each case. Also, as anionic group neutralizer (d1) and cationic group neutralizer (d2), two or more compounds may be used in combination for each case.
In the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention, chain extender component (hereinafter, may be simply called “component (e)”) may be used as an optional component.
The chain extender component serving as component (e) is exemplified by polyamines including low-molecular-weight diamines with a structure in which alcoholic hydroxyl groups in the above low-molecular-weight diols are substituted with amino groups, such as ethylenediamine and propylenediamine, polyetherdiamines such as polyoxypropylenediamine and polyoxyethylenediamine, alicyclic diamines such as menthenediamine, isophoronediamine, norbornenediamine, bis(4-amino-3-methyldicyclohexyl)methane, diaminodicyclohexylmethane, bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane, and 3,9-bis(3-aminopropyl)-2,4,8,10-tetraoxaspiro[5.5]undecane, aromatic diamines such as m-xylenediamine, α-(m/p-aminophenyl)ethylamine, m-phenylenediamine, diaminodiphenylmethane, diaminodiphenyl sulfone, diaminodiethyldimethyldiphenylmethane, diaminodiethyldiphenylmethane, dimethylthiotoluenediamine, diethyltoluenediamine, and α,α′-bis(4-aminophenyl)-p-diisopropylbenzene; dicarboxylic acid dihyrazides such as adipic acid dihydrazide; 2-(2-aminoethylamino)ethanol; and the like.
The water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention is an aqueous dispersion of a polyurethane formed from component (a) and component (b), preferably together with components (c) and (d) (when component (c3) is used, component (d) is unnecessary), and where necessary component (e) and a crosslinking agent described below. The method for producing the composition is not particularly limited. There may be employed any common production methods for water-dispersed polyurethane compositions. A preferable method for producing the composition includes a prepolymer method in which a prepolymer is synthesized by reacting components (a) and (b), preferably together with components (c) and (d) (when component (c3) is used, component (d) is unnecessary), and where necessary, component (e) and a crosslinking agent described below in a solvent that is inert to the reaction and has good compatibility with water, and then the resulting prepolymer is fed to water to disperse.
The solvent used in the above preferable production method, which is inert to the reaction and has good compatibility with water, includes, for example, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, dioxane, tetrahydrofuran, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, and the like. These solvents are typically used in an amount of 3 to 100% by mass relative to the total amount of the starting materials used for the synthesis of a prepolymer. When a solvent with a boiling point of 100° C. or lower among the above solvents is used, it is preferred to distill the solvent off under reduced pressure after the synthesis of the prepolymer.
In the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention, each component may be used in a convenient amount without specific limitation. The amount to be used may be determined based on the amount of functional groups in each component in the reaction involving the component. As for components (a) to (c) as well as component (e) and a crosslinking agent, which are used where necessary, the total amount of isocyanate-reactive groups in component (b), component (c), and if any, component (e) and a crosslinking agent is preferably 0.3 to 2 moles and more preferably 0.5 to 1.5 moles per mole of isocyanate group in component (a).
In the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention, the solid content may be arbitrarily selected without specific limitation. The solid content is, however, preferably 1 to 60% by mass and more preferably 5 to 40% by mass for improving the dispersibility and the workability in producing coating films, molded articles, or the like.
In the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention, the water content is preferably 30 to 90% by mass.
In the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention, there may be used a common crosslinking agent that forms a crosslinking structure in the polyurethane molecule, where necessary. As the preferred crosslinking agent for the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention, there may be mentioned melamine, monomethylolmelamine, dimethylolmelamine, trimethylolmelamine, tetramethylolmelamine, pentamethylolmelamine, hexamethylolmelamine, methylated methylolmelamine, butylated methylolmelamine, melamine resin, and the like. Among these, especially preferable is melamine because it provides a polyurethane further excellent in dispersibilty and its cost is low. The amount of these crosslinking agents to be used is preferably such that the isocyanate-reactive groups in the crosslinking agent is not more than 0.2 moles per mole of isocyanate groups in component (a).
In the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention, there may be used a common emulsifier used in water-dispersed polyurethane compositions, where necessary. Such emulsifiers include anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, polymer surfactants, reactive surfactants, and the like. Among these, preferable are anionic surfactants and nonionic surfactants because of low cost and good emulsifying effects.
The anionic surfactants include alkyl sulfates such as sodium dodecyl sulfate, potassium dodecyl sulfate, and ammonium dodecyl sulfate; salts of polyoxyethylene ether sulfates such as sodium dodecyloxypolyglycol sulfate and ammonium alkylpolyoxyethylene sulfate; sodium sulforicinoleate; alkyl sulfonates such as alkali metal salts of sulfonated paraffin and ammonium salt of sulfonated paraffin; fatty acid salt such as sodium laurate, triethanolamine oleate, and triethanolamine abietate; alkylarylsulfonate such as sodium benzenesulfonate, alkali metal sulfate of alkaliphenolhydroxyethylene; higher alkylnaphthalenesulfonate salts; naphthalenesulfonic acid/formalin condensate; salts of dialkyl sulfosuccinate; salts of polyoxyethylene alkyl sulfate, salts of polyoxyethylenealkylaryl sulfate; salts of polyoxyethylene phosphate; alkoxypolyoxyethyleneacetates; salts of N-acylamino acid; salts of N-acylmethyltaurine; and the like.
The nonionic surfactants include fatty acid partial esters of polyhydric alcohols such as sorbitan monolaurate and sorbitan monooleate; polyoxyethylene glycol fatty acid esters; polyglycerin fatty acid esters; ethylene oxide- and/or propylene oxide-adducts of alcohol having 1 to 18 carbon atoms; ethylene oxide- and/or propylene oxide-adducts of alkylphenol; ethylene oxide- and/or propylene oxide-adducts of alkylene glycol and/or alkylenediamine, and the like.
The alcohols having 1 to 18 carbon atoms that may compose the nonionic surfactants include methanol, ethanol, propanol, 2-propanol, butanol, 2-butanol, t-butanol, amyl alcohol, isoamyl alcohol, t-amyl alcohol, hexanol, octanol, decanol, lauryl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, palmityl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and the like. The alkylphenols that may compose the nonionic surfactants include phenol, methylphenol, 2,4-di-t-butylphenol, 2,5-di-t-butylphenol, 3,5-di-t-butylphenol, 4-(1,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenol, 4-isooctylphenol, 4-nonylphenol, 4-t-octylphenol, 4-dodecylphenol, 2-(3,5-dimethylheptyl)phenol, 4-(3,5-dimethylheptyl)phenol, naphthol, bisphenol A, bisphenol F, and the like. The alkylene glycol that may compose the nonionic surfactants include ethylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol, 2-butyl-2-ethyl-1,3-propanediol, 1,4-butanediol, neopentyl glycol, 1,5-pentanediol, 3-methyl-1,5-pentanediol, 2,4-diethyl-1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, and the like. The alkylenediamines that may compose the nonionic surfactants include alkylenediamine with a structure in which alcoholic hydroxyl groups in the above alkylene glycols are replaced by amino groups. The ethylene oxide-adducts and propylene oxide-adducts may be either random adducts or block adducts.
When the emulsifier is used, the amount may be arbitrarily selected without limitation. It is preferably 0.01 to 0.3 parts by mass and more preferably 0.05 to 0.2 parts by mass relative to 1 part by mass of the polyurethane. If the amount is smaller than 0.01 parts by mass, dispersibility is sometimes insufficient, whereas if it exceeds 0.3 parts by mass, coating films or the like obtained from the water-dispersed polyurethane composition may be inferior in the physical properties such as water resistance, strength, and stretching property.
Further, water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention may contain common additives, where necessary. The additives include, for example, pigments, dyes, film-forming auxiliaries, hardeners, external crosslinking agents, viscosity modifiers, leveling agents, antifoaming agents, anti-gelatinization agents, dispersion stabilizers such as surfactants, light stabilizers such as hindered amines; antioxidants including phosphorous-containing antioxidants, phenol-type antioxidants, sulfur-containing antioxidants, and the like, ultraviolet absorbers including triazines, benzoates, 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)benzotriazoles, and the like, radical scavengers, heat-resistance improvers, inorganic filler, organic filler, plasticizers, lubricants, antistatic agents, reinforcers, catalysts, thixotropic agents, antimicrobial agents, antifungal agents, rust preventives, and the like. When the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention is used as paint or coating agents, there may also be used silane coupling agents, colloidal silica, tetraalkoxysilane or its polycondensate, chelating agents, epoxy compounds, and the like, which provide the composition with particularly strong adhesiveness to substrates.
When the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention is used as paint or a coating agent, among the above additives, preferably used are hindered amine light stabilizers, ultraviolet absorbers, and antioxidants such as phosphorous compounds, phenols, and sulfur compounds.
The hindered amine light stabilizer includes, for example, 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl stearate, 1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyl stearate, 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl benzoate, bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate, bis(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate, bis(1-octoxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate, 1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidylmethyl methacrylate, 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidylmethyl methacrylate, tetrakis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl)-1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylate, tetrakis(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyl)-1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylate, bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl)-bis(tridecyl)-1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylate, bis(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyl)-bis(tridecyl)-1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylate, bis(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyl)-2-butyl-2-(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl)malonate, 1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinol/diethyl succinate polycondensate, 1,6-bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidylamino)hexane/dibromoethane polycondensate, 1,6-bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidylamino)hexane/2,4-dichloro-6-morpholino-s-triazine polycondensate, 1,6-bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidylamino)hexane/2,4-dichloro-6-t-octylamino-s-triazine polycondensate, 1,5,8,12-tetrakis[2,4-bis(N-butyl-N-(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl)amino)-s-triazin-6-yl]-1,5,8,12-tetraazadodecane, 1,5,8,12-tetrakis[2,4-bis(N-butyl-N-(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyl)amino)-s-triazin-6-yl]-1,5,8,12-tetraazadodecane, 1,6,11-tris[2,4-bis(N-butyl-N-(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl)amino)-s-triazin-6-ylamino]undecane, 1,6,11-tris[2,4-bis(N-butyl-N-(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyl)amino)-s-triazin-6-ylamino]undecane, 3,9-bis[1,1-dimethyl-2-[tris(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyloxycarbonyloxy)butylcarbonyloxy]ethyl-2,4,8,10-tetraoxaspiro[5.5]undecane, 3,9-bis[1,1-dimethyl-2-[tris(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyloxycarbonyloxy)butylcarbonyloxy]ethyl-2,4,8,10-tetraoxaspiro[5.5]undecane, and the like.
The ultraviolet absorber includes, for example, 2-hydroxybenzophenones such as 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-octoxybenzophenone, and 5,5′-methylenebis(2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone); 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)benzotriazoles such as 2-(2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)benzotriazole, 2-(2-hydroxy-5-t-octylphenyl)benzotriazole, 2-(2-hydroxy-3,5-di-t-butylphenyl)-5-chlorobenzotriazole, 2-(2-hydroxy-3-t-butyl-5-methylphenyl)-5-chlorobenzotriazole, 2-(2-hydroxy-3,5-dicumylphenyl)benzotriazole, 2,2′-methylenebis(4-t-octyl-6-benzotriazolylphenol), polyethylene glycol ester of 2-(2-hydroxy-3-t-butyl-5-carboxyphenyl)benzotriazole, 2-[2-hydroxy-3-(2-acryloyloxyethyl)-5-methylphenyl]benzotriazole, 2-[2-hydroxy-3-(2-methacryloyloxyethyl)-5-t-butylphenyl]benzotriazole, 2-[2-hydroxy-3-(2-methacryloyloxyethyl)-5-t-octylphenyl]benzotriazole, 2-[2-hydroxy-3-(2-methacryloyloxyethyl)-5-t-butylphenyl]-5-chlorobenzotriazle, 2-[2-hydroxy-5-(2-methacryloyloxyethyl)phenyl]benzotriazole, 2-[2-hydroxy-3-t-butyl-5-(2-methacryloyloxyethyl)phenyl]benzotriazole, 2-[2-hydroxy-3-t-amyl-5-(2-methacryloyloxyethyl)phenyl]benzotriazole, 2-[2-hydroxy-3-t-butyl-5-(3-methacryloyloxypropyl)phenyl]-5-chlorobenzotriazole, 2-[2-hydroxy-4-(2-methacryloyloxymethyl)phenyl]benzotriazole, 2-[2-hydroxy-4-(3-methacryloyloxy-2-hydroxypropyl)phenyl]benzotriazole, and 2-[2-hydroxy-4-(3-methacryloyloxypropyl)phenyl]benzotriazole; 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-4,6-diaryl-1,3,5-triazines such as 2-(2-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-4,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-triazine, 2-(2-hydroxy-4-hexyloxyphenyl)-4,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-triazine, 2-(2-hydroxy-4-octoxyphenyl)-4,6-bis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-1,3,5-triazine, 2-{2-hydroxy-4-[3-(C12-C13-mixed alkoxy)-2-hydroxypropoxy]phenyl}-4,6-bis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-1,3,5-triazine, 2-[2-hydroxy-4-(2-acryloyloxyethoxy)phenyl]-4,6-bis(2,4-methylphenyl)-1,3,5-triazine, 2-(2,4-dihydroxy-3-allylphenyl)-4,6-bis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-1,3,5-triazine, and 2,4,6-tris(2-hydroxy-3-methyl-4-hexyloxyphenyl)-1,3,5-triazine; benzoates such as phenyl salicylate, resorcinol monobenzoate, 2,4-di-t-butylphenyl-3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxybenzoate, octyl(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxy)benzoate, dodecyl (3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxy)benzoate, tetradecyl (3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxy)benzoate, hexadecyl(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxy)benzoate, octadecyl (3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxy)benzoate, and behenyl (3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxy)benzoate; substituted oxanilides such as 2-ethyl-2′-ethoxyoxanilide and 2-ethoxy-4′-dodecyloxanilide; cyanoacrylates such as ethyl α-cyano-β,β-diphenylacrylate and methyl 2-cyano-3-methyl-3-(p-methoxyphenyl)acrylate; metal salts or metal chelates, especially salts or chelates of nickel or chromium; and the like.
Phosphorous compound used as the antioxidants include, for example, triphenyl phosphite, tris(2,4-di-t-butylphenyl)phosphite, tris(2,5-di-t-butylphenyl) phosphite, tris(nonylphenyl)phosphite, tris(dinonylphenyl)phosphite, tris(mono-/di-mixed nonylphenyl)phosphite, diphenyl acid phosphite, 2,2′-methylenebis(4,6-di-t-butylphenyl)octyl phosphite, diphenyl decyl phosphite, diphenyl octyl phosphite, di(nonylphenyl)pentaerythritol diphosphite, phenyl diisodecyl phosphite, tributyl phosphite, tris(2-ethylhexyl)phosphite, tridecyl phosphite, trilauryl phosphite, dibutyl acid phosphite, dilauryl acid phosphite, trilauryl trithiophosphite, bis(neopentylglycol) 1,4-cyclohexanedimethyl diphosphite, bis(2,4-di-t-butylphenyl)pentaerythritol diphosphite, bis(2,5-di-t-butylphenyl) pentaerythritol diphosphite, bis(2,6-di-t-butyl-4-methylphenyl) pentaerythritol diphosphite, bis(2,4-dicumylphenyl) pentaerythritol diphosphite, distearyl pentaerythritol diphosphite, tetra(C12-C15-mixed alkyl)-4,4′-isopropylidenediphenyl diphosphite, bis[2,2′-methylenebis(4,6-diamylphenyl)] isopropylidenediphenyl diphosphite, tetra(tridecyl)-4,4′-butylidenebis(2-t-butyl-5-methylphenol) diphosphite, hexa(tridecyl) 1,1,3-tris(2-methyl-5-t-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)butane-triphosphite, tetrakis(2,4-di-t-butylphenyl)biphenylenediphosphonite, tris(2-[(2,4,7,9-tetrakis-t-butyldibenzo[d,f][1,3,2]dioxaphosphepin-6-yl)oxy]ethyl)amine, 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide, 2-butyl-2-ethylpropanediol 2,4,6-tri-t-butylphenol monophosphite, and the like.
Phenols used as the antioxidants include, for example, 2,6-di-t-butyl-p-cresol, 2,6-diphenyl-4-octadecyloxyphenol, stearyl (3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate, distearyl (3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl)phosphonate, tridecyl 3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxybenzylthioacetate, thiodiethylenebis[(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) propionate], 4,4′-thiobis(6-t-butyl-m-cresol), 2-octylthio-4,6-di(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxyphenoxy)-s-triazine, 2,2′-methylenebis(4-methyl-6-t-butylphenol), bis[3,3-bis(4-hydroxy-3-t-butylphenyl)butyric acid]glycol ester, 4,4′-butylidenebis(2,6-di-t-butylphenol), 4,4′-butylidenebis(6-t-butyl-3-methylphenol), 2,2′-ethylidenebis(4,6-di-t-butylphenol), 1,1,3-tris(2-methyl-4-hydroxy-5-t-butylphenyl)butane, bis[2-t-butyl-4-methyl-6-(2-hydroxy-3-t-butyl-5-methylbenzyl)phenyl]terephthalate, 1,3,5-tris(2,6-dimethyl-3-hydroxy-4-t-butylbenzyl) isocyanurate, 1,3,5-tris(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl) isocyanurate, 1,3,5-tris(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl)-2,4,6-trimethylbenzene, 1,3,5-tris[(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionyloxyethyl]isocyanurate, tetrakis[3-(3′,5′-di-t-butyl-4′-hydroxyphenyl)propionyloxymethyl]methane, 2-t-butyl-4-methyl-6-(2-acroyloxy-3-t-butyl-5-methylbenzyl)phenol, 3,9-bis[2-(3-t-butyl-4-hydroxy-5-methylhydrocinnamoyloxy)-1,1-dimethylethyl]-2,4,8,10-tetraoxaspiro[5.5]undecane, triethylene glycol bis[β-(3-t-butyl-4-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)propionate], and the like.
Sulfur compounds used as the antioxidants include, for example, dialkyl thiodipropionates such as dilauryl-, dimyristyl-, myristyl stearyl-, or distearyl ester of thiodipropionic acid; and β-alkylmercaptopropionate esters of polyol such as pentaerythritol tetra(β-dodecylmercaptopropionate).
The amount of each of the hindered amine light stabilizer, ultraviolet absorber, and antioxidant to be used is preferably 0.01 to 10 parts by mass and more preferably 0.01 to 5 parts by mass relative to 100 parts by mass of the solid content in the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention. With addition in an amount less than 0.001 parts by mass, the effect may be insufficient, whereas addition more than 10 parts by mass may affect the dispersibility or coating properties. As methods for adding these hindered amine-based light stabilizers, ultraviolet absorbers, and antioxidants, there may be mentioned addition to polyol component (b), addition to a prepolymer, addition to an aqueous phase in dispersing a prepolymer in water, addition after dispersing a prepolymer in water, and the like. Preferred methods are addition to polyol component (b) and addition to a prepolymer because of ease in operation.
Applications of the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention include paint, an adhesive, a surface modifier, a binder for organic powder and/or inorganic powder, a molded article, and the like; specifically, a binder for glass fiber, a coating agent for thermal paper, a coating agent for inkjet paper, a binder for printing ink, paint for steel plates, a coating agent for agricultural films, paint for inorganic construction material such as glass, slate, and concrete, paint for wood, a treating agent for fiber, a coating agent for fiber, a coating agent for electronic parts materials, sponge, puff, gloves, condom, and the like. Among these applications, the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention may be especially suitably used as paint for steel plates, glass, or wood and a coating agent for paper, fiber, or electronic parts materials; and above all, suitably used as paint for surface-treated steel plates.
When the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention is used as paint, it may be applied to a substrate by a suitable method, for example, coating with a brush, roller coating, spray coating, gravure coating, reverse roll coating, air knife coating, bar coating, curtain roll coating, dip coating, rod coating, doctor blade coating, and the like.
EXAMPLES
Hereinafter, the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention is described in more detail with reference to Examples and the like, but the present invention is not limited by these examples.
Examples 1 to 3 and 6 illustrate examples of anionic water-dispersed polyurethane compositions containing component (c1) and component (d1), Example 4 illustrates an example of nonionic water-dispersed polyurethane composition containing component (c3), and Example 5 illustrates an example of a cationic water-dispersed polyurethane composition containing component (c2) and component (d2). Comparative Examples 1 to 3 deal with water-dispersed polyurethane compositions without using any isocyanate represented by general formula (I). The water-dispersed polyurethane compositions of Comparative Examples 1 and 2 are anionic while the water-dispersed polyurethane composition of Comparative Example 3 is nonionic.
Example 1
Synthesis of Intermediate Raw Material PP-B (Isocyanate Represented by General Formula (I))
To a reaction flask were charged 575 g (1.0 mol) of nurate form of 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (NCO-equivalent: 190) and 270 g (1.0 mol) of stearyl alcohol (n-octadecanol), and the reaction was conducted under nitrogen at 115 to 120° C. for 2 hours. The NCO % was found to be 9.98%, and thus intermediate raw material PP-B was obtained.
Synthesis of Polyurethane Resin Composition PP-01 (Prepolymer)
To a reaction flask were charged 300 g (0.30 mol) of a polyesterdiol with a number-average molecular weight of 1000 obtained from adipic acid and neopentyl glycol, 12.6 g (0.10 mol) of melamine, 288 g (1.10 mol) of dicyclohexylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate (hydrogenated MDI), 79.5 g (0.09 mol) of intermediate raw material PP-B, and 161 g of N-methylpyrrolidone as a solvent. When the reaction was conducted under nitrogen at 100 to 120° C. for 2.5 to 3.0 hours, the NCO % was found to become 8.57%. To the reaction mixture were added 39.6 g (0.33 mol) of dimethylolpropionic acid and 161 g of N-methylpyrrolidone, and the reaction was conducted at 100 to 120° C. for 2.5 to 3.0 hours. At that time, the NCO % became 3.5%. Here were added 1.6 g of Tinuvin 328 (ultraviolet absorber, manufactured by Ciba Speciality Chemicals Co., Ltd.) and 3.2 g of AO-60 (phenol-type antioxidant, manufactured by Asahi Denka Co., Ltd.), the reaction was conducted at 50 to 60° C. for 30 minutes, 33.3 g (0.33 mol) of triethylamine was added to the mixture, and the reaction was performed at 50 to 60° C. for 30 minutes to obtain polyurethane resin composition PP-01.
Latex Formation
An aqueous solution was prepared by adding 1.0 g of SE-21 (silicone-type antifoaming agent, manufactured by Wacker Asahikasei Silicone Co., Ltd.) and 5.45 g (0.054 mol) of triethylamine to 580 g of water, and here was added 500 g of polyurethane resin composition PP-01 obtained above (60 to 65° C.) while the solution was stirred, and the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 15 minutes. Then, here was added dropwise 28.8 g of a mixture of ethylenediamine and water (⅓ by mass), the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 10 minutes, a liquid mixture of 3.48 g (0.02 mol) of adipic acid dihydrazide and 11.6 g of water was added, and the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 1 hour. The stirring was continued until the NCO group disappeared to obtain water-dispersed polyurethane composition U-01.
Example 2
Synthesis of Polyurethane Resin Composition PP-02 (Prepolymer)
To a reaction flask were charged 280 g (0.28 mol) of a polyesterdiol having a number-average molecular weight of 1000 obtained from terephthalic acid and methylpentanediol, 11.8 g (0.094 mol) of melamine, 37.2 g (0.31 mol) of dimethylolpropionic acid, 547.6 g (2.09 mol) of hydrogenated MDI, 139.2 g (0.16 mol) of intermediate raw material PP-B, and 297 g of N-methylpyrrolidone as a solvent. When the reaction was conducted under nitrogen at 110 to 120° C. for 2.5 to 3.0 hours, the NCO % was found to be 3.8%. The mixture was cooled to 70 to 80° C., here were added 1.9 g of benzotriazole and 6.8 g of A-1100 (amino group-containing silane, manufactured by Nippon Unicar Company Limited), and the reaction was performed at 70 to 80° C. for 30 minutes. The reaction mixture was cooled to 60 to 70° C., 31.3 g (0.31 mol) of triethylamine was added, and the reaction was performed at 60 to 70° C. for 30 minutes to obtain polyurethane resin composition PP-02.
Latex Formation
To 1071 g of water at 20 to 25° C. were added 1.1 g of SE-21 (silicone-type antifoaming agent, manufactured by Wacker Asahikasei Silicone Co., Ltd.) and 5.25 g (0.052 mol) of triethylamine to prepare an aqueous solution, to which 869 g of polyurethane resin composition PP-02 obtained above (60 to 70° C.) was added slowly enough to keep the temperature of reaction system below 40° C. while the solution was stirred. After addition, the mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 30 minutes, here was gradually added dropwise 56.4 g of 25-mass % aqueous ethylenediamine (ethylenediamine: 14.4 g (0.24 mol)), and the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 30 minutes. Here was added a liquid mixture of 9.9 g (0.057 mol) of adipic acid dihydrazide and 30 g of water, and the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 1 hour to obtain water-dispersed polyurethane composition U-02.
Comparative Example 1
Synthesis of Polyurethane Resin Composition PP-03 (Prepolymer)
To a reaction flask were charged 300 g (0.30 mol) of a polyesterdiol having a number-average molecular weight of 1000 obtained from adipic acid and neopentyl glycol, 12.6 g (0.10 mol) of melamine, 319 g (1.22 mol) of hydrogenated MDI, and 144 g of N-methylpyrrolidone as a solvent. When the reaction was conducted under nitrogen at 100 to 120° C. for 2.5 to 3.0 hours, the NCO % was found to be 8.4%. To this mixture were added 39.6 g (0.33 mol) of dimethylolpropionic acid and 144 g of N-methylpyrrolidone, and the reaction was performed at 100 to 120° C. for 2.5 to 3.0 hours. The NCO % was found to become 3.9%. To the reaction mixture were added 1.6 g of Tinuvin 328 (ultraviolet absorber, manufactured by Ciba Speciality Chemicals Co., Ltd.) and 3.2 g of AO-60 (phenol-type antioxidant, manufactured by Asahi Denka Co., Ltd.), and the reaction was performed at 50 to 60° C. for 30 minutes, and then 33.3 g (0.33 mol) of triethylamine was added and the reaction was performed for 30 minutes to obtain polyurethane resin composition PP-03.
Latex Formation
An aqueous solution was prepared by adding 1.0 g of SE-21 (silicone-type antifoaming agent, manufactured by Wacker Asahikasei Silicone Co., Ltd.) and 6.1 g (0.06 mol) of triethylamine to 580 g of water, and here was added 500 g of polyurethane resin composition PP-03 (60 to 65° C.) obtained above while the solution was stirred. The mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 15 minute, here was added dropwise 28.8 g of a mixture of ethylenediamine and water (⅓ by mass), and the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 10 minutes. To this mixture were added a liquid mixture of 3.48 g (0.02 mol) of adipic acid dihydrazide and 11.6 g of water, and the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 1 hour. The stirring was continued until the NCO group disappeared to obtain water-dispersed polyurethane composition U-03.
Comparative Example 2
Synthesis of Polyurethane Resin Composition PP-04 (Prepolymer)
To a reaction flask were charged 300 g (0.30 mol) of a polyesterdiol having a number-average molecular weight of 1000 obtained from terephthalic acid and methylpentanediol, 12.6 g (0.10 mol) of melamine, 39.6 g (0.33 mol) of dimethylolpropionic acid, 639 g (2.44 mol) of hydrogenated MDI, and 287 g of N-methylpyrrolidone as a solvent, and the reaction was performed under nitrogen at 110° C. to 120° C. for 2.5 to 3.0 hours, when the NCO % was found to become 4.3%. The reaction mixture was cooled to 70 to 80° C. and here were added 2.0 g of benzotriazole and 7.1 g of A-1100 (amino group-containing silane, manufactured by Nippon Unicar Company Limited) and the reaction was performed at 70 to 80° C. for 30 minutes. The reaction mixture was cooled to 60 to 70° C., 33.3 g (0.33 mol) of triethylamine was added, and the reaction was performed at 60 to 70° C. for 30 minutes to obtain polyurethane resin composition PP-04.
Latex Formation
To 1028 g of water at 20 to 25° C. were added 1.1 g of SE-21 (silicone-type antifoaming agent, manufactured by Wacker Asahikasei Silicone Co., Ltd.) and 5.45 g (0.054 mol) of triethylamine to prepare an aqueous solution, to which was added 869 g of polyurethane resin composition PP-04 (60 to 70° C.) obtained above slowly enough to keep the temperature of reaction system below 40° C. while the solution was stirred. After the addition, the mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 30 minutes, here was gradually added dropwise 56.5 g of 25-mass % of aqueous ethylenediamine (ethylenediamine: 14.4 g (0.24 mol)), and the mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 30 minutes. Here was added a liquid mixture of 9.9 g (0.057 mol) of adipic acid dihydrazide and 30 g of water, and the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 1 hour to obtain water-dispersed polyurethane composition U-04.
Example 3
Synthesis of Intermediate Raw Material PP-C (Isocyanate Represented by General Formula (I))
To a reaction flask were charged 575 g (1.0 mol) of nurate form of 1,6-hexane diisocyanate (NCO-equivalent: 190) and 270 g (1.0 mol) of isostearyl alcohol, and the reaction was conducted under nitrogen at 115 to 120° C. for 2 hours. The NCO % was found to become 9.98%, and thus intermediate raw material PP-C was obtained.
Synthesizing Polyurethane Resin Composition PP-05 (Prepolymer)
To a reaction flask were charged 280 g (0.28 mol) of a polyesterdiol having a number-average molecular weight of 1000 obtained from terephthalic acid and methylpentanediol, 11.8 g (0.098 mol) of melamine, 37.2 g (0.31 mol) of dimethylolpropionic acid, 547 g (2.09 mol) of hydrogenated MDI, 139 g (0.16 mol) of intermediate raw material PP-C, and 297 g of N-methylpyrrolidone as a solvent. When the reaction was preformed under nitrogen at 110 to 120° C. for 2.5 to 3.0 hours, the NCO % was found to become 3.8%. The mixture was cooled to 70 to 80° C., here were added 1.9 g of benzotriazole and 6.8 g of A-1100 (amino group-containing silane, manufactured by Nippon Unicar Company Limited), and the reaction was performed at 70 to 80° C. for 30 minutes. The resulting mixture was cooled to 60 to 70° C., and 31.3 g (0.31 mol) of triethylamine was added, and the reaction was performed at 60 to 70° C. for 30 minutes to obtain polyurethane resin composition PP-05.
Latex Formation
To 1071 g of water at 20 to 25° C. were added 1.1 g of SE-21 (silicone-type antifoaming agent, manufactured by Wacker Asahikasei Silicone Co., Ltd.) and 5.25 g (0.052 mol) of triethylamine to prepare an aqueous solution, to which was added 869 g of polyurethane resin composition PP-05 (60 to 70° C.) obtained above slowly enough to keep the temperature of reaction system below 40° C. while the solution was stirred. After the addition, the mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 30 minutes, here was gradually added dropwise 56.4 g of 25-mass % aqueous ethylenediamine (ethylenediamine: 14.4 g (0.24 mol)), and the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 30 minutes. To this mixture was added a liquid mixture of 9.9 g (0.057 mol) of adipic acid dihydrazide and 30 g of water, and the mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 1 hour to obtain water-dispersed polyurethane composition U-05.
Example 4
Synthesis of Intermediate Raw Material PP-D [Nonionic Group-Introducing Compound (c3)]
To a reaction flask were charged 575 g (1.0 mol) of nurate form of 1,6-hexane diisocyanate (NCO-equivalent: 190) and 1000 g (1.0 mol) of polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether (weight-average molecular weight: 1000). When the reaction was performed under nitrogen at 115 to 120° C. for 2 hours, the NCO % was found to be 5.3%, and thus intermediate raw material PP-D was obtained.
Synthesis of Nonionic Water-Dispersed Polyurethane Composition U-06
To a reaction flask were charged 202.7 g (0.203 mol) of a polyesterdiol having a number-average molecular weight of 1000 obtained from terephthalic acid and methylpentanediol, 47.1 g (0.40 mol) of methylpentanediol, 205.9 g (0.786 mol) of dicyclohexylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate (hydrogenated MDI), 72.3 g (0.09 mol) of intermediate raw material PP-B, 152.3 g (0.1 mol) of intermediate raw material PP-D, and 184.8 g of N-methylpyrrolidone as a solvent. When the reaction was performed under nitrogen at 100° C. to 120° C. for 3.0 hours, the NCO % was found to become 4.0%. To this mixture was added 1.6 g of A-1100 (silane coupling agent, manufactured by Dow Corning Toray Co., Ltd.), the reaction was performed at 60 to 80° C. for 1 hour, and here were added 1068 g of water and 1.0 g of Adecanate B-1016 (silicone-type antifoaming agent, manufactured by Asahi Denka Co., Ltd.). The mixture was cooled to 30° C., here was added 32.2 g of a mixture of ethylenediamine and water (⅓) dropwise, the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 10 minutes, here was added a liquid mixture of 24.8 g (0.095 mol) of adipic acid dihydrazide and 74.4 g of water, and the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 1 hour. The stirring was continued until the NCO group disappeared to obtain water-dispersed polyurethane composition U-06.
Comparative Example 3
Synthesis of Nonionic Water-Dispersed Polyurethane Composition U-07
To a reaction flask were charged 202.7 g (0.203 mol) of a polyesterdiol having a number-average molecular weight of 1000 obtained from terephthalic acid and methylpentanediol, 47.1 g (0.40 mol) of methylpentanediol, 228.3 g (0.871 mol) of dicyclohexylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate (hydrogenated MDI), 152.3 g (0.1 mol) of intermediate raw material PP-D, and 105 g of N-methylpyrrolidone as a solvent. When the reaction was performed under nitrogen at 100° C. to 120° C. for 3.0 hours, the NCO % was found to become 4.5%. To this mixture was added 1.6 g of A-1100 (silane coupling agent, manufactured by Dow Corning Toray Co., Ltd.), the reaction was performed at 60 to 80° C. for 1 hour, and here were added 1068 g of water and 1.0 g of Adecanate B-1016 (silicone-type antifoaming agent, manufactured by Asahi Denka Co., Ltd.). After the mixture was cooled to 30° C., here was added dropwise 32.2 g of a liquid mixture of ethylenediamine and water (⅓), and the mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 10 minutes. To this mixture was added a liquid mixture of 24.8 g (0.095 mol) of adipic acid dihydrazide and 74.4 g of water, and the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 1 hour. The stirring was continued until the NCO group disappeared to obtain water-dispersed polyurethane composition U-07.
Example 5
Synthesis of Cationic Water-Dispersed Polyurethane Composition U-08
To a reaction flask were charged 127.2 g (0.127 mol) of a polyesterdiol having a number-average molecular weight of 1000 obtained from terephthalic acid and methylpentanediol, 5.7 g (0.043 mol) of trimethylolpropane, 143.9 g (0.549 mol) of dicyclohexylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate (hydrogenated MDI), 51.3 g (0.077 mol) of intermediate raw material PP-B, 24.9 g (0.21 mol) of N-methyl-N,N-diethanolamine, and 51.3 g of N-methylpyrrolidone as a solvent. When the reaction was conducted under nitrogen at 100° C. to 120° C. for 3.0 hours, the NCO % was found to become 3.8%. To this mixture were added 0.9 g of benzotriazole and 3.1 g of A-1100 (silane coupling agent, manufactured by Dow Corning Toray Co., Ltd.), the reaction was performed at 60 to 80° C. for 1 hour, here was added 35.2 g (0.587 mol) of acetic acid, and the mixture was stirred for 30 minutes. To this mixture were added 660 g of water and 1.0 g of Adecanate B-1016 (silicone-type antifoaming agent, manufactured by Asahi Denka Co., Ltd.), the resulting mixture was cooled to 30° C. To this mixture was added a liquid mixture of 17.7 g (0.068 mol) of adipic acid dihydrazide and 53.1 g of water, and the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 1 hour and then at 60° C. for 1 hour. The stirring was continued until the NCO group disappeared to obtain water-dispersed polyurethane composition U-08.
Example 6
Synthesis of Polyurethane Resin Composition PP-09 (Prepolymer)
To a reaction flask were charged 280 g (0.28 mol) of a polyesterdiol having a number-average molecular weight of 1000 obtained from terephthalic acid and methylpentanediol, 11.8 g (0.094 mol) of melamine, 37.2 g (0.31 mol) of dimethylolpropionic acid, 547.6 g (2.09 mol) of hydrogenated MDI, 139.2 g (0.16 mol) of intermediate raw material PP-B, and 297 g of methyl ethyl ketone as a solvent. When the mixture was reacted under nitrogen at 110° C. to 120° C. for 2.5 to 3.0 hours, the NCO % was found to become 3.8%. After cooling to 70 to 80° C., to the reaction mixture were added 1.9 g of benzotriazole and 6.8 g of A-1100 (amino group-containing silane, manufactured by Nippon Unicar Company Limited), and the reaction was performed at temperature of 70 to 80° C. for 30 minutes. The mixture was cooled to 60 to 70° C., here was added 31.3 g (0.31 mol) of triethylamine, and the reaction was performed at 60 to 70° C. for 30 minutes to obtain polyurethane resin composition PP-09.
Latex Formation
To 1071 g of water at 20 to 25° C. were added 1.1 g of B-1016 (silicone-type antifoaming agent, manufactured by Asahi Denka Co., Ltd.) and 5.25 g (0.052 mol) of triethylamine to prepare an aqueous solution, to which was added 869 g of polyurethane resin composition PP-09 (60 to 70° C.) obtained above slowly enough to keep the temperature of reaction system below 40° C. while the solution was stirred. After the addition, the mixture solution was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 30 minutes, here was gradually added dropwise 56.4 g of 25-mass % of aqueous ethylenediamine (ethylenediamine: 14.4 g (0.24 mol)), and the mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 30 minutes. Then here was added a liquid mixture of 9.9 g (0.057 mol) of adipic acid dihydrazide and 30 g of water, the resultant mixture was stirred at 20 to 40° C. for 1 hour, methyl ethyl ketone was distilled off under reduced pressure, and 297 g of water was added to obtain water-dispersed polyurethane composition U-09 having a solid content of 30%.
Test Example
The following evaluations were performed for the water-dispersed polyurethane compositions obtained by Examples and Comparative Examples.
<Curing Property>
The water-dispersed polyurethane compositions were applied in a thickness of 20 μm onto a surface-treated steel plate and the tackiness was examined at 80° C. to rate in the following scale.
5: Tack free 4: Slightly sticky 3: Sticky 2: Largely sticky 1: Not cured
<Adhesiveness>
The water-dispersed polyurethane composition was applied in a thickness of 1 μm onto an untreated electrogalvanized steel plate and dried while heated in an atmosphere at 300° C. for 15 seconds so that the temperature of the steel plate was 150° C. to obtain a specimen. The coating film on the specimen was crosscut and tried to peel using a tape to rate the degree of peeling-off in the following scale.
5: No abnormality is observed in the coating film. 4: In slight part (area not more than 5%) the coating film is lifted. 3: In small part (area more than 5% and not more than 20%) the coating film is lifted. 2: In large part (area over 20%) the coating film is lifted. 1: The coating film is completely peeled off.
<Water Resistance>
The water-dispersed polyurethane composition was applied in a thickness of 1 μm onto an untreated electrogalvanized steel plate and dried while heated in an atmosphere at 300° C. for 15 seconds so that the temperature of the steel plate was 150° C. to obtain a specimen. The specimen was immersed in warm water at 40° C. for 1 hour and the state of the coating film was rated in the following scale.
5: No abnormality is observed in the coating film. 4: In slight part (area not more than 5%) the coating film is lifted. 3: In small part (area more than 5% and not more than 20%) the coating film is lifted. 2: In large part (area over 20%) the coating film is lifted. 1: The coating film is completely peeled off.
<Alkali Resistance>
The water-dispersed polyurethane composition was applied in a thickness of 1 μm onto an untreated electrogalvanized steel plate and dried while heated in an atmosphere at 300° C. for 15 seconds so that the temperature of the steel plate was 150° C. to obtain a specimen. The specimen was immersed in an aqueous solution (pH 12) at 60° C. for 10 minutes and the state of the coating film was rated in the following scale.
5: No abnormality is observed in the coating film. 4: In slight part (area not more than 5%) the coating film is lifted. 3: In small part (area more than 5% and not more than 20%) the coating film is lifted. 2: In large part (area over 20%) the coating film is lifted. 1: The coating film is completely peeled off.
<Weather Resistance>
The water-dispersed polyurethane composition was applied in a thickness of 20 μm onto a surface-treated steel plate and kept for 1 day to form a cured coating film. The cured coating film was further dried while heated at 120° C. for 1 hour to obtain a specimen. The degradation of the specimen was promoted with a xenon weatherometer for 30 hours and then the state of the coating film was rated in the following scale.
5: No abnormality is observed in the coating film. 4: In slight part (area not more than 5%) the coating film is lifted. 3: In small part (area more than 5% and not more than 20%) the coating film is lifted. 2: In large part (area over 20%) the coating film is lifted. 1: The coating film is completely peeled off.
<Corrosion Resistance>
A composition obtained by mixing 100 parts by mass of colloidal silica relative to 100 parts by mass of the water-dispersed polyurethane composition was applied in a thickness of 1 μm onto an untreated electrogalvanized steel plate and dried while heated in an atmosphere at 300° C. for 15 seconds so that the temperature of the steel plate was 150° C. to obtain a specimen. The SST (saline spray test) was conduced for the specimen and the occurrence of white rust in the specimen were rated in the following scale at 24 and 48 hours.
5: White rust incidence is less than 5%. 4: White rust incidence is not less than 5% and less than 20%. 3: White rust incidence is not less than 20% and less than 50%. 2: White rust incidence is not less than 50% and less than 80%. 1: White rust incidence is more than 80%.
<Friction Coefficient>
The water-dispersed polyurethane composition was applied in a thickness of 1 μm onto an untreated electrogalvanized steel plate and dried while heated in an atmosphere at 300° C. for 15 seconds so that the temperature of the steel plate was 150° C. to obtain a specimen. The friction coefficient of the coating film in the specimen was measured using a friction coefficient measurement apparatus (manufactured by Heidon).
<Contact Angle>
The water-dispersed polyurethane composition was applied in a thickness of 1 μm onto an untreated electrogalvanized steel plate and dried while heated in an atmosphere at 300° C. for 15 seconds so that the temperature of the steel plate was 150° C. to obtain a specimen. The contact angles of water and oil on the coating film in the specimen were measured using a contact angle meter (manufactured by Kyowa Interface Science, Co. Ltd.).
These results are shown in Tables 1 and 2.
TABLE 1
Comparative
Examples
Examples
1
2
3
1
2
Water-dispersed polyurethane composition
U-01
U-02
U-05
U-03
U-04
Performance
Curing property
5
5
4
5
5
evaluation
Adhesiveness
5
5
5
5
5
Water resistance
5
5
5
3
3
Alkali resistance
5
5
5
5
5
Weather resistance
5
5
5
3
3
Corrosion
24 hours
5
5
5
1
2
resistance
48 hours
4
5
4
1
1
Friction coefficient
0.23
0.25
0.3
0.36
0.4
Contact
Water
106
90
85
72
70
angle
Rape oil
50
35
30
20
15
TABLE 2
Comparative
Examples
Examples
4
5
6
3
Water-dispersed polyurethane composition
U-06
U-08
U-09
U-07
Performance
Curing property
5
5
5
5
evaluation
Adhesiveness
5
5
5
5
Water resistance
4
5
5
1
Alkali resistance
4
5
5
2
Weather resistance
5
4
5
5
Corrosion
24 hours
3
5
5
1
resistance
48 hours
2
4
5
1
Friction coefficient
0.22
0.2
0.28
0.45
Contact
Water
105
95
92
60
angle
Rape oil
50
30
38
20
As is clearly seen in Tables 1 and 2, for the water-dispersed polyurethane compositions (Comparative Examples 1, 2 and 3), which were water-dispersed polyurethane compositions using a polyisocyanate component, a polyol component, and water but were prepared by using an isocyanate other than the isocyanate represented by general formula (I) as the polyisocyanate component, the coating films formed therefrom were inferior in water resistance, weather resistance, corrosion resistance, water repellency, oil repellency, and the like.
On the contrary, the water-dispersed polyurethane compositions (Examples 1 to 6) of the present invention, which contained polyisocyanate component (a), polyol component (b), and water as the essential components and were obtained by using the isocyanate represented by general formula (I) as polyisocyanate component (a), were excellent in curing property and adhesiveness to a substrate, and the coating films formed therefrom were excellent in performances such as water resistance, alkali resistance, weather resistance, corrosion resistance, water repellency, and oil repellency, clearly indicating that the compositions are suitable as paint for steel plates.
Particularly, it is clear that the anionic water-dispersed polyurethane compositions (Examples 1 to 3 and 6), in which anionic group-introducing compound (c1) and anionic group neutralizer (d1) are additionally used together with the above essential components, and the cationic water-dispersed polyurethane composition (Example 5), in which cationic group-introducing compound (c2) and cationic group neutralizer (d2) are additionally used, are significantly excellent in improving effect on corrosion resistance.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
The water-dispersed polyurethane composition of the present invention can provide a coating film excellent in adhesiveness, water resistance, corrosion resistance, heat resistance, weather resistance, water repellency, oil repellency, and the like, and can be suitably used as paint, especially as paint for surface-treated steel plates.
1. A water-dispersed polyurethane composition comprising a polyisocyanate component (a), a polyol component (b), and water as essential components, wherein, at least, an isocyanate represented by general formula (I) below is used as the polyisocyanate component (a):
wherein R1 represents an alkyl group having 10 to 30 carbon atoms, R2 represents —N═C═O or —NH—C(═O)—O—R1, and A represents a residue other than two —N═C═O groups derived from a diisocyanate.
2. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 1, wherein A in general formula (I) above is the residue other than two —N═C═O groups derived from 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate.
3. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 1, wherein dicyclohexylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate is additionally used as the polyisocyanate component (a).
4. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 1, wherein a diol component is contained as the polyol component (b) and the diol component is a polyesterdiol.
5. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 1, further comprising an anionic group-introducing compound (c1) and an anionic group neutralizer (d1) as essential components.
6. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 5, wherein the anionic group in the anionic group-introducing compound (c1) is a carboxyl group or a sulfonic acid group.
7. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 1, further comprising a cationic group-introducing compound (c2) and a cationic group neutralizer (d2) as essential components.
8. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 7, wherein the cationic group in the cationic group-introducing compound (c2) is a tertiary amino group.
9. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 1, wherein polyoxyethylene units are present in the main-chain or side-chain of the polyurethane and the content of the polyoxyethylene units is not less than 1% by mass in the polyurethane.
10. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition is used as paint.
11. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 10, wherein the paint is paint for surface-treated steel plates.
12. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 2, wherein dicyclohexylmethane-4,4′-diisocyanate is additionally used as the polyisocyanate component (a).
13. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 2, wherein a diol component is contained as the polyol component (b) and the diol component is a polyesterdiol.
14. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 3, wherein a diol component is contained as the polyol component (b) and the diol component is a polyesterdiol.
15. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 2, further comprising an anionic group-introducing compound (c1) and an anionic group neutralizer (d1) as essential components.
16. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 3, further comprising an anionic group-introducing compound (c1) and an anionic group neutralizer (d1) as essential components.
17. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 4, further comprising an anionic group-introducing compound (c1) and an anionic group neutralizer (d1) as essential components.
18. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 2, further comprising a cationic group-introducing compound (c2) and a cationic group neutralizer (d2) as essential components.
19. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 2, wherein the cationic group in the cationic group-introducing compound (c2) is a tertiary amino group.
20. The water-dispersed polyurethane composition according to claim 2, wherein polyoxyethylene units are present in the main-chain or side-chain of the polyurethane and the content of the polyoxyethylene units is not less than 1% by mass in the polyurethane.
| 2005-09-21 | en | 2008-08-14 |
US-201113825108-A | Test system and method
ABSTRACT
The present invention relates to an apparatus for detecting compounds, the apparatus having a device defining a disk-shaped geometry, the device having a centre, a plurality of fluid channels each comprising a fluid inlet positioned at a first distance from the centre and a fluid channel end at a second distance from the centre, the second distance being larger than the first distance, one or more sensors arranged at each fluid channel, wherein the sensors each comprise at least one optical detectable member, the test apparatus further comprising one or more optical sensing devices arranged for sensing the at least one optical detectable member of the one or more sensors, and a rotation device adapted for rotating the device so that the sensors pass over the one or more optical sensing devices. Further the present invention relates to a method for determining compounds comprising providing an apparatus for detecting compounds having a device defining a disk-shaped geometry, the device having a centre, a plurality of fluid channels each comprising a fluid inlet positioned at a first distance from the centre and a fluid channel end at a second distance from the centre, the second distance being larger than the first distance, one or more sensors arranged at each fluid channel, wherein the sensors each comprise at least one optical detectable member, the test apparatus further comprising one or more optical sensing devices arranged for sensing the at least one optical detectable member of the one or more sensors, and a rotation device adapted for rotating the device so that the sensors pass over the one or more optical sensing devices, the method comprising: providing a fluid at an inlet near the centre of the device, rotating the device, and obtaining properties of the sensors using the optical sensing devices.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an apparatus for analysing samples and methods for analysing samples.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Test devices, such as described in WO 2006/122360, are used for performing analysis and test of chemical compounds, e.g. identification of compounds in liquids.
Present test systems suffer from low throughput and hence, an improved device and measurement method would be advantageous, and in particular a more efficient and/or reliable generation of multi-parameter data would be advantageous.
It is one object of the present invention to provide an alternative to the prior art.
It may be seen as an object of the present invention to provide a test system for performing multiple parallel analyses, providing a higher throughput and thus a more efficient system. Such a system solves the above mentioned problems of the prior art and provides a much improved testing system and method.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Thus, the above described object and several other objects are intended to be obtained in a first aspect of the invention by providing an apparatus for detecting compounds. The apparatus having a device defining a disk-shaped geometry, the device having a centre, a plurality of fluid channels each comprising a fluid inlet positioned at a first distance from the centre and a fluid channel end at a second distance from the centre, the second distance being larger than the first distance, one or more sensors arranged at each fluid channel, wherein the sensors each comprise at least one optical detectable member, the test apparatus further comprising one or more optical sensing devices arranged for sensing the at least one optical detectable member of the one or more sensors, and a rotation device adapted for rotating the device so that the sensors pass over the one or more optical sensing devices. The optical sensing devices is configured or adapted to sense or detect properties of the sensor, i.e. the optically detectable member. The sensors may individually be arranged so as to pass over one or more of the optical sensing devices. Further one or more of the optical sensing devices may be adapted to be moveable so as to perform measurements on one or more sensors at different distance from the centre of the device.
The fluid channels may advantageously be substantially straight lines from the centre of the device. One or more of the fluid channels may include an extended area or volume i.e. a test chamber as described below. The inlet of the fluid channel is preferably all positioned at the same distance from the centre of the disk-shaped device. The fluid channel end may be a reservoir for collecting residual fluid. Alternatively an outlet port may be provided so that fluid may be extracted or discarded. The fluid channels may include capillary valves.
Advantageously the optical, or optically, detectable member in the sensor may include a beam. Advantageously the optical detectable member in the sensor may include a cantilever beam. Alternatively the optical detectable member in the sensor may not include a beam but be a Surface-enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) substrate.
The test apparatus is configured or adapted to rotating the device after a sample is introduced. The device is preferably disk-shaped, i.e. circular and substantially flat. The device is a carrier having one or more fluid channels. When the device is rotated the sample is moved from the initial position near the centre of the device towards the rim of the device due to centrifugal forces and/or capillary forces.
The rotation device may be an electro motor having a belt drive coupled to the device, i.e. the disk-shaped carrier.
Advantageously two or more sensors may be arranged in a fluid channel at different radii. By positioning two or more sensors, e.g. three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or even more sensors at different positions in a fluid channel several measurements are possible in the same operation, thereby allowing higher throughput of measurements. The measurements may include determination of the presence of a specific compound. Corresponding optical sensing devices may be positioned at the radii where the sensors are located in the fluid channels. Alternatively one or more optical sensing devices may be placed on a movable mount so as to move the optical sensor between one or more positions where measurements are to be performed.
Advantageously each of the sensors are arranged in a test chamber in fluid communication with a respective fluid channel. The test chamber may be an enlarged area in the channel, e.g. a space or cavity, where a sensor is positioned
Advantageously the optical sensing device is arranged so as to sense deflection property, surface property and/or frequency property of the at least one beam. The sensors may include a multitude of beams as described in more detail elsewhere in the present description. Advantageously between 15 and 30 beams are used per sensing chamber, such as 24 beams. Advantageously between 6 and 30 chambers or cavities are used in one device, which corresponds to between 144 and 720 beam in a device.
Advantageously at least one of the optical sensing devices may be arranged for detecting wobbling of the device and a controller for determining corrective values for the optical sensing device. By detecting wobbling of the device, i.e. when the device is spun, is useful as irregularity of the device and/or misalignment of the device relative to the optical sensing device may lead to misinterpretation of the measurements.
Advantageously the sensor, e.g. the one or more beams, includes receptors, DNA strands, antibodies, antigens or enzymes which will selectively attract and bond with the particular substance to be detected. As mentioned when a compound to be detected is bound to a beam, the properties of the beam will change and the amount and/or presence of the compound may be determined.
Advantageously at least one of the optical sensing devices have an optical input having a numerical aperture in the interval 0.1 to 0.85. When using a commercially available optical sensing device, e.g. an optical pick-up head of a DVD player or the like, it is advantageous to adapt or modify the numerical aperture of the lens in the optical device so as to obtain an optimal detection of the sensor, i.e. the beams.
Advantageously the apparatus may include a connection to a computer device allowing the position of the sensors to be determined and displayed by the computer. Further the computer device may be used for controlling the apparatus and its components, e.g. the computer device may provide a graphical user interface. The computer device may be used for collecting data from the optical sensing devices. A storage device may be provided in the apparatus so as to collect and store data from the different sensors.
Advantageously at least one of the optical sensing devices may include a first and a second optical receiver, wherein the first optical receiver is adapted for determining and compensating wobbling of the device and the second optical receiver is adapted for determining properties of the sensors. By having two optical receivers, the two may be used for different purposes.
Advantageously the device includes a patterned ring and the first optical receiver is adapted for calibration by detecting the patterned ring. This patterned ring may be used for calibration purposes. The patterned ring may be a circular track in the device.
Advantageously the sensors are read, or measured, using astigmatism and the apparatus comprises an optical read head from a CD-player, a DVD-player and/or a Blu-ray player. It is contemplated to be advantageous to use an existing system having an optical reader i.e. an optical pick-up head.
A second aspect of the present invention relates to a method for determining compounds comprising the steps of providing an apparatus for detecting compounds having a device defining a disk-shaped geometry, the device having a centre, a plurality of fluid channels each comprising a fluid inlet positioned at a first distance from the centre and a fluid channel end at a second distance from the centre, the second distance being larger than the first distance, one or more sensors arranged at each fluid channel, wherein the sensors each comprise at least one optical detectable member, the test apparatus further comprising one or more optical sensing devices arranged for sensing the at least one optical detectable feature of the one or more sensors, and a rotation device adapted for rotating the device so that the sensors pass over the one or more optical sensing devices, the method comprising providing a fluid at an inlet near the centre of the device, rotating the device, and obtaining properties of the sensors using the optical sensing device.
The method may provide high throughput analysis of samples with multiple, parallel measurements.
Advantageously the apparatus used for the method may include any of the features of the first aspect.
Advantageously the method may further comprise determining one or more of: deflection, resonant frequency, surface roughness, and/or thermal noise of sensors. A combination of detection of more than one property may increase the reliability and/or precision of the detection/measurement.
Advantageously the optical sensing device includes a first and a second optical receiver, wherein the first optical receiver is adapted for determining wobbling of the device and the second optical receiver is adapted for determining properties of the sensors, and the method may comprise calibrating the optical sensing device using the signal from the first optical receiver
The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for obtaining a test system for testing fluids and determining compounds in the fluids.
The apparatus according to the present invention have small dimension and/or weight compared to related products.
It is contemplated that the apparatus and method according to the present invention will provide extremely cost reduction of the final product, while maintaining high throughput beam reading. With the present invention around 20000 beam measurements can be done in 1 minute compare to 1 single measurement in 15 minutes with traditional systems in comparative conditions (i.e. using the system according to the present invention at 1 hertz spinning).
The apparatus according to the present invention will provide greater, i.e. improved, precision of the measurements.
The apparatus according to the present invention will allow measurements to be performed with flexibility: possibility of coating beams of the same device/disk with different chemistry: will allow sensing several biochemical compounds with a single, compact, low cost platform.
When using the apparatus according to the present invention it is contemplated to allow easy replacement of the sensing tools: it will be as easy as changing a DVD from the player.
Advantageously the beams are cantilever beams or beams supported at more than one side or end, e.g. doubly clamped beams.
The apparatus according to the present invention provide a unique system allowing a number of different measurements in one single platform, e.g. 3 different measurements: bending, thermal noise and roughness. This is not possible in existing commercial products.
In the apparatus according to the present invention the Raman peak intensity may be significantly enhanced when the SERS substrate is integrated in this specific design giving more sensitive results which is important for detecting trace of chemical compounds in the air for example.
The first and second aspects of the present invention may each be combined with any of the other aspects and features mentioned in relation to any of these aspects may be combined in any possible ways. These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Embodiment of the apparatus and method according to the invention will now be described in more detail with regard to the accompanying figures. The FIGS. show one way of implementing the present invention and is not to be construed as being limiting to other possible embodiments falling within the scope of the attached claim set.
FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of parts of a system according to the present invention,
FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a system and measurements,
FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of measurement results for protein detection,
FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of measurement results for antibodies detection,
FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a device according to the present invention,
FIG. 6A and 6B are schematic illustrations of a block diagram of systems according to the present invention,
FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of the principle of astigmatism,
FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of a sensor having cantilevers,
FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of optical sensors having different numerical apertures,
FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of different measurements,
FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a device according to the present invention,
FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of details of a measurement setup,
FIG. 13 is a photograph of a disk for a test system according to the present invention,
FIG. 14 is a photograph of a part of a device and an optical pick-up head,
FIG. 15 is an image of an optical sensing device having two optical receivers,
FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration of a cantilever sensor,
FIG. 17 is an image of a part of a sensor having multiple beams,
FIG. 18 is a schematic illustration of a fluid channel,
FIG. 19 is a schematic illustration of a device having a number of fluid channels,
FIG. 20 is an image of a part of a fluid channel,
FIG. 21 is a schematic illustration of a device and close-up illustrations of parts of the device, and
FIG. 22 is a schematic illustration of the calibration using an optical sensing device having two optical receivers.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Cantilever-based sensors have for more than 15 years been studied as a tool for label-free sensing. Molecules bind to cantilevers and cause the cantilevers to bend and/or the resonant frequency to change. These sensors have been limited in terms of few data sets and little statistics. We propose to use optics and mechanics from a regular DVD player to handle liquid samples and to read-out cantilever deflection, resonant frequency and surface roughness. More than 1000 cantilevers can be read per second and the approach was used to detect the specific binding of streptavidin and antibodies. We see the DVD platform as an instrument to achieve high volume data sets facilitating the use of cantilever-based sensing in high throughput label-free sensing.
Micrometer and even nanometer sized cantilevers have since the mid-1990s been studied and used for label free molecular recognition. For molecular recognition the cantilever is typically functionalized with probe molecules designed to specifically bind certain target molecules in solution. The specific binding of target molecules causes the cantilever to deflect due to a change in surface stress. Alternatively, the mass change of the cantilever can be monitored by measuring the resonant frequency change of the cantilever because the resonant frequency is inversely proportional to the added mass.
Today, the prevalent method of monitoring vibrational amplitudes and cantilever deflection is based on the optical leverage technique widely used in atomic force microscopy8. Such systems are typically bulky because of the requirement for a long optical path. Also, the focusing of the laser spot on the cantilever and the alignment of the laser beam on the optical detector are tedious and time consuming. Alternatively, a CCD camera has been used for monitoring cantilever deflection and hereby large 2-dimensional arrays of cantilevers can be read simultaneously with a deflection resolution of approximately 1 nm 9. However, the method requires that all cantilevers are in the same focal plane which is extremely difficult to achieve in practice. Both techniques only apply to micrometer sized cantilevers since the spot size in the optical leverage systems is typically 20 □m or above and since the intensity of the reflected light is otherwise too low in the CCD system. Integrated read-out has been suggested by several groups. For example cantilevers with piezoresistive, piezoelectric and MOSFET-based read-out have been developed and applied for molecular recognition. Generally, these cantilevers have to be carefully insulated in order to be operated in liquid and the devices require significantly more packaging due to electrical interconnections. The reported signal-to-noise ratios are in most cases at least a factor of 10 lower than for optical leverage.
Typically, the cantilevers are placed in small polymer or ceramic chambers and different liquids are introduced using i.e. syringe pumps. The pumps are a potential noise source and the liquid handling is tedious and slow. Finally, few papers on cantilever-based sensing present statically analyzed data sets—probably because cantilever sensing is normally performed on one or maybe two cantilevers at a time (one for reference) and a single measurement is rather elaborate and time consuming, primarily because of the instrumentation.
We report on a DVD based sensor platform that reduces the aforementioned obstacles and challenges in cantilever based sensing. The concept is illustrated in FIG. 1. A DVD shaped disk is used to mount up to 90 cantilever chips, each with 8 cantilevers, in a radial symmetry. In this work silicon cantilevers with a length of 500 μm a width of 100 μm and a thickness of 1 μm have been used16. All cantilevers are coated on the top side with a nm thick gold layer. The disc is 25 structured in Pyrex and the polymer SU-8 and contains holding substrates for the cantilever chips. The cantilever chips are simply clicked into the holding substrates after functionlization and can be replaced by tweezers without significantly damaging the chips. This leads to a flexible sensing system, where differently functionalized chips can be interchanged depending on the analytes to be detected. Approximately 1 mm below the disk four DVD-ROM optical pickup heads (PUHs) provide the read-out system. The disk is spun and cantilevers are illuminated by the DVD lasers with a wavelength of 650 nm and a spot diameter of only 0.56 μm (FWHM). The deflection profiles are measured using the astigmatism-based detection mechanism normally used for auto focusing. The PUH can measure the cantilever profile with a resolution better than 1 nm in Z direction allowing precise and automated 3D reconstructions of the cantilever surfaces. We have measured cantilever deflections at rotating velocities up to 120 rpm, which equals to more than 1000 cantilevers per second. At present, typical measurements are performed at 0.1-2 rpm (1-20 cantilevers per second). The DVD disc format has in the past 10 years been widely used for liquid handling. By spinning the disc the generated centrifugal forces can be used to move liquid from the inner part of the disc and towards the outer rim. In our design liquid can be handled using capillary valves which burst at certain frequencies. These allow precise sample dispensing to the reservoirs where the cantilever chips are clamped.
A photograph of the realized DVD platform with mounted cantilever chips is shown in FIG. 2A. A reflective aluminum pattern on the disk surface ensures that the DVD-ROM PUH maintains the focus distance. The laser scans from the bottom, passing through the glass substrate and focuses on the cantilever surface (FIG. 2B). Typical sampling rate corresponds to around 1000 measurement points across the width of each cantilever. We thus obtain a profile where data points are acquired every 100 nm along the width of the cantilever.
An example of raw signal acquired during one revolution of the disk is shown in FIG. 2C. The plot is composed of around 1.000.000 data points. Each peak represents a chip (composed of 8 cantilevers). Typical experiments include or consist of 30-50 revolutions, resulting in up to 50 million measurement points. Strong data processing is thus required in order to extract the useful information from the large amount of data. Zooming in on FIG. 2C we can extract the individual cantilever profiles, as seen in FIG. 2D. Knowing the rotating velocity it is possible to convert the Y axis to a traveling distance.
Before sensing experiments are performed, each cantilever is fully characterized by at least 10 measurements (10 revolutions of the disk). The variance of the measurements is used to evaluate the reliability of the measurements. Typically, the standard deviation after 10 measurements is below 10 nm. The noise is typically higher at the outer 10-15 microns of the cantilever profile, and this region is therefore generally removed before data processing. Once the data process is performed it is possible to obtain a detailed statistical analysis of the initial conditions of the cantilevers in air. The histogram in FIG. 2E shows the distribution of initial cantilever bending from 30 chips (240 cantilevers) measured over 10 revolutions. The average bending is 0.49 μm, with a standard deviation of 0.43 μm
An example of eight reconstructed cantilever surfaces from a single chip is shown in FIG. 2F. The 3D reconstruction gives valuable information on the roughness of the cantilever surface. In our work, the roughness is used to evaluate the distribution of biomolecules on the cantilever surface. When inhomogeneous binding of material occurs, the optical properties (refractivity, reflectivity) change, giving rise to a “rough” optical profile. When monolayer-type binding occurs, the optical profile of the surface appears smooth.
For biomolecular binding experiments, 8 cantilevers were functionalized with thiolated biotin and 8 untreated cantilevers were used for reference measurements. Next, the chips were inserted into the DVD platform and exposed to a buffer solution containing streptavidin (concentration??). After exposure, all cantilevers were gently washed in deionized (DI) water in order to remove any residual salt from the buffer solution. After washing, the water was left to evaporate and the cantilever responses were measured continuously. FIG. 3A shows the averaged 3D reconstruction of 8 untreated cantilevers, measured before the injection of streptavidin into the cantilever reservoir. The surfaces have a low roughness of a few nm, indicating that the gold layer is clean. The initial deflection (at the cantilever apex) is around 5 μm. After the injection of streptavidin and a washing step the same cantilevers show a high increase in the surface roughness, indicating that an inhomogeneous layer has been formed. Additionally, the deflection of the cantilever has changed approximately 1 μm. Both observations can be explained by unspecific binding of streptavidin to the cantilever surface.
The cantilevers functionalized with biotin are initially bent 6-7 μm at the cantilever apex and the surface appears optically smooth, see FIG. 3C. This suggests that the biotin functionalization has created a monolayer on the gold surface of the cantilevers. After the biotin-streptavidin binding has occurred, the observed change in cantilever bending is approximately 3 pm and the roughness of the surface appears unchanged, indicating that streptavidin has been uniformly bound to the biotin layer.
In FIG. 3E a statistical analysis of the change in the bending of the cantilevers is shown. Each data point corresponds to the averaged value from 8 cantilevers. We notice, that after the injection of streptavidin the bending of the untreated cantilevers decrease, reaching an asymptotic value after around 15 disc revolutions (corresponding to approximately 5 minutes). At this stage the water has fully evaporated and stable measurement conditions can be obtained. Similar behavior (but opposite direction) is observed for the biotin functionalized cantilevers. The biotin functionalized cantilevers have an averaged deflection which is approximately 2 μm larger than for the untreated reference cantilevers when the measurements have stabilized. The averaged change in surface roughness (FIG. 3F) is significant for the untreated cantilevers compared with the functionalized ones. This change is faster than the bending, indicating that the evaporation of the water does not affect the distribution of biomolecules on the gold surface. A roughness change is also observed for the biotin-functionalized cantilevers—however it is almost 2 orders of magnitude lower than for the reference cantilevers.
Similar experiments have been performed for detection of the pesticide derivative 2,6-dichlorobenzamide (BAM). The used protocol has been developed for a competitive assay which implies that the sensing cantilevers are initially coated with a layer of BAM 23. As antibodies against BAM bind to the surface the cantilever is anticipated to bend. Two chips have been prepared for the measurements, each containing 2 cantilevers functionalized with BAM, 2 cantilevers with an ovalbumine blocking layer and 4 untreated cantilevers. The initial bending of the cantilevers is measured as above and specific antibodies against BAM are injected into the cantilever reservoirs followed by a rinse in DI water and subsequent water evaporation. FIG. 4A shows the induced averaged bending of the differently functionalized cantilevers. The BAM-functionalized cantilevers deflect approximately 10 μm compared with 3-5 μm for the blank and ovalbumine coated cantilevers. Probably, the antibodies bind strongly to the BAM functionalized surfaces causing a large change in surface stress whereas they bind unspecifically to the other cantilevers, illustrated in FIG. 4B. Cantilever profiles reveal that the untreated cantilevers become significantly rough, while the BAM and ovalbumine coated cantilevers are unaffected by the introduction of antibodies. The ovalbumin coated cantilevers are initially rough reflecting the nature of the coating, see FIG. 4C. We believe that this is once again an indication that specific binding results in ordered uniform layers whereas the unspecific binding results in a random and rough surface.
In the BAM experiments we have also tested the capability of the system to measure changes in the resonant frequency using the thermal noise peaks of the cantilevers24. FIG. 4D shows the change in percentage of the resonant frequency of the 16 cantilevers after the reaction with antibodies has taken place. The BAM functionalized cantilevers have the highest negative change in resonant frequency (approximately 10%), indicating that mass has been added to the cantilever. The ovalbumin blocked and untreated cantilevers have minor changes in the resonant frequencies (1-2%). This smaller change can be attributed to unspecific binding of antibodies as wells as solidification of salt present in the buffer solution. The ovalbumin coated cantilevers have a positive change which might be a result of changes in both added mass and surface stress. The corresponding Q-factors of the cantilevers can be extracted from the resonant curves (FIG. 4E) and they generally follow the changes in resonant frequency.
The DVD platform offers a number of advantages over traditional cantilever sensing. It readily supplies large amount of data for statistical analysis facilitating the onset of statistical cantilever based sensing. Moreover, the platform allows for simultaneous measurements of deflection, vibrational amplitude and surface roughness improving the amount of information to be achieved and consequently the reliability of data.
FIG. 1. (A) Schematic of the DVD-ROM platform for cantilever-based sensing. High throughput sensing as well as liquid handling are achieved by spinning the disk. (B) Chips, each containing eight gold-coated cantilevers, are mounted on the DVD shaped substrate. (C) The chips are clipped onto the substrate and the liquid flow is controlled by capillary valves which burst at a certain threshold frequency.
FIG. 2. (A) Photograph of DVD-ROM platform with integrated cantilever chips. The disc is fabricated in glass and the polymer SU-8. (B) Scanning Electron Microscope image of gold-coated silicon cantilevers with dimensions 100 μm×500 μm×1 μm. (C) Raw data from one revolution of the DVD. Each peak corresponds to one cantilever chip. (D) The obtained profiles from a single cantilever chip. (E) Distribution of the measured initial bending of the silicon cantilevers. (F) Example of 3D reconstruction of eight cantilever surfaces from the same chip.
FIG. 3. (A) Surface reconstruction of gold-coated silicon cantilever. (B) The same cantilever after exposure to streptavidin solution. The roughness is seen to increase. (C) Surface reconstruction of biotin functionalized cantilever and (D) of the same cantilever after reaction with streptavidin. The roughness and deflection are changed significantly. (E,F) Averaged change in cantilever bending and surface roughness for an untreated gold surface (average value of 8 cantilevers) and a biotin functionalized surface (average value of 4 cantilevers). The blue region indicates the time the cantilever is in contact with the streptavidin solution. After approximately 15 revolutions the bending signal stabilizes and the resulting difference in deflection is approximately 2 μm. The surface roughness is unchanged for the biotin functionalized cantilevers whereas it drastically and rapidly increases for the untreated gold surface.
FIG. 4. (A) Averaged changes in cantilever deflections when exposed to BAM antibodies. All data points represent averaged values from either 4 (ovalbumin and BAM coated) or 8 (untreated gold-coated) cantilevers. (B) Graphical representation of the differently coated cantilevers. (C) Averaged changes in surface roughness after exposure to BAM antibodies. The ovalbumin and BAM coated surfaces are basically unchanged whereas large and rapid changes are seen for the gold coated cantilevers. (D,E) Measured averaged changes in resonant frequency and Q-factor . They are seen to drop significantly for the BAM coated cantilevers indicating binding of the BAM antibodies.
The invention includes the integration of four different sensing technologies into a compact, highly sensitive and high throughput single platform. This invention is designed to achieve levels of sensitivity impossible to obtain employing a single-technology based sensor. Biochemical analysis, water control, environmental monitoring, detection of hazardous compounds, both in air and liquid, are suitable applications for our technology.
Our system is based on the integration between DVD-ROM utilities technology, micro-cantilever based sensors, SERS spectroscopy, colorimetric chemical arrays, and spin-based capillary valves technology.
The serial organization of the four sensors, in other embodiments other numbers of sensors are possible, allows the multiple analysis of the same sample, consisting in few microliters of fluid in form of pre-concentrated buffer solution (for measurements in air) or of bio-chemical sample (in case of liquid measurements), leading to a highly increased sensing accuracy. The sample sensing order can be easily inverted or modified in each platform, depending on the biochemical reactions induced in the different sensing reservoirs. Ten or more parallel sensing lines are integrated in the same platform, thus several measurements can be performed simultaneously on the different sensors, leading to a highly flexible and powerful detection system. The complete platform has dimensions comparable with a compact disk (CD).
The readout systems are designed to be compact and robust, in order to allow the device to be easily handled and to reduce the risk of miscalibration during transport processes. Numerical adjustments and calibrations of the mechanical and optical components are employed to compensate the errors induced by external events.
FIG. 5 illustrate the general layout of a system, having or consisting of two main blocks: (i) the rotating platform, composed by a microfluidic substrate, the holding substrate, the colorimetric array chips, the SERS nanograss chips and the 25 microcantilever chips; (ii) the readout system, composed by a CCD camera, the DVD-ROM utilities, and the SERS optical system. The signals obtained by the optoelectronic readout components are sent wireless to a computer in order to be digitally analyzed and treated. It is possible to add a calorimetric bridge sensor and a corresponding electronic block, this is not illustrated in the figure.
The working principle of the complete device is depicted in FIG. 6. First of all, a microfluidic system (composed by pumps, needles and an electronic stage) drives 10 μL of sample into each channel. In each line the sample is driven by centrifugal force through the microchannels into the sensing reservoirs, separated by microcapillary valves that can be opened spinning the platform at certain angular frequencies. Once the desired reaction has been taken place in the first reservoir, the sample will move into the next sensing chamber increasing the spinning velocity of the motor and the second reaction will take place. After the last sensing chamber has been filled and the last sensor covered by the sample liquid, the platform is spun at high frequency (1200 rpm) and the fluid is washed out from the channels and the reservoirs, leaving the system clean and ready to start a new analysis. It is estimated that each cycle time will be of the order of few minutes.
At the end of the entire cycle, each line will provide 4 different analysis (thermal, chemical, vibrational and stress induced) of the same microvolume of sample. It is also important to remark that if we consider that each platform, in one embodiment, will consist in 30 lines, 120 different sensing measurements will be performed at each revolution of the platform. So, if the disk is spun at 1 Hz will lead to 7200 analysis per minute.
The combination between capillary forces and centrifugal force makes possible to design the microfluidic channel in order to provide a pressure barrier capillary-induced equal to the one induced (in opposite direction) by spinning the platform at a given angular frequency, making possible to move the liquid into serial chambers tuning the angular frequency of the platform.
In the first sensing chamber, where the thermal response of the analyte to the temperature change due to melting, evaporation, decomposition or deflagration of the sample is monitored. The signal gives a unique signature for different analyzed compounds.
The sensor includes or consists in a micro heater designed as a bridge, fabricated using standard cleanroom processing techniques. The bridge is made of silicon nitride with integrated heating elements and temperature measurement resistor made of doped silicon. Two microheaters are combined in a differential thermal analysis (DTA) system making calorimetric measurement possible. The electric contacts of the sensors will be connected by removable pins, after the platform has been stopped. A single thermal measurement takes around 100 microseconds to be performed.
The second sensing chamber provides a chemical analysis of the sample based on the ability of certain molecules to change the color when reacting with specific analytes. The monitoring of the color change is obtained through frame capturing the microarray of sensors (96 spots) at each revolution, and treating numerically the data acquired. A CCD camera with integrated image analysis software is employed in the system.
In the third sensing chamber is monitored the stress induced by the binding of specific molecules to a selective surface of a microcantilever beam. Furthermore the change in the resonant frequency due to mass absorption on the cantilever can be measured.
One of the important components for the initial implementation of the present invention was the DVD-ROM setup for the readout analysis and motor control.
FIG. 7 illustrates the cantilever readout principle based on DVD-ROM technology. The deflection of the cantilever beam is measured through the Focus Error signal (FE) obtained differentiating the laser intensities on the four quadrants composing the photodetector. The asymmetry of the laser beam shape is obtained by inducing astigmatic aberration in the optical system. This aberration is induced by cylindrical lenses integrated in the DVD-ROM pickup head optics. Detection of Sub-nanometric displacements of the cantilever are achievable with this type of optical method.
Once the rotating motor is spun, sequential profile analysis of the cantilevers can be performed, together with resonant frequency measurements. The measured profile signal can be averaged over data acquired at each revolution of the platform. Statistical and numerical signal processes of the signals lead to and increased signal to noise ratio and in general to a higher sensitivity to the deflection of the beam.
The substrate-chips system has to be accurately aligned and centered with respect of the rotational axis, and the cantilevers have to be well clamped and parallel oriented to the surface of the disk, as shown in the SEM picture in FIG. 4.
The last sensing process is based on SERS technology. The SERS substrates developed at Nanotech have shown top class properties and application opportunities.
The integration of the Raman analysis into a rotating platform has shown great opportunities in enhancing the Raman peaks intensity. In fact the dynamical readout leads to a statistically larger chance of laser hitting the analyte molecule on the substrate. This is an important issue when trace levels of chemical compounds are has to be monitored. Furthermore it is observed sharper spectra of the vibrational frequencies. Rotating the platform avoid the overheating of the hotspots, hence preventing peak broadening to occur.
After all the signals are obtained, a numerical analysis of the data is needed. The integration of the different sensors provides a very high increase in the sensitivity of the system to one (or more) specific target.
Under complete independence, a clearance efficiency of 60-90%, and a relatively low false alarm rate, the clearance efficiency of the combined system will increase exponentially with the number methods applied to the same area. The false alarm rate, however, will only increase linearly.
Achieving more than 99% efficiency can thus be obtained by applying a few methods, while keeping the false alarm rate low. Even with some dependence among methods it is possible to device a combination strategy which always ensures that the efficiency of the combined system is higher.
Another advantage of combining methods is increased robustness to changing environmental conditions and assumptions.
One of the technologies implemented in the system is the modification of the optical path of the DVD-ROM/Blue-Ray pickup heads.
In order to be able to scan hundreds or thousands of cantilever sensors mounted on the rotational platform, the linear working range of the Focus Error Signal (FES) needs to be tuned.
In fact, using the commercial devices without modification it is impossible to perform high-throughput analysis. This is due to the intrinsic incompatibility between the initial bending of the cantilever sensors (from ±1 μm to ±10 μm), the mechanical wobbling of rotating stages (from ±20 μm to ±500 μm), and the short linear range of commercially designed optical heads (from 2 μm to 6 μm). With commercially available devices it is not possible to monitor the deflection, the roughness and the thermal noise in liquid medium.
Furthermore it is not possible to employ the auto-calibration mechanism that is included in the commercial devices. In fact, if the FES is used for measuring the cantilevers, it cannot be used for auto-tracking the wobbling of the disc. The auto-tracking system measures the variation of the distance between the focal point and the pickup head, thus possible information about the bending of the cantilevers would be suppressed by the re-adjustment of the built-in auto-focusing mechanism.
The apparatus includes a mechanical modification (substitution) of the objective lens of the pickup head of a commercially available unit. We optimized the modification process in order to find the optimal Numerical Aperture (NA) of the lens for specific sensing processes. We are able to tune the optical working range of the FES from few pm up to 350 μm, using lenses whose NA varies from 0.1 to 0.85. We can control the focus distance, the sensitivity of the detection, and the performances of the optical path to work in liquid or in air.
In this way we are able to monitor the deflection, the surface roughness, and the thermal noise of cantilevers loaded on the rotational platform independently on their position of the disc. We can spin the disc very fast, and every cantilever would then lie within the working linear range of the modified optical path. This is also a key technology feature to be able to measure in liquid.
With this technology we can achieve sensitivities of the order of few nm/mV when measuring hundreds of cantilevers per second in liquid medium. Depending on the conditions, sub-nm resolution can be achieved implementing this methodology.
In one approach we develop our technology by using a Blue-Ray optical pickup head to make ultra-high resolution measurements combined with ultra-fast cantilever scanning.
We employ a Blu-Ray disc pickup head which has 2 objective lenses mounted on its moving structure. One lens is originally designed to read DVDs, the other to read Blu-Ray discs.
In our technology we employ both lenses for calibration purposes. The Blu-Ray device (NA=0.85) is focused on a specifically designed patterned ring (coated with reflective material, e.g. Al or Au) and its built-in auto-tracking system is employed to keep the double-lens structure at constant distance from the disc. In this way the wobbling of the rotating stage, even if greater than the working FES range, could be compensated. The second lens (the DVD-ROM one) is then used for scanning the cantilevers and to measure the deflection, surface roughness and thermal noise through the values obtained via the DVD-ROM Focus Error Signal. The Blue-ray pickup head has resolution of hundreds of picometers, thus allowing extremely accurate auto-tracking of the system wobbling. The DVD-ROM lenses, modified according to the previous part, could then be tuned to give extremely accurate and fast analysis of the cantilevers. In this way we can measure simultaneously thousand of independent cantilever sensors with sub-nanometric resolution and with very high speed (up to 1000 cantilever per second).
An approach for wobbling compensation was developed modifying the rotating stage and including a mechanical bearing with high-precision rotational properties. Using this approach we can implement the calibration methods and the optical modification explained in the previous sections into the same, high-throughput and high-resolution readout device.
The astigmatic detection method is a powerful and versatile tool for monitoring the deflection of cantilever beams, as well as to measure their surface properties and their resonance frequencies. The working principle of the DVD-ROM based readout applied to cantilever sensors is schematically illustrated in FIG. 10.
In the device, the cantilever chips are mounted on the rotating disc keeping the sensors suspended over a glass window. The laser beam is positioned at a distance from the cantilever apexes that fall inside the linear range of the Pick-Up Head PUH (a configuration that may be obtained through manipulation of the optical path). When the device, i.e. the disk, is spinning, the laser scans the cantilever beams acquiring the Focus Error Signal generated by the laser spot shape on the PDIC. When the laser path crosses the gap between cantilevers, no signal is acquired due to the lack of reflective material. On the other hand, when the light shines onto the cantilevers the FES is measured and the cantilever signal is acquired.
The signal is thus an array of profiles spaced by null signal. Each point of the profile represents the distance between the PUH and the local position of the reflective surface. Any cantilever deflection would then results in a change in this defocus distance.
The average of these points gives information about the absolute distance between the PUH and the cantilever (illustrated in Bending, Analysis 1 in FIG. 10), while the profile gives information about the surface properties and its roughness (Surface reconstruction, Analysis 2 in FIG. 10).
Another interesting feature of the astigmatic detection system is the capability of measuring small oscillations of the laser intensity illuminating the PDIC, and analyzes them in the frequency domain. Through FFT processing it is hence possible to determine the resonance frequency of vibrating surfaces measuring the periodic oscillations of the focus error signal they generate. The high resolution of the optical head is able to detect oscillation in the sub-nanometer level, allowing the measuring of cantilevers' vibrational frequencies even in absence of external actuation (Thermal noise, Analysis 3 in FIG. 10). The system was then design considering the simultaneous application of the above mentioned measurement techniques. In our technology we can implement in the same device the simultaneous running of the three analysis: Bending (Analysis 1), Surface reconstruction (Analysis 2) Thermal noise (Analysis 3).
An approach for wobbling compensation was developed modifying the rotating stage and including a mechanical bearing with high-precision rotational properties. Using this approach we implement the calibration methods and the optical modification explained in the previous sections into the same, high-throughput and high-resolution readout device.
In order to eliminate the main source of wobbling (the motor shaft and the clamping metal head), a new approach was implemented. A smaller motor was connected to a high-precision rotating bearing through a pulley belt. The bearing has steel spheres that allow the structure to float over the spheres themselves. The wobbling of the stage thus relies on the precision of the dimensions of the spheres (deviation less than 5 μm, from datasheet).
The rotating bearing and the motor are mounted over an alumium support. Two X-Z linear stages hold the PUHs under the rotating bearing. FIGS. 1-2 illustrate a CAD model of the complete system.
New belt-pulling system: the rotating stage is now composed by a big high-precision ring bearing that is pulled by a belt. This design allows the rotating stage precision to rely on the bearing, instead of on the motor shaft. The bearing has X-Y plane precision of about 5 micron (from datasheet specs). Wobbling is thus in this way highly reduced.
The motor is considerably small. However the belt system magnifies the resolution of a factor equal to the ratio of the two radii (20 times in one embodiment). The small motor has resolution of 50.000 step/revolution (0.072 degrees) that become around 100.000 (0.0036 degrees) after pulley-belt conversion.
As described earlier FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of parts of a system according to the present invention. The system comprises a device supported on a rotation unit configured or adapted to rotate the device. The device has a substantially disk-shaped geometry, i.e. round and substantially the same width. The device comprises a central opening adapted to engage the rotation device so as to transfer rotational motion to the device. The device comprises a number of fluid channels having an inlet near the central opening, i.e. near the centre of the device. A number of chambers are formed in the fluid channel, here is illustrated three chambers or cavities each comprising a single sensor. The chambers or cavities are in fluid communication with a neighbouring chamber so that fluid may flow from the inlet to the end of the channel. When the device is spun the fluid inputted at the inlet will be forced through the channel due to the centrifugal force arising from the rotation of the device.
The test apparatus or system comprises four optical sensing devices, here indicated as DVD-ROM pickup head.
The sensors in the device is illustrated as silicon cantilevers having a gold coating.
Also, the fluid channel is illustrated as having capillary valves. This is not a requirement for the device to work, but illustrative of an option for the device.
FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a system and measurements. The DVD-ROM laser in FIG. 2A detects the properties as mentioned and while the device is spun, the laser scans, as illustrated by the line in FIG. 2B, the sensors. FIG. 2C illustrates measurements of the bending of the cantilevers and FIG. 2D illustrates a zoomed view of the measurements. FIG. 2E illustrates the statistical distribution of the measurements and FIG. 2F illustrates 3D reconstruction of the cantilevers based on the measurements.
FIGS. 3 and 4 are schematic illustrations of sets of measurement results as described elsewhere in the present description.
FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a device according to the present invention.
The individual components of an embodiment of a system are indicated. The system is in wireless communication with a computer device acting as output unit. The computer may record and store information from the test system.
FIG. 6A and 6B are schematic illustrations of block diagrams of systems according to the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of the principle of astigmatism.
FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of a sensor having 8 cantilevers. One or more of the cantilevers may be used for calibration or reference.
FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of optical sensors having different numerical apertures. In the upper illustration an optical detector or optical sensing device have a numerical aperture of 0.16, this provides a depth of focus in the range 350 μm as illustrated. In the middle is illustrated an optical detector or optical sensing device have a numerical aperture of 0.6, this provides a depth of focus in the range 6 μm as illustrated. The bottom illustration indicates that a numerical aperture may be chosen in the range 0.1 to 0.6 whereby a depth of focus in the range 2 μm to 500 μm may be achieved.
FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of different measurements, where the upper and lower left figures illustrates detection of the bending of the individual cantilevers, the middle two figures illustrate measurements for the purpose of data reconstruction of the surface of the cantilevers. The upper and lower left illustrations illustrate measurement for determining the resonant frequency of the cantilevers.
FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a device according to the present invention. As illustrates the device comprises three layers, where the top substrate includes the fluid channels. The middle layer is configured to hold the top and bottom substrate together. The bottom substrate includes alignment points for ensuring that the top and bottom substrates are aligned correctly when assembled. The bottom substrate includes a number of SERS chips for performing optical measurements of the Raman scattering.
FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of details of a measurement setup. In the setup a part of the device is illustrated. The device includes a Pyrex body supporting the SU8 and Body chip having an Au pad. Below the device is illustrated the optical device comprising an objective lens, a beam splitter and A/4 plate, a laser diode, a cylindrical lens and a photodiode. The photodiode is also illustrated on the side, where four detectors are used for evaluation of the optical signal.
FIG. 13 is a photograph of a disk for a test system according to the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a photograph of a part of a device and an optical pick-up head. The sensors have been functionalised by coating them with an appropriate coating.
As also illustrated the fluid channel need not be a straight line from the inlet to the sensors.
FIG. 15 is an image of an optical sensing device having two optical pick-up heads. The unit is taken from a commercially available Blu-ray unit and includes two optical units, one originally used for reading Blu-ray disk, and one originally used for reading DVD-ROM disks.
As is illustrated in FIG. 22 the two optical units may be used for other purposes, e.g. one unit may be used for calibration and the other used for detecting or reading the sensors in the device.
FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration of a cantilever sensor. The presence of a compound or other substance, e.g. virus or other biological matter, will change the properties of the sensor, here illustrated as change of surface stress, i.e. bending of the cantilever. A change in temperature may also change the properties of the cantilever/sensor. Also change in mass of the sensor/cantilever may be detected. These changes may be individually analysed or combined to determine if a substance is present or even the amount/concentration may be determined.
FIG. 17 is an image of a part of a sensor having multiple beams, here only part of the beams is shown.
FIG. 18 is a schematic illustration of a fluid channel. An indication of exemplary sizes is given to the individual parts, but other dimension may be applied in other embodiments.
FIG. 19 is a schematic illustration of a device having a number of fluid channels.
FIG. 20 is an image of a part of a fluid channel.
FIG. 21 is a schematic illustration of a device and close-up illustrations of parts of the device. The measurements of the sensor, i.e. the laser scan, and the measurement of the SERS sensor may be combined or performed individually.
FIG. 22 illustrate the use of two optical pickup heads for calibration and detection of the sensors in the device. The figure illustrates what happens if the device wobbles when being rotated. If the disk wobbles the carrier for the optical units are moved up or down in response to the wobbling so as to ensure that the measurements are performed best possible.
Although the present invention has been described in connection with the specified embodiments, it should not be construed as being in any way limited to the presented examples. The scope of the present invention is set out by the accompanying claim set. In the context of the claims, the terms “comprising” or “comprises” do not exclude other possible elements or steps. Also, the mentioning of references such as “a” or “an” etc. should not be construed as excluding a plurality. The use of reference signs in the claims with respect to elements indicated in the figures shall also not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Furthermore, individual features mentioned in different claims, may possibly be advantageously combined, and the mentioning of these features in different claims does not exclude that a combination of features is not possible and advantageous.
1. An apparatus for detecting compounds, comprising:
a device defining a disk-shaped geometry, the device having a centre, a plurality of fluid channels each comprising a fluid inlet positioned at a first distance from the centre and a fluid channel end at a second distance from the centre, the second distance being larger than the first distance, one or more sensors arranged at each fluid channel, wherein the sensors each comprise at least one optical detectable member, the apparatus further comprising one or more optical sensing devices arranged for sensing the at least one optical detectable member of the one or more sensors, and a rotation device adapted for rotating the device so that the sensors pass over the one or more optical sensing devices, wherein the least one optical detectable member is a doubly clamped beam.
2-16. (canceled)
17. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein two or more sensors are arranged in a fluid channel at different radii.
18. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one optical detectable member is a cantilever, a beam, a cantilever beam, or a SERS substrate or any combination thereof.
19. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the optical sensing device is arranged so as to sense deflection property, surface property and/or frequency property of the at least one optical detectable member.
20. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each of the sensors are arranged in a test chamber in fluid communication with a respective fluid channel.
21. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the optical sensing devices is arranged for detecting wobbling of the device and a controller for determining corrective values for the optical sensing device.
22. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sensor includes receptors, DNA strands, antibodies, antigens or enzymes, which will selectively attract and bond with the particular substance to be detected.
23. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the optical sensing devices has an optical input having a numerical aperture in the interval 0.1 to 0.85.
24. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a connection to a computer device allowing the position of the sensors to be determined and displayed by the computer.
25. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the optical sensing devices includes a first and a second optical receiver, wherein the first optical receiver is adapted for determining wobbling of the device and the second optical receiver is adapted for determining properties of the sensors.
26. The apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the device comprises a patterned ring and the first optical receiver is adapted for calibration by detecting the patterned ring.
27. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sensors are read using astigmatism and the apparatus comprises an optical read head from a CD-player, a DVD-player and/or a Blu-ray player.
28. A method for determining compounds comprising:
providing an apparatus for detecting compounds having a device defining a disk-shaped geometry, the device having a centre, a plurality of fluid channels each comprising a fluid inlet positioned at a first distance from the centre and a fluid channel end at a second distance from the centre, the second distance being larger than the first distance, one or more sensors arranged at each fluid channel, wherein the sensors each comprise at least one optical detectable member, and the least one optical detectable member is a doubly clamped beam, the apparatus further comprising one or more optical sensing devices arranged for sensing the at least one optical detectable member of the one or more sensors, and a rotation device adapted for rotating the device so that the sensors pass over the one or more optical sensing devices,
the method comprising:
providing a fluid at an inlet near the centre of the device,
rotating the device, and
obtaining properties of the sensors using the optical sensing devices.
29. The method according to claim 28, further comprising:
determining one or more of: deflection, surface roughness, resonant frequency, or thermal noise of at least one beam of at least one of the sensors.
30. The method according to claim 28, wherein the optical sensing device comprises a first and a second optical receiver, wherein the first optical receiver is adapted for determining wobbling of the device and the second optical receiver is adapted for determining properties of the sensors, the method comprising calibrating the optical sensing device using the signal from the first optical receiver.
31. The method according to claim 28, wherein the apparatus and/or device comprises two or more sensors that are arranged in a fluid channel at different radii.
32. An apparatus for detecting compounds, comprising:
a device defining a disk-shaped geometry, the device having a centre, a plurality of fluid channels each comprising a fluid inlet positioned at a first distance from the centre and a fluid channel end at a second distance from the centre, the second distance being larger than the first distance, one or more sensors arranged at each fluid channel, wherein the sensors each comprise at least one optical detectable member, the apparatus further comprising one or more optical sensing devices arranged for sensing the at least one optical detectable member of the one or more sensors, and a rotation device adapted for rotating the device so that the sensors pass over the one or more optical sensing devices, wherein the fluid channel includes a capillary valve.
33. The apparatus according to claim 32, wherein the capillary valve bursts at a certain threshold frequency.
34. A method for determining compounds comprising:
providing an apparatus for detecting compounds having a device defining a disk-shaped geometry, the device having a centre, a plurality of fluid channels each comprising a fluid inlet positioned at a first distance from the centre and a fluid channel end at a second distance from the centre, the second distance being larger than the first distance, one or more sensors arranged at each fluid channel, wherein the sensors each comprise at least one optical detectable member, the test apparatus further comprising one or more optical sensing devices arranged for sensing the at least one optical detectable member of the one or more sensors, and wherein the fluid channel includes a capillary valve, a rotation device adapted for rotating the device so that the sensors pass over the one or more optical sensing devices,
the method comprising:
providing a fluid at an inlet near the centre of the device,
rotating the device at a certain angular frequency so that the valves are opened when spinning the apparatus at the certain angular frequency, and
obtaining properties of the sensors using the optical sensing devices.
35. An apparatus for detecting compounds, comprising:
a device defining a disk-shaped geometry, the device having a centre, a plurality of fluid channels each comprising a fluid inlet positioned at a first distance from the centre and a fluid channel end at a second distance from the centre, the second distance being larger than the first distance, one or more sensors arranged at each fluid channel, wherein the sensors each comprise at least one optical detectable member, the apparatus further comprising one or more optical sensing devices arranged for sensing the at least one optical detectable member of the one or more sensors, a rotation device adapted for rotating the device so that the sensors pass over the one or more optical sensing devices, and wherein the optical sensing devices determines deflection of the optical detectable member through a Focus Error signal obtained through differentiating intensities on four quadrants composing the optical sensing device.
| 2011-09-21 | en | 2013-08-15 |
US-201715495381-A | Removable Waterproof Car Seat Cover
ABSTRACT
A temporary seat cover has a first portion configured as a pocket portion, having an opening on a lower side, sized to enclose a headrest of a vehicle bucket seat, and a second portion of a width and length sufficient to cover the bucket seat below the headrest, the second portion constructed in two layers, a first, upper layer, comprising a wicking, water-absorbent material, and a second, lower layer, beneath the first layer, of a waterproof material. A user acquires the temporary seat cover storage, places the pocket portion over the headrest of the bucket seat, and forms the second portion over the backrest and seat of the bucket seat, such that, as the user sits on the seat, water is absorbed by the wicking, water-absorbent material of the first layer, and the second layer, of a waterproof material, prevents water from affecting the permanent covering of the bucket seat.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is in the field of seat covers, particularly for vehicle seats.
2. Description of Related Art
Seats in a vehicle are generally a part of the vehicle with which a person makes the most contact. Car seats may therefore be subject to being soiled or damage caused by the person sitting in the seat. Practical examples may include a person driving home after a strenuous workout, wet and muddy clothing caused by rainy weather, divers or surfers with no way to change before getting in the car, people after engaging in hot yoga or Bikram yoga, or spin classes, or just dirty clothes from outdoor activities. Unfortunately, car seats are generally not easily cleaned. The seats may not have removable covers, and, especially for cloth seats, may require additional equipment that many people may not readily have on hand.
Seat covers presently in the art may be considered to be uncomfortable, or not effective enough at preventing soiling or particularly damage by water or perspiration. Additionally, present seat covers may not have a user-friendly storage solution, or may not have high portability to allow users to easily transport a seat cover, and to have a way to protect their car seat on hand when the situation arises. Therefore, what is clearly needed is a seat cover that is both comfortable, and effective enough for the most demanding situations, while at the same time providing a user-friendly storage solution and portability.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In one embodiment of the present invention, a temporary seat cover for a bucket seat is provided, comprising a first portion configured as a pocket portion, having an opening on a lower side, sized to enclose a headrest of a vehicle bucket seat, and a second portion, extending downward from the first portion, of a width and length sufficient to cover the bucket seat below the headrest, the second portion constructed in two layers, a first, upper layer, comprising a wicking, water-absorbent material, and a second, lower layer, beneath the first layer, of a waterproof material. A user, prior to entering a vehicle, acquires the temporary seat cover from a storage location, places the pocket portion over the headrest of the bucket seat, and forms the second portion over the backrest and seat of the bucket seat, such that, as the user enters the vehicle and sits on the seat, water from the user's attire is absorbed by the wicking, water-absorbent material of the first, upper layer, and the second layer, of a waterproof material, prevents water from affecting the permanent covering of the bucket seat.
In one embodiment, the second portion, extending downward from the first portion, is formed in an upper section just below the first portion, to enclose an upper part of the backrest. Also in one embodiment, the seat cover further comprises one or more elastic cinch bands joined along edges of the second portion, such that the second portion is conformed to the shape of the bucket seat. And in one embodiment the seat cover further comprises a closure apparatus with compatible parts on opposite sides of the opening on the lower side of the first portion, such that the first portion serves as a storage pocket for the second portion, the second portion folded upward into the first portion, and the closure apparatus closed.
In one embodiment of the invention the closure apparatus comprises a loop and a button on opposite sides of the opening. Also in one embodiment, the first portion comprises the same two layers as the second portion. And in one embodiment, the seat cover has opposite side portions joined to the second portion, such that the seat cover takes the overall outer shape of the bucket seat.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a seat cover tucked into the headrest cover portion of the seat cover according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a seat cover installed on an exemplary car seat according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2B is a front view of the seat cover of FIG. 2A.
FIG. 2C is a side view of the seat cover of FIG. 2A.
FIG. 2D is a back view of the seat cover of FIG. 2A.
FIG. 3 is a sectional view of an exemplary car seat with the seat cover of FIG. 2A.
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a fitted car seat installed on an exemplary car seat according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4B is a left-side view of the fitted car of FIG. 4A.
FIG. 4C is a right-side view of the fitted car seat of FIG. 4A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
What is generally provided in embodiments of the present invention is a car seat cover which is removable, and provides protection to car seats against moisture and dirt.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a car seat cover 100 in a storage configuration. In this configuration, headrest cover 102 of car seat cover 100 may act as a storage container for body cover 104 (not fully shown in FIG. 1, but shown in further detail below). The car seat cover 100 may have a closure system comprising, for example, a loop 106A and a button 106B (henceforth referred to collectively as button-loop closure 106), to securely hold the body cover 104 inside the headrest cover 102. In place of the button-loop closure 106, other embodiments may have other types of closure mechanisms, for example loop and hook fastener, hooks, cinch cords, or the like. One advantage provided by the dual-purpose of the headrest cover 102 is that a user may be able to easily store and transport one or more seat covers, and be able to use the seat covers only when needed. This may be useful in situations where a need for a seat cover is unplanned, such as unexpected rainy weather.
Series FIGS. 2A through 2D are various views of a car seat cover 100 installed on an exemplary bucket seat 201 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the car seat cover installed on the exemplary bucket seat. As seen in FIG. 2A, the car seat cover has two main components: the headrest cover 102, and body cover 104. The headrest cover 102 may cover a headrest of the bucket seat 201 while acting as a holding point, and provides leverage for the rest the car seat cover. The body cover drapes down and covers the backrest and seat cushion areas of the bucket seat 201. As seen in FIGS. 2A and 2C, this embodiment uses elastic bands 108A and 108B sewn or otherwise joined into body cover 104 on both sides of the bottom of the seat of bucket seat 201 to enable the body cover 104 to effectively engage the bottom edges of the bucket seat, so that the lower portion of the body cover may remain in place while in use. On the back side of body cover 104, as in FIG. 2D, there is, in this embodiment, another elastic band 110 to hold the backrest portion of body cover 104 in place while in use. In addition to holding the car seat cover 100 in place, the elastic bands 108A, 108B, and 110 also make it a simple task to put on and remove the car seat cover 100. In other embodiments, the elastic bands 108A, 108B, and 110 may be other types of materials or methods to secure body cover 104 to the bucket seat 201 such as, but not limited to, hooks, bungee cords, cinches, buttons, or hook and loop fasteners. The body cover 104 utilizes a multi-layer design of different materials as detailed below.
The utilization of elastic chinch stripe along various edges allows for provision of waterproof seat covers in embodiments of the invention, that may be useful and cover bucket seats of different sizes and shapes.
FIG. 3 is a cross-section view with magnified portion, of car seat cover 100 installed on exemplary bucket seat 201 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3, the car seat cover 100 in this embodiment utilizes two layers: a top layer 302 with absorbent, quick-drying and moisture wicking properties, and a bottom layer 304 that is waterproof. The top layer 302 may be suitable for situations involving a lower amount of moisture, such as sweat after a workout session, damp clothing, left-over wetness after swimming, people after engaging in hot yoga or Bikram yoga, or spin classes, or the like. The moisture wicking properties may, additionally, enable the car seat cover 100 to draw moisture from clothes or the body of a person sitting on the bucket seat 201 to allow them to dry faster. The bottom layer 304 provides a deeper protection from high levels of moisture, such as sitting on the bucket seat 201 after scuba diving without removing one's wetsuit, rainy weather, or the like. The top layer 302 may be any type of quick-dry and wicking fabrics, and, similarly, the bottom layer 304 may be any waterproof fabric.
FIG. 3 shows this embodiment only uses a dual-layer of materials in the portions of the car seat cover 200 that covers the backrest and seat cushion of bucket seat 201, but not the headrest pocket. This is so the seat cover, packed away in the headrest covering, will have a chance to dry, as the headrest pocket, fashioned from the wicking layer, in some embodiments polyester, will allow passage of moisture. But other embodiments may utilize the dual-layer of materials in more areas or fewer areas, depending on the needs and requirements of a user, without deviating from the inventive concept of the present invention.
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a fitted car seat cover 400 according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 4B and 4C are side views of this embodiment. The fitted car seat cover 400 may have many features and functions that may be found in a non-fitted car seat cover 100: a headrest cover 402 which may double as a storage pouch, a body cover 404, a loop 406A and a button 406B to make a button-loop closure, bottom elastic bands 408A 408B, and back elastic band 410. The fitted car seat cover 400 may also use a dual-layer design in certain portions, similar to the non-fitted car seat cover 100. Where the fitted car seat cover 400 may differ from the non-fitted car seat cover 100 is in the closeness of the fit. Whereas on the non-fitted car seat cover 100, the body cover 104 may be a single body that covers the bucket seat 201 and may fit relatively loosely, the fitted car seat cover 400 may be constructed from multiple panels and may be tailored to fit neatly and with more tautness for any designated bucket seat. While the elastic bands 408A 408B and 410 may enable fitted car seat cover 400 to be removed, it may be somewhat more difficult to remove than the non-fitted car seat cover 100, and may be more suited for a semi-permanent installation where the fitted car seat cover 400 is removed only occasionally for maintenance and cleaning.
Although the above examples use only bucket seats, there may be embodiments in which the car seat cover is adapted to fit on a bench seat of a car. For example, one embodiment may have a plurality of head rest covers that may fit over the head rests of the bench seat, and some means to secure the bottom portion of the body cover of the bench seat cover to the bottom lip and sides of the bench seat. Another embodiment may not have a headrest cover, and have other means to secure the upper portion of the seat cover to the seat.
It will be apparent to one with skill in the art, that the embodiments described above are specific examples of a single broader invention which may have greater scope than any of the singular descriptions taught. There may be many alterations made in the descriptions without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
1. A temporary seat cover for a bucket seat, comprising:
a first portion configured as a pocket portion, having an opening on a lower side, sized to enclose a headrest of a vehicle bucket seat; and a second portion, extending downward from the first portion, of a width and length sufficient to cover the bucket seat below the headrest, the second portion constructed in two layers, a first, upper layer, comprising a wicking, water-absorbent material, and a second, lower layer, beneath the first layer, of a waterproof material; wherein a user, prior to entering a vehicle, acquires the temporary seat cover from a storage location, places the pocket portion over the headrest of the bucket seat, and forms the second portion over the backrest and seat of the bucket seat, such that, as the user enters the vehicle and sits on the seat, water from the user's attire is absorbed by the wicking, water-absorbent material of the first, upper layer, and the second layer, of a waterproof material, prevents water from affecting the permanent covering of the bucket seat.
2. The temporary seat cover of claim 1, wherein the second portion, extending downward from the first portion, is formed in an upper section just below the first portion, to enclose an upper part of the backrest.
3. The temporary seat cover of claim 2 further comprising one or more elastic cinch bands joined along edges of the second portion, such that the second portion is conformed to the shape of the bucket seat.
4. The temporary seat cover of claim 1, further comprising a closure apparatus with compatible parts on opposite sides of the opening on the lower side of the first portion, such that the first portion serves as a storage pocket for the second portion, the second portion folded upward into the first portion, and the closure apparatus closed.
5. The temporary seat cover of claim 4 wherein the closure apparatus comprises a loop and a button on opposite sides of the opening.
6. The temporary seat cover of claim 1 wherein the first portion comprises the same two layers as the second portion.
7. The temporary seat cover of claim 1 comprising opposite side portions joined to the second portion, such that the seat cover takes the overall outer shape of the bucket seat.
8. The temporary seat cover of claim 4 wherein the closure apparatus comprises one of hook and loop fasteners, or integrated strap cinching systems.
| 2017-04-24 | en | 2018-10-25 |
US-79983307-A | Illuminating device
ABSTRACT
An illuminating device adapted to be included in a microscope is provided. The illuminating device includes at least one lens that can change the numerical aperture of a light beam collected on a pupil plane of an objective lens.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an illuminating device and, in particular, to an illuminating device included in a microscope to illuminate a specimen.
This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2006-136573, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
2. Description of Related Art
Examples of illuminating devices used in microscopes include the following.
For example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2002-250867 describes an illuminating device that changes the magnification ratio of a light source image projected onto the pupil of an objective lens in order to adjust the size of an illumination area to the size of a charge-coupled device (CCD) imager or the observation field of view of an eyepiece lens.
Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2003-185928 describes an illuminating device that switches between spot illumination and plane illumination. In spot illumination, a collimated light beam is irradiated incident on an objective lens. In plane illumination, a large area of a specimen is illuminated by collecting light on a pupil plane of an objective lens.
Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-295122 describes an illuminating device that changes the illumination area by opening and closing a field stop in a total internal reflection microscope.
However, although the illuminating devices described in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication Nos. 2002-250867 and 2003-185928 can change the illumination area in accordance with an area corresponding to the size of an imager or the observable area, the illuminating devices cannot change the illumination area in accordance with the size of an object to be observed, such as a specific portion of a specimen cell or an entire area of a specimen cell.
The illuminating device described in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-295122 changes the illumination area by changing the numerical aperture of light made incident on an objective lens through control of a field stop. Accordingly, part of a light beam is blocked by the field stop, and therefore, the amount of light is disadvantageously decreased.
In fluorescence excitation and light stimulation, it is desirable that illumination is efficiently performed in accordance with the size of an object to be observed or an object to be stimulated, such as a specific portion of an observed cell (e.g., a cell nucleus), one entire cell, or a plurality of cells. In particular, since light stimulation requires strong illumination light, an efficient illumination method is required when an LED (light-emitting diode) light source or an LD (laser diode) light source that tends to emit a small amount of light is used.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, the present invention provides an illuminating device that can freely change the illumination area in accordance with the size of an object to be observed, such as a specific portion of an observed cell (e.g., a nucleus), one entire cell, or a plurality of cells, and efficiently illuminate the object to be observed or an object to be stimulated.
According to a first aspect of the present invention, an illuminating device adapted to be included in a microscope is provided. The illuminating device includes at least one lens configured to change the numerical aperture of illumination light collected on a pupil plane of an objective lens.
The at least one lens collects light on the pupil plane of the objective lens. In addition, the numerical aperture of the illumination light is changed. As a result, a substantially collimated light beam can be emitted onto a specimen. In addition, by changing the numerical aperture, the light beam can be emitted onto any range in accordance with the size of an object to be observed inside the specimen. Furthermore, since the numerical aperture of the light beam is changed by at least one lens, part of the light beam is not blocked by a field stop, and therefore, the amount of light is not decreased. Accordingly, the light emitted from a light source can be efficiently used.
In the illuminating device, the at least one lens is movable along an optical axis direction so as to change the numerical aperture of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens. In this way, by moving the at least one lens along an optical axis direction, the numerical aperture of the light collected on a pupil position of the objective lens can be continuously controlled.
In the illuminating device, a plurality of lens sets can represent the at least one lens, and the numerical aperture of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens is changeable by selectively changing one of the lens sets. In this way, by selectively changing one of the lens sets, the numerical aperture of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane can be changed in a stepwise fashion. Accordingly, a light beam having one of predetermined multiple sizes can be easily emitted onto a specific portion of a specimen disposed in an adjustable observation field.
The illuminating device can further include a switching unit configured to switch between a first state in which the illumination light is collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens to perform plane illumination and a second state in which the illumination light is made incident on the pupil plane of the objective lens in the form of a substantially collimated light beam to perform spot illumination. In addition, the switching unit can insert and remove the at least one lens in an optical path of the illumination light.
The switching unit can select one of a first optical path in which the illumination light is collected on the pupil plane and a second optical path in which the illumination light is made incident on the pupil plane in the form of a substantially collimated light beam. In addition, the illuminating device can further include an illumination point moving unit configured to change the center angle of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane in the first state in which plane illumination is performed.
The illuminating device can further include a light collecting point adjustment unit configured to adjust the light collecting position in the optical axis direction so that the light collecting position is coincident with the position of the pupil plane in the optical axis direction in the first state in which plane illumination is performed. In addition, the illuminating device can further include a scanning unit configured to two-dimensionally scan a spot of the illumination light on a specimen in the second state in which spot illumination is performed.
The scanning unit can function as an illumination point moving unit for changing the center angle of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens in the first state in which plane illumination is performed. In addition, the scanning unit can function as an optical axis moving unit configured to move the optical axis of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane in a direction perpendicular to the optical path in the first state in which plane illumination is performed.
The illuminating device can further include a relay optical system configured to make the pupil of the objective lens optically conjugate with the scanning unit and a convergence optical system disposed on the light source side of the scanning unit, where the convergence optical system collects the illumination light which is a substantially collimated beam onto the scanning unit and changes the numerical aperture of the illumination light emitted to the scanning unit. The at least one of the lenses can include the convergence optical system, and the switching unit can switch to the first state by inserting the convergence optical system in the optical path and switch to the second state by removing the convergence optical system from the optical path.
The scanning unit can control the illumination position on a specimen by deflecting the illumination light at a predetermined angle in the first state in which plane illumination is performed.
The illuminating device can further include a beam diameter adjustment unit disposed on the light source side of the scanning unit, where the beam diameter adjustment unit adjusts the beam diameter of the illumination light which is a substantially collimated beam, a first optical path including a relay optical system that makes the scanning unit optically conjugate with the object plane of the objective lens, and a second optical path including a relay optical system that makes the scanning unit optically conjugate with the pupil plane of the objective lens. The at least one lens can include the beam diameter adjustment unit, and the switching unit can switch to the first state in which plane illumination is performed by selecting the first optical path and switch to the second state in which spot illumination is performed by selecting the second optical path.
The illuminating device can further include an optical axis shifting unit configured to shift the optical axis of the illumination light made incident on the scanning unit. In the first state in which plane illumination is performed, the optical axis shifting unit can control the illumination position on the specimen by shifting the optical axis of illumination light made incident on the scanning unit.
In the first state in which plane illumination is performed, the scanning unit can control the illumination angle on the specimen by deflecting the illumination light at a desired angle.
The illuminating device can further include a beam diameter adjustment unit configured to adjust the beam diameter of the illumination light which is a substantially collimated beam made incident on the pupil plane in the second state in which spot illumination is performed.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, a laser scanning microscope includes the above-described illuminating device, where the illuminating device light-stimulates a specimen, a laser light source configured to emit an observation laser beam, a microscope scanning unit configured to two-dimensionally scan a spot of the observation laser beam on the specimen, and a detecting unit configured to detect light emitted from the specimen caused by the scan of the observation laser beam.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, a confocal disk scanning microscope includes the above-described illuminating device, where the illuminating device light-stimulates a specimen, a light source configured to emit an observation illumination light, a disk scanning unit having a plurality of confocal apertures, where the disk scanning unit rotates so as to scan the observation illumination light on the specimen, and a detecting unit configured to detect light emitted from the specimen caused by the scan of the observation illumination light via the disk scanning unit.
In the illuminating device, the light source that emits the illumination light can include at least one of a light emitting diode and a laser diode.
The laser scanning microscope can further include a combining unit disposed between the objective lens and the microscope scanning unit, the combining unit combining a laser beam emitted from the microscope scanning unit with the illumination light which is adapted for light stimulation emitted from the illuminating device. The illuminating device can include a scanning unit configured to scan the illumination light on a specimen, a relay optical system configured to make the pupil of the objective lens optically conjugate with the scanning unit, a convergence optical system disposed on the light source side of the scanning unit, where the convergence optical system collects the illumination light onto the scanning unit and changes the numerical aperture of the illumination light emitted to the scanning unit so as to function as the at least one lens, and a switching unit configured to switch to a first state in which plane illumination is performed on the specimen with the illumination light by inserting the convergence optical system in the optical path and switch to a second state in which spot illumination is performed on the specimen with the illumination light by removing the convergence optical system from the optical path. The scanning unit can control the illumination position of the plane illumination light on the specimen in the first state, and the scanning unit can scan the spot illumination light on the specimen in the second state.
The laser scanning microscope can further include a combining unit disposed between the objective lens and the microscope scanning unit, where the combining unit combines a laser beam emitted from the microscope scanning unit with the illumination light which is adapted for light stimulation emitted from the illuminating device. The illuminating device can include a beam diameter adjustment unit configured to adjust the beam diameter of the illumination light which is a substantially collimated beam, a scanning unit on which the illumination light is made incident from the beam diameter adjustment unit, a first optical path including a relay optical system that makes the scanning unit optically conjugate with the object plane of the objective lens, and a second optical path including a relay optical system that makes the scanning unit optically conjugate with the pupil plane of the objective lens, and a switching unit configured to switch to a first state in which plane illumination is performed on the specimen with the illumination light by selecting the first optical path and switch to a second state in which spot illumination is performed on the specimen with the illumination light by selecting the second optical path. The beam diameter adjustment unit can function as the at least one lens so as to change the numerical aperture of the light stimulation illumination light collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens.
An advantage of the present invention is that the illuminating device can freely change the illumination area in accordance with an object (a specimen) to be observed, such as a specific portion of a cell (e.g., a nucleus), an entire cell, and a plurality of cells, and can efficiently illuminate the object to be observed or light-stimulated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a laser scanning microscope including an illuminating device according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an illuminating device for light stimulation in the laser scanning microscope shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 illustrates the control operation of an illumination point by swinging a scanning unit of the illuminating device for light stimulation in the laser scanning microscope shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of the state of a light beam in an objective lens of the laser scanning microscope shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an illuminating device for light stimulation according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 6 illustrates the illuminating device for light stimulation shown in FIG. 5 when a triangular prism is removed from the optical path;
FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of the state of a light beam in an objective lens in the case shown in FIG. 6;
FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of the state of a light beam in an objective lens in the case shown in FIG. 5;
FIG. 9 illustrates adjustment of an illumination area performed by a beam diameter adjustment unit of the illuminating device for light stimulation shown in FIG. 5;
FIG. 10 illustrates adjustment of an illumination point performed by a beam diameter adjustment unit of the illuminating device for light stimulation shown in FIG. 5; and
FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a modification of the laser scanning microscope shown in FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
An illuminating device according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.
According to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, an illuminating device 1 for light stimulation is included in a laser scanning microscope 2.
As shown in FIG. 1, the laser scanning microscope 2 includes an observation optical system 3, the illuminating device 1, a dichroic mirror 4 that merges the optical paths of the observation optical system 3 and the illuminating device 1, an imaging lens 5, a mirror 6, and an objective lens 7 disposed in the merged optical path.
The observation optical system 3 includes a first laser light source 8 that generates an observation laser beam L1, an optic fiber 9 that leads the observation laser beam L1 emitted from the first laser light source 8, a first collimating lens 10 that converts the observation laser beam L1 emitted from the top end of the optic fiber 9 to a substantially collimated light beam, a first scanning unit (a microscope scanning unit) 11 that two-dimensionally scans the laser beam L1 which is a substantially collimated light beam, a first pupil projection lens 12 that collects the laser beam L1 scanned by the first scanning unit 11 so that an intermediate image is formed, a dichroic mirror 13 that separates, from the laser beam L1, fluorescent light F returning via the first pupil projection lens 12 and the first scanning unit 11, a collimating lens 14 that collects the luminescent light F separated from the laser beam L1, a pinhole member 15 that restricts the passage of the fluorescent light F collected by the confocal lens 14, a barrier filter 16 that blocks the laser beam L1 contained in the fluorescent light F, and a light detector (detecting unit) 17 that detects the fluorescent light F.
The first laser light source 8 includes an acoustic optical tunable filter (AOTF) 18 that turns the emission of the observation laser beam L1 on and off and selects the wavelength of the observation laser beam L1.
The first scanning unit 11 includes two galvanometer mirrors 11 a and 11 b. The galvanometer mirrors 11 a and 11 b are supported in a swingable manner about axes perpendicular to each other. The galvanometer mirrors 11 a and 11 b face each other. By changing the swing angles of the galvanometer mirrors 11 a and 11 b, the illumination point of the observation laser beam L1 on a specimen can be two-dimensionally moved along a direction crossing the optical axis.
The pinhole member 15 is disposed at a position optically conjugate with the focal plane of the objective lens 7.
According to the present embodiment, the illuminating device 1 for light stimulation includes a second laser light source 19 that generates a stimulation laser beam L2, an optic fiber 20 that leads the laser beam L2 emitted from the second laser light source 19, a second collimating lens 21 that converts the laser beam L2 emitted from the top end of the optic fiber 20 to a substantially collimated light beam, a second scanning unit 22 that two-dimensionally moves the laser beam L2 which is a substantially collimated light beam in a direction crossing the optical axis, a second pupil projection lens 23 that collects the laser beam L2 moved by the second scanning unit 22 so that an intermediate image is formed, an illumination area adjustment unit (convergence optical system) 24 removably disposed in an optical path between the second collimating lens 21 and the second scanning unit 22, and a switching apparatus (a switching unit) (not shown) that inserts and removes the illumination area adjustment unit 24 in and from the optical path.
The second laser light source 19 includes an acoustic optical tunable filter (AOTF) 25 that turns the emission of the stimulation laser beam L2 on and off and selects the stimulation laser beam L2.
Like the first scanning unit 11, the second scanning unit 22 includes two galvanometer mirrors 22 a and 22 b.
The illumination area adjustment unit 24 includes at least one lens (e.g., lenses 24 a and 24 b) that is movably disposed along the optical axis when the illumination area adjustment unit 24 is disposed in the optical path between the second collimating lens 21 and the second scanning unit 22. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 2, the substantially collimated laser beam L2 output from the second collimating lens 21 can be collected onto the midway area between the two galvanometer mirrors 22 a and 22 b of the second scanning unit 22. In addition, by moving the at least one lens (e.g., the lens 24 a), the numerical aperture can be changed with the light collection point unchanged. In the present embodiment, the lens 24 b is stationary while the lens 24 a is movable between the positions indicated by a solid line and a dotted line shown in FIG. 2. Thus, the numerical aperture of the stimulation laser beam L2 can be controlled.
The midway area between the two galvanometer mirrors 22 a and 22 b of the second scanning unit 22 is located at a position optically conjugate with a pupil plane of the objective lens 7. Accordingly, when the illumination area adjustment unit 24 is disposed in the optical path, the stimulation laser beam L2, as indicated by a solid line shown in FIG. 4, is collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens 7. Thus, the stimulation laser beam L2 is emitted onto a specimen A in the form of a collimated beam.
In contrast, when the illumination area adjustment unit 24 is removed from the optical axis, the stimulation laser beam L2, as indicated by a dotted line shown in FIG. 1, is position-controlled by the swing angle of the second scanning unit 22 while being a collimated light beam. Therefore, as indicated by a dotted line shown in FIG. 4, the substantially collimated laser beam L2 having a predetermined beam diameter is made incident on the pupil plane of the objective lens 7 and is collected on the focal plane of the objective lens 7.
In the drawings, mirrors 26 and 27 and a stage 28 on which the specimen A is mounted are shown.
In addition, in the illuminating device 1, the imaging lens 5 and the second pupil projection lens 23 function as a relay optical system that makes the pupil of the objective lens 7 optically conjugate with the second scanning unit 22.
The operation of the illuminating device 1 having such a structure according to the present embodiment is described below.
To observe the specimen A using the laser scanning microscope 2 including the illuminating device 1 according to the present embodiment, the specimen A is disposed on the stage 28 and the objective lens 7 is disposed above the specimen A. Subsequently, the observation laser beam L1 is emitted from the first laser light source 8. The acoustic optical tunable filter 18 switches on and off the observation laser beam L1 and selects the wavelength of the observation laser beam L1. Thereafter, the observation laser beam L1 propagates in the optic fiber 9. The observation laser beam L1 is then emitted from the top end of the optic fiber 9 and is converted to a substantially collimated light beam by the first collimating lens 10. The observation laser beam L1 is then reflected off the mirror 26 and the dichroic mirror 13 and is two-dimensionally scanned by the first scanning unit 11. Thereafter, the observation laser beam L1 passes through the first pupil projection lens 12 and the dichroic mirror (combining unit) 4 and is converted to a substantially collimated light beam by the imaging lens 5. The observation laser beam L1 is then reflected off the mirror 6 and is made incident on the objective lens 7.
After the observation laser beam L1 is made incident on the objective lens 7, the observation laser beam L1 is collected on the focal plane of the objective lens 7. Accordingly, when the observation laser beam L1 is collected onto the specimen A disposed at the focal point, a florescent material contained in the specimen A is excited so as to generate the fluorescent light F.
The fluorescent light F generated in the specimen A returns along an incoming path of the observation laser beam L1. That is, the fluorescent light F is collected by the objective lens 7 and returns to the dichroic mirror 13 via the mirror 6, the imaging lens 5, the dichroic mirror 4, the first pupil projection lens 12, and the first scanning unit 11. The dichroic mirror 13 separates the fluorescent light F from the observation laser beam L1.
The separated fluorescent light F is collected by the confocal lens 14. Only part of the fluorescent light F output from the focal plane and the vicinity of the focal plane of the objective lens 7 and capable of passing through the pinhole member 15 is detected by a photodetector 17 after the barrier filter 16 removes the observation laser beam L1 from the fluorescent light F. By sequentially storing two-dimensional positions on the specimen A determined in accordance with the swing angles of the galvanometer mirrors 11 a and 11 b and the intensity of the fluorescent light F detected by the first scanning unit 11 while associating with each other, a two-dimensional fluorescence image in the focal plane of the objective lens 7 inside the specimen A can be acquired.
In addition, by operating the illuminating device 1 for light stimulation, the stimulation laser beam L2 is emitted from the second laser light source 19. The stimulation laser beam L2 propagates in the optic fiber 20 and is converted to a substantially collimated light beam by the second collimating lens 21.
The case where the illumination area adjustment unit 24 is removed from the optical path is now herein described. In this case, the stimulation laser beam L2 is converted to a substantially collimated light beam by the second collimating lens 21 and is directly input to the second scanning unit 22, as indicated by a dotted line shown in FIG. 1. The angle of the stimulation laser beam L2 is adjusted, and the stimulation laser beam L2 is made incident on the second pupil projection lens 23. Thus, the stimulation laser beam L2 forms an intermediate image and is reflected by the dichroic mirror 4. Thereafter, the stimulation laser beam L2 is converted to a substantially collimated light beam by the imaging lens 5 and is made incident on the objective lens 7.
Accordingly, the stimulation laser beam L2 is collected by the objective lens 7 so as to be focused on the focal plane of the objective lens 7. By controlling the swing angle of the second scanning unit 22, the focus point can be two-dimensionally changed in the observation field of view. As a result, as indicated by the dotted line shown in FIG. 4, the stimulation laser beam L2 becomes a spot illumination light having the highest photon density at a point P in the focal plane of the objective lens 7. Therefore, strong light stimulation can be provided to the specimen A. This method is suitable for providing light stimulation to, for example, a specific portion of a cell (e.g., a nucleus). However, in this method, since the light passes through an area shifted from the focal plane along an optical axis direction in a conical shape, light stimulation is disadvantageously provided to a position other than the target position although the intensity of the light is low. Furthermore, in the case where expansion of the stimulation area is required in order to scan an area other than the specific portion (e.g., a nucleus), this method is not suitable since the scan is time-consuming, and therefore, a quick response of the specimen cannot be captured.
In contrast, when the illumination area adjustment unit 24 is disposed in the optical path between the second collimating lens 21 and the second scanning unit 22 (as indicated by a solid line shown in FIG. 2), the stimulation laser beam L2 converted to a substantially collimated beam by the second collimating lens 21 is collected to the second scanning unit 22 by the operation of the illumination area adjustment unit 24. Thereafter, the stimulation laser beam L2 is converted to a substantially collimated light beam by the second pupil projection lens 23. Subsequently, the stimulation laser beam L2 is reflected by the dichroic mirror 4 and is collected to the pupil plane of the objective lens 7 by the imaging lens 5. Accordingly, as indicated by the solid line shown in FIG. 4, the stimulation laser beam L2 is converted to a substantially collimated beam by the objective lens 7 and is emitted onto the specimen A as plane illumination light having predetermined dimensions.
In this way, light stimulation can be provided to substantially the same predetermined illumination area along the depth direction of the specimen A regardless of the depth. Therefore, the light is not emitted to a position other than the target position. In addition, compared with the method indicated by the dotted line in FIG. 4, the light stimulation can be provided to the target portion of a cell or the entire cell without scanning the light beam. As a result, a quick response of the specimen A can be captured.
As shown in FIG. 2, by moving the at least one lens (the lens 24 a) along the optical axis direction, the illumination area adjustment unit 24 can change the numerical aperture of the stimulation laser beam L2 incident on the pupil plane of the objective lens 7 with the focal point remaining in the pupil plane of the objective lens 7. Accordingly, if the illumination area adjustment unit 24 operates so as to move the lens 24 a along an optical axis direction, the diameter (the dimensions of the plane illumination area) of the stimulation laser beam L2 emitted to the specimen A can be changed.
That is, when light stimulation is required to be provided only to a specific portion of a cell (e.g., a nucleus or a selected portion of a cell) representing the specimen A, the numerical aperture of the stimulation laser beam L2 made incident on the pupil plane of the objective lens 7 is decreased. Thus, the diameter of the stimulation laser beam L2 output from the objective lens 7 is decreased so that light stimulation can be provided only to a small portion, such as a specific portion inside a cell. In contrast, when light stimulation is required to be provided to, for example, an entire cell or a plurality of cells representing the specimen A, the numerical aperture of the stimulation laser beam L2 made incident on the pupil plane of the objective lens 7 is increased. Thus, the diameter of the stimulation laser beam L2 output from the objective lens 7 is increased so that uniform light stimulation can be provided to a relatively large area with plane illumination having a small intensity distribution in the depth direction of the specimen A. Thus, a relatively large area of the specimen A can be light-stimulated at one time, and therefore, a quick response of the specimen A can be captured.
In this case, according to the present embodiment, since the numerical aperture of the stimulation laser beam L2 is changed by moving the at least one lens (the lens 24 a) of the illumination area adjustment unit 24, loss of the stimulation laser beam L2 can be reduced compared with the case where a field stop is used for changing the numerical aperture. Accordingly, a decrease in the intensity of the stimulation laser beam L2 can be prevented. In particular, this method is effective when using an LED light source or an LD light source for the laser light source 19.
In addition, according to the present embodiment, by inserting and removing the illumination area adjustment unit 24 to and from the optical path, light stimulation by spot light that is collected at one point of the specimen A and light stimulation by surface light having a larger illumination area with no intensity distribution in the depth direction of the specimen A can be switched. Therefore, the specimen A can be observed using different light stimulation methods in accordance with the usage. In addition, by moving the whole illumination area adjustment unit 24 along the optical axis direction, the stimulation laser beam L2 can be collected in the pupil plane of the objective lens 7 even when the objective lens 7 is replaced with another objective lens 7 having a different position of the pupil plane.
Furthermore, by swinging the second scanning unit 22 to change the center angle of the beam collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens 7, the illumination point of the stimulation laser beam L2 can be moved (see the dotted line shown in FIG. 3). Thus, the point at which light stimulation is provided can be freely selected so that, for example, a neighboring cell can be bleached. Still furthermore, as indicated by the dotted line shown in FIG. 1, the function of the second scanning unit 22 in which a collimated beam is made incident on the objective lens 7 and scans the light collecting position on the surface of the specimen for spot illumination can be used for moving the position of plane illumination. Therefore, multiple functions can be provided at a low cost.
Still furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the illuminating device 1 continuously changes the numerical aperture of the stimulation laser beam L2 collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens 7 by moving the at least one lens (the lens 24 a) of the illumination area adjustment unit 24 disposed in the optical path. However, in place of the above-described method, the numerical aperture may be changed in a stepwise fashion by preparing a plurality of sets of lenses (not shown) having the same focal position and different magnification factors and selectively disposing one of the lens sets in the optical path.
When the size of the illumination area is predetermined, this method is effective because light stimulation can be simply and quickly provided to a desired illumination area by changing the set of lenses.
An illuminating device 30 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to FIGS. 5 to 10.
Like the first embodiment, the illuminating device 30 according to the present embodiment is an illuminating device for light stimulation.
Since an observation optical system has a structure similar to that in the first embodiment, the description and illustration of drawings are not repeated. In addition, similar numbering will be used in describing the illuminating device 30 of the present embodiment as was utilized above in describing the illuminating device 1 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, description of a similar component is not repeated.
According to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the illuminating device 30 includes a beam diameter adjustment unit 31 disposed in an optical path between a second collimating lens 21 and a second scanning unit 22. The illuminating device 30 further includes a plane collimated plate (an optical axis shifting unit) 32 that is swingable about an axis perpendicular to the optical axis.
The beam diameter adjustment unit 31 can continuously change the beam diameter by moving at least one of the lenses of the beam diameter adjustment unit 31 along the optical axis direction (an afocal zoom optical system).
The illuminating device 30 further includes a triangular prism 33 removably disposed in the optical path between a second pupil projection lens 23 and the dichroic mirror 4 and a switching apparatus (a switching unit) (not shown) that inserts and removes the triangular prism 33 to and from the optical path.
In addition, the illuminating device 30 includes an image forming position adjustment unit 34 that bypasses a stimulation laser beam L2 reflected off the triangular prism 33 and a collimating lens 36 that converts the returning stimulation laser beam L2 to a collimated light beam.
The image forming position adjustment unit 34 includes two mirrors 35 a and 35 b that return the stimulation laser beam L2 reflected off a sloped surface 33 a of the triangular prism 33 towards another sloped surface 33 b of the triangular prism 33. The image forming position adjustment unit 34 is movable in a direction indicated by an arrow shown in FIG. 5.
As shown in FIG. 6, when the triangular prism 33 is removed from the optical path, the beam diameter of the stimulation laser beam L2 is adjusted by the beam diameter adjustment unit 31. The stimulation laser beam L2 forms an intermediate image through the second pupil projection lens 23 while the second scanning unit 22 two-dimensionally controls the position of the image. Subsequently, the stimulation laser beam L2 is reflected by the dichroic mirror 4, is converted into a substantially collimated light beam by the imaging lens 5, and is made incident on the objective lens 7. Accordingly, as indicated by a dotted line shown in FIG. 7, the stimulation laser beam L2 turns into a spot illumination light beam collected on the focal plane through the objective lens 7. Thus, the stimulation laser beam L2 can provide strong light stimulation at a point P in the focal plane.
The beam diameter adjustment unit 31 operates so as to convert the substantially collimated laser beam L2 made incident on the objective lens 7 into a collimated beam having a small beam diameter. Accordingly, as indicated by a solid line shown in FIG. 7, the stimulation laser beam L2 can be emitted as a spot illumination light beam having a small intensity distribution in the depth direction of the specimen A and having a slightly larger illumination area.
The case where the triangular prism 33 is disposed in the optical path is described next.
In this case, as shown in FIG. 5, the stimulation laser beam L2 is collected by the second pupil projection lens 23 and is reflected by the sloped surface 33 a of the triangular prism 33. The stimulation laser beam L2 then forms an intermediate image. Thereafter, the propagation direction of the stimulation laser beam L2 is reversed by the two mirrors 35 a and 35 b of the image forming position adjustment unit 34 and is converted into a substantially collimated light beam by the collimating lens 36. The substantially collimated stimulation laser beam L2 is reflected off the sloped surface 33 b of the triangular prism 33 and is collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens 7 via the dichroic mirror 4, the imaging lens 5, and the mirror 6.
Accordingly, as indicated by a solid line shown in FIG. 8, the stimulation laser beam L2 can be emitted onto the specimen A as a plane illumination light beam having a small intensity distribution in the depth direction of the specimen A and having a predetermined illumination area. In addition, by operating the beam diameter adjustment unit 31 during this state, the diameter of the beam incident on the pupil projection lens 23 can be changed, and therefore, the numerical aperture of the stimulation laser beam L2 incident on a pupil plane 7 a of the objective lens 7 can be changed.
The beam diameter adjustment unit 31 includes a movable lens 31 a and a stationary lens 31 b. The beam diameter adjustment unit 31 moves the movable lens 31 a as shown in FIG. 9 so as to change the beam diameter with the degree of collimation of the beam remaining unchanged. Therefore, the size of the illumination area of the stimulation laser beam L2 emitted onto the specimen A can be changed, as shown in FIG. 9.
In addition, a light stimulation point of the stimulation laser beam L2 can be moved by swinging the plane parallel plate 32 disposed adjacent to the beam diameter adjustment unit 31. When the plane parallel plate 32 swings, the center angle of the light beam collected on the pupil plane 7 a of the objective lens 7 changes, and therefore, the illumination point can be moved, as indicated by a dotted line shown in FIG. 10.
Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, as indicated by dotted lines shown in FIGS. 5 and 8, the illuminating device 30 can shift the light collecting point of the stimulation laser beam L2 on the pupil plane 7 a of the objective lens 7 by swinging one of the galvanometer mirrors 22 a and 22 b included in the second scanning unit 22. By shifting the light collecting point of the stimulation laser beam L2 to the vicinity of the periphery of the pupil plane 7 a of the objective lens 7, the illuminating device 30 can emit the substantially collimated stimulation laser beam L2 to the interface between the specimen A and cover glass 28 a disposed on the back surface of the specimen A in a diagonal direction at a predetermined angle.
This angle is set to one that causes total reflection of the stimulation laser beam L2 at the interface on the specimen side. At that time, a small part of the stimulation laser beam L2 leaks towards the specimen A from the interface on the back surface of the specimen A. The laser beam L2 leaking from the interface is evanescent light. The distance by which the leaking evanescent light propagates in the depth direction of the specimen A is substantially the same as the wavelength of the light source.
In this way, the specimen A is light-stimulated by the evanescent light leaking into an area at a small depth of several hundred nanometers from the interface on the back surface of the specimen A.
If the position of light stimulation caused by the evanescent light is desired to be moved, the position can be moved by swinging the plane parallel plate 32 disposed adjacent to the beam diameter adjustment unit 31. In addition, by moving the two reflective mirrors 35 a and 35 b of the image forming position adjustment unit 34 in a direction indicated by an arrow shown in FIG. 5, the position of a light collecting point on the pupil plane of the objective lens along the optical axis direction can be adjusted. Accordingly, even when the objective lens is replaced with another objective lens having a different pupil position, the stimulation laser beam L2 can be focused on the pupil plane of the replaced objective lens.
While the foregoing embodiments have been described with reference to a method in which at least one lens of the beam diameter adjustment unit 31 is moved along an optical axis direction, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a plurality of different lens sets may be prepared, and the lens switching unit (not shown) that removably holds one of the lens sets operates so as to change the lens set in accordance with the purpose.
In addition, while the foregoing embodiments have been described with reference to the laser scanning microscope 2 in which the first scanning unit 11 including the galvanometer mirrors 11 a and 11 b scans the observation laser beam L1, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in place of the laser scanning microscope 2, the present invention may be applied to a scanning microscope 40 shown in FIG. 11. The laser scanning microscope 40 includes an observation optical system 45 having a mercury vapor lamp 41, an excitation filter 42, a confocal disk 43, and a CCD 44. In such a structure, an image can be captured at a high speed, and a quick response of a specimen can be observed.
While the foregoing embodiments have been described with reference to the illuminating devices 1 and 30, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited thereto.
1. An illuminating device adapted to be included in a microscope, the illuminating device configured to illuminate only a desired part of the observation field of the microscope, the illuminating device comprising:
at least one lens configured to change the numerical aperture of illumination light collected on a pupil plane of an objective lens.
2. The illuminating device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one lens is movable along an optical axis direction so as to change the numerical aperture of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens.
3. The illuminating device according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of lens sets represents the at least one lens and wherein the numerical aperture of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens is changeable by selectively changing one of the lens sets.
4. The illuminating device according to claim 1, further comprising:
a switching unit configured to switch between a first state in which the illumination light is collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens to perform plane illumination and a second state in which the illumination light is made incident on the pupil plane of the objective lens in the form of a substantially collimated light beam to perform spot illumination.
5. The illuminating device according to claim 4, wherein the switching unit inserts and removes the at least one lens in an optical path of the illumination light.
6. The illuminating device according to claim 4, wherein the switching unit selects one of a first optical path in which the illumination light is collected on the pupil plane and a second optical path in which the illumination light is made incident on the pupil plane in the form of a substantially collimated light beam.
7. The illuminating device according to claim 4, further comprising:
an illumination point moving unit configured to change the center angle of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane in the first state in which plane illumination is performed.
8. The illuminating device according to claim 4, further comprising:
a light collecting point adjustment unit configured to adjust the light collecting position in the optical axis direction so that the light collecting position is coincident with the position of the pupil plane in the optical axis direction in the first state in which plane illumination is performed; wherein the a light collecting point adjustment unit is adjusted in accordance with each of different pupil positions of a plurality of objective lenses.
9. The illuminating device according to claim 4, further comprising:
a scanning unit configured to two-dimensionally scan a spot of the illumination light on a specimen in the second state in which spot illumination is performed.
10. The illuminating device according to claim 9, wherein the scanning unit functions as an illumination point moving unit for changing the center angle of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens in the first state in which plane illumination is performed.
11. The illuminating device according to claim 9, wherein the scanning unit functions as an optical axis moving unit configured to move the optical axis of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane in a direction perpendicular to the optical path in the first state in which plane illumination is performed.
12. The illuminating device according to claim 9, further comprising:
a relay optical system configured to make the pupil of the objective lens optically conjugate with the scanning unit; and a convergence optical system disposed on the light source side of the scanning unit, the convergence optical system collecting the illumination light which is a substantially collimated beam onto the scanning unit and changing the numerical aperture of the illumination light emitted to the scanning unit; wherein the at least one of the lenses includes the convergence optical system and wherein the switching unit switches to the first state by inserting the convergence optical system in the optical path and switches to the second state by removing the convergence optical system from the optical path.
13. The illuminating device according to claim 12, wherein the scanning unit controls the illumination position on a specimen by deflecting the illumination light at a predetermined angle in the first state in which plane illumination is performed.
14. The illuminating device according to claim 9, further comprising:
a beam diameter adjustment unit disposed on the light source side of the scanning unit, the beam diameter adjustment unit adjusting the beam diameter of the illumination light which is a substantially collimated beam; a first optical path including a relay optical system that makes the scanning unit optically conjugate with the object plane of the objective lens; and a second optical path including a relay optical system that makes the scanning unit optically conjugate with the pupil plane of the objective lens; wherein the at least one lens includes the beam diameter adjustment unit and wherein the switching unit switches to the first state in which plane illumination is performed by selecting the first optical path and switches to the second state in which spot illumination is performed by selecting the second optical path.
15. The illuminating device according to claim 14, further comprising:
an optical axis shifting unit configured to shift the optical axis of the illumination light made incident on the scanning unit; wherein, in the first state in which plane illumination is performed, the optical axis shifting unit adjusts the illumination position on the specimen by shifting the optical axis of the illumination light made incident on the scanning unit.
16. The illuminating device according to claim 14, wherein, in the first state in which plane illumination is performed, the scanning unit controls the illumination angle on the specimen by deflecting the illumination light at a desired angle.
17. The illuminating device according to claim 4, further comprising:
a beam diameter adjustment unit configured to adjust the beam diameter of the illumination light which is a substantially collimated beam made incident on the pupil plane of the objective lens in the second state in which spot illumination is performed.
18. A laser scanning microscope comprising:
the illuminating device according to claim 1, the illuminating device light-stimulating a specimen; a laser light source configured to emit an observation laser beam; a microscope scanning unit configured to two-dimensionally scan a spot of the observation laser beam on the specimen; and a detecting unit configured to detect light emitted from the specimen caused by the scan of the observation laser beam.
19. A confocal disk scanning microscope comprising:
the illuminating device according to claim 1, the illuminating device light-stimulating a specimen; a light source configured to emit an observation illumination light; a disk scanning unit having a plurality of confocal apertures, the disk scanning unit rotating so as to scan the observation illumination light on the specimen; and a detecting unit configured to detect light emitted from the specimen caused by the scan of the observation illumination light via the disk scanning unit.
20. The illuminating device according to claim 1, wherein the light source that emits the illumination light includes at least one of a light emitting diode and a laser diode.
21. The laser scanning microscope according to claim 18, further comprising:
a combining unit disposed between the objective lens and the microscope scanning unit, the combining unit combining a laser beam emitted from the microscope scanning unit with the illumination light which is adapted for light stimulation emitted from the illuminating device; wherein the illuminating device includes a scanning unit configured to scan the illumination light on a specimen, a relay optical system configured to make the pupil of the objective lens optically conjugate with the scanning unit, a convergence optical system disposed on the light source side of the scanning unit, where the convergence optical system collects the illumination light onto the scanning unit and changes the numerical aperture of the illumination light emitted to the scanning unit so as to function as the at least one lens, and a switching unit configured to switch to a first state in which plane illumination is performed on the specimen with the illumination light by inserting the convergence optical system in the optical path and switch to a second state in which spot illumination is performed on the specimen with the illumination light by removing the convergence optical system from the optical path, and wherein the scanning unit controls the illumination position of a plane illumination light on the specimen in the first state, and wherein the scanning unit scans a spot illumination light on the specimen in the second state.
22. The laser scanning microscope according to claim 18, further comprising:
a combining unit disposed between the objective lens and the microscope scanning unit, the combining unit combining a laser beam emitted from the microscope scanning unit with the illumination light which is adapted for light stimulation emitted from the illuminating device; wherein the illuminating device includes a beam diameter adjustment unit configured to adjust the beam diameter of the illumination light which is a substantially collimated beam, a scanning unit on which the illumination light is made incident from the beam diameter adjustment unit, a first optical path including a relay optical system that makes the scanning unit optically conjugate with the object plane of the objective lens, and a second optical path including a relay optical system that makes the scanning unit optically conjugate with the pupil plane of the objective lens, and a switching unit configured to switch to a first state in which plane illumination is performed on the specimen with the illumination light by selecting the first optical path and switch to a second state in which spot illumination is performed on the specimen with the illumination light by selecting the second optical path, and wherein the beam diameter adjustment unit functions as the at least one lens so as to change the numerical aperture of the illumination light collected on the pupil plane of the objective lens.
| 2007-05-03 | en | 2007-11-22 |
US-202016916091-A | System and method for determining cause of abnormality in semiconductor manufacturing processes
ABSTRACT
A system for determining the cause of an abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing process includes an abnormality mode determination module, a selection module, and a root cause analysis module. The abnormality mode determination module is used to determine the similarity between wafer bin maps containing the abnormal data. When the similarity among the wafer maps is higher than a reference value, the selection module executes the steps of: determining a bad lot based on the wafer maps where the similarity is higher than the reference value; determining a time span within which the bad lot is generated; selecting other bad lots occurring in the time span and satisfying a failure model; selecting a good lot based on a fixed lot interval. The root cause analysis module is used to execute the steps of calculating the correlation among data to obtain confidence indexes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present disclosure relates to a system and method for determining the cause of abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing process, and more particularly to a system and method for automatically determining the cause of abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing process.
2. Description of the Prior Art
For semiconductor devices, after the wafers complete the front-end-of-line and back-end-of-line semiconductor manufacturing processes, the wafers would be further diced into multiple chips, which would be further packaged in the following processes.
Specifically, when there is a systematic failure in a semiconductor manufacturing process leading to a decrease in the yield of the wafers, the wafer maps of the corresponding wafer lots may show similar failure patterns. The types of the failure patterns may include center pattern, edge pattern, ring pattern, radiation pattern, donut pattern, and so forth. By examining the failure patterns shown in the wafer maps, engineers could, based on their experience, manually set the screening conditions for each processing parameter in the engineering data analysis system in order to find the main reason (or the root cause of the abnormality) of the reduction in wafer yield. The root cause may include mechanism-related root cause, particle-related root cause, process-related root cause, and equipment-related root cause, but not limited thereto.
However, numerous data and parameters have to be considered during the process of determining the root cause of the abnormality. These data and information include, but not limited thereto, pressure, temperature, processing duration, and vent for each equipment. Thus, the determination process relies heavily on personal experience (domain knowledge), manpower and time. In addition, when experienced engineers leave, their related experience usually could not effectively pass to junior engineers, which is another reason why the root cause of abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process is difficult to be determined quickly. In view of this, there is still a need to develop a system and method for determining the root cause of abnormality in semiconductor manufacturing processes to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In view of this, the present disclosure provides a system and method for determining the root cause of abnormality in semiconductor manufacturing processes to overcome the aforementioned technical drawbacks in prior art.
According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for determining the cause of abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing processes includes an abnormality mode determination module, a selection module, and a root cause analysis module. The abnormality mode determination module is used to record a plurality of abnormal data generated in circuit probing process, determine the similarity between wafer bin maps containing the abnormal data, and determine whether the similarity between the wafer maps is higher than a reference value. When the similarity among the wafer maps is higher than a reference value, the selection module executes the steps of: determining a bad lot based on the wafer maps where the similarity is higher than the reference value; determining a time span within which the bad lot is generated; selecting at least one other bad lot occurring in the time span and satisfying a failure model; selecting at least two good lot based on a fixed lot interval. The root cause analysis module is used to execute the steps of: retrieving a plurality of corresponding abnormal data from a database based on the at least one other bad lot and the at least two good lots selected by the selection module; calculating a plurality of correlation coefficients based on the relationship between the abnormal data and a plurality of process analysis results corresponding to the at least one other bad lot; calculating a plurality of confidence indexes based on the correlation coefficients; and arranging the confidence indexes in an order based on numerical values of the confidence indexes.
According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for determining the cause of abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing process includes the following steps: using a plurality of abnormal data acquired by a measurement to determine a similarity between wafer maps respectively corresponding to the abnormal data; determining whether the similarity between the wafer maps is higher than a reference value; executing a selection step for sorting good lot/bad lots when the similarity between the wafer maps is higher than the reference value, where the selection step includes the steps of: determining a time span within which the at least two bad lots are generated; obtaining a failure module corresponding to the at least two bad lots; selecting at least one further bad lot occurring in the time span and fitting the failure model; and selecting at least two good lots based on a fixed lot interval in the time span; and executing a root cause analysis step after the selection step, where the root cause analysis step comprises the steps of: retrieving a plurality of corresponding abnormal data from a database based on the at least one further bad lot and the at least two good lots selected by the selection module; calculating a plurality of correlation coefficients based on the relationship between the abnormal data and a plurality of process analysis results corresponding to the at least one further bad lot; calculating a plurality of confidence indexes based on the correlation coefficients; and arranging the confidence indexes in an order based on numerical values of the confidence indexes.
According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, by using the abnormal mode determination module, the selection module, and the root cause analysis module, the steps, such as the step of determining abnormality mode, the step of selecting good lots/bad lots, and the step of determining root causes, may be executed automatically. Thus, the following treatment may be triggered automatically. In other words, according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the step of determining abnormality mode, the step of selecting good lots/bad lots, and the step of determining root causes may not be executed manually. As a result, the root cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process may be determined quickly, and the subsequent treatment may also be triggered automatically.
These and other objectives of the present invention will no doubt become obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art after reading the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment that is illustrated in the various figures and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For more complete understanding of the present invention and its advantage, reference is now made to the following description, taken in conjunction with accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system for determining a cause of abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing process according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an abnormality mode determination module for executing an abnormality mode determination step according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a selection module for executing a selection step according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a root cause analysis module for executing a root cause analysis step according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining a cause of abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing process according to one embodiment of the disclosure.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining the similarity between wafer bin maps corresponding to abnormal data according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for executing a selection step of sorting bad lots/good lots according to one embodiment of the disclosure.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for selecting good lots at a selected ratio according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for executing a step of root cause analysis according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for executing a step of root cause analysis according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of the disclosure. Specific examples of components and arrangements are described below to simplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting.
It is understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer and/or section from another region, layer and/or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer and/or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer and/or section without departing from the teachings of the embodiments.
As disclosed herein, the term “about” or “substantial” generally means within 20%, 10%, 5%, 3%, 2%, 1%, or 0.5% of a given value or range. Unless otherwise expressly specified, all of the numerical ranges, amounts, values and percentages disclosed herein should be understood as modified in all instances by the term “about” or “substantial”. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the present disclosure and attached claims are approximations that can vary as desired.
The terms, such as “coupled to” and “electrically connected to”, disclosed herein encompass all means of directly and indirectly electrical connection. For example, when an element or layer is referred to as being “coupled to” or “electrically connected to” another element or layer, it may be directly coupled or electrically connected to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be presented.
Although the disclosure is described with respect to specific embodiments, the principles of the invention, as defined by the claims appended herein, can obviously be applied beyond the specifically described embodiments of the invention described herein. Moreover, in the description of the present disclosure, certain details have been left out in order to not obscure the inventive aspects of the disclosure. The details left out are within the knowledge of a person of ordinary skill in the art.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system for determining a cause of abnormality of a semiconductor manufacturing process according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 1, a system 100 for determining the cause of abnormality in semiconductor manufacturing processes may include at least one processor 102 and at least one memory device 104. The processor 102 is electrically coupled to the memory device 104. The processor 102 may be a central processing unit (CPU), a programmable microprocessor, an embedded control chip, and so forth. The memory device 104 is non-transitory computer readable medium, such as any type of stationary or movable random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a flash memory, a hard disc, other similar devices, or a combination thereof. A plurality of program code fragments are stored in the memory device 104. After the above code fragments are installed, the code fragments may be executed by the processor 102 to perform the method of determining the cause of the abnormality of the semiconductor manufacturing processes. The processor 102 may include multiple modules, and each of the modules may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a programmable microprocessor, an embedded control chip, and the like. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the modules in the processor 102 may be, for example, an abnormality mode determination module 1021, a selection module 1023, a root cause analysis module 1025, and a trigger module 1027.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an abnormality mode determination module for executing a step of determining abnormality mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 2, for wafer lots that are obtained after a back-end-of-line (BEOL) processing, step S101 may be executed by the abnormality mode determination module 1021 to record or read abnormal data generated by measuring the wafer lots, such as abnormal data generated during an electrical measurement and/or an optical measurement, or multiple abnormal data generated during a circuit probing (CP) procedure. The abnormal data may be data representing a specific electrical characteristic and deviating from a predetermined value. Then, step S103 is executed to determine the similarity between the wafer bin maps corresponding to the abnormal data. For example, the similarity between one failure pattern constituted by the abnormal data of a given wafer or wafer lot and another failure pattern constituted by the abnormal data of another wafer or wafer lot is determined. Then, step S105 is executed to determine whether the similarity between wafer bin maps is higher than a reference value. For example, when the similarity between the wafer bin maps is higher than a similarity standard (i.e. a reference value), the failure pattern constituted by the abnormal data of a given wafer or wafer lot is regarded as similar to failure pattern constituted by the abnormal data of another wafer or wafer lot. For example, the failure patterns of the wafers or wafer lots may include donut patterns. When the abnormality mode determination module 1021 determines that the similarity between the wafer bin maps is higher than the similarity standard, the abnormality mode determination module 1021 may determine that there is a systematic detect, and the corresponding abnormal data may be stored in a database used to storing abnormal cases. In another embodiment, in either one of a back-end-of-line (BEOL) processing stage and a middle-end-of-line (MEOL) processing stage, non-electrical measurement methods, such as an optical measurement, may be used to obtain abnormal data. The method of acquiring abnormal data may be decided based on the needs of those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to the method disclosed above. Besides, the wafer maps corresponding to the abnormal data may be, for example, wafer bin maps or particle defect maps.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a selection module for executing a selection step according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 3, when the similarity between the wafer bin maps is higher than the similarity standard (or a reference value), the selection module 1023 may execute step S301 to determine the bad lot based on the wafer bin maps having the similarity higher than the similarity standard. Next, the selection module 1023 may execute step S303 to determine a time span within which the above bad lots are generated. The time span may be determined based on the time at which a first batch of the bad lots and the time at which a last batch of the bad lots, as well as buffer time for inspection. Then, the selection module 1023 may execute step S305 to obtain a failure model corresponding to the above-mentioned bad lot, and the failure model may be determined based on spatial distribution of a failure pattern in the wafer bin maps or types of fail bins. Afterwards, the selection module 1023 may execute step S307 to select at least one other bad lot having the identical failure model within the time span. Afterwards, the selection module 1023 may execute step S309 to select at least two good lots at a fixed lot interval in the time span. When more good lots are selected during step S309, for example, more than 5 good lots, the result of the subsequent root cause analysis may be more accurate, but the number of the lots is not limited thereto. In addition, when the ratio of the number of bad lots to the number of good lots falls within a certain ratio, such as 1:3 to 1:4, it may be more conducive to the subsequent root cause analysis.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a root cause analysis module for executing a root cause analysis step according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 4, after the selection module 1023 select the bad lot and good lot, the root cause analysis module 1025 may then execute step S501, based on the bad lot and good lot selected by the selection module 1023, to retrieve the CP abnormal data and normal data generated in a chip probing test based on the at least one further bad lot and the at least one good lot selected (or sorted) by the selection module 1023. Afterwards, the root cause analysis module 1025 executes step S503 to calculate the correlation coefficients among the results of the process analysis corresponding to the CP abnormal data, the normal data, and the at least one other bad lot. The results of the process analysis may refer to the results generated based on analyzing equipment log (EQP), lot quality control (LQC), real time management (RTM), wafer acceptance test (WAT), and so forth. Regarding the method of calculating the correlation coefficients, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the method may consider the relation between CP and EQP, the relation between CP and LQC, and the relation between CP and RTM, but not limited thereto. For the analysis between CP and EQP, it may calculate the possibility that a root cause is attributed to given equipment. The possibility may be presented in the form of numerical values (such as correlation coefficients). Similarly, for the analysis between CP and LQC, it also calculates the probability that a root cause is attributed to given equipment. The possibility may be presented in the form of numerical values (such as correlation coefficients). For the analysis between CP and LQC, it also uses an analogous calculation method. Next, step S505 is executed to calculate the confidence indexes (CI) based on the correlation coefficients. The confidence indexes are numerical values (or probability value) from 0 to 1, and the higher the value of CI, the higher the probability that the corresponding equipment may be attributed to the root cause. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the confidence indexes may be generated by the following equation (1):
CI=P(logit(p)>0) (1)
With respect to equation (1), logit (p) is the logarithm of an odds ratio (abbreviated as “OR”) as expressed in equation (2):
With respect to equation (2),
is an onus ratio (OR), where p represents the probability that given equipment is the root cause of the abnormality, and 1-p represents the probability that given equipment is not the root cause of the abnormality; ax1+bx2+cx3+dx4 . . . zxn in equation (2) is logistic regression, where a, b, c . . . z are weight coefficients, which may be generated or evaluated based on a model established by past abnormal data (for example, weight coefficients may be calculated based on correlation coefficients recorded in a database, and the correlation coefficients are obtained by analyzing the relation between CP and EQP, the relation between CP and LQC, and the relation between CP and RTM), and the weight coefficients may be changed with respect to the types and the number of the past abnormal data; n in xn is an integer greater than 1, and, with respect to one embodiment of the present disclosure, x1, x2, x3, x4 . . . xn may respectively correspond to a correlation coefficient calculated based on the relation between CP and EQP, a correlation coefficient calculated based on the relation between CP and WAT, a correlation coefficient calculated based on the relation between CP and LQC, and a correlation coefficient calculated based on the relation between CP and RTM, but not limited thereto.
Afterwards, the root cause analysis module 1025 may execute step S507 to arrange the confidence indexes according to the value of the confidence indexes. In other words, when the value of CI in equation (1) is larger, the CI value may be ranked higher. For the values of CI that are higher than a preset value (for example, higher than 95%) and ranked higher, the root cause of the abnormality is more likely to be attributed to the corresponding equipment. For example, when the value of the CI for a given process equipment (such as heat treatment equipment) is ranked higher as a result of the Logistic regression calculation, the higher the probability that the specific process equipment is the root cause of abnormality.
Afterwards, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the trigger module 1027 in the system 100 for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process may transmit a specific signal, so that the given process equipment incurring the abnormality may take given actions based on the signal transmitted from the trigger module 1027. The actions may include automatic shutdown, automatic checking of equipment condition, automatic adjustment of process parameters, and so forth. According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the trigger module 1027 may also transmit a specific signal to notify the engineer to manually perform shutdown, check the equipment condition, adjust the process parameters, and other manual actions on the specific equipment that incurs the abnormality.
According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, by using the abnormal mode determination module, the selection module, and the root cause analysis module, the steps, such as the step of determining abnormality mode, the step of selecting good lots/bad lots, and the step of determining root causes, may be executed automatically. Thus, the following treatment may be triggered automatically. In other words, according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the step of determining abnormality mode, the step of selecting good lots/bad lots, and the step of determining root causes may not be necessarily executed manually. As a result, the root cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process may be determined quickly, and the subsequent treatment may also be triggered automatically.
According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for determining the cause of abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing process is also provided. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining a cause of abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing process according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Referring to FIG. 5, the processor 102 may be used to execute a step of determining the cause of abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing process, which includes the steps of: executing step S201 to generate abnormal data through a chip probing test and determine the similarity between wafer maps respectively corresponding to the abnormal data; executing step S203 to determine whether the similarity among wafer bin maps is higher than a reference value; executing step S205 for sorting good lot/bad lots when the similarity among the wafer maps is higher than the reference value; executing step S207 to carry out a root cause analysis after the selection step.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining the similarity between wafer bin maps corresponding to abnormal data according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 6, for step S201 disclosed above, step S201 may be executed by the processor, and step S201 may include an abnormal lot detection step S201 a and an abnormal case detection step S201 b. In the abnormal lot detection step S201 a, step S2011 is first executed to acquire CP data generated from a process of circuit probing the wafer. Afterwards, steps S2012 and S2013 may be executed concurrently or sequentially to confirm the information of yield rate in the above CP data and confirm the information about the ratio between various types of the abnormal bins. Then, step S2014 is executed to determine whether the yield rate and/or the ratio between the abnormal bins of the wafers are lower than a baseline. When the yield rate and/or the ratio between the abnormal bins of the wafers are not lower than the baseline, it means that the wafer or wafer lot corresponding to the CP data are not abnormal. Thus, the abnormal lot detection step S201 a may be ended by executing step S2015. In contrast, when the yield rate and/or the ratio between the abnormal bins of the wafers are lower than the baseline, it means that the wafer or wafer lot corresponding to the CP data is abnormal. The above baseline may be obtained through a machine learning process. Step S2016 is executed to designate the wafer or wafer lot corresponding to the CP data as abnormal wafer or abnormal wafer lot, and then step S2017 is executed to record the CP data in the database storing the excursion lots (e.g. an abnormal lot database). At this time, the abnormal lot detection step S201 a is completed. Next, an abnormal case detection step S201 b may be executed to determine whether the above-mentioned issue (e.g. abnormality) belongs to a systemic abnormal case. Specifically, step S2018 is first executed to retrieve data from the database storing the abnormal lots, and sort and arrange the data based on the difference between the abnormal bin ratio and the baseline. Next, step S2019 is executed to obtain top three abnormal bin ratios. Subsequently, based on the top three abnormal bin ratios, step S2020 may be executed to classify the corresponding abnormal wafers and determine the corresponding failure patterns of the wafer bin maps. Next, step S2021 is executed to determine whether other lots contain similar abnormal wafers. The judgment of the similarity among the abnormal wafers may be calculated using logistic regression. Factors, e.g. x1, x2, x3, x4 . . . x, in equation (2) may respectively correspond to the sum of the abnormal bin ratios between two abnormal wafers, the subtraction of the abnormal bin ratios between two abnormal wafers, the distance between two overlapped abnormal wafer bin maps, and so forth, but not limited thereto. The term “bin ratio” may refer to the ratio of the number of dies with abnormal bins to the total number of the dies of the given wafer, and so forth, but not limited thereto. If other lots do not contain similar abnormal wafers, it means that the data being generated belongs to a single random abnormality. Thus, the abnormal case detection step S201 b may be ended by executing step S2022. However, if other lots contain similar abnormal wafers, it means that the data belongs to a systematic abnormality, so step S2023 may be executed to designate the corresponding wafer lot as abnormal cases. For abnormal cases, in step S2024, the corresponding data may be recorded in the database storing abnormal cases. Thus, the data stored in the database may be used in step S2021 to determine whether other lots contain similar abnormal wafers. In addition, for the lots with abnormal cases, step S2017 may also be executed to store the corresponding data in the abnormal lot database.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for executing a selection step of sorting bad lots/good lots according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Referring to FIG. 7, step S205 disclosed above may include multiple sub-steps. First, step S303 may be executed to determine a time span corresponding to the occurrence of the bad lots (i.e. the time span at which the abnormal data occur) based on the database storing data of excursion cases. Next, step S305 is executed to obtain a failure model corresponding to the bad lots. Then, step S309 is executed to select at least one other bad lot occurring in the time span and fitting the failure model. Then, step S309 is executed to select at least two good lots at a fixed lot interval within the time span (i.e. “the lots selected at a fixed lot interval” means that the number of the lots existing between the adjacent two selected lots is fixed at a given value). Steps, such as steps S303, S305, S307, and S309 described in the embodiment of FIG. 7 are substantially the same as steps, such as steps S303, S305, S307, and S309 described in the embodiment of FIG. 3, and the details of which are not disclosed herein for the sake of brevity.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for selecting good lots at a selected ratio according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 8, step S3091 may be executed to determine a designated ratio of bad lots to good lots. When the number of bad lots and the number of good lots fall within a certain ratio, for example, 1:3 to 1:4, it is more conducive to subsequent root cause analysis. In addition, when the total number of the selected bad lots and the total number of the selected good lots are higher, it is also more conducive to subsequent root cause analysis. Next, step S3093 is executed to exclude bad lots from all lots base on the data in the abnormal lot database. Next, step S3095 is executed to select good lots in the above-described time span at the designated ratio.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for executing a step of root cause analysis according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 9, the above step S207 may include multiple sub-steps. First, step S501 may be executed to retrieve the CP abnormal data and normal data generated in a chip probing test based on the at least one further bad lot and the at least one good lot selected (or sorted) by the selection module. Next, step S503 is executed to calculate the correlation coefficients among the results of the process analysis corresponding to the CP abnormal data, the normal data, and the at least one other bad lot. Next, step S505 is executed to calculate the confidence indexes based on the correlation coefficients. Finally, step S507 is executed to sort and arrange the confidence indexes based on the values of the confidence indexes. Steps, such as steps S501, S503, S505, and S507 described in the embodiment of FIG. 9 are substantially the same as steps, such as steps S501, S503, S505, and S507 described in the embodiment of FIG. 4, and the details of which are not disclosed herein.
The step S207 is not limited to the above sub-steps disclosed above and may include other multiple sub-steps. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for executing a step of root cause analysis according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 10, in step S2071, the correlation between CP data and CP-related data may be analyzed. The executed analysis of step S2071 may include analyzing the correlation between CP data and CP-related data, analyzing the relationship between CP data and EQP data, analyzing the correlation between CP data and QC data, analyzing the relationship between CP data and RTM data, and so forth, but not limited thereto. Next, step S2072 is executed to confirm whether there is any relevant WAT data. In other words, step S2072 is executed to check if there are any WAT data that have a correlation with CP data. If yes, step S2073 is then executed to analyze the correlation between the WAT data and the WAT data. Then, step S2074 is executed to analyze whether there is any relevant WAT data in order to check if there are any WAT data that have a correlation with each other. If yes, step S2073 is then executed to continue to analyze the correlation between the WAT data and the WAT data. When the results of step S2072 and step S2074 are both negative, step S2075 may be executed to calculate multiple correlation coefficients. Subsequently, step S2076 is executed to calculate confidence indexes, and then step S2077 is executed to arrange or sort the calculated confidence indexes. Then, step S2078 is executed to determine whether there is a confidence indexes higher than a reference value. If not, it means that there is no existing equipment that could be obviously attributed as root cause equipment. Thus, step S2079 may be executed to end the root cause analysis step. If the result of step S2078 is yes, it means that there is existing equipment that could be obviously attributed as root cause equipment. Thus, step S701 may be further executed to automatically trigger the corresponding equipment, so that the corresponding equipment may execute actions such as automatic shutdown or automatic parameter adjustment. According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, by using the abnormal mode determination module, the selection module, and the root cause analysis module, the steps, such as the step of determining abnormality mode, the step of selecting good lots/bad lots, and the step of determining root causes, may be executed automatically. Thus, the following treatment may be triggered automatically. In other words, according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the step of determining abnormality mode, the step of selecting good lots/bad lots, and the step of determining root causes may not be executed manually. As a result, the root cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process may be determined quickly, and the subsequent treatment may also be triggered automatically.
Those skilled in the art will readily observe that numerous modifications and alterations of the device and method may be made while retaining the teachings of the invention. Accordingly, the above disclosure should be construed as limited only by the metes and bounds of the appended claims.
What is claimed is:
1. A system for determining a cause of abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing process, comprising
a determination module configured to record a plurality of abnormal data, determine a similarity between wafer maps respectively corresponding to the abnormal data, and determine whether the similarity between the wafer maps is higher than a reference value; a selection module, when the similarity between the wafer maps is higher than the reference value, the selection module executes the steps of:
determining at least two bad lots based on the wafer maps with the similarity higher than the reference value;
determining a time span within which the at least two bad lots are generated;
acquiring a failure module corresponding to the at least two bad lots;
selecting at least one further bad lot occurring in the time span and satisfying the failure model; and
selecting at least two good lots based on a fixed lot interval in the time span; and
a root cause analysis module, executing the steps of:
retrieving a plurality of corresponding abnormal data from a database based on the at least one further bad lot and the at least two good lots selected by the selection module;
calculating a plurality of correlation coefficients based on the relationship between the abnormal data and a plurality of results of process analysis corresponding to the at least one further bad lot;
calculating a plurality of confidence indexes based on the correlation coefficients; and
arranging the confidence indexes in an order based on numerical values of the confidence indexes.
2. The system for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 1, wherein the wafer maps comprise an identical failure pattern when the similarity between the wafer maps is higher than the reference value.
3. The system for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 1, wherein one of the at least two bad lots is a first bad lot, and another one of the at least two bad lots is a last bad lot, and the step of determining the time span within which the at least two bad lots are generated comprises: calculating the time span based on time points at which the first bad lot and the last bad lot are generated respectively.
4. The system for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 1, wherein the failure model is determined based on a spatial distribution of the failure pattern or a type of a failure bin of each of the wafer maps.
5. The system for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 1, wherein a quantity ratio of the at least one further bad lot to the at least one good lot is 1:3 to 1:4.
6. The system for determining the cause of abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 1, after the step of arranging the confidence indexes in order, wherein a process equipment designated by top-ranking confidence indexes is a process equipment incurring the root cause.
7. The system for determining the cause of abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 6, further comprising an automatic trigger module executing the steps of: transmitting a signal to the process equipment incurring the root cause in order to cause the process equipment to stop or automatically adjust processing parameters based on the signal.
8. The system for determining the abnormality of the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 1, wherein the determination module determines the abnormal data based on an electrical measurement and/or an optical measurement.
9. The system for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 1, wherein the confidence indexes and the similarity between the wafer maps are calculated based on a result of a logistic regression.
10. The system for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 1, wherein the wafer maps are wafer bin maps or wafer particle maps.
11. A method for determining a cause of abnormality in a semiconductor manufacturing process, comprising:
using a plurality of abnormal data acquired in a measurement to determining a similarity between wafer maps respectively corresponding to the abnormal data; determining whether the similarity between the wafer maps is higher than a reference value; executing a selection step for sorting good lot/bad lots when the similarity between the wafer maps is higher than the reference value, wherein the selection step comprises the steps of:
determining a time span within which the at least two bad lots are generated;
acquiring a failure module corresponding to the at least two bad lots;
selecting at least one further bad lot occurring in the time span and satisfying the failure model; and
selecting at least two good lots based on a fixed lot interval in the time span; and
executing a root cause analysis step after the selection step, wherein the root cause analysis step comprises the steps of:
retrieving a plurality of corresponding abnormal data from a database based on the at least one further bad lot and the at least two good lots selected by the selection module;
calculating a plurality of correlation coefficients based on the relationship between the abnormal data and a plurality of process analysis results corresponding to the at least one further bad lot;
calculating a plurality of confidence indexes based on the correlation coefficients; and
arranging the confidence indexes in an order based on numerical values of the confidence indexes.
12. The method for determining the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 11, wherein the abnormal data comprises a yield of wafers or a ratio between different bins.
13. The method for determining the cause of abnormality in semiconductor manufacturing processes of claim 11, wherein the step of determining the similarity between the wafer maps comprises: determining a ratio between different bins corresponding to each of the wafer maps and a spatial distribution corresponding to each of the wafer maps.
14. The method for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 11, wherein the wafer maps comprise an identical failure pattern when the similarity between the wafer maps is higher than the reference value.
15. The method for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process according to claim 11, wherein one of the at least two bad lots is a first bad lot, and another one of the at least two bad lots is a last bad lot, and the step of determining the time span within which the at least two bad lots are generated comprises: calculating the time span based on time points at which the first bad lot and the last bad lot are generated respectively.
16. The method for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 11, wherein the failure model is determined based on a spatial distribution of the failure pattern or a type of a failure bin of each of the wafer maps.
17. The method for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 11, wherein a quantity ratio of the at least one further bad lot to the at least one good lot is 1:3 to 1:4.
18. The method for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 11, wherein the determination module determines the abnormal data based on an electrical measurement and/or an optical measurement.
19. The method for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 11, wherein the confidence indexes and the similarity between the wafer maps are calculated based on a result of a logistic regression.
20. The method for determining the cause of the abnormality in the semiconductor manufacturing process of claim 11, wherein the wafer maps are wafer bin maps or wafer particle maps.
| 2020-06-29 | en | 2021-12-30 |
US-202117353982-A | Method, apparatus and systems for supporting packet delivery
ABSTRACT
The present invention provides methods, apparatuses and systems supporting in-order packet delivery during application relocation or UP (User Plane) path management events such as DNAI (Data Network Access Identifier) changes. In-order packet delivery may be enforced, ensured or supported by using an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested or required for a particular traffic flow of a UE during a user plane path management event. The methods may be performed by apparatuses implementing an application function (AF), a policy control function (PCF), a session management function (SMF), or UP entities such as PDU session anchors, of the communication network, or systems implementing a combination thereof. The SMF may configure UP entities to transmit packets and flow end markers to support in-order packet delivery and provide flow end marker information to the UP entities. The UP entities may signal path changes using flow end markers.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT/CN2020/083022 filed Apr. 2, 2020 entitled “METHOD, APPARATUS AND SYSTEMS FOR SUPPORTING PACKET DELIVERY” and claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/828,189, entitled “Methods and apparatuses for supporting in-order packet delivery during application relocation” filed Apr. 2, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention pertains to the field of communication networking and network management systems and in particular to method, apparatus and systems for supporting packet delivery.
BACKGROUND
Edge computing (e.g. mobile edge computing, multi-access edge computing) enables operator and 3rd party services to be hosted close to the user equipment's (UE's) access point of attachment, so as to achieve an efficient service delivery through reduced end-to-end latency and load on the transport network. In an edge computing scenario, applications are deployed inside the data network (DN) at locations close to the end of the network. The locations where applications are deployed may be represented or identified by Data Network Access Identifiers (DNAIs). The Application Function (AF) influence technique allows the AF to influence the Session Management Function (SMF)'s traffic routing decision (e.g. User Plane (UP) path selection and traffic steering on NG interface) by providing potential application locations and subscribing to UP path management or path change events (e.g. DNAI changes). UP path management events may trigger application relocation in the data network (DN).
Further information about the AF's influence on traffic routing can be found in the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Technical Specification (TS) 23.501 (“3rd Generation Partnership Project; Technical Specification Group Services and System Aspects; System Architecture for the 5G System; Stage 2 (Release 16),” V16.0.0, March 2019), clauses 5.6.7 and 5.13, especially for non-roaming and local-break-out (LBO) roaming scenarios.
In some scenarios, applications require in-order delivery of data packets. Application relocations or DNAI changes may cause packets to be delivered out of order. When enforcing in-order delivery, sequence numbering (SN) in the tunneling header (e.g. SN in GTP-U tunnel (GPRS tunneling protocol—user data tunnel) when the GTP-U is used as tunneling protocol in UP) is used for each UP tunnel along the user plane path, or the corresponding mechanism is activated. For each of the UP tunnels, the tunnel end point, a UPF (User Plane Function) or an access node (e.g. radio access node) generates tunnel header with SN to ensure that packets are ordered within the tunnel. When in-order delivery is ensured for each tunnel along the path, end-to-end in-order delivery can be achieved.
When an application is relocated (in the form of DNAI change, DNAI being representing the application location), the connection between the UP (User Plane) and the DN changes. As the two connections (e.g. (i) the old connection connecting the UP with the old or source DNAI and (ii) the new connection connecting the UP with the new or target DNAI) may have different transport performance (e.g. the new connection is faster than the old connection), packets received by the UP from the DN may no longer be in order. For example, referring to FIG. 1, when transmitting packets between the 5GC (5G Core Network) UP and the DN, packets transmitted over the old connection (e.g. DL Pkt1, DL Pkt2 in the downlink (DL) and UL Pkt1, UL Pkt2 in the uplink (UL)) may arrive at the destination later than packet transmitted over the new connection (e.g. DL Pkt3, DL Pkt4 in the downlink (DL) and UL Pkt3, UL Pkt4 in the uplink (UL)) even if the packets transmitted over the old connection start packet transmission earlier than the packets transmitted over the new connection. This is particularly true if the old connection is experiencing congestion or latency issues, thus triggering a transition to the new connection.
If there is no mechanism to reorder application layer packets, the DN or the 5GC (5G Core Network) may not be able to handle the packets properly (e.g. not able to ensure end-to-end in-order delivery). While a PSA (PDU (Protocol Data Unit) Session Anchor) may be relocated (from one UPF to another UPF) for a PDU session serving or transporting traffic/packets for an edge computing application, the PSA relocation may or may not be associated with DNAI change or application relocation. When PSA is not relocated, the source PSA and the target PSA may have same location or identity (e.g. being the same UPF) as indicated by the dashed box 101 in FIG. 1. PSA is a functionality of UPF.
Therefore there is a need for methods and apparatus for ensuring or supporting in-order packet delivery during DNAI change or application relocation, that is not subject to one or more limitations of the prior art.
This background information is provided to reveal information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance to the present invention. No admission is necessarily intended, nor should be construed, that any of the preceding information constitutes prior art against the present invention.
SUMMARY
An object of embodiments of the present invention is to provide methods, and apparatuses and systems for ensuring or supporting in-order packet delivery to the UE (for DN traffic) and to the DN (for UP traffic) during DNAI change or application relocation. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus in a communication network implementing a session management function (SMF). The apparatus comprises a processor, a memory and a network interface and is configured to receive an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested for a traffic flow. The apparatus is further configured to receive information related to a flow end marker to be used in supporting said in-order packet delivery. The apparatus is further configured, based on said indication, to configure one or more user plane (UP) entities to support in-order packet delivery during a UP path management event related to the traffic flow. Said configuring comprises providing at least one of the UP entities with said information related to the flow end marker or providing at least one of the UP entities with further information derived from said information related to the flow end marker. A technical effect of this apparatus is that the SMF manages the UP entities, provides them with the flow end marker information, and sets up the in-order packet delivery procedure only for traffic flows which require it. Furthermore, the SMF provides coordination with the AF to manage the procedure.
In some embodiments, the apparatus is further configured to receive subscription information indicating an application function (AF)'s subscription to a notification of the UP path management event, and, in response to the subscription information, transmitting the notification to the AF. A technical effect is that the SMF coordinates with the AF on an as-needed basis and allows the AF to respond as required to perform its role in the in-order packet delivery. In some embodiments, the apparatus may be further configured to receive said information related to the flow end marker in a response, from the AF, to the notification. A technical effect is that the AF can dynamically define the flow end marker when required, based on current information. In some embodiments, said information related to the flow end marker is received from the AF prior to transmitting the notification to the AF. A technical effect is that the AF can set the flow end marker a priori. In some embodiments, the subscription information is received directly or indirectly from the AF. In some embodiments, the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, the information related to the flow end marker, the subscription information, or any combination thereof are received from the AF without involving a policy control function (PCF). A technical effect is that information transfer does not require intermediate entities. In some embodiments, the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, the information related to the flow end marker, the subscription information, or any combination thereof are received from the AF indirectly via a policy control function (PCF). A technical effect is that intermediate entities can communicate information according to existing procedures. In some embodiments, the apparatus is further configured to receive one or more rules from the PCF wherein the rules include one or more of: the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, the information related to the flow end marker, and the subscription information. In some embodiments, the rules are generated by the PCF according to information provided to the PCF by the AF. The information may include one or more of: the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested; the information related to the flow end marker; and the subscription information. In some embodiments, the subscription information is integrated together with or included in a same message as one or both of: the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested; and the information related to the flow end marker. A technical effect is that the amount of messaging is mitigated.
In some embodiments, the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, the information related to the flow end marker, or both are received from an application function (AF) without involving a policy control function (PCF). In some embodiments, the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, the information related to the flow end marker, or both are received from the AF indirectly via a policy control function (PCF). In some embodiments, the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested and the information related to the flow end marker are integrated together or included in a same message. In some embodiments, the apparatus is further configured to receive one or more rules from the PCF, wherein said rules include one or more of: the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested; and the information related to the flow end marker.
In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker comprises the flow end marker. A technical effect is that the AF can define the flow end marker and the SMF does not need to. In some embodiments, the apparatus is further configured to generate the further information which comprises the flow end marker. A technical effect is that the flow end marker does not necessarily need to be explicitly communicated, allowing more flexibility. In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker, the further information, or both, include information based on which the flow end marker is generated. In some embodiments, the UP path management event relates to a change of the user plane path of a protocol data unit (PDU) session. In some embodiments, the UP path management event relates to a change of a PDU session anchor (PSA) for the traffic flow, a change of a Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI) for the traffic flow, or a combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the UP entities include one or more of: a UP entity configured to receive and forward packets from a user equipment (UE); a source PDU unit session anchor (PSA) configured to act as a PSA prior to the UP path management event; and a target PSA configured to act as the PSA following the UP path management event. In some embodiments, configuring the one or more UPF entities to support in-order packet delivery comprises one or more of: configuring a target PDU session anchor (PSA) to buffer packets of the traffic flow associated with a PDU session; configuring the target PSA to receive and forward further packets of the traffic flow associated with the PDU session; configuring a UPF to transmit the flow end marker to a source PSA; and configuring the source PSA to detect the flow end marker and forward the flow end marker to a source network element, to the target PSA or to both. In some embodiments, configuring the one or more UPF entities to support in-order packet delivery includes configuring a target PSA to: buffer received packets for the traffic flow, the traffic flow being associated with a PDU session; detect receipt of the flow end marker; and, upon detecting receipt of the flow end marker, stop buffering said received packets for the traffic flow and forward said received packets previously buffered to a target network element. In some embodiments, the source network element resides in a data network (DN) and is configured to receive UL packets of the traffic flow from the source PSA prior to the UP path management event. In some embodiments, the source network element is identified by a Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI). In some embodiments, the target network element resides in a data network (DN) and is configured to receive UL packets of the traffic flow from the target PSA after the UP path management event. In some embodiments, the source network element and the target network element are a same network element.
In some embodiments, the UP path management event comprises changing from a source network element to a target network element. Each of the source network element and the target network element may receive UL packets of the traffic flow from a same entity of the one or more UPF entities. Configuring the one or more UPF entities may include configuring said same entity to transmit the flow end marker to the source network element and to subsequently transmit UL packets to the target network element.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus in a communication network implementing a user plane function (UPF). The apparatus comprises a processor, a memory and a network interface and is configured to receive information from a session management function (SMF). The information is related to a flow end marker for a traffic flow and is instructing the UPF to transmit the flow end marker to a source protocol data unit (PDU) session anchor (PSA). The apparatus is further configured to transmit the flow end marker to the source PSA, according to the information. A technical effect of this apparatus is that the UPF is responsive to implement its role in the in-order packet delivery mechanism on an as-needed basis, and is able to use dynamically defined flow end markers.
In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker further instructs the UPF to transmit uplink (UL) packets for the traffic flow to a designated target PSA, said UL packets being received at the UPF after transmitting the flow end marker to the source PSA, the apparatus further configured to transmit the UL packets to the designated target PSA following transmission of the flow end marker to the source PSA. A technical effect is that the in-order packet delivery mechanism is implemented, with packets organized and flow end markers transmitted at appropriate times to enable the mechanism.
In some embodiments, the UL packets and the flow end marker belong to a same traffic flow of a protocol data unit (PDU) session. In some embodiments, some or all of the UL packets are received by the UPF following transmission of the flow end marker to the source PSA. A technical effect is that the traffic flow can continue during a UP path management event while supporting the in-order packet delivery.
In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker is further indicative that the UPF is to support in-order packet delivery during a user plane (UP) path management event related to a change of user plane path of a PDU Session for the traffic flow. In some embodiments, the source PSA has received prior packets from the UPF prior to a UP path management event associated with the flow end marker.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus in a communication network implementing a user plane function (UPF). The apparatus comprises a processor, a memory and a network interface and is configured to receive information related to a flow end marker associated with a traffic flow. The traffic flow is associated with a protocol data unit (PDU) session. The apparatus is further configured to transmit the flow end marker to a source network element, according to the information. A technical effect of this apparatus is that the UPF is responsive to implement its role in the in-order packet delivery mechanism on an as-needed basis, and is able to use dynamically defined flow end markers.
In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker is received from a session management function (SMF). In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end maker may also include information to be used for constructing the flow end maker. In such cases, the apparatus may be further configured to construct the flow end marker according to the information. In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end maker may further include information to be used for detecting the flow end maker in the traffic flow. In such cases, the information related to the flow end marker may be received from another UPF.
In some embodiments, the apparatus implementing the UPF is further configured, following transmission of the flow end marker to the source network element, to transmit further uplink (UL) packets for the traffic flow to a target network element. The target network element may be designated to receive packets of the traffic flow of the PDU session following the UP path management event. In some embodiments, the apparatus implementing the UPF is further configured, following transmission of the flow end marker to the source network element, to transmit further uplink (UL) packets of the traffic flow to a target PDU session anchor (PSA). In some cases, the apparatus may be further configured to transmit the flow end marker to the target PSA following said transmitting further UL packets to the target PSA. Said further configuration may be performed in response to an instruction from a Session Management Function (SMF).
In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker indicates that the UPF is to transmit the flow end marker to the source network element and to transmit the further UL packets to a target network element or a target protocol data unit (PDU) session anchor (PSA). The target network element or the target PSA may be designated to receive packets of the traffic flow, where the traffic flow is associated with the PDU session following the UP path management event.
In some embodiments, the UPF is further configured to detect receipt of the flow end marker from another UPF. The flow end marker may be transmitted as part of the traffic flow which belongs to the PDU session. The UPF is further configured to, upon detecting the flow end marker, forward the flow end marker to a target network element or to a target protocol data unit (PDU) session anchor (PSA). The target network element or the target PSA may be designated to receive packets of the traffic flow following the UP path management event.
In some embodiments, the apparatus implementing the UPF is further configured to transmit the flow end marker to the source network element before forwarding uplink data packets of the traffic flow to a target UPF. The uplink data packets may be forwarded after receipt of the information from a Session Management Function (SMF). In some embodiments, the apparatus implementing the UPF is further configured to transmit the flow end marker to the source network element after forwarding uplink data packets of the traffic flow to a target UPF. The uplink data packets may be forwarded after receipt of the information from a Session Management Function (SMF). The target UPF may be a protocol data unit (PDU) session anchor (PSA).
In some embodiments, the UPF is a protocol data unit (PDU) session anchor (PSA). In some embodiments, the source network element has received packets from a source PSA prior to a user plane (UP) path management event associated with the flow end marker. In some embodiments, the source network element resides in a data network (DN) and is configured to receive UL packets from a source PSA prior to the UP path management event. In some embodiments, the source network element is identified by a Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI). In some embodiments, the target network element resides in a data network (DN) and is configured to receive UL packets from a target PSA following to the UP path management event. In some embodiments, the target network element is identified by a Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI).
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus in a communication network implementing a user plane function (UPF). The apparatus comprises a processor, a memory and a network interface and is configured to receive information from a session management function (SMF). The information is related to a flow end marker for a traffic flow. The apparatus is further configured to detect receipt of the flow end marker from a source UPF. The apparatus is further configured, upon detection of the flow end marker, to forward, toward a target network element, packets of the traffic flow of a PDU session which are received and buffered by the UPF. The apparatus is further configured to forward further packets of the traffic flow toward the target network element after forwarding all of the packets of the traffic flow which are received and buffered by the UPF. A technical effect of this apparatus is that the UPF is responsive to implement its role in the in-order packet delivery mechanism on an as-needed basis, and is able to use dynamically defined flow end markers. Also, in-order packet delivery is supported while the traffic flow continues.
In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker is further indicative that the UPF is to support in-order packet delivery during a UP path management event related to a change of path for a protocol data unit (PDU) session. In some embodiments, the apparatus implementing the UPF is further configured, prior to detecting receipt of the flow end marker, to receive and buffer said packets received from the source UPF. In some embodiments, the further packets of the traffic flow are received from another user plane function (UPF). In some embodiments, the packets of the traffic flow which are received and buffered by the UPF are received from the source UPF, another UPF, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the source UPF is a protocol data unit (PDU) session anchor (PSA). In some embodiments, the UPF is a protocol data unit (PDU) session anchor (PSA).
In some embodiments, the UPF is configured to buffer said packets of the traffic flow, to receive and forward said further packets of the traffic flow, or both, based on a configuration signal received from the SMF. A technical effect is that the UPF procedure supporting in-order packet delivery is controllable by the SMF. In some embodiments, some or all of said further packets are received at the UPF prior to forwarding all of the packets of the traffic flow which are received and buffered by the UPF, or some or all of said further packets are received at the UPF after forwarding all of the packets of the traffic flow which are received and buffered by the UPF, or a combination thereof. A technical effect is that the in-order packet delivery procedure is supported for a variety of timings of flow end marker receipt.
In some embodiments, the target network element resides in a data network (DN) and is configured to receive UL packets from a target PSA following to the UP path management event. In some embodiments, the target network element is identified by a Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI).
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a system for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network. The system includes a first apparatus implementing a session management function (SMF) as described above. The system further includes one or more of the UP entities which are configured by the SMF. The one or more UP entities of the system may include a first UP entity configured to: receive information from the SMF. The information is related to the flow end marker, the information instructing the first UP entity to transmit the flow end marker to a second UP entity. The first UP entity is further configured, according to the information, to transmit the flow end marker to the second UP entity. The second UP entity may be a source protocol data unit (PDU) session anchor (PSA) and may also be part of the system. The second UP entity may be configured to receive further information related to the flow end marker, the flow end marker associated with a traffic flow. The traffic flow is associated with a protocol data unit (PDU) session. The second UP entity may further be configured, according to the information, to transmit the flow end marker to a source network element.
The one or more of the UP entities in the system may additionally or alternatively include a further UP entity, such as a target UP entity. The further UP entity is configured to receive information from the session management function (SMF). The information is related to the flow end marker which is associated with a traffic flow. The traffic flow is associated with a protocol data unit (PDU) session. The further UP entity is further configured to detect receipt of the flow end marker from a source UP entity (e.g. the second UP entity). The further UP entity is further configured, upon detection of the flow end marker, to forward, toward a target network element, packets of the traffic flow which are received and buffered by the source UP entity. The further UP entity is further configured, after forwarding all of the packets of the traffic flow which are received and buffered by the further UP entity, to forward further packets of the traffic flow toward the target network element.
Technical effects of the above-described system include that the system provides for coordination and dynamic configuration of UP entities by causing the SMF portion of the system to configure the UP entities, and causing the UP entities to respond appropriately to the configuration. The system includes multiple ones of the necessary functions or entities in a communicatively and cooperatively coupled arrangement, thus providing an integrated solution to in-order packet delivery support.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there are provided methods for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network. The methods correspond to configurations of apparatuses and systems described above implementing a session management function, a user plane function, or a combination thereof.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there are provided transitory or non-transitory computer readable media storing instructions executable in one or more processors, the instructions when executed in the one or more processors causing operations for performing one or more methods as set forth above.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in combination with the appended drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a user plane path (of a PDU Session) between the UE and the DN with a DNAI change or application scenario which is handled according to embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 2 illustrates, in a message flow diagram, an example procedure of negotiation for in-order packet delivery via AF request, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 3 illustrates, in a message flow diagram, an example procedure of dynamic negotiation for in-order packet delivery via SMF notification, AF response, or both SMF notification and AF response, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 4A illustrates, in a message flow diagram, an example procedure that the SMF enforces, ensures or supports in-order delivery of data packets in the UL, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 4B illustrates, in a message flow diagram, another example procedure to support in-order delivery of data packets in the UL, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 5 illustrates, in a message flow diagram, an example procedure that the SMF enforces, ensures or supports in-order delivery of data packets in the DL, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 6 illustrates, in a schematic diagram, an electronic device in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 7 illustrates various electronic apparatuses and a corresponding system provided in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
It will be noted that throughout the appended drawings, like features are identified by like reference numerals.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.
In the instant application, it is assumed that the User Plane (UP) tunnel (including tunnels used for forwarding packets) support in-order delivery. The connection between the 5GC UP and the data network (DN) is referred to as N6 connection in 3GPP standard term. It is also assumed that the N6 connection supports in-order delivery.
In the instant application, it is assumed that the User plane function (UPF) includes the following functionality. Some or all of the UPF functionalities may be supported in a single instance of a UPF.
Anchor point for Intra-/Inter-RAT mobility (when applicable). Allocation of UE IP address/prefix (if supported) in response to SMF request. External PDU Session point of interconnect to Data Network. Packet routing & forwarding (e.g. support of Uplink classifier to route traffic flows to an instance of a data network, support of Branching point to support multi-homed PDU Session). Packet inspection (e.g. Application detection based on service data flow template and the optional PFDs received from the SMF in addition). User Plane part of policy rule enforcement, e.g. Gating, Redirection, Traffic steering). Lawful intercept (UP collection). Traffic usage reporting. QoS Quality of Service (QoS) handling for user plane, e.g. UL/DL rate enforcement, Reflective QoS marking in DL. Uplink Traffic verification (SDF (service data flow) to QoS Flow mapping). Transport level packet marking in the uplink and downlink. Downlink packet buffering and downlink data notification triggering. Sending and forwarding of one or more “end marker” to the source NG-RAN node. Functionality to respond to Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) requests and/or IPv6 Neighbour Solicitation requests based on local cache information for the Ethernet PDUs. The UPF responds to the ARP and/or the IPv6 Neighbour Solicitation Request by providing the MAC address corresponding to the IP address sent in the request. Packet duplication in downlink direction and elimination in uplink direction in GTP-U layer. TSN Translator functionality to hold and forward user plane packets for de-jittering when 5G System is integrated as a bridge with the TSN network.
It may be noted that not all of the UPF functionalities are required to be supported in an instance of user plane function of a Network Slice.
In the instant application, it is also assumed that PDU Session Anchor (PSA) is a functionality of a UPF. When a UPF acts as an external PDU Session point of interconnect to the Data Network for a PDU Session, it is a PSA of the PDU Session. The connection between the PSA and the DN is an N6 connection.
In the instant application, it is assumed that the Policy Control Function (PCF) includes one or more of the following functionalities:
Supports unified policy framework to govern network behaviour. Provides policy rules to Control Plane function(s) to enforce them. Accesses subscription information relevant for policy decisions in a Unified Data Repository (UDR).
It may be also assumed that the PCF accesses the UDR located in the same PLMN as the PCF. The details of the PCF functionality are defined in clause 6.2.1 of 3GPP TS 23.503 (“3rd Generation Partnership Project; Technical Specification Group Services and System Aspects; Policy and Charging Control Framework for the 5G System; Stage 2 (Release 16),” V16.0.0, March 2019).
In the instant application, it is assumed that the Session Management function (SMF) includes the following functionality. Some or all of the SMF functionalities may be supported in a single instance of a SMF:
Session Management e.g. Session Establishment, modify and release, including tunnel maintain between UPF and AN node. UE IP address allocation & management (including optional Authorization). The UE IP address may be received from a UPF or from an external data network. DHCPv4 (server and client) and DHCPv6 (server and client) functions. Functionality to respond to Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) requests and/or IPv6 Neighbour Solicitation requests based on local cache information for the Ethernet PDUs. The SMF responds to the ARP and/or the IPv6 Neighbour Solicitation Request by providing the MAC address corresponding to the IP address sent in the request. Selection and control of UP function, including controlling the UPF to proxy ARP or IPv6 Neighbour Discovery, or to forward all ARP/IPv6 Neighbour Solicitation traffic to the SMF, for Ethernet PDU Sessions. Configures traffic steering at UPF to route traffic to proper destination. Termination of interfaces towards Policy control functions. Lawful intercept (for SM events and interface to LI System). Charging data collection and support of charging interfaces. Control and coordination of charging data collection at UPF. Termination of SM parts of NAS messages. Downlink Data Notification. Initiator of AN specific SM information, sent via AMF over N2 to AN. Determine SSC mode of a session. Support for Control Plane CIoT 5GS Optimisation. Support of header compression. Act as I-SMF in deployments where I-SMF can be inserted, removed and relocated. Provisioning of external parameters (Expected UE Behaviour parameters or Network Configuration parameters). Roaming functionality:
Handle local enforcement to apply QoS SLAB (VPLMN). Charging data collection and charging interface (VPLMN). Lawful intercept (in VPLMN for SM events and interface to LI System). Support for interaction with external DN for transport of signalling for PDU Session authentication/authorization by external DN. Instructs UPF and NG-RAN to perform redundant transmission on N3/N9 interfaces.
It may be noted that not all of the functionalities are required to be supported in an instance of a Network Slice. In addition to the functionalities of the SMF described above, the SMF may include policy related functionalities as described in clause 6.2.2 in 3GPP TS 23.503 V16.0.0.
In the instant application, it is assumed that the Application Function (AF) interacts with the 3GPP Core Network in order to provide services, for example to support one or more of the following:
Application influence on traffic routing. Accessing Network Exposure Function. Interacting with the Policy framework for policy control.
It may be also assumed that based on operator deployment, Application Functions considered to be trusted by the operator can be allowed to interact directly with relevant Network Functions. Application Functions not allowed by the operator to access directly the Network Functions may use the external exposure framework via the NEF to interact with relevant Network Functions. The functionality and purpose of Application Functions may be only defined with respect to their interaction with the 3GPP Core Network.
The present invention provides methods and apparatuses for ensuring or supporting in-order packet delivery to the UE (for DN traffic) and to the DN (for UP traffic) during DNAI change or application relocation.
FIG. 1 illustrates a user plane path (of a PDU Session) between the UE and the DN with a DNAI change or application scenario which is handled according to embodiments of the present invention. In the Data Network, a change from source DNAI 150 to target DNAI 160 occurs, for example corresponding to an application relocation event. Prior to the change, the UE communicates with the source DNAI 150, whereas after the change the UE communicates with the target DNAI 160. A corresponding change from source PSA 130 to target PSA 140 may also occur in the 5GS (5G System) user plane 100. Alternatively, the source PSA 130 and target PSA 140 may be identical (indicated by box 101). In this case, there is no PSA change. Regardless, the UE communicates with the PSA 140 via at least one UP entity (e.g. UP entity 120), which is unchanged. The path involving the source PSA 130 and source DNAI 150 is also referred to as the “old” path (e.g. old path 102), also referred to as the old connection, whereas the path involving the target PSA 140 and target DNAI 160 is also referred to as the “new” path (e.g. new path 103), also referred to as the new connection.
The source PSA and the target PSA are examples of user plane entities, also referred to as user plane functions. When a source PSA or target PSA is indicated, it is understood that a different user plane function can perform the related functions instead. The source DNAI and the target DNAI are example identifiers of data network elements (e.g. source data network elements, target data network elements), typically residing in a data network. For example, the source data network element can be identified with a source DNAI and the target data network element can be identified with a target DNAI. The source DNAI and target DNAI may represent locations of data network elements. The data network elements can implement operations of an application which is associated with the traffic flow. As such, the source DNAI may represent a first location of an application associated with the traffic flow, and the target DNAI may represent a second location of the application associated with the traffic flow. The application location may migrate from the first location to the second location in accordance with the UP path management event. In some cases, the source DNAI, the target DNAI, or both may refer to locations in the same or different data centers or access points associated with the same or different data centers. When a source DNAI or target DNAI is indicated, it is understood that a data network element associated with a different type of identifier can perform the related functions instead. It is noted that, when the term “DNAI” is used herein, other network elements or identifiers of network elements can be substituted for DNAI, and the term is intended to include suitable such substitutions.
The AF may inform the network that packets of a traffic flow (e.g. packets in the UL or DL related to an application) of a UE should be delivered in order (e.g. in the same order that packets are received). In other words, the AF may inform the network that in-order packet delivery is preferred, required or requested for the traffic flow. In accordance with the AF's information (or notification), the network may enforce or support in-order packet delivery for the traffic flow. This may be implemented by enhancing the AF influence mechanism, for example as is illustrated in the 3GPP TS 23.501 V16.0.0, clause 5.6.7. The enhancement of the AF influence mechanism may take place where the AF provides policy requirements (in the form of AF request) to the PCF for influencing the SMF's routing decision. The policy requirements provided by the AF may be delivered to the PCF directly, via NEF (Network Exposure Function), or via NEF and UDR (Unified Data Repository).
In some embodiments, the AF request (e.g. indicative of the policy requirements) sent to the PCF may include information indicating that in-order packet delivery is preferred, required or requested for a traffic flow of a UE. In other words, the information in the AF request may indicate that packets of the traffic flow should be delivered or forwarded in the order that the packets are received. In some cases, the traffic flow may be identified by an application ID which corresponds to a traffic filter pre-configured in the network. In some cases, the traffic flow may be identified by a traffic filter included in the AF request, or otherwise referred to in the AF request. The traffic filter included in the AF request may describe the traffic flow using fields (e.g. 5 tuple (source IP, destination IP, source port, destination port, protocol)) and field values of the packet header. The UE may be identified by information such as UE ID (e.g. GPSI (Generic Public Subscription Identifier) or SUPI (Subscriber Permanent Identifier)), UE address (e.g. IP address, MAC address), or UE group ID (e.g. external group ID or internal group ID). When the UE is identified by a UE group ID, the UE may be a member of the UE group identified by the UE group ID.
In accordance with the AF request, information associated with the AF request, or both, the PCF may generate or update policy rules and send the generated or updated policy rules to a relevant SMF. The relevant SMF may be an SMF serving a PDU session impacted by or related to the AF request. A PDU session may be impacted by or related to the AF request in that, for example, (i) the PDU session belongs to the UE identified in the AF request or (ii) a traffic flow carried (or transported) by the PDU session corresponds to or matches the traffic flow identified in the AF request, or both (i) and (ii). The policy rules may indicate that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred (e.g. as indicated by the AF in the AF request) for the traffic flow. If the policy rules include such an indication, the SMF, based on the indication, other information in the policy rules, or both, may enforce or support in-order packet delivery for the related traffic flow along the UP path of the PDU session.
In some embodiments, the AF may use an AF response to indicate in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for a traffic flow of a UE to the network (e.g. the SMF). As described in 3GPP TS 23.501 V16.0.0, clause 5.6.7, the SMF may send notifications of UP path management event (e.g. DNAI change event) to the AF in accordance with the AF's subscription to the UP path management event notifications. The UP path management event notifications may be referred to as SMF notifications. When the AF receives a UP path management event notification (or an SMF notification) from the SMF, the AF may send a response or an acknowledgement to the SMF. This response or acknowledgement may be referred to as AF response. When the SMF notification is related to DNAI changes, the AF may send a positive AF response or a negative AF response. The communication between the SMF and the AF can take place directly or via the NEF, as described in 3GPP TS 23.501 V16.0.0, clause 5.6.7.
The positive AF response may indicate that the application layer is ready at the target DNAI, and the negative AF response may imply the application relocation, for example due to the DNAI change, cannot be completed successfully or cannot be finished on time.
In the positive AF response, the AF may include information indicating that in-order packet delivery is preferred, required or requested for the traffic flow related to or impacted by the DNAI change. Based upon the information in the AF response indicating preference or need of in-order packet delivery, the SMF may determine to enforce or support in-order packet delivery for the traffic flow during DNAI change.
The positive AF response may also include information, such as an application ID or traffic filter that identifies the traffic flow. However, in some cases, the traffic flow may be identified by the information in the AF's subscription to the UP path management event notification (or the SMF notification). In that case, the positive AF response may not include information identifying the traffic flow explicitly.
According to embodiments, the SMF may enforce or support in-order packet delivery for a traffic flow during DNAI change. For example, the SMF may implement or enforce or support in-order packet delivery according to the preference or need of in-order packet delivery informed by the AF as described above. The SMF's enforcement or support for in-order packet delivery may require use of one or more per-traffic flow end markers which may be negotiated between the 5GC and the AF. How the SMF enforces or supports in-order packet delivery for a traffic flow during DNAI change is further described below.
An end marker is a special packet used in the UP (User Plane) to indicate end of (data packet) transmission of traffic. For UL (uplink) traffic, an end marker may be referred to as a UL end marker. Similarly, for DL (downlink) traffic, an end marker may be referred to as a DL end marker. In various embodiments, an end marker may be identified by or using an end marker descriptor. The end marker descriptor may include information regarding what the end marker looks like or how a packet can be identified, recognized or constructed as the end marker. For example, an end marker descriptor may indicate what field(s) in the packet header is (are) used to indicate or identify the end marker and what value(s) in the field(s) would indicate that the packet is an end marker. In some cases, multiple fields in the packet header may be used to identify the end marker. For example, the multiple fields may be used in combination to identify whether the packet is an end marker. When the packet has more than one header, the field(s) identifying the end marker may belong to one or more different headers.
When an end marker is associated with information (such as an application ID (e.g. an application ID referring to a pre-defined or pre-configured traffic filter) or a traffic filter) illustrating or identifying a traffic flow, the end marker may be used to indicate end of transmission of the traffic flow in user plane transmission. In such cases, the traffic filter may be specified using one or more fields of the packet header with specific field values or specific field value masks in those fields. To identify the end marker, the end marker descriptor may use one or more fields in the packet header that were not used to specify the traffic filter. The fields used for the end marker descriptor may have specific field values in each field to indicate or to identify the end marker. For example, a traffic filter may use a ‘destination address’ field and ‘source address’ field in order to illustrate or identify a traffic flow between a UE and an application server. Specifically, the values in the ‘destination address’ field and the ‘source address’ field may illustrate or identify the traffic flow. As the ‘destination address’ field and the ‘source address’ field are used to illustrate or identify the traffic flow, the end marker of the traffic flow may not be identified using the ‘destination address’ field or the ‘source address’ field. As such, the end marker of the traffic flow may be identified, for example, using the ‘protocol type’ field (in case of the IP traffic flow) or ‘Ethernet type’ field (in case of the Ethernet traffic flow) in the packet header. Similar to the case of the traffic flow, value of the ‘protocol type’ field or the ‘Ethernet type’ field may illustrate or identify the end marker of the traffic flow. A packet may be the end marker of the traffic flow if the packet matches the traffic filter and complies with the end marker descriptor (e.g. the ‘protocol type’ field or the ‘Ethernet type’ field in the packet header has a special field value indicating the end marker of the traffic flow or the end of transmission of the traffic flow).
In some embodiments, end marker descriptors and information identifying or indicative of relevant traffic flows (e.g. traffic filter) may use one or more fields of the packet header in common. The fields used to carry information indicative of end markers may partially or fully overlap with the fields used to carry information indicative of traffic flows. The shared use of the packet header may occur when the end marker descriptor embeds the traffic filter. In this case, value in the overlapping part of the commonly used field may correspond to the associated information illustrating or identifying the traffic flow (e.g. traffic filter). Moreover, the shared use of the packet header may occur when the end marker overrides the values for the traffic filter in the overlapping parts. In this case, the value in the overlapping part of the commonly used field may be handled as exception in the traffic flow and recognized as an indication of end marker of the traffic flow.
According to embodiments, a flow end marker may be negotiated by the network (e.g. 5GC) and the AF using the enhanced AF influence mechanism. A flow end marker may mean an end marker of a traffic flow.
The AF may define the flow end marker and provide information about the flow end marker (e.g. end marker descriptor, direction (UL or DL) of the corresponding traffic flow) to the network using an AF request or AF response. AF request and AF response are described above in embodiments related to indication of in-order packet delivery. The network may change or modify the flow end marker defined by the AF in the AF request and provide information about the modified end marker (e.g. modified flow end marker descriptor) to the AF via an SMF notification. The SMF notification is described above and may be the UP path management event notification (e.g. a notification for DNAI change sent from the SMF to the AF, according to the AF's subscription to such notifications, as described in 3GPP TS 23.501 V16.0.0, clause 5.6.7).
Alternatively, the network (e.g. the SMF) may define the flow end marker and provide information about the flow end marker (e.g. flow end marker descriptor, direction (UL or DL) of the corresponding traffic flow) to the AF via an SMF notification. The information about the flow end marker may include the flow end marker descriptor and its associated information (e.g. application ID, traffic filter) identifying the corresponding traffic flow. The information about the flow end marker may be used by the network (e.g. the SMF) to generate packet detection rules for detecting the end marker of the traffic flow (e.g. the flow end marker). The information about the flow end marker may be used by the network (e.g. the SMF, or the UPF) to generate or construct the flow end marker for transmission.
The negotiation (as described above) for the flow end marker may be carried out separately or together with the indication of in-order packet delivery. Negotiation for the indication of in-order packet delivery is described elsewhere in this application. In some embodiments, the negotiation for the flow end marker (e.g. the AF including information on flow end marker in AF request or AF response) may imply or indicate that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for the traffic flow that the flow end marker is associated with or corresponds to. In such case, the indication that the in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for the corresponding traffic flow may be optionally included in the AF request or AF response (e.g. the AF may not provide the indication in AF request of AF response).
According to embodiments, during DNAI change or application relocation, in-order packet delivery may be achieved or supported for a traffic flow in the user plane by using a flow end marker. The flow end marker may be constructed by the SMF and provided by the SMF to the UPF for transmission. The SMF obtains information on the flow end marker as described above, in embodiments related to negotiation for the flow end marker.
In case that the traffic flow is a UL traffic flow, packets of the traffic flow may be delivered to the DN (e.g. as received cooperatively and collectively by the source DNAI and target DNAI) by the network (e.g. as transmitted via the source PSA and target PSA cooperatively and collectively) in the order that the network receives the UL packets from the UE, as illustrated below.
According to embodiments, during DNAI change (e.g. when implementing a DNAI change (reselection) decision made by the SMF), immediately before switching the routing of the UL traffic flow from toward the source DNAI to toward the target DNAI, the PSA is configured or instructed by the SMF to send an UL end marker toward the source DNAI. The UL end marker sent toward the source DNAI may indicate that no more packets of the UL traffic flow will be routed to the source DNAI afterwards. The PSA may be configured by the SMF to send subsequent UL packets of the traffic flow from the UE to the target DNAI. By using the UL end marker, the application side may be able to reorder the packets received by the source DNAI and the packets received by the target DNAI. For example, the packets received by the source DNAI before the UL end marker may precede the packets received by the target DNAI.
If PSA relocation happens at the same time as DNAI change, a forwarding tunnel may be established between the source PSA and the target PSA. Then, using the established forwarding tunnel, packets of the UL traffic flow arriving at the source PSA may be forwarded by the source PSA to the target PSA. The source PSA may be configured or instructed by the SMF to send the UL end marker to the source DNAI immediately before starting the traffic forwarding.
It is noted that, here and elsewhere, PSA relocation does not necessarily occur in all embodiments and instances. That is, in some cases only the DNAI may change. As such, in FIG. 1 box 101 indicates that, if PSA relocation does not occur, switching of routing from toward source PSA to toward target PSA will not happen, and consequently the traffic forwarding between them will not occur. The UP entity (e.g. RAN node or a UPF, which is shared by or common in the new UP path through the target PSA and the old UP path through the source PSA and is closest to the source PSA and the target PSA) may be configured by the SMF to send the UL end marker to the source PSA along the old UP path, immediately before switching UP path to the target PSA. The source PSA may also be configured to forward the UL end marker to the target PSA using the forwarding tunnel. The UL end marker may be the last packet being forwarded to the target PSA from the source PSA. The target PSA may be configured by the SMF to forward UL packets arriving through the new path. The target PSA may be configured to forward the UL packets only after it receives the UL end marker from the source PSA. This ensures the target PSA to forward UL packets in order (e.g. in the same order that the UL packets is forwarded by the UP entity). For further clarity, the UP entities may be configured to support in-order delivery. UP entities and UPFs are used interchangeably herein. The UP entities may be configured to transmit the UL end marker to a source PSA. As referred to above, the UL packets and UL end markers may be part of a traffic flow. The traffic flow is part of or is associated with a PDU session. When an UL packet is forwarded, it is understood that the packet is also received, detected as part of the traffic flow, or both. Furthermore, additionally or alternatively to the source PSA being configured to forward the UL end marker to the target PSA, the source PSA may be configured to forward the UL end marker to a source data network element (e.g. associated with a source DNAI).
If the target PSA receives the UL packets of the traffic flow through the new path before receiving the UL end marker from the source PSA, the target PSA may be configured by the SMF to buffer the UL packets until it receives the UL end marker. The SMF may configure the target PSA to buffer the packets in this manner by providing the target PSA with rules or instructions. For example, the SMF may provide the target PSA with corresponding packet detection rules, forwarding action rules, or both. The target PSA may be configured by the SMF to detect receipt of the UL end marker and, upon detecting receipt of the UL end marker, to stop buffering said received packets for the traffic flow and forward said received packets previously buffered to a target data network element. Detecting receipt of the UL end marker may comprise detecting the UL end marker among received packets.
In the DN side, the source DNAI may hand over the application (e.g. application for processing the UL traffic flow) to the target DNAI only after the source DNAI receives the UL end marker from the source PSA. The source DNAI may expect to receive the UL end marker according to the AF's instruction. The AF's instruction may be provided to the source DNAI prior to the AF's response to the SMF notification.
In case that the traffic flow is a DL traffic flow, DL packets of the traffic flow coming from the DN (source DNAI and target DNAI operating cooperatively and collectively) may be delivered to the UE by the network (e.g. source PSA and target PSA operating cooperatively and collectively) in the order that the network receives the DL packets from the DN, as illustrated below.
According to embodiments, the source DNAI, for example as instructed by the AF, may send a DL end marker to the PSA in order to indicate that no more DL packets of the traffic flow will be transmitted from the source DNAI. The DL end marker may be sent immediately before the target DNAI takes effect (or the target DNAI takes over the source DNAI) for the traffic flow in communication with the UE. The PSA may be configured by the SMF to send or forward along the UP path toward the UE DL packets of the traffic flow received from the target DNAI only after receiving the DL end marker (from the source DNAI). This ensures that the PSA forwards DL packets of the traffic flow in order (e.g. in the order that the packets leave the source DNAI and the target DNAI operating cooperatively and collectively).
If PSA relocation happens at the same time as DNAI change, a forwarding tunnel may be established between the source PSA and the target PSA. Then, using this established forwarding tunnel, the DL packets of the traffic flow arriving from the source DNAI before the DL end marker at the source PSA may be forwarded by the source PSA to the target PSA. The DL end marker may be the last packet that the source PSA forwards to the target PSA for the DL traffic flow. The target PSA may be configured by the SMF to forward DL packets of the traffic flow transmitted from the target DNAI. The target PSA may be configured to forward the DL packets only after the target PSA receives the DL end marker from the source PSA for the traffic flow. If the target PSA receives the DL packets from the target DNAI before receiving the DL end marker from the source PSA, the target PSA may be configured by the SMF to buffer the DL packets until it receives the DL end marker. The SMF may configure the target PSA to do so by providing the target PSA with rules or instructions such as packet detection rules, or forwarding action rules, or both.
Immediately before the target PSA starts forwarding packets of the traffic flow received from the source DNAI, the source PSA may send the DL end marker in the DL along the old UP path. The UP entity may be configured by the SMF to forward packets of the DL traffic flow arriving from the target PSA along the new UP path. The UP entity may be a RAN node or a UPF, which is shared by or common in the “new” UP path through the target PSA after relocation and the “old” UP path through the source PSA before relocation, and which is closest to the source PSA and the target PSA. The UP entity may be configured to forward the DL packets only after it receives the DL end marker transmitted by the source PSA along the old UP path. The UP entity may be configured to support in-order delivery. The UP entity may be configured to transmit the DL end marker to a source PSA. If the UP entity receives the DL packets from the target PSA before receiving the DL end marker from the source PSA, the UP entity may be configured by the SMF to buffer the DL packets until it receives the DL end marker. The SMF may configure the UP entity to do so by providing the UP entity with rules or instructions such as packet detection rules, or forwarding action rules, or both. The SMF may configure the target PSA to buffer, receive and forward DL packets of the traffic flow. The traffic flow is part of or is associated with a PDU session. The SMF may configure the source PSA to detect the DL end marker and forward the DL end marker to a source data network element, to the target PSA or to both. The SMF may configure the target PSA to detect receipt of the DL end marker and, upon detecting receipt of the DL end marker, to stop buffering said received packets for the traffic flow and forward said received packets previously buffered to a target data network element.
Embodiments of the present invention address an issue of packet loss false positives due to application relocations (also referred to as edge relocations) or DNAI changes. As mentioned previously, during such a relocation, the connection (e.g. an N6 connection) between the UP and the DN changes. Because the new connection and the old connection have different transport paths, new packets (i.e. packets transmitted via the new connection) may arrive earlier than old packets (i.e. packets transmitted via the old connection). When reliable communication is being enforced or implemented (e.g. in an upper layer), if the old packets do not arrive within a certain timeout window, the upper layer may consider the old packets lost. This may be the case even when the old packets arrive immediately after the timeout. The reliable communication is assumed in this case to be enforced or implemented in an upper layer in the protocol stack, for example the Quic protocol layer when Quic is used. Such a packet loss false positive can trigger unnecessary packet retransmissions in the upper layer, which can cause additional delay in packet transmission and resource usage inefficiencies. This can be mitigated by setting a larger timeout window to tolerate late packet arrival. However, large timeout windows are also problematic as the upper layer has to be on hold for the entire window even if there are no old packets at all. In both cases, latency in data transmission can increase and continuity of the upper layer service would be undermined.
According to embodiments of the present invention, the problem of packet loss false positives may be mitigated by supporting in-order packet delivery during edge relocation (which is referred to as application relocation elsewhere in the current application and is related to DNAI change). In particular, the aspect of potential improvements of the coordination of change of the edge application server and (local) PSA is addressed to support seamless change (e.g. preventing or reducing packet loss).
According to embodiments of the present invention, the AF influence on traffic routing (for example as described in TS 23.501, clause 5.6.7) is enhanced to support in-order packet delivery during application (edge) relocation. For example, the AF may be involved by subscribing to notifications of application relocation, with a reply (response) from the AF required to implement mechanisms as described herein. The AF may also be involved in defining or determining the flow end marker to be used. Accordingly, when needed, the 5GC (i.e. the network) and the AF can negotiate a flow end marker (i.e. an end marker of a traffic flow) to be used during application (edge) relocation. The flow end marker may be negotiated between the AF and the entity in the control plane (e.g. SMF) of the network. The flow end marker can be used for marking the end of a transmission of the traffic flow from a given entity in the user plane of the network. The determined flow end marker can be sent using the old connection (e.g. N6 connection in the user plane) prior to the relocation to mark or indicate end of transmission of the traffic flow over the old connection. Using the flow end marker to coordinate packet transmissions, the DN can arrange packets to be delivered to upper layer in their proper original order. For example, packets arriving from the new connection may be transmitted only after detecting the flow end marker over the old connection, or in other words, packets arriving or received from the old connection precede those arriving or received from the new connection when being delivered to the upper layer.
In various embodiments, it is assumed that individual UP tunnels support in-order packet delivery. This may be achieved for example by activating GPT-U in-order packet delivery. In various embodiments, it is further assumed that the N6 implementation (i.e. implementation of N6 connection) supports in-order packet delivery. When the AF sends an AF request for subscription (also referred to as AF subscription) to notifications of UP path change (DNAI change), the AF may include, in the AF request, an indication that AF acknowledgement is expected, or an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred, or both. The indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred demonstrates in-order packet delivery to be implemented during application (edge) relocation. The term “requested” in this context is considered to be synonymous with “required, preferred, or needed” for purposes of this specification. The indication that in-order packet delivery is requested can also be referred to as an indication to support in-order packet delivery. The PCF may include those indications in the AF request in the policy rules generated based on the AF request and sent to the SMF. The indications may be part of the AF subscription information, which may be included in the policy rules. The policy rules may be generated or updated in the form of PCC rules. The policy rules can further include information indicative of the flow end marker. In some embodiments, the PCF may generate the policy rules according to information provided to the PCF by the AF including one or more of an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred or needed, information indicative of the flow end marker, and the subscription information (indicating a subscription to notifications of UP path change events such as DNAI change)).
According to the AF subscription information (information about the AF subscription) in the policy rule (e.g. PCC rules) received from the PCF, the SMF may notify the AF about a UP path change (i.e. DNAI change) and wait for a response from the AF. The AF subscription information may include an indication that AF acknowledge is expected, or an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred, or both. In a positive response sent from the AF to the SMF for the notification, the AF includes flow end marker information (e.g. end marker descriptor described elsewhere in the current application). According to flow end marker information in the AF response, the SMF generates the flow end marker and provides the flow end marker to the UP entity or the UPF (e.g. Uplink Classifier (UL CL)) when configuring or activating the new UP path.
The SMF configures the UP entity (e.g. UPF), the source PSA and target PSA to handle the flow end marker by providing these entities with rules or instructions. According to the configuration (rules or instructions), the UP entity (e.g. UPF) sends the flow end marker to the source PSA before switching to the new UP path toward the target DNAI for routing the traffic flow, and the source PSA forwards the flow end marker to both the source DNAI and the target PSA. According to the configuration (rules or instructions), the target PSA buffers data packets (e.g. UL packets) received from the UPF. According to the configuration (rules or instructions), the target PSA sends the data packets to the new (e.g. N6) connection only after receiving the flow end marker from the source PSA.
The flow end marker when being sent to the source DNAI indicates that no more packets of the corresponding traffic flow are to be routed to the source DNAI. The flow end marker can trigger the DN side to finalize the application (edge) relocation. For example, packets received over the new (e.g. N6) connection can be buffered at the target DNAI. After reception of the flow end marker, the source DNAI can inform the target DNAI to stop packet buffering. The target DNAI then routes the packets to the application. The interaction between the source DNAI and the target DNA may go through the AF. Methods to finalize edge relocation may be implementation-specific.
FIG. 2 illustrates an example procedure of negotiation for in-order packet delivery via AF request, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
At step 201, the AF 230 may send a request (e.g. AF request) for influencing the SMF 210's routing decision, subscribing to notifications of UP path management events (e.g. path changes or DNAI changes) or both. The AF request or the information associated with the AF request may be delivered to relevant PCF(s) (e.g. the PCF 220) using the mechanisms described in the 3GPP TS 23.501 V16.0.0, 3GPP TS 23.502 (“3rd Generation Partnership Project; Technical Specification Group Services and System Aspects; Procedures for the 5G System; Stage 2 (Release 15),” V16.0.0, March 2019), or both. The AF request or the information associated with the AF request may be delivered to relevant PCF(s) directly or indirectly via NEF or via NEF and UDR.
In the AF request, the AF 230 may provide an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for a traffic or traffic flow. The traffic flow may be a UL traffic flow or a DL traffic flow and may be considered to be associated with the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred. The traffic flow may be identified by information such as application ID, traffic filter (e.g. 5 Tuple (source IP, destination IP, source port, destination port, protocol)) or both application ID and traffic filter in the AF request. The network (e.g. the SMF 210) may provide support for in-order delivery of data packets of the traffic flow, in accordance with this indication. The AF may also provide an indication that an AF acknowledgement is to be expected.
When the indication is made for a UL traffic flow, the UL traffic flow may be the traffic flow to be routed to the application (e.g. a selected DNAI or an application location among many potential DNAIs or locations specified in the AF request). When the indication is made for a DL traffic flow, the DL traffic flow may be transmitted from the application (e.g. a selected DNAI or an application location among many potential DNAIs or locations specified in the AF request) and may be also routed to the UE(s). In either case, information identifying the traffic flow (e.g. an application ID or a traffic filter) may be included in the AF request. As described in the 3GPP TS 23.501 V16.0.0, clause 5.6.7, information to be contained in the AF request may include one or more of traffic description (e.g. application ID, traffic/packet filter, DNN, S-NSSAI, AF-Service Identifier), potential locations of applications, target UE identifier(s) or address, UE group identifier, spatial validity condition, AF transaction identifier, traffic routing requirements (e.g. routing profile ID, N6 traffic routing information for each potential location of application, indication of application relocation possibility, indication of UE IP address preservation, temporal validity condition and information on AF subscription (e.g. notification type).
In some embodiments, the AF 230 may provide two such indications, one for a UL traffic flow and the other for a DL traffic flow. Both traffic flows may be identified by information included in the AF request, as described above.
In the AF request, the AF 230 may provide information about the flow end marker (e.g. end marker descriptor) for the traffic flow that the indication for the in-order packet delivery is associated with. The traffic flow may be identified by information in the AF request and can be a UL traffic flow or a DL traffic flow. The information about the flow end marker may be or may include a flow end marker descriptor which demonstrates or describes how a packet (e.g. data packet) may be constructed, identified or recognized as an end marker. The network (e.g. the SMF 210) may use this information to generate packet detection rules for detecting the flow end marker in user plane traffic. The network (e.g. the SMF 210 or the UPF) may use this information to generate or construct the flow end marker for transmission. If the flow end marker is generated or constructed by the SMF, the SMF may provide the flow end marker to the UPF for transmission.
In some embodiments, the in-order packet delivery indication is not explicitly provided. In other words, the in-order packet delivery may be indicated implicitly without using a dedicated information element. For example, when information about the (flow) end marker is included in the AF request for the traffic flow, it may be implied that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for the traffic flow. (In the following steps, in-order packet delivery indication is provided regardless of whether the in-order packet delivery indication is provided explicitly or implicitly.)
In step 202, the PCF 220 may generate or update policy rules based upon or in accordance with one or more of the AF request, information in the AF request, and information associated with the AF request. Here, the AF request may be a request sent by the AF 230 at step 201 for PDU session(s) related to or impacted by such request.
According to embodiments, the policy rules may be generated or updated in the form of PCC rules and may include the in-order packet delivery indication(s) provided by the AF 230 at step 201. The policy rule may further include information associated to the in-order packet delivery indication(s), such as information about the flow end marker(s) (e.g. end marker descriptor(s), direction (UL or DL) of the corresponding traffic flow(s)). In some cases, the information about the flow end marker(s) may be the raw data provided by the AF 230 at step 201. In some other case, the information may be processed (or translated, or mapped) information upon analyzing the raw data. The information processing may be performed by the NEF (now shown in FIG. 2) or the PCF 220. In some embodiments, the policy rules may be generated by the PCF 220 based on information provided to the PCF 220 by the AF 230. The information provided to the PCF 220 includes one or more of an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested (or required or preferred or needed), information indicative of the flow end marker, and the subscription information (indicating a subscription to notifications of UP path change events such as DNAI change).
In step 203, the PCF 220 may provide the generated or updated policy rules to the SMF(s) 210 serving the PDU Session(s) (e.g. the PDU Sessions that are related to or impacted by the AF request).
More generally, whether indicated to do so via the PCF or directly via the AF, or via a combination thereof, the SMF is configured to receive and respond to an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested for a traffic flow. The indication can be for a particular traffic flow during a particular UP path management event, for example. Along with or separately from the indication, the SMF may receive information indicative of a flow end marker. As is described elsewhere herein, the flow end marker is used to support the in-order packet delivery during the UP path management event.
In step 204, the SMF 210 may proceed to enforce, ensure or support in-order packet delivery for the traffic flow if the policy rules received at step 203 include an indication of in-order packet delivery for the traffic flow. The in-order packet delivery may be supported using information included in the policy rules such as in-order packet delivery indication(s) and information about the flow end marker (e.g. flow end marker descriptor(s), direction (UL or DL) of the corresponding traffic flow(s)).
For example, enforcing, ensuring or supporting in-order packet delivery can include configuring one or more user plane (UP) entities. This can include prompting the UP entities to implement a particular packet handling behaviour as described elsewhere herein. This can include handling packets for a traffic flow by appropriate buffering and forwarding, and transmitting and monitoring for flow end markers as appropriate. Enforcing, ensuring or supporting in-order packet delivery can include providing at least one of the UP entities with the flow end marker or information based upon which the flow end marker can be constructed. This can be the same as the information received by the SMF, or different information.
A technical effect of these actions by the SMF is that the SMF manages the UP entities, provides them with the flow end marker information, and sets up the in-order packet delivery procedure only for traffic flows which require it. Furthermore, the SMF provides coordination with the AF to manage the procedure.
According to embodiments, information on flow end marker (e.g. end marker descriptor) may be dynamically negotiated by the network (e.g. SMF) and the AF, for example during DNAI change or application relocation. The dynamic negotiation for the end marker information may be required or needed when the definition or construction of end marker relies on dynamic information that is not available when the AF sends request to the PCF (e.g. at step 201 in FIG. 2). Such dynamic information may include UE address, port number related to the target DNAI or the application in the DN, or both.
FIG. 3 illustrates an example procedure of a dynamic negotiation for in-order packet delivery via SMF notification, AF response or both SMF notification and AF response, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The AF may have subscribed to notification of UP path management/change events (e.g. DNAI changes) for a traffic flow of the UE. The traffic flow of the UE may be transported by a PDU Session of the UE. The PDU Session may be served by the SMF 210. The subscription may be created or performed through the steps illustrated in FIG. 2.
According to embodiments, the SMF 210 may know about the AF 230's subscription based on the policy rules received from the PCF for the PDU Session, as is illustrated in step 203 in FIG. 2.
Each step regarding dynamic negotiation for flow end marker information via SMF notification, AF response, or both SMF notification and AF response illustrated in FIG. 3 will be described below in three different scenarios. In the following description and in FIG. 3, the UP entity 310 may be a common element in the new UP path and the old UP path that is closest to the source PSA 320 and the target PSA 330. The UP entity 310 may be the (R)AN node serving the UE or a UPF (which may be the UPF acting as the source PSA, or the UPF acting as the target PSA, or a different UPF). Information about flow end marker may include end marker descriptor described above and may indicate direction of the traffic flow (e.g. UL or DL) that the end marker is associated with. The traffic flow may be a UL flow or a DL flow.
Generally speaking, for the three scenarios discussed below, information indicative of the flow end marker (and possibly other implementation information) is indicated either by the AF, the SMF, or a combination thereof. This information can be communicated separately from (and typically after) the indication from the AF that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for a given flow. Alternatively, this information can be communicated concurrently (e.g. in the same message or signal) as the indication from the AF. In some embodiments, the AF may initially subscribe to notifications from the SMF, and may later transmit the above-mentioned indication and the above-mentioned information on flow end marker, either together or separately.
The first scenario for dynamic negotiation corresponds to a situation in which the SMF provides information about the flow end marker in the notification sent to the AF (e.g. AF 230). In this scenario, the AF has (previously) provided an indication of in-order packet delivery for a traffic flow in the AF request (e.g. the AF request illustrated in step 201 in FIG. 2). The traffic flow may be a UL flow or a DL flow.
According to embodiments, if information about the flow end marker for the traffic flow is not provided in the AF request (e.g. step 201 in FIG. 2), the SMF may generate or define or determine the flow end marker for the AF to use. For example, the SMF may generate or define the flow end marker by including information about the end marker in the SMF notification as described below. If the information about end marker for the traffic flow is provided in the AF request (e.g. step 201 in FIG. 2), the SMF may change or modify the flow end marker defined or determined by the AF and send the updated information about the end marker back (as part of the SMF notification as described below) to the AF to use.
Referring to FIG. 3, the SMF 210, at step 301, may notify the AF 230 of the UP path change (e.g. a change from a source DNAI to a target DNAI) for the UE. The SMF 210 may notify the AF after it performs UP path reselection (including DNAI reselection) for the PDU Session and the traffic flow, according to the relevant policy rules. The policy rules may include information about the AF's subscription to SMF notifications (e.g. indicative of UP path management/change events such as DNAI changes) and may be received from the PCF as illustrated in step 203 in FIG. 2.
According to embodiments, the SMF 210's notification may include information indicating one or more of the UE, the source DNAI, and the target DNAI. The SMF notification may include information that allows the AF 230 to identify the corresponding request of the AF that subscribes to the SMF notification. The AF request may include the application ID or information of the traffic filter that identifies the traffic flow (e.g. the traffic flow identified in the AF request in the step 201 of FIG. 2). The traffic flow may be related to the SMF notification.
The SMF notification may include information about the end marker (e.g. end marker descriptor) for the traffic flow. The information about the flow end marker may describe or instruct how to construct or detect the end marker for the traffic flow. As mentioned above, the end marker can be for an UL or DL traffic flow.
According to embodiments, in the case that the traffic flow is a UL traffic flow, the flow end marker is a UL end marker, and the information about the flow end marker may be used by the AF or the application side in order to detect the UL end marker received from the network. In the case that the traffic flow is a DL traffic flow, the flow end marker is a DL end marker, and the information about the flow end marker may be used by the AF or the application side in order to generate the DL end marker to be transmitted to the network.
At step 302, the AF 230 may respond to the SMF 210, i.e. in response to the notification received at step 301. The AF 230's response may be a positive response which indicates that the application layer is ready, for example at the target DNAI, in the DN side.
More generally, the SMF receives subscription information indicating the AF's subscription to a notification of the UP path management event, and in response, notifies the AF of the UP path management (path change) event. In various embodiments, the subscription information is received directly or indirectly from the AF (e.g. AF 230). The UP path management event may relate to a change of the user plane path of a protocol data unit (PDU) session. The UP path management event may further relate to the traffic flow, for example a change of a PDU session anchor (PSA) for the traffic flow, a change of a Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI) for the traffic flow, or a combination thereof. A technical effect related to the SMF notification action is that the SMF coordinates with the AF on an as-needed basis and allows the AF to respond as required to perform its role in the in-order packet delivery. When the AF transmits an indication of or information about the flow end marker in response to the notification, a technical effect is that the AF can dynamically define the flow end marker when required, based on current information. When the AF transmits an indication of or information about the flow end marker to the SMF prior to or without such a notification, a technical effect is that the AF can define the flow end marker a priori, thus expediting the set-up process. For example, the SMF can receive a single message incorporating multiple information elements, such as the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, and the flow end marker information (i.e. information or indication of the flow end marker). This mitigates the amount of messaging. The information or indication of the flow end marker may be in the form of flow end marker descriptor. Flow end marker descriptor is described elsewhere herein.
In some cases, the indication of or information about the flow end marker can be the flow end marker itself, which allows the AF to act alone to define the flow end marker. In some cases, the indication of or information about the flow end marker can be information based upon which the flow end marker can be generated. For example, the indication may be a reference to a pre-configured flow end marker or in the form of a flow end marker descriptor. This avoids the requirement to explicitly communicate the flow end marker and adds flexibility to the system.
If the AF transmits the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested (or required or preferred or needed), the subscription information, or the indication of (or information about) flow end marker directly to the SMF without involving a policy control function (PCF), a technical effect is that intermediate entities such as the PCF are neither involved nor required, thus information transfer occurs through a shorter path without involving PCF. Further, the information transfer process can be simplified and system response delay would be reduced. Otherwise, the above information can be transmitted to the SMF via intermediate entities such as a PCF, NEF, or both. In this case, a technical effect is that the intermediate entities can communicate information according to existing architectures or procedures. A further technical effect is that the AF is allowed to provide the above information to the network (i.e. PCF) before the SMF being selected. For example, the AF can provide the above information before establishment of the PDU Session. At that time, no SMF is being selected as SMF is selected per PDU session.
If the AF 230's response received by the SMF 210 at step 302 is a positive response, the SMF 210, at step 303, may configure or activate the new UP path toward the target DNAI. (e.g. If the AF 230's response is positive, the SMF 210, at step 303, may configure the new UP path, activate the new UP path, or configure and activate the new UP path.) In general, the step 303 may include configuring entities such as the UP entity, source PSA and target PSA to act in a manner that retains packet ordering during a relocation event. Actions may include transmitting and receiving end markers, buffering packets, forwarding packets, and transmitting buffered packets. Packets may be buffered and subsequently transmitted at times and in an order that preserves the original packet ordering. Details regarding how packet ordering is preserved are presented elsewhere herein. The step 303 is further illustrated in component steps 303 a, 303 b and 303 c as follows.
At step 303 a, the SMF 210 may configure the target PSA 330 in order to detect and forward the traffic flow related to the DNAI change.
In particular for UL traffic(s) (e.g. when that the traffic flow is a UL traffic flow; UL traffic(s) refer to the packets of the UL traffic flow, and the flow end marker is a UL end marker), the SMF 210 may configure the target PSA 330 in order to detect the UL end marker (i.e. the flow end marker). The configuration may include that the SMF 210 provides the target PSA 330 with packet detection rules to be applied against UL PDUs for detecting the UL end marker. The packet detection rules may be generated by the SMF 210 based upon or using the information about the UL end marker. The SMF 210 may receive information about the UL end marker (e.g. end marker descriptor, direction of the traffic flow (e.g. traffic flow is UL)) from the AF 230, either directly or indirectly (e.g. via the PCF 220, as described above in the embodiments related to FIG. 2).
The SMF 210 may further provide the target PSA 330 with instructions for the follow-up activities upon detection of the UL end marker. Specifically, upon detection of the UL end marker forwarded from the source PSA 320, the target PSA 330 may stop buffering UL traffic received directly from the UP entity 310 (as opposed to UL traffic forwarded from the source PSA 320) and may also start forwarding the UL traffic to the target DNAI, in accordance with the instruction provided by the SMF 210. In various embodiments, the instructions may be in the form of packet forwarding rules linked to the packet detection rules described above.
Moreover, the SMF 210 may configure the target PSA 330 in order to forward the UL traffic received from the source PSA 320 to the target DNAI. For this, packet detection rules (e.g. packet detection rules for detecting the UL traffic) and packet forwarding rules (e.g. packet forwarding rules for forwarding the UL traffic to the target DNAI) may be provided to the target PSA 330. The SMF 201 provides these rules to the target PSA 330.
For DL traffic(s) (e.g. when the traffic flow is a DL traffic flow, DL traffic(s) refer to packets of the DL traffic flow, and the flow end marker is a DL end marker), the SMF 210 may configure the target PSA 330 to detect the DL end marker (i.e. the flow end marker). For the configuration, the SMF 210 may provide the target PSA 330 with packet detection rules for detecting the DL end marker. The packet detection rules may be generated by the SMF 210 based upon (using) information about the DL end marker. The SMF 210 may also provide the target PSA 330 with packet forwarding rules to forward the DL end marker properly. The SMF 210 may configure the target PSA 330 to take proper follow-up actions upon detection of the DL end marker. The follow-up activities may include stopping buffering DL traffic received from the target DNAI and starting forwarding the DL traffic along the new UP path in the DL.
The SMF 210 may, if necessary, further configure the target PSA 330 for forwarding the DL traffic (e.g. data traffic; not end marker) received from the source PSA 320 to the UP entity 310. This may include providing the target PSA 330 with packet detection rules for detecting the DL traffic and packet forwarding rules for forwarding the DL traffic to UP entity 310.
At step 303 b, the SMF 210 may configure the UP entity 310 to switch the UP path from the source PSA 320 to the target PSA 330 for the traffic flow. Upon configuring the switching of the UP path, the SMF 210 may further configure the UP entity to send the UL end marker to the source PSA 320 through the old UP path connected to the source PSA 320 in the UL direction. The UL end marker may inform the source PSA 320 that no more UL packets of the traffic flow will be transmitted through the old path. The SMF 210 may provide the UL end marker to the UP entity 310 for transmission. In various embodiments, the UL end marker or information about the UL end marker (e.g. information on how the UL end marker can be constructed) may be used for the configuration or included in the configuration (i.e. when the SMF configures the UP entity 310 to send the UL end marker).
Moreover, for example for DL traffic(s) (e.g. when that the traffic flow is a DL traffic flow, DL traffic(s) refer to packets of the DL traffic flow, and the flow end marker is a DL end marker), the SMF 210 may further configure the UP entity 310 to detect and handle the DL end marker (i.e. the flow end marker). For configuration, the SMF 210 may provide the packet detection rules for detecting the DL end marker and the packet handling rules for managing the DL end marker. The packet detection rules for detecting the DL end marker may be generated by the SMF 210 based on or using information about DL end marker. The SMF 210 may receive information about the DL end marker (e.g. end marker descriptor, direction of the traffic flow (e.g. traffic flow is DL)) from the AF 230 directly (i.e. without the PCF 220 acting as intermediary) or indirectly (i.e. via the PCF 220), as described elsewhere in the application. The SMF 210 may also provide the UP entity 310 with packet handling rules for managing the DL end marker. The packet handling rules for managing DL end marker may include an indication to stop buffering the DL packets of the traffic flow received from the target PSA 330 upon detection of the end marker, as illustrated above. The UP entity 310 may stop buffering in accordance with the packet handling rules and start forwarding the DL packets in the DL direction to the UE. The packet handling rules may be in the form packet detection rules, forwarding action rules, or a combination thereof.
If the tunnel between the UP entity 310 and the target PSA 330 is not established, this tunnel may be established at step 303 b. For example, the tunnel may be established by the SMF 210 configuring the tunnel end point at the UP entity 310.
At step 303 c, the SMF 210 may configure or activate packet forwarding at the source PSA 320. The forwarding tunnel may be established before configuring or activating the packet forwarding. If the forwarding tunnel is not established at a previous step, it can be established at step 303 c. For example, the SMF 210 may configure the source PSA 320 to establish the tunnel end point.
For UL traffic(s), the SMF 210 may configure the source PSA to forward the UL traffic flow to the target PSA 330. The configuration may occur for example when the AF 230 provides an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for the traffic flow in the AF request (e.g. as illustrated in FIG. 2). The traffic flow may be a UL traffic flow identified by the AF 230. The configuration may include providing the source PSA 320 with new or updated packet forwarding rules. With the received new or updated packet forwarding rules, the source PSA 320 can accordingly forward the UL traffic to the target DNAI, instead of to the source DNAI.
Further, the SMF 210 may configure the source PSA 320 to detect the UL end marker for the UL traffic flow. This may include providing the source PSA with packet detection rules to be applied against UL protocol data units (PDUs) for detecting the UL end marker. The packet detection rules may be generated by the SMF 210 based on or using the information about the UL end marker. The terms “PDU” and “packet” are used interchangeably throughout the application.
Further, the SMF 210 may provide the source PSA 320 with packet handling instructions (or rules) for the follow-up activities upon detection of the UL end marker. Upon detection of the UL end marker, the source PSA 320 may forward the UL end marker to both the target PSA and the source DNAI, in accordance with the instructions provided by the SMF 210. In various embodiments, the instructions may be in the form of packet forwarding rules linked to the packet detection rules described above.
After receiving the packet handling instructions, the source PSA 320 may start forwarding the UE's UL traffic received from the UP entity 310 to the target PSA 330. The UE's UL traffic may be further forwarded by the target PSA 330 to the target DNAI. The UP entity 310 may be directly connected to the target PSA 330 without involving another UPF.
For DL traffic, the SMF 210 may configure the source PSA 320 to forward DL traffic received from the source DNAI to the target PSA 330 through the forwarding tunnel. The configuration may occur for example when the AF 230 provides an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for the traffic flow in the AF request (e.g. as illustrated in FIG. 2). The traffic flow may be a DL traffic flow identified by the AF 230. The configuration may include providing the source PSA 320 with new or updated packet forwarding rules. With the received new or updated packet forwarding rules, the source PSA 320 can accordingly forward the DL traffic to the target DNAI, instead of the UP entity 310 in the DL.
The SMF 210 may further configure the source PSA 320 to detect and handle the DL end marker. Handling the DL end marker may include forwarding the DL end marker to the target PSA 330, upon detection of the DL end marker, through the forwarding tunnel. To detect and handle DL end marker, the SMF 210 may provide the source PSA 320 with packet detection rules for detecting the DL end marker. The packet detection rules may be generated based on or using the information about the DL end marker. The source PSA 320 may act or behave according to the configuration. For example, the source PSA may act to detect and handle the DL end marker as described above.
The SMF 210 may further configure or instruct the source PSA 320 to send the DL end marker to the UP entity 310. The SMF 210 may configure or instruct the source PSA 320 to send the DL end marker before the source PSA 320 starts forwarding of DL traffic as described above. The source PSA 320 may act or behave (e.g. to send the DL end marker to UP entity 310 as so instructed) according to the configuration or instruction. In various embodiments, the DL end marker or information about the DL end marker (e.g. information on how the DL end marker can be constructed) may be used for the configuration (or corresponding instruction) or included in the configuration (or corresponding instruction) (i.e. when the SMF configures or instructs the source PSA 320 to send the DL end marker).
At step 304, the SMF 210 may optionally send a message to the AF 230 in order to confirm that the UP path toward the target DNAI is ready for use. In some embodiments, step 304 may take place in the form of late notification especially when the step 301 takes place in the form of early notification. As described in 3GPP TS 23.501 V16.0.0, clause 5.6.7, the early notification may be sent before the new UP path is configured, and the late notification may be sent after the new UP path is configured. In such cases (e.g. where step 301 is an early notification and step 304 is a late notification), the step 303 may include further procedures involved in the SMF configuring the new UP path, activating the new UP path, or both (e.g. establishing the UP tunnel(s)).
At step 305, the application relocation is finalized. This may include reordering UL packets of the traffic flow (if the traffic flow is a UL traffic flow).
The second scenario for dynamic negotiation is when the AF (e.g. AF 230) provides information about the flow end marker in the response sent to the SMF (e.g. SMF 210).
When the AF (e.g. AF 230) does not provide information about the flow end marker (e.g. end marker descriptor) in the AF request (e.g. step 201 of FIG. 2), this scenario may correspond to the case where the AF generates or defines or determines the flow end marker on the fly (i.e. dynamically in response to the notification) upon the SMF notification in step 301. On the other hand, when the AF (e.g. AF 230) provides information about the flow end marker information in the AF request (e.g. step 201 of FIG. 2), this scenario may correspond to the case where the AF changes or modifies the flow end marker, which was previously defined or determined by the AF, and sends the updated information about the flow end marker back to the SMF (e.g. the SMF to use), as part of the AF response. Regarding the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for the traffic flow, the AF (e.g. AF 230) may provide such an indication using or in the AF request (e.g. as illustrated in FIG. 2). If the AF does not provide an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for the traffic flow using or in the AF request (e.g. as illustrated in FIG. 2), the AF may include this indication in the AF response which is sent to the SMF (e.g. at step 302 in FIG. 3). The traffic flow may be a UL traffic flow or a DL traffic flow. As such, the AF may send the indication in the AF request or AF response, and the AF may send the information on flow end marker in the AF request or AF response, or both.
Further referring to FIG. 3, after performing UP path reselection (including DNAI reselection) for the PDU Session and for the traffic flow, the SMF 210, at step 301, may notify the AF 230 of the UP path change. The UP path change may be a change from the source DNAI to the target DNAI. The SMF 210 may notify the AF 230 in accordance with the relevant policy rules (e.g. information about the AF's subscription to the SMF included in the policy rules) received from the PCF, for example as illustrated in step 203 in FIG. 2.
As described in 3GPP TS 23.501 V16.0.0, clause 5.6.7, the notification may include information indicative of the UE (e.g. the UE that the PDU Session is associated with), information indicative of the source DNAI and information indicative of the target DNAI. The notification may include information that allows the AF 230 to identify the corresponding AF request which subscribes to the notification (e.g. SMF notification, notifications of the DNAI change event). The AF request may include the application ID or information about the traffic filter that identifies the traffic flow (e.g. the traffic flow of the UE identified in the AF request in the step 201 in FIG. 2). The traffic flow is related to the notification.
Upon the SMF 210's notification, the AF 230, at step 302, may respond to the SMF 210. The response may be a positive response indicating that the application layer is ready at the target DNAI in the DN side. The AF 230's response may include an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for the traffic flow (e.g. the traffic flow identified in the notification in the step 301) related to the DNAI change, e.g. if the AF 230 did not include such indication in the AF request. Here, the AF request may be the AF 230's request for subscription to the SMF notification (e.g. the AF request described in FIG. 2) and the SMF notifications may be notifications of the DNAI change event (UP path management event). Moreover, the AF 230's response may include information about the end marker (e.g. end marker descriptor, direction of traffic flow) for the traffic flow related to the DNAI change. The information about the flow end marker may provide description or instruction on how to construct or detect the flow end marker. The end marker can be for an UL or DL traffic flow.
At step 303, the SMF 210 may configure or activate the new UP path toward the target DNAI (e.g. The SMF 210, at step 303, may configure the new UP path, activate the new UP path, or configure and activate the new UP path.). Step 303 of the second scenario is similar to step 303 of the first scenario. In general, step 303 may include configuring entities such as the UP entity, source PSA and target PSA to act in a manner that retains packet ordering during a relocation event. Actions may include transmitting and receiving end markers, buffering packets, forwarding packets, and transmitting buffered packets. Packets may be buffered and subsequently transmitted at times and in an order that preserves the original packet ordering. Details regarding how packet ordering is preserved are presented elsewhere herein. Further details of step 303 can be found in component steps 303 a, 303 b and 303 c of the first scenario illustrated above.
At step 304, the SMF 210 may send a message to the AF 230 to confirm that the UP path toward the target DNAI is ready for use. Step 304 of the second scenario is an optional step and is similar to step 304 of the first scenario.
At step 305, the application relocation is finalized. This may include reordering UL packets of the traffic flow (if the traffic flow is a UL traffic flow).
The third scenario for dynamic negotiation combines the first and second scenarios illustrated above. The combination of the first scenario and the second scenario may allow the AF (e.g. AF 230) and the SMF (e.g. the SMF 210) to negotiate the end markers during DNAI change in a two-way method. For example, both the SMF notification and the AF response may be used to carry out the information about the end marker.
In the third scenario, it is assumed that the AF (e.g. AF 230) has provided an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for a traffic flow in the AF request (e.g. the AF request illustrated in step 201 in FIG. 2). The traffic flow may be UL traffic flow or a DL traffic flow.
Further referring to FIG. 3, step 301 in this scenario is similar to step 301 of the first scenario, as described above.
The step 302 in this scenario is similar to step 302 of the second scenario. At step 302, the AF 230 may provide the information about the flow end marker to the SMF 210 as in step 302 of the second scenario illustrated above. The information provided by the AF 230 to the SMF 210 in this step may be updated information about the flow end marker.
The updated information about the flow end marker may describe or instruct how to construct or detect the end marker for the traffic flow. The end marker can be for an UL or DL traffic flow. In some cases, the AF 230 may initially receive the flow end marker from the SMF 210 at step 301 but may change or modify the flow end marker. In such cases, the AF 230 may provide the updated information about the flow end marker to the SMF 210.
At step 303, the SMF 210 may configure or activate the new UP path toward the target DNAI (e.g. The SMF 210, at step 303, may configure the new UP path, activate the new UP path, or configure and activate the new UP path.). Step 303 in this scenario is similar to step 303 of the first scenario. In general, step 303 may include configuring entities such as the UP entity, source PSA and target PSA to act in a manner that retains packet ordering during a relocation event. Actions may include transmitting and receiving end markers, buffering packets, forwarding packets, and transmitting buffered packets. Packets may be buffered and subsequently transmitted at times and in an order that preserves the original packet ordering. Details regarding how packet ordering is preserved are presented elsewhere herein. Further details of step 303 can be found in component steps 303 a, 303 b and 303 c of the first scenario illustrated above.
At step 304, the SMF 210 may send a message to the AF 230 to confirm that the UP path toward the target DNAI is ready for use. Step 304 in this scenario is an optional step and is similar to step 304 of the first scenario.
At step 305, the application relocation is finalized. This may include reordering UL packets of the traffic flow (if the traffic flow is a UL traffic flow).
FIGS. 4A, 4B and 5 illustrate how the SMF may enforce, ensure or support in-order delivery in the UL and DL during DNAI change, edge relocation or application relocation, according to some embodiments. For the purpose of illustrating procedures in FIGS. 4A, 4B and 5, the following may be assumed.
Embodiments of the present invention used to perform steps (e.g. steps 401, 501) illustrated in FIGS. 4A, 4B and 5 may be the same as or similar to the embodiments used to perform steps (e.g. step 303) illustrated in FIG. 3. It is also noted that the SMF notification and AF response steps (e.g. steps 301 and 302 of FIG. 3) and the confirmation step (e.g. step 304 of FIG. 3) may take place similarly before or after the steps 401 and 501 in FIGS. 4A, 4B and 5, respectively. They are omitted from FIGS. 4A and 5 for clarity.
In more detail, for FIG. 4B, if the flow end marker information and in-order packet delivery indication are provided using an AF request 201 rather than an AF response 302, then 401 and 501 can happen before 301 and 302, and in this case, the notification 301 is a late notification. Otherwise, 401 and 501 happen after 302 because 401 and 501 involve using information included in 302. In this case the notification 301 can be an early notification (when 401 and 501 are for configuring the UP path) or a late notification (when 401 and 501 are for activating the UP path).
The SMF has established a PDU Session for the UE and the UP path of the PDU Session is connected to the source DNAI via the source PSA. The UE's UL traffic is transmitted along the UP path from the UE to the source DNAI.
The SMF has performed DNAI reselection for the UE and has notified the AF of the DNAI change (e.g. the DNAI change from the source DNAI to the target DNAI). The UE's traffic may be associated with the application and the application's location may be represented by the DNAI. The UE's UL traffic refers to the UE's UL traffic related to or impacted by the DNAI reselection. Upon notifying the AF, the SMF received a positive response from the AF regarding the SMF notification. Then, the SMF determines to activate the new UP path toward the target DNAI. Such operations can be performed using the same or similar approach and mechanisms as is describe above with respect to FIG. 3. This may include, for example, the SMF notifying the AF as in step 301, and the AF responding to the SMF as in step 302.
The SMF and the AF have negotiated the information about the UL flow end marker for the UE's UL traffic and the DL flow end markers for the UE's DL traffic. The negotiation may have been carried out via the procedures described in FIG. 2 or 3. The information about the flow end markers may include the flow end markers (e.g. UL flow end marker, DL flow end marker) and the information about the flow end markers (e.g. packet filters) for identifying the flow end markers. The SMF may have determined to configure or activate the new UP path toward the target DNAI (e.g. after receiving a positive response from the AF).
The source PSA and the target PSA are the same entity if PSA relocation or PSA UPF reselection does not occur. In that case, communication between the source PSA and the target PSA may not occur, and path switch from toward the source PSA to toward the target PSA may not occur either (e.g. the signaling for configuring or activating the path switch may not occur). In some embodiments, the procedure may still happen even if the source PSA and the target PSA are identical; but, communication between the source PSA and the target PSA may be only internally processed, or communication between the source PSA and the target PSA may be performed using (external) signals.
FIG. 4A illustrates an example procedure that the SMF enforces, ensures or supports in-order delivery of data packets in the UL, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
At step 401, as noted above, the new UP path (e.g. the new UP path toward the target DNAI 430) may have been activated or configured prior to proceeding the following other steps. It is noted that step 401 in FIG. 4A may be similar to step 303 in FIG. 3. As such, similar to step 303 of FIG. 3, step 401 in FIG. 4A (e.g. activation or configuration of the new UP path) may occur after steps 301 (e.g. SMF notification of UP path change) and 302 (e.g. AF response to the notification) in FIG. 3 are finished but before step 304 (e.g. confirmation of UP path change) in FIG. 3 occurs.
After the new UP path is activated or configured (e.g. after step 303 c in FIG. 3 is finished), at step 402, the UL traffic of the UE 410 may be forwarded by the source PSA 320 to the target DNAI 430 through the target PSA 330. The source PSA 320 may first start forwarding the UL traffic of the UE 410 to the target PSA 330. Then, the target PSA 330 may forward (e.g. as instructed or configured by the SMF 210 in the step 303 a of FIG. 3) the received UL traffic to the target PSA 330. The UL traffic of the UE 410 may be the UL traffic received from the UP entity 310 (e.g. the (R)AN or the I-UPF). When the UE 410's UL traffic is forwarded to the target DNAI 430, the UP entity 310 (e.g. the (R)AN or the I-UPF) may be directly connected to the target PSA 330 (without involving another UPF).
Upon forwarding the UL traffic of the UE 410, the UP entity 310 (e.g. the (R)AN or the I-UPF), at step 403, may send the UL end marker to the source PSA 320 (e.g. according to the instruction or configuration provided by the SMF 210 in step 303 b of FIG. 3). The UL end marker may be sent immediately before UP path is switched or redirected (from the source PSA) to the target PSA. In some cases, the UL end marker may be integrated by the UP entity 310 into a data packet sent from the UE. In some cases, the UL end marker may be transmitted by the UP entity 310 as or in a separate packet.
According to embodiments, the UL end marker may be generated or constructed by the UP entity 310. In some embodiments, the UL end marker may be generated or constructed according to the information about the UL end marker if the information is provided by the SMF 210 to the UP entity 310. In some embodiments, the UL end marker may be provided by the SMF 210 to the UP entity 310.
According to embodiments, the UL end marker may inform the source PSA 320 that the UE 410's UL traffic would be no longer transmitted from the UP entity 310 (e.g. the (R)AN or the I-UPF). The UP entity 310 (e.g. the (R)AN or the I-UPF) may send subsequent UL traffic of the UE 410 to the target PSA 330.
After the UP entity 310 (e.g. the (R)AN or the I-UPF) sends the UL end marker, the source PSA 320, at step 404A, 404B, may receive and detect the UL end marker, and forward the UL end marker to both the target PSA 330 and the source DNAI 420 (e.g. according to the instruction or configuration provided by the SMF 210 in step 303 b in FIG. 3). The source PSA 320 may forward the UL end marker as instructed or configured by the SMF 210. Step 404A involves forwarding the UL end marker to the target PSA, while step 404B involves forwarding the UL end marker to the source DNAI. These steps can be carried out concurrently in some embodiments.
According to embodiments, based on the UL end marker received from the source PSA 320, the target PSA 330 may infer that the UL traffic of the UE 410 will no longer be forwarded from the source PSA 320. As such, after this step, the target PSA 330 can start forwarding the UE 410's UL traffic transmitted from the UP entity 310 (e.g. the (R)AN or the I-UPF), e.g. according to the instruction or configuration provided by the SMF 210 in step 303 a in FIG. 3. This may ensure that the target PSA 330 sends the PDUs to the target DNAI 430 in order (e.g. in the same order that each PDU is transmitted from the UP entity 310).
According to embodiments, based on the end UL end marker received from the source PSA 320, the the source DNAI 420 may infer that the UL traffic of the UE 410 will no longer be transmitted from the source PSA 320. As such, relocation of application from the source DNAI 420 to the target DNAI 430, including packet reordering, can be finalized, at step 405, for the UE 410's UL traffic. How the application relocation is finalized may also depend on how application relocation is implemented in the DN.
FIG. 4B illustrates, in a message flow diagram, an example procedure for supporting in-order packet delivery during application (edge) relocation, in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention. In the following description and FIG. 4B, the UP entity 310 may be a UL CL. The UP entity may be an existing UPF in the old UP path toward the source DNAI 420 or a UPF which is newly inserted due to edge relocation from the source DNAI 420 to the target DNAI 430. The UP entity 310 may be a common element in the new UP path and the old UP path that is closest to the source PSA 320 and the target PSA 330. The UP entity 310 may be, or be co-located with, the (R)AN node serving the UE 410 or a UPF. For example, the UPF may act as the source PSA 320, UPF acting as the target PSA 330, or a different UPF).
Referring to FIG. 4B, the SMF 210, at step 451, may determine that a condition for an AF notification has been met, prior to proceeding the following other steps. Prior to step 451, the UE 410 may have been transmitting uplink packets toward the source PSA 320 for forwarding thereby toward the source DNAI 420, as illustrated. Determining that the condition has been met at step 451 may be a condition indicative of a DNAI change or application (edge) relocation event, for example. The condition may have been previously determined for example during subscription of the AF to notifications.
After the SMF 210 ensures a condition for an AF notification has been met, at step 301, the SMF 210 may send a notification to the AF 230. The notification is indicative of the UP path change for the UE 410. The UP path change may be, for example, a change from a source DNAI 420 to a target DNAI 430. The SMF 210 may wait for a response from the AF 230 according to the indication(s) provided in a policy rule. The indication(s) provided in the policy rule may include an indication that AF acknowledgement of the notification is expected, an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred, or a combination thereof. The policy rules may be generated or updated in the form of PCC rules. The AF notification can be an early notification or a late notification, as described elsewhere herein. The step 301 illustrated in FIG. 4B is substantially equivalent to the step 301 illustrated in FIG. 3.
In response to the notification sent by the SMF 210 at step 301, the AF 230 may send a positive response to the SMF 210. The positive response from the AF 230 may include information about the flow end marker(s) (e.g. end marker descriptor(s), direction (UL or DL) of the corresponding traffic flow(s)). The positive response may indicate that the in-order packet delivery mechanism as described herein is to be implemented for the present event as indicated in the notification. In some cases, the information about the flow end marker(s) may be raw data provided by the AF 230. In some other case, the information may be processed (or translated, or mapped) information upon analyzing the raw data. The information processing may be performed by network functions such as the NEF (Network Exposure Function) when such a network function is involved. In this case the notification 301 may be sent from the SMF 210 to the AF 230 via the network function performing the information processing. The response 302 may also be sent from the AF 230 to the SMF 210 via the network function performing the information processing. In some embodiments, when the network function (such as NEF) is involved, the network function does not process the information but forwards the information without processing. The step 302 illustrated in FIG. 4B is substantially equivalent to the step 302 illustrated in FIG. 3.
At step 401, the new UP path toward the target DNAI 430 may be configured or activated. The new UP path toward the target DNAI 430 may be configured if the notification in step 301 is an early notification. The new UP path toward the target DNAI 430 may be activated if the notification in step 301 is a late notification. When configuring or activating the new UP path toward the target DNAI 430, the SMF 210, at step 401, may generate the flow end marker based on the flow end marker information received from the AF 230 at step 301. The SMF 210, at step 401, may also provide the flow end marker to the UP entity 310 (e.g. the (R)AN or the I-UPF) and the source PSA 320. The SMF 210, at step 401, may also configure the target PSA 330 such that the target PSA 330 according to the configuration buffers data packets (e.g. UL packets) of the traffic flow received from the UP entity 310 and forwards them only after it receives the flow end marker from the source PSA. Step 401 as illustrated in FIG. 4B may be substantially equivalent to the step 401 illustrated in FIG. 4A and the step 303 illustrated in FIG. 3.
According to embodiments, the UP entity 310 may include one or more of a UP entity configured to receive and forward packets from a user equipment (UE), a source PDU unit session anchor (PSA) configured to act as a PSA prior to the UP path management event, and a target PSA configured to act as the PSA following the UP path management event. As part of the configuration, the UE-facing UP entity 310 can receive information, from the SMF 210, which relates to a flow end marker for a traffic flow. The information can include the flow end marker or information indicative thereof. The information can instruct the UP entity 310 (also referred to as a UPF) to transmit the flow end marker to a source protocol data unit (PDU) session anchor (PSA) for example under a predetermined condition related to the UP path management event. The UP path management event may relate to a change of the user plane path of a protocol data unit (PDU) session. The UP path management event may further relate to a change of a PDU session anchor (PSA) for the traffic flow, a change of a Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI) for the traffic flow, or a combination thereof. The UP entity can follow this instruction. A technical effect is that the UPF is responsive to implement its role in the in-order packet delivery mechanism on an as-needed basis, and is able to use dynamically defined flow end markers.
In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker may further instruct the UP entity 310 to transmit uplink (UL) packets for the traffic flow to a designated target PSA. The UP entity 310 may receive said UL packets after the flow end marker is transmitted to the source PSA 320. The UP entity 310 may be further configured to transmit the UL packets to the designated target PSA 320 following transmission of the flow end marker to the source PSA 320. A technical effect is that the in-order packet delivery mechanism is implemented, with packets organized and flow end markers transmitted at appropriate times to enable the mechanism. The UL packets and the flow end marker may belong to a same traffic flow of a protocol data unit (PDU) session. Some or all of the UL packets may be received by the UP entity 310 following transmission of the flow end marker to the source PSA 320. A technical effect is that the traffic flow can continue during a UP path management event while supporting the in-order packet delivery.
In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker may further indicate that the UP entity 310 is to support in-order packet delivery during a user plane (UP) path management event related to a change of user plane path of a PDU session for the traffic flow. Prior to a UP path management event associated with the flow end marker, the source PSA 320 may receive packets from the UP entity 310.
At step 402, the source PSA 320 may forward UL packets to the target PSA 330. The target PSA 330 may send these UL packets received from the source PSA 320 to the target DNAI 430 substantially immediately, e.g. substantially without buffering of these packets. Step 402 as illustrated in FIG. 4B may be substantially equivalent to the step 402 illustrated in FIG. 4A and step 405 as illustrated in FIG. 4B may be substantially equivalent to the step 405 illustrated in FIG. 4A and the step 305 illustrated in FIG. 3.
At step 454, the source PSA 320, as configured by the SMF 210, sends the flow end marker to the source DNAI 420.
More generally, the source PSA (or equivalent UPF) may be configured to receive (e.g. from the SMF 210) information related to a flow end marker associated with a traffic flow. According to the information, the source PSA may transmit the flow end marker to a source data network element. A technical effect is that the UPF is responsive to implement its role in the in-order packet delivery mechanism on an as-needed basis, and is able to use dynamically defined flow end markers. In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end maker includes information to be used for detecting the flow end maker in the traffic flow. A technical effect is that, rather than the flow end marker being constructed, a filter usable for detecting the flow end marker can be constructed directly, which may improve efficiency. Another technical effect is that the UPF can detect the flow end marker in user plane traffic so as to take corresponding action(s) to enable the mechanism as instructed by the SMF 210. In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker may include information to be used for constructing the flow end maker. A technical effect is that the flow end marker does not need to be explicitly communicated, allowing flexibility. The flow end marker may be constructed according to such information (information to be used for constructing the flow end maker). In some embodiments, the source PSA 320 may be configured to construct the flow end marker according to the information. In some embodiments, the source PSA 320 may receive the flow end marker from another UPF, e.g. the UP entity 310.
In some embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker may include information instructing the source PSA 320 to support in-order packet delivery during a user plane (UP) path management event related to a change user plane path of a PDU session for the traffic flow. Prior to a UP path management event associated with the flow end marker, the source data network element may receive packets from the source PSA 320. The source PSA 320 may be further configured by the SMF 210 to transmit, following transmission of the flow end marker to the source data network element, further UL packets for the traffic flow to a target data network element. The target data network element may reside in a data network (DN) and may be designated to receive packets of the traffic flow of a PDU session following the UP path management event. For example, the target data network element may be configured to receive UL packets of the traffic flow from the target PSA 330 after the UP path management event. A technical effect is that the traffic flow can continue during the UP path management event, while supporting the in-order packet delivery. In some embodiments, the source PSA 320 may be further configured by the SMF 210 to transmit, following transmission of the flow end marker to the source data network element, further UL packets of the traffic flow to a target PSA. The source PSA 320 may be further configured by the SMF 210 to transmit, following said transmitting further UL packets to the target PSA, further UL packets to the target PSA. Said configurations may be performed in response to an instruction from the SMF 210. A technical effect is that the process is controllable by the SMF (e.g. SMF 210), so that it can be implemented on an as-needed basis.
According to embodiments, the information related to the flow end marker includes information instructing the source PSA 320 to transmit the flow end marker to the source data network element and to transmit the further UL packets to a target data network element or to the target PSA 330. In such cases, the target network element or the target PSA 330 may be designated to receive packets of the traffic flow which belongs to a PDU session following the UP path management event.
According to embodiments, the source PSA 320 may be further configured to detect the flow end marker received from another UPF, e.g. the UP entity 310. In such case, the flow end marker may be transmitted as part of the traffic flow which belongs to a PDU session. The source PSA 320 may be also configured to, upon detecting the flow end marker, forward the flow end marker to the target PSA 330. In such cases, the target PSA 330 may be designated to receive packets of the traffic flow following the UP path management event.
According to embodiments, the source PSA 320 may be configured by the SMF 210 to transmit the flow end marker to the source data network element before or after forwarding uplink data packets of the traffic flow to a target UPF. The uplink data packets may be forwarded after receipt of the configuration information from the SMF 210 and according to the configuration information.
In more detail, after the new UP path is activated or configured (e.g. after step 401 of FIG. 4B is finished), at step 454, the source PSA 320 may send the flow end marker to the source DNAI 420. Based on receipt of the flow end marker sent, the source DNAI 420 can determine that no more packets of the traffic flow will come from the source PSA 320. The source DNAI can trigger to finalize or complete edge relocation (or application relocation) in the DN (see e.g. step 405) for the application associated to the traffic flow.
It may be noted that in some embodiments, step 454 may be performed independent of step 403 of FIG. 4B (i.e. step 403 as illustrated and described below). In some embodiments, step 454 and step 403 of FIG. 4B may be performed in parallel. In some other embodiments, step 454 may be triggered by step 403 and thus step 454 may be performed after the step 403. In some embodiments, when step 454 is independent of step 403, in step 401 the SMF 210 provides information about the flow end marker to the source PSA 320 to instruct the source PSA 320 to send the flow end marker to the source DNAI 420. The information may indicate how to construct the flow end marker (e.g. in the form of flow end marker descriptor). Alternatively, the information may include the flow end maker. The source PSA 320, according to the information received from the SMF 210, sends the flow end marker to the source DNAI 420. Before sending the flow end marker, the source PSA 320 may construct the flow end marker. This may occur for example if the information received from the SMF 210 indicates how to construct the flow end marker, instead of the information received from the SMF explicitly including the flow end marker. When step 454 is triggered by step 403, step 454 is substantially equivalent to the step 404B illustrated in FIG. 4A.
At step 403, the UP entity 310 (e.g. the (R)AN or the I-UPF which may be a UL CL UPF or Branching Point (BP) UPF) sends the flow end marker to the source PSA 320. This may occur for example according to the information (instruction or configuration) provided by the SMF 210 in step 401 of FIG. 4B. The information may indicate how to construct the flow end marker or the information may include the flow end maker. The UP entity 310 according to the information received from the SMF 210 sends the flow end marker to the source PSA. The flow end marker may be sent immediately before UP path is switched or redirected (from the source PSA 320) to the target PSA 330, as instructed by the SMF 210 in the information. Before sending the flow end marker, the UP entity 310 may construct the flow end marker, e.g. if the information received from the SMF 210 indicates how to construct the flow end marker instead of includes the flow end marker. In some cases, the flow end marker may be integrated by the UP entity 310 into a data packet sent from the UE 410. In some cases, the flow end marker may be transmitted by the UP entity 310 as or in a separate packet. The step 403 illustrated in FIG. 4B is substantially equivalent to the step 403 illustrated in FIG. 4A.
After performing step 403, the UP entity 310 may send data packets (e.g. UL packets) of the traffic flow to the target PSA 330, as instructed by the SMF 210 in the information received from the SMF 210 in step 401. The data packets may be originated from the UE 410. After receiving the data packets, the target PSA 330, at step 456, may buffer the data packets (e.g. UL packets) received from the UP entity 310. The target PSA 330 may buffer the data packets (e.g. UL packets) until it receives the flow end marker from the source PSA 320 in step 404A.
It may be noted that, in some embodiments, at least some of steps 402, 454 and 403 of FIG. 4B can be concurrently (e.g. simultaneously) performed.
After the UP entity 310 (e.g. the (R)AN or the I-UPF which may be a UL CL UPF or a BP UPF) sends the flow end marker to the source PSA 320, the source PSA 320, at step 404A, may receive and detect the flow end marker. The source PSA 320 may then forward the flow end marker as received from the UP entity 310 to the target PSA 330. In some embodiments, the source PSA 320 may forward the flow end marker to the target PSA 330 as instructed or configured by the SMF 210. This may occur for example according to the information (instruction or configuration) provided by the SMF 210 in step 401 of FIG. 4B. Based on the flow end marker forwarded, the target PSA 330 can determine that no more the packets will be forwarded from the source PSA 320. After receiving the flow end marker, the target PSA 330 may, as configured or instructed (by the SMF 210 in step 401), stop buffering the data packets (e.g. UL packets) received from the UP entity 310. Then, the data packets (e.g. UL packets) may be routed by the target PSA 330 to the target DNAI 430. The step 404A illustrated in FIG. 4B is substantially equivalent to the step 404A illustrated in FIG. 4A.
Accordingly, and in various embodiments, the target PSA (or equivalent UPF) may be configured to receive information from a session management function (SMF), the information indicative of a flow end marker for a traffic flow associated with a PDU Session. The target PSA may then detect receipt of the flow end marker from a source UP (e.g. the source PSA). Upon detection of the flow end marker, the target PSA may forward, toward a target data network element, packets of the traffic flow which are received and buffered by the target PSA. After forwarding all of the packets of the traffic flow which are received and buffered, the target PSA may forward further packets of the traffic flow toward the target data network element. A technical effect is that the target PSA is responsive to implement its role in the in-order packet delivery mechanism on an as-needed basis, and is able to use dynamically defined flow end markers. In-order packet delivery is supported while the traffic flow continues.
According to embodiments, the target PSA 330 may be further configured (by the SMF 210 in step 401), prior to detecting receipt of the flow end marker, to receive and forward said packets received from the source UPF (e.g. the source PSA 320). The further packets of the traffic flow may be received from another user plane function (UPF), e.g. the UP entity 310. The further packets of the traffic flow may be received and buffered by the target PSA 330. In some embodiments, the packets of the traffic flow may be received from the source PSA 320, another UPF (e.g. the UP entity 310), or a combination thereof.
According to embodiments, the target PSA 330 may be configured to buffer said further packets of the traffic flow, to receive and forward said packets of the traffic flow, or both, based on a configuration signal received from the SMF 210 (configuration by the SMF 210 in step 401). A technical effect is that the UPF procedure supporting in-order packet delivery is controllable by the SMF. In some embodiments, some or all of said further packets are received at the target PSA 330 prior to or after forwarding all of the said packets of the traffic flow. In some other embodiments, some or all of said packets are received at the target PSA 330 prior to and after receiving and buffering all of the said further packets of the traffic flow. The said further packets of the traffic flow are received and buffered by the target PSA 330. A technical effect is that the in-order packet delivery procedure is supported for a variety of timings of flow end marker receipt.
In some embodiments, after the source PSA 320 sends the flow end marker to the source DNAI 420 at step 454, the source PSA waits for a notification from the source DNAI. The source PSA does not send the flow end marker at step 404A to the target PSA 330 during such waiting. The source PSA 320 sends the flow end marker, at step 404A, to the target PSA 330 only after receiving the notification from the source DNAI 420. After step 405, the notification is sent from the source DNAI 420 to the source PSA 320, at step 458, as a response to the flow end marker sent at step 454. The notification may be in the form of the flow end marker in response to the flow end marker sent from the source PSA 320 to the source DNAI 420 at step 454. In other words, the return of the flow end marker from the source DNAI 420 to the source PSA 320 may be the notification at step 458. The notification may alternatively be in the form of a DL flow end marker described elsewhere in the current application, e.g. step 503 illustrated in FIG. 5. The notification indicates that the application relocation has completed or finalized. The source PSA 320 acts as described above according to the information (e.g. configuration or instruction) provided from the SMF 210 in step 401. In other words, the SMF 210 configures the source PSA 320 how to behave and the source PSA 320 behaves as configured by the SMF 210. This embodiment can apply to both the case that step 454 is independent of step 403 and the case that step 454 is triggered by step 403, described above.
FIG. 5 illustrates an example procedure that the SMF enforces, ensures or supports in-order delivery of data packets in the DL, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
At step 501, as noted above, the new UP path (e.g. the new UP path toward the target DNAI 430) may have been activated or configured prior to the following steps. It is noted that step 501 in FIG. 5 may be similar to step 303 in FIG. 3. As such, similar to step 303 of FIG. 3, step 501 in FIG. 5 (e.g. activation or configuration of the new UP path) may occur after steps 301 (e.g. SMF notification of UP path change) and 302 (e.g. AF response to the notification) in FIG. 3 are finished but before step 304 (e.g. confirmation of UP path change) in FIG. 3 occurs.
After the new UP path is activated or configured (e.g. after step 303 c in FIG. 3), the DL data packets may be transmitted from the target DNAI 430 to the target PSA 330. The target PSA 330 may buffer the received DL data packets if necessary.
At step 502 a, the source PSA 320 may forward the DL data packets to the UP entity 310 (e.g. (R)AN node or the I-UPF) through the target PSA 330. In other words, the source PSA 320 may forward the DL data packets to the target PSA 330 (e.g. as instructed or configured by the SMF 210 in step 303 c of FIG. 3) and the target PSA 330 may forward these DL data packets to the UP entity 310 (e.g. as instructed or configured by the SMF 210 in step 303 a of FIG. 3). If necessary, some of the transmitted DL data packets may be buffered by at the UP entity 310 (e.g. according to the instruction or configuration provided by the SMF 210 in the step 303 b of FIG. 3). The I-UPF may be a UL CL UPF or a BP UPF.
At step 502 b, the source PSA 320 may send the DL end marker to the UP entity 310 (e.g. as instructed or configured by the SMF 210 in step 303 c in FIG. 3). In some cases, the DL end marker may be received from the SMF 210 as part of the configuration or instruction. In some other cases, the DL end marker may be constructed or generated by the source PSA 320 according to the configuration or instruction. The DL end marker may inform the UP entity 310 (e.g. (R)AN node or the I-UPF) that subsequent DL packets would be no longer transmitted from the source PSA 320.
Upon receiving the DL end marker from the source PSA 320, the UP entity 310 (e.g. (R)AN node or the I-UPF) may start forwarding the UE 410 the DL data packets transmitted from the target PSA 330 (e.g. according to the instruction or configuration provided by the SMF 210 in step 303 b of FIG. 3. If there are any data buffered at the UP entity 310, the UP entity 310 may forward those buffered data packets prior to forwarding the data packets transmitted from the target PSA 330. This may ensure that, in the DL, the data packets from the source DNAI 420 are transported to the UE 410 before the data packets from target DNAI 430 are transported.
At step 503, the source DNAI 420 may send the DL end marker to the source PSA 320. This DL end marker may indicate that no more DL data packets would be transmitted from the source DNAI 420. The source DNAI 420 may perform this step according to the AF 230's configuration or instruction, which may happen (e.g. in step 305 in FIG. 3) after the AF 230 receives the confirmation of UP path change from the SMF 210 (e.g. step 304 in FIG. 3). The AF 230's configuring of the source DNAI 420 to send the DL end marker is not shown in FIG. 5.
At step 504, the source PSA 320 may forward the DL end marker to the target PSA 330 in accordance with the configuration or instruction provided by the SMF 210 (e.g. configuration performed in step 303 c of FIG. 3).
After receiving the DL end marker forwarded from the source PSA 320, the target PSA 330 may start forwarding the DL packets transmitted from the target DNAI 430 (e.g. as instructed or configured by the SMF 210 in step 303 a in FIG. 3). The target PSA 330 may forward the DL packets to the UE 410 via the UP entity 310 (e.g. (R)AN node or the I-UPF). If there are any data buffered at the target PSA 330, the target PSA 330 may forward those buffered data packets first prior to forwarding the data packets transmitted from the target DNAI 430. This may ensure that, in the DL, the data packets from the source DNAI 420 are transported to the UE 410 before the data packets from target DNAI 430 are transported.
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device 600 that may perform any or all of operations of the above methods and features explicitly or implicitly described herein, according to different embodiments of the present invention. For example, a UE may be configured as electronic device 600. Further, a data network element hosting any of the network functions described herein (e.g., AF, PCF, SMF) may be configured as the electronic device 600.
As shown, the device includes a processor 610, memory 620, non-transitory mass storage 630, I/O interface 640, network interface 650, and a transceiver 660, all of which are communicatively coupled via bi-directional bus 670. According to certain embodiments, any or all of the depicted elements may be utilized, or only a subset of the elements. Further, the device 600 may contain multiple instances of certain elements, such as multiple processors, memories, or transceivers. Also, elements of the hardware device may be directly coupled to other elements without the bi-directional bus. Additionally or alternatively to a processor and memory, other electronics, such as integrated circuits, may be employed for performing the required logical operations.
The memory 620 may include any type of non-transitory memory such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), read-only memory (ROM), any combination of such, or the like. The mass storage element 630 may include any type of non-transitory storage device, such as a solid state drive, hard disk drive, a magnetic disk drive, an optical disk drive, USB drive, or any computer program product configured to store data and machine executable program code. According to certain embodiments, the memory 620 or mass storage 630 may have recorded thereon statements and instructions executable by the processor 610 for performing any of the aforementioned method operations described above.
FIG. 7 illustrates various electronic apparatuses and a corresponding system provided in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The system includes an SMF 210, an SMF 230, one or more data network elements 730, and one or more UP entities 740. The data network elements 730 can include a source data network element, a target data network element, or a combination thereof. These can respectively correspond to the source DNAI 420 and target DNAI 430 as described elsewhere for example with respect to FIGS. 4A to 5. The UP entities 740 can include a UE-facing UP entity 310, source PSA 320, a target PSA 330, or a combination thereof, as described elsewhere for example with respect to FIGS. 3 to 5. The system may include a PCF 220, an NEF 250, or a combination thereof.
At least one of the SMF 210, the PCF 220, the AF 230, the source PSA 320, the data network elements 730 and the UP entities 740 includes an end marker constructor 706. The end marker constructor(s) operate to construct an end marker for transmitting along or as part of a traffic flow, based at least in part on received information from other entities. Different ones of the illustrated end marker constructors 706 may operate differently. Not all illustrated apparatuses necessarily include an end marker constructor. Rather, the end marker constructor may only be present or functional when an apparatus is required to construct its own end marker, rather than receiving the end marker from another apparatus.
The SMF 210 includes an AF facing interface 722 configured to communicate directly or indirectly with the AF 230. This communication can include receiving subscription requests from the AF, receiving rules from the PCF, transmitting notifications of UP path changes to the AF, receiving responses from the AF, transmitting or receiving information based upon which flow end markers are constructed, etc. The SMF may include a notifier 724, which generates and manages notifications of UP path change events for transmission toward the AF. The notifier may be configured based on subscription information received directly or indirectly from or on behalf of the AF. The SMF further includes a UP configuration manager 728 and a UP facing interface 729. The UP facing interface 729 communicates directly or indirectly with various UP entities 740, to pass messages between the UPFs and the UP configuration manager 728. The UP configuration manager 728 operates to configure the UP entities to support in-order packet delivery during a UP path management event. This can include providing the UP entities with flow end markers or information based upon which a flow end marker or a filter for detecting a flow end marker can be constructed. This can further include providing the UP entities with packet detection rules, forwarding action rules, or both.
The UP entities 740 include an SMF facing interface 742 which communicates directly or indirectly with the SMF 210. The UP entities include a traffic flow and end marker coordinator, detector, or coordinator and detector 744. This device coordinates the various actions to support in-order packet delivery. These actions may differ depending on the role of the UP entity (for example, depending on whether the UP entity is a UE-facing UP entity, a source PSA, or a target PSA). Generally, the actions can include monitoring (detecting) for a flow end marker, transmitting a flow end marker in response to a trigger, receiving and buffering packets, receiving and forwarding packets, changing between buffering and forwarding of received packets based on a trigger, and changing destinations to which packets are forwarded based on a trigger. The various actions are described elsewhere herein, for example with respect to FIGS. 4A to 5.
The PCF 220, when present, may include a rule generator 712. The rule generator which is configured to generate rules, such as PCC rules. The rules are provided to the SMF. The rules may indicate that the SMF is to support in-order packet delivery for a traffic flow associated with a PDU Session. The rules may include an indication of or information about the flow end marker. The rules may include AF subscription information. The subscription information may be received directly or indirectly from the AF 230. The rules may be generated based on one or more messages or instructions received from the AF.
The AF 230 includes an instruction generator 702 and an SMF facing interface 708. The SMF facing interface communicates directly or indirectly (e.g. via a PCF, a NEF, or a combination of thereof) with the SMF, for example to subscribe to notifications from the SMF, to respond to such notifications, to provide an end marker or information indicative of an end marker toward the SMF, or a combination thereof. These and other actions can be managed by the instruction generator 702. The instruction generator may generate instructions causing the SMF to implement in-order packet delivery for a traffic flow (during a UP path management event), and related information such as end marker information. The AF 230 may include a data network element coordinator 704. The data network element coordinator 704 communicates with data network element(s) 730 to configure these data network elements to implement in-order packet delivery for a traffic flow during the UP path management event.
The data network element(s) 730 can include a source data network element, a target data network element, or a combination thereof. The source data network element can be identified with a source DNAI 420, and the target data network element can be identified with a target DNAI 430, as described elsewhere herein. The data network element(s) include an AF facing interface which communicates directly or indirectly with the AF 230. The data network element(s) include a traffic flow and end marker coordinator, detector, or coordinator and detector 734. This device coordinates the various actions to support in-order packet delivery. These actions may differ depending on the role of the data network element (for example, depending on whether the data network element is a source data network element associated with a source DNAI or a target data network element associated with a target DNAI). Generally, the actions can include monitoring (detecting) for a flow end marker, transmitting a flow end marker in response to a trigger, receiving and buffering packets, receiving and forwarding packets, changing between buffering and forwarding of received packets based on a trigger, and changing destinations to which packets are forwarded based on a trigger. The various actions are described elsewhere herein, for example with respect to FIGS. 4A to 5.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network. The method includes, by an application function (AF) of the communication network, generating an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for a particular traffic flow of a UE during a user plane path management event. The indication may be transmitted in an AF request message. The method further includes, by the AF, transmitting the indication toward a policy control function (PCF) of the communication network or toward a session management function (SMF) associated with the particular traffic flow.
In some embodiments, the user plane path management event comprises a data network address identifier (DNAI) change or an application relocation event. In some embodiments, the indication comprises or is associated with one or more of: information identifying the traffic flow; information identifying an application supported by the traffic flow; an identifier of the UE that the traffic flow belongs to; a direction of the traffic flow; and information indicative of a flow end marker to be used in implementing, enforcing or supporting in-order packet delivery for the traffic flow during the user plane path management event. In some embodiments, the information identifying the traffic flow is an identifier of the traffic flow or a packet filter for use in identifying the traffic flow. In some embodiments, the information indicative of the flow end marker is a packet filter, an end marker descriptor, or an identifier indicative of a previously defined packet filter or end marker descriptor.
In some embodiments, the indication is transmitted in a request message. In such embodiments, the method for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network further includes, following transmitting by the AF the indication to the PCF, receiving a notification from the SMF, the notification indicative of the user plane path management event potentially affecting ordering of packets delivered for the traffic flow. The notification further includes information indicative of a new or updated flow end marker to be used in implementing, enforcing or supporting an in-order packet delivery mechanism for the traffic flow during the user plane path management event. The method further includes, following transmitting by the AF the indication to the PCF, configuring or reconfiguring one or more components of the in-order packet delivery mechanism to use the information indicative of the new or updated flow end marker. The method further includes, following transmitting by the AF the indication to the PCF, transmitting a response to the SMF. The response is indicative that an application portion of the communication network is ready for the user plane path management event.
In some embodiments, the method for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network further includes receiving a notification from the SMF. The notification is indicative of occurrence or imminence of the user plane path management event potentially affecting ordering of packets delivered for the traffic flow. The method further includes transmitting, to the SMF, a response to the notification. The response includes information indicative of a flow end marker to be used in implementing, enforcing or supporting an in-order packet delivery mechanism for the traffic flow during the user plane path management event. The indication may be generated and transmitted to the SMF in the response to the notification, or may be generated and transmitted in a request message to the SMF. In such cases, the request message is transmitted prior to the response to the notification. In some embodiments, the method further comprises, prior to receiving the notification from the SMF, transmitting a subscription message requesting receipt of the notification from the SMF. The subscription message comprises an indication of the particular traffic flow of the UE, and the notification is generated based on content of the subscription message. In some embodiments, the method further comprises configuring or reconfiguring one or more components of the in-order packet delivery mechanism to use the information indicative of the flow end marker. In such cases, the response is further indicative that an application portion of the communication network is ready for the user plane path management event.
In some embodiments, the indication is transmitted in a request message. In such embodiments, the method further includes, following transmitting the indication to the PCF, receiving a notification from the SMF. The notification is indicative of the user plane path management event potentially affecting ordering of packets delivered for the traffic flow. The notification further includes information indicative of a new or updated flow end marker to be used in implementing, enforcing or supporting an in-order packet delivery mechanism for the traffic flow during the user plane path management event. The method further includes, following transmitting the indication to the PCF, transmitting a response to the notification from the SMF. The response is indicative that the new or updated flow end marker is accepted, or comprises information indicative of a further revised flow end marker for implementation by the SMF. The method further includes, following transmitting the indication to the PCF, configuring or reconfiguring one or more components of the in-order packet delivery mechanism to use the new or updated flow end marker when the new or updated flow end marker is accepted. The method further includes, following transmitting the indication to the PCF, configuring or reconfiguring the one or more components of the in-order packet delivery mechanism to use the further revised the flow end marker when the information indicative of the further revised flow end marker is transmitted in the response. In some embodiments, the method further includes, following transmitting the indication to the PCF, receiving a confirmation message from the SMF indicative that a new user plane path due to the user plane path management event is ready for use.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network. The method includes, by a policy control function (PCF) of the communication network, receiving, from an application function (AF), a request message comprising an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for a particular traffic flow of a UE during a user plane path management event. The method further includes, by the PCF, generating or updating one or more policy rules for implementing or enforcing or supporting in-order packet delivery for the particular traffic flow of the UE during the user plane path management event. The method further includes, by the PCF, transmitting a message indicating the one or more policy rules toward a session management function (SMF) serving a communication session of the particular traffic flow of the UE.
In some embodiments, the method for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network further includes transmitting an acknowledgement to the AF in response to the request message. In some embodiments, the one or more policy rules are generated based on the request message from the AF, the one or more policy rules including contents of the indication, information associated with the indication, or both, and the one or more policy rules indicate that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred. In some embodiments, the one or more policy rules indicate one or more of: information identifying the traffic flow; information identifying an application supported by the traffic flow; an identifier of the UE that the traffic flow belongs to; a direction of the traffic flow; and information indicative of a flow end marker to be used in implementing, enforcing or supporting in-order packet delivery for the traffic flow during the user plane path management event. In some embodiments, the information identifying the traffic flow is an identifier of the traffic flow or a packet filter for use in identifying the traffic flow. In some embodiments, the information indicative of the flow end marker is a packet filter, an end marker descriptor, or an identifier indicative of a previously defined packet filter or end marker descriptor. The user plane path management event may comprise a data network address identifier (DNAI) change or an application relocation event.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network. The method includes, by a session management function (SMF) of the communication network, receiving, from an application function (AF) or a policy control function (PCF), an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, required or preferred for a particular traffic flow of a UE during a user plane path management event. The method further includes, by the SMF, configuring one or more user plane entities to handle network traffic corresponding to the traffic flow in a specified manner for implementing or enforcing or supporting in-order packet delivery thereof. In some embodiments, the indication is received from the PCF, and the indication is included in one or more policy rules.
In some embodiments, the indication is included in a request message. In such cases, the method for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network further includes, at a time after receiving the indication from the PCF, generating and transmitting a notification to the AF. The notification is indicative of the user plane path management event potentially affecting ordering of packets delivered for the traffic flow. The notification further includes information indicative of a new or updated flow end marker to be used in implementing, enforcing or supporting an in-order packet delivery mechanism for the traffic flow during the user plane path management event. The method further includes, at a time after receiving the indication from the PCF, receiving a response from the AF, the response indicative that an application portion of the communication network is ready for the user plane path management event. The method further includes, at a time after receiving the indication from the PCF, implementing, enforcing or supporting the in-order packet delivery mechanism upon receipt of the response.
In some embodiments, the method for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network further includes generating and transmitting a notification to the AF. The notification is indicative of occurrence or imminence of the user plane path management event potentially affecting ordering of packets delivered for the traffic flow. The method further includes receiving, from the AF, a response to the notification. The response includes information indicative of a flow end marker to be used in implementing, enforcing or supporting an in-order packet delivery mechanism for the traffic flow during the user plane path management event. In such embodiments, the indication is received from the AF in the response to the notification, or is received in a request message transmitted prior to the response to the notification. In some embodiments, the method further includes, prior to generating and transmitting the notification, receiving a subscription message from the AF requesting receipt of the notification. The subscription message comprises an indication of the particular traffic flow of the UE. Generating and transmitting the notification may occur due to the subscription message. In some embodiments, the response is further indicative that an application portion of the communication network is ready for the user plane path management event.
In some embodiments, the method for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network further includes, following receiving the indication from the PCF, generating and transmitting a notification to the AF. The notification is indicative of the user plane path management event potentially affecting ordering of packets delivered for the traffic flow. The notification further includes information indicative of a new or updated a flow end marker to be used in implementing, enforcing or supporting an in-order packet delivery mechanism for the traffic flow during the user plane path management event. The method further includes, following receiving the indication from the PCF, receiving a response from the AF. The response is indicative that the new or updated the flow end marker is accepted, or comprises information indicative of a further revised flow end marker for implementation by the SMF. In such embodiments, the one or more user plane entities are configured to use the new or updated flow end marker when the new or updated flow end marker is accepted, and to use the further revised flow end marker when the information indicative of the further revised flow end marker is transmitted in the response. In some embodiments, the method further includes transmitting a confirmation message to the AF indicative that a new user plane path due to the user plane path management event is ready for use.
In some embodiments, the method for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network further includes defining a traffic filter, a flow end marker, or both, based on at least in part on content of the indication, the traffic filter and the flow end marker used in implementing, enforcing or supporting the in-order packet delivery mechanism. In some embodiments, the indication includes information indicative of a flow end marker. The one or more user plane entities may be configured based on the information indicative of the flow end marker.
In some embodiments, the method for supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network further includes, by the SMF, managing the one or more user plane entities to handle the user plane path management event. In some embodiments, configuring the one or more user plane entities comprises causing the one or more user plane entities to perform operations in a manner specified by the SMF. The operations comprise one or more of: routing of traffic corresponding to the traffic flow; transmitting end markers; buffering traffic corresponding to the traffic flow; and transmitting previously buffered data corresponding to the traffic flow. In some embodiments, the one or more user plane entities comprise one or more of: a user plane entity residing in the communication network and communicatively coupled to the UE; a source PDU session anchor handling the traffic flow prior to the user plane path management event; a target PDU session anchor handling the traffic flow following the user plane path management event; and a PDU session anchor handling the traffic flow both before and after the user plane path management event.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus in a communication network implementing an application function (AF). The apparatus comprises a processor, a memory and a network interface and configured to implement the method of the AF as discussed above or elsewhere herein.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus in a communication network implementing a policy control function (PCF). The apparatus comprises a processor, a memory and a network interface and configured to implement the method of the PCF as discussed above or elsewhere herein.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus in a communication network implementing a session management function (SMF). The apparatus comprises a processor, a memory and a network interface and configured to implement the method of the SMF as discussed above or elsewhere herein.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a system in a communication network including two or more of an apparatus implementing an application function (AF), an apparatus implementing a policy control function (PCF) and a session management function (SMF). Each of the two or more apparatuses comprises a processor, a memory and a network interface, and is configured to implement the method of the AF, PCF and SMF, respectively, as discussed above or elsewhere herein.
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a system comprising two or more of: an AF, a PCF and an SMF, each configured as described above or elsewhere herein. The AF, PCF and SMF are communicatively coupled together and collectively configured to implement operations supporting in-order packet delivery in a communication network.
It will be appreciated that, although specific embodiments of the technology have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the technology. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded simply as an illustration of the invention as defined by the appended claims, and are contemplated to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations or equivalents that fall within the scope of the present invention. In particular, it is within the scope of the technology to provide a computer program product or program element, or a program storage or memory device such as a magnetic or optical wire, tape or disc, or the like, for storing signals readable by a machine, for controlling the operation of a computer according to the method of the technology and/or to structure some or all of its components in accordance with the system of the technology.
Acts associated with the method described herein can be implemented as coded instructions in a computer program product. In other words, the computer program product is a computer-readable medium upon which software code is recorded to execute the method when the computer program product is loaded into memory and executed on the microprocessor of the wireless communication device.
Acts associated with the method described herein can be implemented as coded instructions in plural computer program products. For example, a first portion of the method may be performed using one computing device, and a second portion of the method may be performed using another computing device, server, or the like. In this case, each computer program product is a computer-readable medium upon which software code is recorded to execute appropriate portions of the method when a computer program product is loaded into memory and executed on the microprocessor of a computing device.
Further, each operation of the method may be executed on any computing device, such as a personal computer, server, PDA, or the like and pursuant to one or more, or a part of one or more, program elements, modules or objects generated from any programming language, such as C++, Java, or the like. In addition, each operation, or a file or object or the like implementing each said operation, may be executed by special purpose hardware or a circuit module designed for that purpose.
It is obvious that the foregoing embodiments of the invention are examples and can be varied in many ways. Such present or future variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.
What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus in a communication network implementing a session management function (SMF), the apparatus comprising a processor, a memory and a network interface and configured to:
a) receive an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested for a traffic flow; b) receive information related to a flow end marker to be used in supporting said in-order packet delivery; c) based on the indication, configure one or more user plane (UP) entities to support in-order packet delivery during a UP path management event related to the traffic flow, wherein said configuring comprises providing at least one of the UP entities with said information related to the flow end marker or providing at least one of the UP entities with further information derived from said information related to the flow end marker.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, further configured to:
receive subscription information indicating an application function (AF)'s subscription to a notification of the UP path management event, in response to the subscription information, transmit the notification to the AF, and receive, from the AF, a response to the notification, the response including said indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, said information related to the flow end marker, or both.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, the information related to the flow end marker, or both are received from the AF indirectly via a policy control function (PCF).
4. The apparatus of claim 3, further configured to receive one or more rules from the PCF, wherein said rules include one or more of: the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested; and the information related to the flow end marker.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the rules are generated by the PCF according to information provided to the PCF by the AF, the information including one or more of: the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested; and the information related to the flow end marker.
6. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested, the information related to the flow end marker, or both are received from an application function (AF) without involving a policy control function (PCF).
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the indication that in-order packet delivery is requested; and the information related to the flow end marker are integrated together or included in a same message.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, further configured to generate the further information, wherein said information related to the flow end marker, the further information, or both, include the flow end marker, information based on which the flow end marker is generated, or both.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the UP path management event relates to a change of the user plane path of a protocol data unit (PDU) session, a change of a PDU session anchor (PSA) for the traffic flow, a change of a Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI) for the traffic flow, or any combination thereof.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the UP entities include one or more of: a UP entity configured to receive and forward packets from a user equipment (UE); a source PDU unit session anchor (PSA) configured to act as a PSA prior to the UP path management event; and a target PSA configured to act as the PSA following the UP path management event.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein configuring the one or more UPF entities to support in-order packet delivery comprises one or more of: configuring a target PDU session anchor (PSA) to buffer packets of the traffic flow, the traffic flow being associated with a PDU session; configuring the target PSA to receive and forward additional packets of the traffic flow associated with the PDU session; configuring a UPF to transmit the flow end marker to a source PSA; and configuring the source PSA to detect the flow end marker and forward the flow end marker to a source network element, to the target PSA or to both.
12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein configuring the one or more UPF entities to support in-order packet delivery comprises configuring a target PSA to: buffer received packets for the traffic flow, the traffic flow being associated with a PDU session; detect receipt of the flow end marker; and, upon detecting receipt of the flow end marker, stop buffering said received packets for the traffic flow and forward said received packets previously buffered to a target network element.
13. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the source network element and a target network element reside in a data network (DN) and are configured to receive UL packets of the traffic flow from the source PSA prior to the UP path management event and from the target PSA after the UP path management event, respectively, wherein the source network element is identified by a source Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI) and the target network element is identified by a target DNAI and receives packets from the target PSA.
14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the UP path management event comprises changing from a source network element to a target network element, each of the source network element and the target network element receiving UL packets of the traffic flow from a same entity of the one or more UPF entities, and wherein configuring the one or more UPF entities comprises: configuring said same entity to transmit the flow end marker to the source network element and to subsequently transmit UL packets to the target network element.
15. A system in a communication network, comprising:
a first apparatus implementing a session management function (SMF) and configured to:
a) receive an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested for a traffic flow;
b) receive information related to a flow end marker to be used in supporting said in-order packet delivery;
c) based on the indication, configure one or more user plane (UP) entities to support in-order packet delivery during a UP path management event related to the traffic flow, wherein said configuring comprises providing at least one of the UP entities with said information related to the flow end marker or providing at least one of the UP entities with further information derived from said information related to the flow end marker; and
one or more of the UP entities.
16. The system of claim 15, wherein the one or more UP entities of the system include a first UP entity configured to:
receive, from the SMF, said information related to the flow end marker, said information related to the flow end marker instructing the first UP entity to transmit the flow end marker to a second UP entity; and according to said information related to the flow end marker, transmit the flow end marker to the second UP entity.
17. The system of claim 16, wherein the one or more of the UP entities of the system include the second UP entity, wherein the second UP entity is configured to:
receive, from the SMF, said information related to the flow end marker or further information related to the flow end marker, the flow end marker associated with a traffic flow, the traffic flow being associated with a protocol data unit (PDU) session; and according to said information related to the flow end marker or said further information related to the flow end marker, transmit the flow end marker to a source network element.
18. The system of claim 15, wherein the one or more of the UP entities in the system include a further UP entity configured to:
receive, from the SMF, said information related to the flow end marker or further information related to the flow end marker, the flow end marker associated with a traffic flow, the traffic flow being associated with a protocol data unit (PDU) session; detect receipt of the flow end marker from a source UP entity; upon detection of the flow end marker, forward, toward a target network element, packets of the traffic flow which are received and buffered by the further UP entity; and after forwarding all of the packets of the traffic flow which are received and buffered by the further UP entity, forward further packets of the traffic flow toward the target network element.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the one or more of the UP entities in the system include the source UP entity.
20. A method comprising:
receiving, by a session management function (SMF), an indication that in-order packet delivery is requested for a traffic flow; receiving, by the SMF, information related to a flow end marker to be used in supporting said in-order packet delivery; based on the indication, configuring, by the SMF, one or more user plane (UP) entities to support in-order packet delivery during a UP path management event related to the traffic flow, wherein said configuring comprises providing at least one of the UP entities with said information related to the flow end marker or providing at least one of the UP entities with further information derived from said information related to the flow end marker.
| 2021-06-22 | en | 2021-10-07 |
US-12655505-A | Floor cleaning apparatus and method
ABSTRACT
A floor cleaning apparatus includes a discharger for discharging cleansing solution and/or steam to a floor surface, a receptacle, and a sweeping member operatively associated with the discharger and the receptacle for sweeping used liquid on the floor surface into the receptacle.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/642,553 filed Jan. 11, 2005, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a floor cleaning apparatus and, in particular, a combined discharger and electric sweeping member.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Conventional dischargers have been used to effectively clean and degrease floors. In addition to removing dust, dirt, grease, stain from the floors, steam also has a desirable sanitizing and anti-bacterial effect. These conventional dischargers have cloths mounted thereon for wet cleaning and scrubbing. These conventional dischargers are equipped with reservoir s and heaters for generating steam to be discharged through steam outlets in the form of jets of steam directed towards the floors to be cleaned.
On contacting the floor, some of the steam is condensed, and the condensate, mixing with the dust, dirt, grease, etc., usually cannot be completely soaked up by the mop. The condensate mixed with dust, dirt, grease, etc. is still spread in part over the floor to be cleaned. Extra step or steps have to be taken to completely remove the condensate and dirt spread in part over the floor after wet cleaning by the discharger is completed.
Therefore, there is a need to clean a floor with a discharger and remove the condensate and dirt completely in one single step.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a floor cleaning apparatus. In one embodiment, the floor cleaning apparatus includes a discharger for discharging cleansing solution and/or steam to a floor surface, a receptacle, and a sweeping member operatively associated with the discharger and the receptacle for sweeping used liquid on the floor surface into the receptacle. In one embodiment, the sweeping member may be a rotary sweeping member. In one embodiment, the sweeping member may be positioned posterior to the discharger and anterior to the receptacle. In one embodiment, the sweeping member may include at least one row of bristles. In one embodiment, the sweeping member may include at least one sweeping strip. In another embodiment, the sweeping member may include two rows of bristles and two sweeping strips.
The floor cleaning apparatus may further include a slant wall disposed between the sweeping member and the receptacle, so that the used liquid on the floor surface can be swept into the receptacle via a top surface the slant wall. In one embodiment, the bottom surface of the slant wall and the floor surface define an acute angle when the floor cleaning apparatus is in use. Optionally, the acute angle is in the range of about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees and preferably about 45 degrees. In one embodiment, the receptacle includes a slanted panel configured to abut against a bottom surface of the slant wall when the floor cleaning apparatus is in use. The receptacle may include a top panel slanted downwardly towards a central portion of the receptacle.
The present invention is also directed to a method of cleaning a floor surface. In one embodiment, a discharger initially discharges cleansing solution and/or steam to the floor surface. A sweeping member then sweeps used liquid on the floor surface into a receptacle. The discharger, the receptacle and the sweeping member are operatively associated with each other. The used liquid on the floor surface may be swept into the receptacle via a slanted wall between the sweeping member and the receptacle. The used liquid on the floor surface may be swept into the receptacle by using a rotary sweeping member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a front and side view of a floor cleaning apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a back and side view of the floor cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a front and side view of the floor cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 with the handle extended.
FIG. 4 is a back and side view of the floor cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 with the handle extended and an electric cord hung on the handle.
FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a floor cleaning apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is side and bottom view of a cleaning head of the floor cleaning apparatus of FIG. 5.
FIG. 7 is cross sectional view of the cleaning head of the floor cleaning apparatus of FIG. 5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part thereof, and within which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments by which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.
FIGS. 1 to 4 are various perspective views of a floor cleaning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
The floor cleaning apparatus, designated generally by reference numeral 10, includes a body or housing 12, a handle 14 coupled to the housing 12, and a cleaning head 16 coupled to the housing 12.
In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 14 may be rotatably connected to the housing 12 and movable between a retracted position, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and an extended position, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The handle 14 may have cord hangers 18 for hanging an electric cord 20 thereon.
FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the floor cleaning apparatus 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
The housing 12 may includes a front cover 30 and a rear cover 32. The front and rear covers 30, 32 define a space or compartment within the housing 12.
A reservoir 40 for receiving cleansing solution is removeably mounted on the housing 12, preferably at an upper front portion thereof. The reservoir 40 can be of any appropriate shape and dimension. The reservoir 40 is preferably transparent or semi-transparent so that the liquid level within the reservoir 40 is visible by a user. A reservoir release button 60 is provided to actuate an engaging mechanism employed to removably engage the reservoir 40 with the housing 12. The engaging mechanism may take the form of a conventional retaining clip, a catch, or a clamp, etc.
As used in the present invention, the “cleansing solution” refers to water, liquid chemical/non-chemicals, liquid cleaning agent, water mixed with solid or liquid chemical/non-chemical cleaning agents or combination thereof.
The front cover 30, the rear cover 32, and the reservoir 40 may be made of plastic or any suitable material by conventional method such as injection molding.
Preferably, a heating assembly, generally denoted by reference numeral 50, may be mounted within the housing 12 for producing hot cleansing solution and/or steam. The heating assembly 50 may take any conventional form and may be installed within the housing 12 in any conventional way. In the present embodiment, the heating assembly 50 may include a coiled heating element 52, a heater 54 to be heated up by the heating element 52, and a heater shell 56. The heater 54 and the heater shell 56 together define a space or compartment for containing cleansing solution to be heated. A sealing ring 58 may be used to establish a sealing engagement between the heater 54 and the heating shell 56.
When the floor cleaning apparatus 10 is turned on, the cleansing solution from the reservoir 40 enters the heater shell 56 through a valve assembly 62. The cleansing solution in the heater shell 56 is to be heated up by the heater 54 to produce hot cleansing solution and/or steam.
Although the illustrated embodiment shows that hot cleansing solution and/or steam is produced by the floor cleaning apparatus 10, it is to be understood that cleansing solution need not to be heated.
In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 14 is generally elongated and is designed in such a way that the floor cleaning apparatus 10 can easily be controlled and manipulated by the user. The handle 14 can be rotatably connected to the housing 12 at a rear upper portion thereof. The handle 14 may have an enlarged round-shaped handgrip portion 70 and an outurned end 72. The user may grip the handgrip portion 70 and move the floor cleaning apparatus 10 back and forth. The user may rotate the handle 14 into an extended position, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, and grip the outurned end 72 for cleaning hard-to-reach floor surfaces. A handle button 73 may be used to release and hold the handle 14 in the retracted or extended position.
In the illustrated embodiment, the cleaning head 16 may be hingedly connected to the housing 12 at a bottom end thereof by a hinge mechanism 78. The hinge mechanism 78 may be a universal hinge or any other suitable hinge mechanism.
In the illustrated embodiment, the cleaning head 16 may include a base 80 and a top cover 82. The base 80 and the top cover 82 may be made of plastic or any suitable material by conventional method such as injection molding. The base 80 and the top cover 82 define a space or compartment for receiving the cleaning tool assembly of the floor cleaning apparatus 10, details of which will be described below.
As shown in FIGS. 5, 6 and 7, a discharger 90 is provided on the cleaning head 16. As used in the present invention, the “discharger” refers to a part of the floor cleaning apparatus which can discharge cleansing solution and/or steam onto the floor surface. The discharger 90 may include a plurality of outlets 92, a leading edge 91 and a trailing edge 93, as depicted in FIG. 6. Hot cleansing solution or team produced in the heater shell 56 may travel to the discharger 90 via a conventional duct 96 and may discharge through the plurality of outlets 92 in the form of jets directed towards the floor to be cleaned. A pump 64 may be used to control the amount of cleansing solution entering the heater shell 56 and the amount of hot cleansing solution and/or steam produced.
In the illustrated embodiment, a sweeping member, generally represented by reference numeral 100, is provided within the cleaning head 16 posterior to the trailing edge 93 of the discharger 90. In the illustrated embodiment, the sweeping member 100 is rotary. The rotary sweeping member 100 may be driven by an electric motor 104. The electric motor 104 may drive a pulley 106 via a traction belt 108. The pulley 106 in turn may drive the rotary sweeping member 100. It is appreciated that the rotary sweeping member 100 can be driveably coupled to the electric motor 104 using other suitable coupling mechanisms such as gear mechanism, chain assembly, etc.
The pulley 106 may be covered by a pulley cover 115. The rotary sweeping member 100 may be rotatably mounted on opposite sidewalls of the cleaning head 16 via conventional bearing assemblies 109. The rotary sweeping member 100 may be held in position at one end thereof by a rotary sweeping member holder 111 which may be covered by a rotary sweeping member holder cover 113.
The electric motor 104 can be powered by AC power supplied to the floor cleaning apparatus 10 through the power cord 20. The electric motor 104 may be powered by a plurality of single-use or rechargeable batteries, if necessary.
According to a preferred embodiment, the rotary sweeping member 100 may include two rows of bristles 102 and two sweeping strips 103. The two rows of bristles 102 and the two sweeping strips 103 may be made of resilient deformable material. Preferably, the two sweeping strips 103 are made of rubber. The two rows of bristles 102 may be arranged in alternate with the two sweeping strips 103.
In the illustrated embodiment, the two rows of bristles 102 and the two rubber sweeping strips 103 are fixedly attached to a rod 110 of the rotary sweeping member 110. The two rows of bristles 102 and the two rubber sweeping strips 103 may be arranged parallel to the rod 110, or in a plurality of helixes about the rod 110.
The two rows of bristles 102 of the rotary sweeping member 100 are adapted to sweep dust, dirt, and other waste substances from the floor to be cleaned. The rubber sweeping strips 103 of the rotary sweeping member 100 are for sweeping debris and used liquid remaining on the floor into a receptacle 200 which is provided within the cleaning head 16 behind the rotary sweeping member 100. As used in the present invention, the “used liquid” refers to liquid that is originated from cleansing solution and/or steam and is discharged by the discharger of the floor cleaning apparatus onto the floor surface. The “receptacle” refers to a container disposed in the floor cleaning apparatus, which is used to collect the used liquid from the floor surface.
The rotary sweeping member 100 can be turned on and off by pushing a switch button 120. This switch button 120 may be located on the floor cleaning apparatus 10 at a position easily accessible by the user. The switch button 120 can be located on the handle 14, or the housing 12, or preferably on the cleaning head 16.
The position of the rotary sweeping member 100 relative to the floor to be cleaned may be adjustable, if desired, by adjusting the position of the rotary sweeping member 100, or by replacing the rotary sweeping member 100 with one having a bristle length commensurate with the floor to be cleaned.
The floor cleaning apparatus 10 may come with a set of rotary sweeping memberes of different bristle length or strip height, and different materials for different floor surfaces to be cleaned, e.g. wooden floor, tiled floor, carpet, etc.
In the illustrated embodiment, a rubber scraper 224 may be provided at the bottom of a slanted wall or ramp 222. The rubber scraper 224 can be used to scrape the floor to be cleaned during the cleaning process. The rubber scraper 224 can also used to sweep the debris and used liquid, which are driven under the slanted wall 222, towards the rotary sweeping member 100 during forward movement of the floor cleaning apparatus 10.
Although it has been shown in the illustrated embodiment that there is only one rotary sweeping member 100 having two rows of bristles 102 and two rubber sweeping strips 103, it is understood that the floor cleaning apparatus 10 of the present invention may contain one rotary sweeping member 100 having only one row of bristles 102 and/or only one rubber sweeping strip 103. It is also understood that the floor cleaning apparatus 10 of the present invention may contain one rotary sweeping member 100 having more than two rows of bristles 102 and/or more than two rubber sweeping strips 103. The floor cleaning apparatus 10 of the present invention may even contain more than one rotary sweeping member 100 in side-by-side or parallel relationship.
In the illustrated embodiment, the slanted wall or ramp 222 is disposed transversely with respect to the cleaning head 16. Dust, dirt, debris, used liquid, and other waste substances are driven by the rotary sweeping member 100 towards the front surface of the slanted wall 222.
The slanted wall 222 is slanted in such a manner that the front surface thereof is disposed at an acute angle with respect to the floor to be cleaned. The slanted wall 222 and the floor may be disposed at an acute angle which is in the range of about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees. Preferably, the acute angle is about 45 degrees.
A gap or clearance may be provided between the slanted wall 222 and the floor such that the floor will not be scratched by the lower edge of the slanted wall 222 when the floor cleaning apparatus 10 is moved back and forth during the cleaning process.
Dust, dirt, debris, used liquid, and other waste substances swept from the floor can be driven by the rotary sweeping member 100 toward the front surface of the slanted wall 222 in the directions as shown by arrows in FIG. 7.
The receptacle 200 is located within the cleaning head 16 and is configured to be removable therefrom. Preferably, the receptacle 200 can be removable from the rear end of the cleaning head 16. The receptacle 200 may be of any shape and preferably in the shape of a tray to be fitted within a rear portion of the cleaning head 16. The receptacle 200 can be made of plastic, metal, or any other suitable materials.
The receptacle 200 may be slidably fitted into the rear end of the cleaning head 16. A conventional retaining mechanism, such as a lock 204, may be employed to securely retain the receptacle 200 within the cleaning head 16.
As best illustrated in FIG. 7, the receptacle 200 of the illustrated embodiment may include a front panel 210, a top panel 212, a bottom panel 214, a back panel 216, and two opposite side panels 218 (FIG. 5). The bottom panel 214 is a flat panel defining the bottom wall of the cleaning head 16 when the receptacle 200 is inserted into the cleaning head 16. The front panel 210 is slanted such that the front panel 210 and the bottom panel 214 are disposed at an acute angle.
In the illustrated embodiment, the front panel 210 and the bottom panel 214 may be disposed at an acute angle which is in the range of about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees. Preferably, the acute angle is about 45 degrees.
The slanted front panel 210 may be adapted to abut against the slanted wall 222 when the receptacle 200 is fully inserted into the cleaning head 16. The top panel 212 may be connected to the top edge of the front panel 210. Although it has been disclosed that the receptacle 200 is used in cooperation with the slanted wall 222, it is appreciated that the slanted front panel 210 of the receptacle 200 may define the slanted wall itself.
The debris, used liquid, and other waste substances may be driven through a passage 226 defined by the top panel 212 of the receptacle 200 and an interior partition wall 228 of the cleaning head 16. The debris, used liquid, and other waste substances are collected in the receptacle 200.
In the illustrated embodiment, a handgrip 202 may be provided on the receptacle 200 at a rear end thereof. The handgrip 202 is adapted to facilitate the insertion and removal of the receptacle 200 into and from the cleaning head 16. The handgrip 202 may be in form of a conventional U-shaped handle, or a recess or groove, or a projection provided separately or integrally thereon.
In the illustrated embodiment, two rear wheels 260 may be provided at the bottom of the receptacle 200. Two front wheels 262 may also be provided at the bottom front portion of the cleaning head 16. A microswitch wheel assembly 264 may be provided on the cleaning head 16 at one side thereof for monitoring the movement of the cleaning head 16 relative to the floor to be cleaned.
Although it has been described that the rotary sweeping member 100 is positioned behind the discharger 90, and that the receptacle 200 is positioned behind the rotary sweeping member 100, it is contemplating that the discharger 90, the rotary sweeping member 100 and the receptacle 200 may be arranged in other suitable order.
The operation of the floor cleaning apparatus 10 of the present invention is described hereinbelow.
Firstly, the reservoir 40 is to be filled up with cleansing solution. The liquid level of the reservoir 40 can be monitored by a sensor. The reservoir 40 can be filled up with cleansing solution through an inlet valve 66. Optionally, the reservoir 40 can be removed from the housing 12 by pressing the reservoir release button 60 provided at the top of the housing 12. The filled-up reservoir 40 can then be mounted back onto the housing 12 of the floor cleaning apparatus 10. When the reservoir 40 is properly mounted on the housing 12, the valve assembly 62 is activated, thereby allowing cleansing solution in the reservoir 40 to enter and fill up the heater shell 56.
To commence cleaning, the floor cleaning apparatus 10 is connected to a power source. The user then turns on the cleaning apparatus 10. The discharger 90 is then activated, and the heating element 52 is turned on. The heating element 52 generates heat to heat up the cleansing solution within the heater shell 56, thereby producing cleansing solution and/or steam. The cleansing solution and/or steam so produced is discharged through the outlets 92 disposed along the front bottom portion of the cleaning head 16. In the meantime, the rotary sweeping member 100 is also activated. Alternatively, the discharger 90 and the rotary sweeping member 100 can be activated at different times as required by the user.
During the cleaning process, debris and used liquid spread in part over the floor are swept by the rotary sweeping member 100 towards the slanted walls 222. The use of the discharger 90, the rotary sweeping member 100, and the scraper 224 at the same time can clean up the floor completely without leaving behind any trace of debris and used liquid.
The discharger 90 is used for cleaning and scrubbing to remove dirt, dust, stain, liquid, etc. from the floor. The rotary sweeping member 100 is used to sweep dust, dirt, debris, liquid, etc. on the floor. The discharger 90 and the rotary sweeping member 100 together perform floor cleaning, scrubbing, and sweeping at the same time to completely clean the floor in one single step. Of course, the user has the options to operate the discharger 90 or the rotary sweeping member 100 alone, if desired.
While the present invention has been shown and described with particular references to a number of preferred embodiments thereof, it should be noted that various other changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
1. A floor cleaning apparatus comprising:
a discharger for discharging cleansing solution and/or steam to a floor surface; a receptacle; and a sweeping member operatively associated with the discharger and the receptacle for sweeping used liquid on the floor surface into the receptacle.
2. The floor cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sweeping member includes a rotary sweeping member.
3. The floor cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sweeping member is positioned posterior to the discharger and anterior to the receptacle.
4. The floor cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sweeping member comprises at least one row of bristles.
5. The floor cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sweeping member comprises at least one sweeping strip.
6. The floor cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sweeping member comprises two rows of bristles and two sweeping strips.
7. The floor cleaning apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a slant wall disposed between the sweeping member and the receptacle, so that the used liquid on the floor surface can be swept into the receptacle via a top surface the slant wall.
8. The floor cleaning apparatus of claim 7, wherein a bottom surface of the slant wall and the floor surface define an acute angle when the floor cleaning apparatus is in use.
9. The floor cleaning apparatus of claim 8, wherein the acute angle is about 45 degrees.
10. The floor cleaning apparatus of claim 8, wherein the acute angle is in the range of about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees.
11. The floor cleaning apparatus of claim 7, wherein the receptacle includes a slanted panel configured to abut against a bottom surface of the slant wall when the floor cleaning apparatus is in use.
12. The floor cleaning apparatus of claim 11 wherein the receptacle includes a top panel slanted downwardly towards a central portion of the receptacle.
13. A method of cleaning a floor surface, the method comprising:
discharging cleansing solution and/or steam to the floor surface by a discharger; and sweeping used liquid on the floor surface into a receptacle by using a sweeping member, wherein the discharger, the receptacle and the sweeping member are operatively associated with each other in a floor cleaning apparatus.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein sweeping used liquid comprises sweeping the used liquid on the floor surface into the receptacle via a slanted wall between the sweeping member and the receptacle.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein sweeping used liquid comprises sweeping the used liquid on the floor surface into the receptacle by using a rotary sweeping member.
| 2005-05-11 | en | 2006-07-13 |
US-70517910-A | Surroundings monitoring device for vehicle
ABSTRACT
A surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle, including: an image acquisition unit that acquires an image of vehicle surroundings; an obstacle recognition unit that recognizes an obstacle in the image acquired by the image acquisition unit, calculates a position of the obstacle, and calculates a detection reliability indicating accuracy of recognition of the obstacle; a risk degree calculation unit that calculates a risk degree that indicates a degree of risk of a collision between the obstacle and the vehicle; and an attention drawing unit that outputs an attention drawing signal for drawing a driver's attention on the basis of the detection reliability and the risk degree.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
The disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2009-032682 filed on Feb. 16, 2009 including the specification, drawings and abstract is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle that acquires an image of vehicle surroundings and outputs an signal for drawing a driver's attention on the basis of the acquired image.
2. Description of the Related Art
A surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle has been suggested in which an image acquisition unit such as a camera is installed on the vehicle, an image of the vehicle surroundings that has been acquired by the image acquisition unit such as a camera is displayed on a display provided in a position inside the vehicle where the display can be viewed by the driver, and the displayed images enhance a view field of the driver.
For example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-087203 (JP-A-2007-087203), Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-027309 (JP-A-2008-027309), and Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-135856 (JP-A-2008-135856) disclose such surroundings monitoring devices for a vehicle in which an images of vehicle surroundings is acquired, the presence of an obstacle such as a pedestrian is recognized based on the acquired image, and the presence of the obstacle is displayed to draw the driver's attention. The driver may look at the display as a result of drawing the driver's attention to the presence of the obstacle by means of display.
Therefore, when the driver is drawn his attention to look at the display each time an obstacle such as a pedestrian is present, the driver's attention may be distracted from the zone forward of the vehicle.
In a case where a risk of the vehicle colliding with the obstacle is low, for example, when the distance between the vehicle and the obstacle is sufficiently large, it is preferred that the driver looks directly forward of the vehicle for maintaining the driver's attention to the zone forward of the vehicle, rather than looks at the display by being drawn his attention.
Also, there is a variation in detection reliability (accuracy of detection) of obstacles such as pedestrians. When the detection reliability is low, it is also preferred that the driver looks directly forward of the vehicle without looking at the display by being drawn his attention, for maintaining the driver's attention to the zone forward of the vehicle.
On the other hand, where a risk of the vehicle colliding with an obstacle is high and the detection reliability of the obstacle is high, a high probability of danger can be assumed. Therefore, it is necessary to draw the driver's attention with higher reliability to enable a danger avoiding maneuver.
However, in the conventional surroundings monitoring devices for vehicles. cases as described hereinabove are not adequately distinguished. Thus, the presence of the obstacle is displayed to draw the driver's attention and to make the driver look at the display, even when the necessity of drawing the attention is low. As a result, the driver's attention to the zone forward of the vehicle may not be maintained.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention provides a surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle that can draw the driver's attention, as necessary, with consideration for and a degree of risk of the vehicle colliding with an obstacle and an obstacle detection reliability.
A surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle according to the first aspect of the invention includes: an image acquisition unit that acquires an image of vehicle surroundings; an obstacle recognition unit that recognizes an obstacle in the image acquired by the image acquisition unit, calculates a position of the obstacle, and calculates a detection reliability indicating accuracy of recognition of the obstacle; a risk degree calculation unit that calculates a risk degree that indicates a degree of risk of a collision between the obstacle and the vehicle; and an attention drawing unit that outputs an attention drawing signal for drawing a driver's attention on the basis of the detection reliability and the risk degree.
According to the first aspect of the invention, it is possible to provide a surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle that can draw the driver's attention, as necessary, with consideration for a degree of risk of the vehicle colliding with an obstacle and an obstacle detection reliability.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing and further objects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of example embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals denote like elements, and wherein:
FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a schematic configuration of the surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle according to the present embodiment;
FIG. 2 illustrates an estimated risk degree calculation means (variant 1) according to the present embodiment;
FIG. 3 illustrates an estimated risk degree calculation means (variant 2) according to the present embodiment;
FIG. 4 illustrates a risk degree calculation means according to the present embodiment;
FIG. 5 illustrates a detection reliability correction value calculation means according to the present embodiment;
FIGS. 6A to 6C shows an example of the image displayed at the display unit of the present embodiment; and
FIG. 7 is an example of the flowchart of operations performed by the surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle of the present embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
An embodiment of the invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a schematic configuration of the surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the surroundings monitoring device 10 for a vehicle has an image acquisition unit 20, a signal processing unit 30, and a sensor unit 50. A display unit 60 displays image signals outputted from the surroundings monitoring device 10 for a vehicle.
The image acquisition unit 20 has a lens 21, a first prism 22, a second prism 22, a first image pickup element 24, and a second image pickup element 25. The signal processing unit 30 has a reference signal generation means 31, a first input signal processing means 32, a second input signal processing means 33, an image synthesis means 35, an obstacle recognition means 41, a brightness calculation means 42, an estimated risk degree calculation means 43, a risk degree calculation means 44, a detection reliability correction value calculation means 45, an attention drawing means 46, and a central processing unit (CPU), a storage unit (memory), and the like that are not shown in the figure. The sensor unit 50 has a light control sensor 51, a vehicle speed sensor 52, a steering angle sensor 53, and a distance sensor 54.
The image acquisition unit 20 is, for example, a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) camera or a Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) camera. The image acquisition unit 20 has a function of acquiring an image of vehicle surroundings. The lens 21 is, for example, a fish-eye lens. The lens 21 has a function of collecting the light emitted from the object into an image.
The first prism 22 and the second prism 23 are constituted, for example, by glass or quartz. The first prism 22 and the second prism 23 have a function of transmitting linearly the light of a first wavelength region from among the incident light from the lens 21, and selectively introducing the transmitted light in the first image pickup element 24. Further, the first prism 22 and the second prism 23 also have a function of reflecting the light of the second wavelength region that has a wavelength longer than that of the light of the first wavelength region, from among the incident light from the lens 21, by a boundary surface of the first prism 22 and the second prism 23, and selectively introducing the reflected light in the second image pickup element 25.
In this case, the first wavelength region is a wavelength region including a visible light region, and the second wavelength region is a wavelength region including a near-infrared region. The first wavelength region may be, for example, only the visible light region or a wavelength region obtained by adding the near-infrared region to the visible light region. Further, the second wavelength region may be, for example, only the near-infrared region or a wavelength region obtained by adding an infrared region to the near-infrared region.
The first image pickup element 24 and the second image pickup element 25 are constituted, for example, by a semiconductor such as CCD or CMOS. The first image pickup element 24 and the second image pickup element 25 have a function of converting an incident optical image of the object into electric signals. The first image pickup element 24 and the second image pickup element 25 may have sensitivity to the light of same wavelength region, but it is preferred that the first image pickup element 24 have sensitivity to the light of the first wavelength region and the second image pickup element 25 have sensitivity to the light of the second wavelength region. The electric signals obtained by conversion in the first image pickup element 24 and the second image pickup element 25 are inputted to the first input signal processing means 32 and the second input signal processing means 33 of the signal processing unit 30.
The signal processing unit 30 has a function of performing a predetermined signal processing of the signal inputted from the image acquisition unit 20 and outputting the processed signals to the display unit 60. The signal processing unit 30 is provided, for example, inside an electronic control unit (ECU). The reference signal generation means 31 is a circuit having an oscillator that generates a reference signal. The reference signal generated by the reference signal generation means 31 is inputted to the first input signal processing means 32 and the second input signal processing means 33.
The first input signal processing means 32 and the second input signal processing means 33 generate drive signals on the basis of the reference signal generated by the reference signal generation means 31, and drive the first image pickup element 24 and the second image pickup element 25. The first input signal processing means 32 and the second input signal processing means 33 perform a predetermined signal processing of the electric signals inputted from the first image pickup element 24 and the second image pickup element 25, and output the electric signals subjected to the predetermined signal processing to the image synthesis means 35, obstacle recognition means 41, and brightness calculation means 42.
The predetermined signal processing, as referred to herein, is for example a correlated double sampling (CDS) that reduces the signal noise, an auto-gain control (AGC) that normalizes the signal, an analog-digital conversion, or a digital signal processing (color space conversion, edge enhancement correction, gamma correction processing, and the like). The electric signals subjected to the predetermined signal processing are image signals such as composite video or YUV.
The signal subjected to the predetermined processing in the first input signal processing means 32 and outputted from the first input signal processing means 32 is a first image signal, and the signal subjected to the predetermined processing in the second input signal processing means 33 and outputted from the second input signal processing means 33 is a second image signal. An image displayed by the first image signal is a first image, and an image displayed by the second image signal is a second image. Thus, the first image signal is an image signal produced by the light including the visible light region, and the second image signal is an image signal produced by the light including the near-infrared region. Further, the first image is an image displayed by the light including the visible light region, and the second image is an image displayed by the light including the near-infrared region.
The image synthesis means 35 weights the first image signal and the second image signal inputted from the first input signal processing means 32 and the second input signal processing means 33 with a predetermined weight ratio Aw. The resultant signals are then summed up to generate an image signal that is outputted to the display unit 60. Thus, the image signal outputted to the display unit 60 is “(first image signal)×(1−Aw)+(second image signal)×Aw”. The predetermined weight Aw, may be a fixed value that has been set in advance. Alternatively, the predetermined weight Aw may be appropriately determined (Aw can be varied correspondingly to the state) on the basis of some or all calculation results of the obstacle recognition means 41 and brightness calculation means 42.
For example, in a case of a high image brightness, the weight Aw, of the second image signal (image signal produced by the light including the near-infrared region) is decreased and the weight of the first image signal (image signal produced by the light including the visible light region) is increased. As a result, a focused image can be obtained. Further, increasing the weight of the first image signal (image signal produced by the light including the visible light region) enables the color image display.
The obstacle recognition means 41 recognizes whether an obstacle is present in the image acquired by the image acquisition means 20 on the basis of the first image signal and/or second image signal, and when an obstacle is recognized, the obstacle position is calculated. The obstacle recognition means 41 also calculates the detector reliability that indicates the accuracy of obstacle recognition. The obstacle as referred to herein is, for example, a pedestrian or another vehicle. A case in which the obstacle is a pedestrian will be explained below.
The recognition of a pedestrian as an obstacle, calculation of a position of the pedestrian as an obstacle, and calculation of detection reliability may be implemented, for example, by using a pattern matching method. For example, an image pattern of a pedestrian is recognized in advance and stored in a storage means (memory), and the first image signal and/or second image signal is compared with the pedestrian image pattern that has been stored in advance. As a result, where the two coincide, the presence of a pedestrian is recognized and the position of the pedestrian is calculated. In this case, the detection reliability (for example, from 0 to 1) that indicates the correctness of pedestrian presence recognition is calculated, for example, correspondingly to the degree of matching with the image pattern.
The detection reliability is determined from the processing capacity of the CPU or capacity of the image pattern that has been stored in the storage means (memory). Therefore, high detection reliability is difficult to guarantee for all the situations. Thus, in some cases, even when an object that looks like a pedestrian is recognized, the degree of matching with the image pattern is low and low detection reliability is calculated. Low detection reliability means that the detected object might not be a pedestrian. Conversely, in some cases, the degree of matching with the image pattern is high and high detection reliability is calculated. High detection reliability means a high probability of the detection object being a pedestrian.
As will be described below, the object of calculating the detection reliability with the obstacle recognition means 41 is to use the detection reliability as a piece of information when the necessity of attention drawing display is determined. The recognition results (presence of a pedestrian, position of the pedestrian, and detection reliability) obtained with the obstacle recognition means 41 are inputted to the image synthesis means 35, brightness calculation means 42, and estimated risk degree calculation means 43.
The brightness calculation means 42 calculates a brightness of the image in the position of the pedestrian (brightness of the pedestrian) using the first image signal and/or the second image signal on the basis of the recognition results obtained with the obstacle recognition means 41. The brightness of the pedestrian may be obtained, for example. by calculating the average value of the brightness of pixels corresponding to the position of the pedestrian. Alternatively, a representative point may be selected from among the pixels corresponding to the position of the pedestrian and the brightness of the selected pixel may be determined as the brightness of the pedestrian. The brightness calculation result obtained with the brightness calculation means 42 is inputted to the image synthesis means 35, estimated risk degree calculation means 43, and risk degree calculation means 44.
The estimated risk degree calculation means 43 calculates an estimated risk degree, which is a value obtained by estimating the degree of risk of a collision between the obstacle and the vehicle, on the basis of the recognition results obtained with the obstacle recognition means 41, calculation results obtained with the brightness calculation means 42, and detection results obtained with the below-described sensor unit 50. For example, in a case where the distance between the pedestrian as an obstacle and the vehicle is large, the calculated estimated risk degree is lower than the case where the distance between the pedestrian and the vehicle is small. The calculated result of the estimated risk degree obtained with the estimated risk degree calculation means 43 is inputted to the risk degree calculation means 44.
A specific example of calculations performed by the estimated risk degree calculation means 43 will be explained below with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG. 2 illustrates the estimated risk degree calculation means (variant 1). FIG. 3 illustrates the estimated risk degree calculation means (variant 2). As shown in FIG. 2, a vehicle 101 has headlights 102. Further, FIG. 2 shows equal-brightness curves 103 a to 103 d in each point of light emitted by the headlights 102 of the vehicle 101. The numbers 100, 50, 30, and 10 in parentheses in the figure are examples of brightness values (unit: lux) of the equal-brightness curves 103 a to 103 d, respectively. In FIG. 3, an obstacle 104 is shown. FIG. 3 shows a trajectory 105 of a circular turn radius R calculated from the steering angle, wheelbase, vehicle speed, and the like. The estimated risk degree is calculated, for example, from the equal-brightness curves 103 a to 103 d, distance d to the obstacle 104, relative speed, trajectory of the circular turn radius R, vehicle speed, and the like.
With reference to FIG. 1 again, the risk degree calculation means 44 calculates a risk degree that indicates the degree of risk of a collision between the obstacle and the vehicle on the basis of the calculation result obtained by the brightness calculation means 42 and the calculation result obtained by the estimated risk degree calculation means 43. The risk degree calculated by the risk degree calculation means 44 is inputted to the detection reliability correction value calculation means 45.
With reference to FIG. 4, a specific example of calculations performed by the risk degree calculation means 44 will be explained below. FIG. 4 illustrates the risk degree calculation means. In FIG. 4 a reciprocal for the brightness ratio of the object that is plotted along the ordinate is obtained from the brightness of the image in the position of a pedestrian that is calculated by the brightness calculation means 42. A region close to 0 corresponds to white color, and as 1.0 is approached, the color changes to yellow, red/blue, and then black. An estimated risk degree calculated by the estimated risk degree calculation means 43 is plotted along the abscissa. The numbers “4, 6, 8, 10” are the risk degrees calculated by the risk degree calculation means 44 on the basis of calculation results obtained with the brightness calculation means 42 and estimation results obtained with the estimated risk degree calculation means 43. In the examples shown in FIG. 4, predetermined regions of equal risk degree are determined from the reciprocal for the brightness ratio of the object plotted on the ordinate and the estimated risk degree plotted on the abscissa, and the risk degrees “4, 6, 8, 10” are assigned to each predetermined region.
For example, even if the estimated risk degree is high, the driver can easily recognize the obstacle, provided that the obstacle is white. Therefore, the risk degree is low and a risk degree of 4 is calculated. Where the obstacle is black, it is difficult for the driver to recognize the obstacle. However, in a case where the estimated risk degree is low, the risk degree is low and a risk degree of 4 is calculated. By contrast, where the estimated risk degree is high and the obstacle is black, the risk degree is high. In this case, a risk degree of 10 is calculated. The calculated risk degree increases as the brightness decreases and the estimated risk degree increases. Thus, the risk degree calculation means 44 calculates the risk degree from two standpoints on the basis of the brightness of the pedestrian that is calculated by the brightness calculation means 42 and the estimated risk degree calculated by the estimated risk degree calculation means 43.
With reference to FIG. 1 again, the detection reliability correction value calculation means 45 calculates the detection reliability correction value by correcting the detection reliability calculated by the obstacle recognition means 41 on the basis of the risk degree calculated by the risk degree calculation means 44. The detection reliability correction value calculated by the detection reliability correction value calculation means 45 is inputted to the attention drawing means 46.
A specific example of calculations performed by the detection reliability correction value calculation means 45 will be explained below with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 illustrates the detection reliability correction value calculation means. In FIG. 5, a correction coefficient K is plotted along the ordinate, and a risk degree is plotted along the abscissa. The risk degree plotted along the abscissa is a value calculated by the risk degree calculation means 44 and corresponds, for example, the risk degrees “4, 6, 8, and 10” shown in FIG. 4. The correction coefficient K is a predetermined value that is stored in the storage means (memory). A curve of the correction coefficient K is determined as any curve in which the correction coefficient K comes closer to 1 as the risk degree rises (approaches 10). The detection reliability correction value calculation means 45 calculates the detection reliability correction value by using the correction coefficient K shown in FIG. 5 to correct the detection reliability calculated by the obstacle recognition means 41. Thus, the detection reliability correction value is obtained by multiplying the detection reliability calculated by the obstacle recognition means 41 by the correction coefficient K.
With reference to FIG. 1 again, where the detection reliability correction value calculated by the detection reliability correction value calculation means 45 is greater than a predetermined display determination threshold, the attention drawing means 46 outputs an attention drawing signal to the display unit 60. This operation has the following meaning.
In principle, the detection reliability correction value has to be calculates high when the risk degree is high. This is because an attention drawing signal has to be outputted to the display unit 60 and the driver's attention to the pedestrian has to be drawn. Therefore, when the risk degree is high as shown by way of example in FIG. 5, the correction coefficient K has a value close to 1.
By contrast, when the risk degree is low, the detection reliability correction value is not necessarily high, and it is rather preferred that the detection reliability correction value be decreased. In the example shown in FIG. 4, when the obstacle is white, the driver can easily recognize the obstacle. Therefore, the risk degree is low and assumes a value of 4. Where the driver's attention is drawn by means of the display unit 60, the driver looks at the display unit 60. However, when no risk is involved, as in the above-described case, it is preferred that the driver look directly at the obstacle rather than on the display unit 60. Accordingly, when the risk degree is low, the correction coefficient K is set a value less than 1. As a result, where the detection reliability correction value is equal to or less than the predetermined display determination threshold, no attention drawing signal is outputted to the display unit 60.
However, in a case where the detection reliability calculated by the obstacle recognition means 41 is low, it is even not clear whether a pedestrian is present. In such a case that the detection reliability calculated by the obstacle recognition means 41 is low, it is also preferred that the driver looks directly at the pedestrian, rather than at the display unit 60 by being drawn his attention. Therefore, the detection reliability correction value is a low value despite a high risk degree (correction coefficient K is close to 1). As a result, where the detection reliability correction value is equal to or less than the predetermined display determination threshold, no attention drawing signal is outputted to the display unit 60.
Thus, it becomes easier to output an attention drawing signal to the display unit 60 as the detection reliability calculated by the obstacle recognition means 41 increases and the risk degree rises (a case in which the probability of danger is high). Thus, in a case where the attention has to be drawn (when a pedestrian is detected with a high probability and a degree of risk is high), the attention can be drawn more reliably. In other eases, the driver is not drawn his attention and does not look at the display unit 60. Therefore, the driver's attention to the zone forward of the vehicle can be maintained.
With reference to FIG. 1 again, the sensor unit 50 has a function of acquiring information of the vehicle and vehicle surroundings. The light control sensor 51 is mounted, for example, on the outside of the vehicle body. The light control sensor 51 detects the brightness of vehicle surroundings and outputs a signal corresponding to the detection result to the estimated risk degree calculation means 43. The vehicle speed sensor 42 is mounted, for example, on the vehicle wheel, detects the rotation speed of the wheel and outputs a signal corresponding to the detection result to the estimated risk degree calculation means 43.
The steering angle sensor 53 is attached, for example, to a steering shaft of the vehicle. The steering angle sensor 53 detects a steering rotation angle and outputs a signal corresponding to the detection result to the estimated risk degree calculation means 43. The distance sensor 54 is for example a milliwave radar that detects the distance between the vehicle and an obstacle. The distance sensor 54 outputs a signal corresponding to the detection result to the estimated risk degree calculation means 43.
The display unit 60 is for example a liquid crystal display. The display unit 60 has a function of displaying as an image only the image signal synthesized by the image synthesis means 35 or the image signal obtained by superimposing an attention drawing signal outputted by the attention drawing means 46 on the image signal synthesized by the image synthesis means 35. The display unit 60 is provided in a position inside the vehicle in which it can be viewed by the driver.
FIGS. 6A to 6C show examples of images displayed by the display unit. FIG. 6A shows an example in which the display unit 60 displays only the image signal synthesized by the image synthesis means 35. FIGS. 6B and 6C show an example in which the display unit 60 displays the image signal obtained by superimposing an attention drawing signal outputted by the attention drawing means 46 on the image signal synthesized by the image synthesis means 35. In FIG. 6B, an attention drawing frame 110 is superimposed as the attention drawing signal for display on a area of the image displayed by the display unit 60 where a pedestrian has been recognized. In FIG. 6C, an attention drawing frame 111 indicating the position of the pedestrian is superimposed and displayed in addition to the attention drawing frame 110 indicating the area where the pedestrian has been recognized, so that the pedestrian can be easily recognized by the driver. The driver's attention can be drawn even more effectively by changing the color of the attention drawing frame 110 or 111 or flashing the frame.
The processing performed by the surroundings monitoring device 10 for a vehicle will be described below in greater detail with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is an example of the flowchart of operations performed by the surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle of the present embodiment.
In step 100, the image acquisition unit 20 acquires an image of vehicle surroundings and forms an optical image of a first wavelength region on the first image pickup element 24. Further, an optical image of the second wavelength region is formed on the second image pickup element 25 (S100). In this case, the first wavelength region is a wavelength region including a visible light region, and the second wavelength region is a wavelength region including a near-infrared region. Thus, the first wavelength region may be, for example, only the visible light region or a wavelength region obtained by adding the near-infrared region to the visible light region. Further, the second wavelength region may be, for example, only the near-infrared region or a wavelength region obtained by adding an infrared region to the near-infrared region.
In step 101, the first image pickup element 24 converts the optical image of the first wavelength region into an electric signal and outputs the electric signal to the first input signal processing means 32. The second image pickup element 25 converts the optical image of the second wavelength region into an electric signal and outputs the electric signal to the second input signal processing means 33 (S101).
In step 102, the first input signal processing means 32 and the second input signal processing means 33 perform a predetermined signal processing of the inputted electric signals and output the first image signal and the second image signal thus obtained to the image synthesis means 35, obstacle recognition means 41, and brightness calculation means 42 (S102).
In step 103, the obstacle recognition means 41 recognizes whether a pedestrian is present in the image acquired by the image acquisition means 20 on the basis of the first image signal and/or second image signal, and when a pedestrian is recognized, the position of the pedestrian is calculated. The obstacle recognition means 41 also calculates the detection reliability that indicates the accuracy of obstacle recognition (S103). The recognition of the pedestrian, calculation of the position of the pedestrian, and calculation of detection reliability may be implemented, for example, by using a pattern matching method as mentioned hereinabove. The recognition results (presence or absence of the pedestrian, position of the pedestrian, and detection reliability) obtained with the obstacle recognition means 41 are inputted to the image synthesis means 35, brightness calculation means 42, and estimated risk degree calculation means 43.
In step 104, the brightness calculation means 42 calculates a brightness of the image for the position of the pedestrian from the first image signal and/or the second image signal on the basis of the recognition results obtained with the obstacle recognition means 41 (S104). The brightness calculation result obtained with the brightness calculation means 42 is inputted to the image synthesis means 35, estimated risk degree calculation means 43, and risk degree calculation means 44.
In step 105, the estimated risk degree calculation means 43 calculates an estimated risk degree on the basis of the recognition result obtained with the obstacle recognition means 41, calculation result obtained with the brightness calculation means 42, and detection result obtained with the below-described sensor unit 50 (S105). The calculated result of the estimated risk degree obtained with the estimated risk degree calculation means 43 is inputted to the risk degree calculation means 44.
In step 106, the risk degree calculation means 44 calculates a risk degree on the basis of the brightness calculation result obtained by the brightness calculation means 42 and the calculation result obtained by the estimated risk degree calculation means 43 (S106). The risk degree calculated by the risk degree calculation means 44 is inputted to the detection reliability correction value calculation means 45. An example of risk degree calculations is shown in FIG. 4 as described above.
In step 107, the detection reliability correction value calculation means 45 calculates the detection reliability correction value by correcting the detection reliability calculated by the pedestrian recognition means 41 on the basis of the risk degree calculated by the risk degree calculation means 44 (S107). The detection reliability correction value calculated by the detection reliability correction value calculation means 45 is inputted to the attention drawing means 46. An example of calculations of the detection reliability correction value is described above.
In step 108, the attention drawing means 46 determines the necessity of attention drawing display on the basis of the detection reliability correction value calculated by the detection reliability correction value calculation means 45 (S108). The necessity of attention drawing display is determined based on whether the detection reliability correction value calculated by the detection reliability correction value calculation means 45 is greater than a display determination threshold that has been set in advance. In step 108, when the detection reliability correction value is greater than a display determination threshold that has been set in advance, the attention drawing means 46 determines that the attention drawing is necessary (YES in FIG. 7) and the processing flow advances to step 109. In step 109, the attention drawing means 46 outputs an attention drawing signal to the display unit 60 (S109). The attention drawing signal outputted from the attention drawing means 46 is displayed on the display unit 60, for example as shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C described hereinabove, superimposed on the image signal synthesized in the image synthesis means 35. Where no obstacle is present, the attention drawing means 46 stops the output of the attention drawing signal to the display unit 60. As a result, the attention drawing frames 110 and 111, which are the attention drawing signals shown by way of example in FIGS. 6B and 6C above, are deleted.
In step 108, in a case where the detection reliability correction value is equal to or less than the display determination threshold that has been set in advance, the attention drawing means 46 determines that the attention drawing is unnecessary (NO in FIG. 7) and the processing flow advances to step 110. In step 110, the attention drawing means 46 outputs no attention drawing signal to the display unit 60 (S110). As a result, for example as shown in FIG. 6A described above, only the image signal synthesized in the image synthesis means 35 is displayed on the display unit 60.
According to the present embodiment, an obstacle such as a pedestrian is recognized in the image acquired by the image acquisition unit, the position and detection reliability of the obstacle are calculated, and the brightness in the calculated position of the obstacle is calculated. Further, an estimated risk degree, which is a estimate value of the degree of risk of a collision between the obstacle and the vehicle, is calculated on the basis of the vehicle speed and steering angle during the travel. Then, a risk degree that shows a degree of risk of the collision of the obstacle and the vehicle is calculated from two standpoints, namely, on the basis of the calculated brightness and the estimated risk degree. A detection reliability correction value on the basis of the calculated risk degree is then calculated. Where the calculated detection reliability correction value is greater than the predetermined display determination threshold, an attention drawing signal is outputted and the attention drawing signal superimposed on the image acquired by the image acquisition unit is displayed on the display unit(attention drawing is performed). Where the calculated detection reliability correction value is equal to or less than the predetermined display determination threshold, no attention drawing signal is outputted and only the image acquired by the image acquisition unit is displayed on the display unit (attention drawing is not performed).
Thus, whether to output an attention drawing signal to the display unit 60 is determined by correcting the detection reliability on the basis of a risk degree to calculate the detection reliability correction value and then comparing the calculated detection reliability correction value with the display determination threshold. As a result, the attention drawing signal can be easier outputted to the display unit 60 when the detection reliability is high and the risk degree is high (a case in which the probability of danger is high). Therefore, the attention drawing can be performed more reliably. In other cases, no attention drawing is performed and the driver's attention is not drawn to make the driver look at the display unit 60. Therefore, the driver's attention to the zone forward of the vehicle can be maintained. Thus, the driver's attention can be drawn, if necessary, by taking into account the risk degree of a collision between the vehicle and the obstacle and the detection reliability of the obstacle.
The preferred embodiment is described above, but the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and may be implemented by variously modifying or changing the above-described embodiment, without departing from the scope of claims.
For example, in the present embodiment, an example is explained in which the light control sensor 51, vehicle speed sensor 52, steering angle sensor 53, and distance sensor 54 are used as the sensor unit 50, but other sensors may be used instead of the above-described sensors or in addition thereto. Examples of the other sensors include an inclination sensor and a Global Positioning system (GPS). By using the inclination sensor or GPS, it is possible to determine the vehicle travel state (whether the location where the vehicle presently travels is a town area or suburbs). Further, in the present embodiment, an example is shown in which the attention drawing signal is outputted on the basis of the detection reliability correction value, but a configuration may be also used in which the attention drawing signal for drawing the driver's attention is outputted on the basis of the risk degree and detection reliability.
1. A surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle, comprising:
an image acquisition unit that acquires an image of vehicle surroundings; an obstacle recognition unit that recognizes an obstacle in the image acquired by the image acquisition unit, calculates a position of the obstacle, and calculates a detection reliability indicating accuracy of recognition of the obstacle; a risk degree calculation unit that calculates a risk degree that indicates a degree of risk of a collision between the obstacle and the vehicle; and an attention drawing unit that outputs an attention drawing signal for drawing a driver's attention on the basis of the detection reliability and the risk degree.
2. The surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising:
a detection reliability correction value calculation unit that corrects the detection reliability on the basis of the risk degree to calculate a detection reliability correction value, wherein the attention drawing unit outputs the attention drawing signal in a case where the detection reliability correction value is higher than a threshold.
3. The surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising:
a brightness calculation unit that calculates a brightness of the image in a position of the obstacle; and an estimated risk degree calculation unit that calculates an estimated risk degree of the collision between the obstacle and the vehicle, wherein the risk degree calculation unit calculates the risk degree on the basis of the brightness and the estimated risk degree.
4. The surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle according to claim 3, wherein the estimated risk degree calculation unit calculates the estimated risk degree on the basis of information including a speed of the vehicle, a steering angle of the vehicle, and a distance between the vehicle and the obstacle.
5. The surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the attention drawing signal is a signal for displaying a frame that surrounds an area including the obstacle recognized in the image that has been acquired by the image acquisition unit.
6. The surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the attention drawing signal is a signal for displaying a frame that surrounds the obstacle of the image acquired by the image acquisition unit.
7. The surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the obstacle is a pedestrian.
8. The surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the detection reliability correction value calculation unit calculates the detection reliability correction value by multiplying the detection reliability by a correction coefficient that increases with the increase in the risk degree.
9. The surroundings monitoring device for a vehicle according to claim 3, wherein the risk degree calculation unit calculates a risk degree that increases with the decrease in the brightness and the increase in the estimated risk degree.
| 2010-02-12 | en | 2010-08-19 |
US-93906704-A | Semiconductor wafer immersion systems and treatments using modulated acoustic energy
ABSTRACT
Systems and methods in which one or more wafers are immersed in a sonified liquid during the course of a treatment wherein the sound energy imparted to the liquid is modulated during at least a portion of a treatment. The frequency and/or amplitude of the sound energy may be modulated.
PRIORITY CLAIM
The present non-provisional application claims priority under 35 USC §119(e) from United States Provisional Patent Application having Ser. No. 60/501,956, filed on Sep. 11, 2003, by Christenson et al. and titled FREQUENCY SWEEPING FOR ACOUSTIC FIELD UNIFORMITY, wherein said provisional application is commonly owned by the assignee of the present application and wherein the entire contents of said provisional application is incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to systems and methods for treating semiconductor wafers, and more particularly to systems and methods in which one or more wafers are immersed in a sonified bath during at least a portion of a treatment.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Acoustic energy, such as megasonic energy in the megahertz frequency range, is used in the microelectronics industry in the course of manufacturing microelectronic devices. In a representative system, a source of megasonic energy is coupled to a process chamber. Many semiconductor processing systems, for example, having megasonic capabilities are known. The source can be external to the process chamber or internal. Megasonic energy is often used in the course of cleaning and rinsing treatments. For instance, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,869,278; 5,017,236; 5,365,960; and 6,367,493 describe processes that use megasonic energy. See also assignee's co-pending, United States Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/501,969 titled “Acoustic Diffusers for Acoustic Field Uniformity,” filed concurrently herewith in the name of Christenson and having Attorney Docket No. FSI0121/P1, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety (hereinafter referred to as Assignee's Co-pending Provisional Application). See also assignee's co-pending United States Non-Provisional Patent Application titled “Acoustic Diffusers for Acoustic Field Uniformity,” filed concurrently herewith in the name of Christenson and having Attorney Docket No. FSI0121/US, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety (hereinafter referred to as Assignee's Co-pending Non-Provisional Application).
Megasonic energy and waves can be used for a variety of reasons, including cleaning and removing particles from the surface of semiconductor wafers during wafer processing into devices and integrated circuits. Megasonic energy generally refers to high frequency acoustic energy including frequencies in the range of from about 0.5 MHZ to about 2 MHZ or higher.
Megasonic cleaning is used at many stages in the fabrication process for removing particles, photoresist, dewaxing and degreasing using different solvents and stripping solutions. It has also been shown that megasonic energy can aid in the removal of particulates that are adhered to the wafer surface. The primary advantages of using megasonic cleaning is that it saves in the cost and wafer surface degradation of chemical cleaners, provides superior cleanliness and simultaneously cleans both sides of the wafers, thereby requiring less handling.
As the microelectronics industry moves to stricter standards and smaller device features, acoustic field uniformity in some applications becomes increasingly important. Smaller features tend to be more vulnerable to acoustic damage than some larger features. Accordingly, there is still a need in some applications to generate spatially and temporally uniform sound fields (minimized temporal variations) in a processing tank and especially to dampen the peak-to-peak height between field maxima and minima while still maintaining sufficient field strength to accomplish the desired treatment.
In other applications, cleaning performance becomes more critical inasmuch as particle contamination tends to be much less tolerable as device features become smaller. The ability to remove particles with greater and greater particle efficiency therefore is desired.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention involves systems and methods in which one or more wafers are immersed in a sonified liquid during the course of a treatment. According to the invention, the sound energy imparted to the liquid is modulated during at least a portion of a treatment. In many embodiments, and as described further below, the frequency and/or amplitude of the sound energy may be modulated to achieve one or more desired processing objectives. According to one objective, the sound energy is modulated in a manner to improve the spatial and/or temporal uniformity of the sound field established in the processing liquid. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways. Exemplary approaches include synchronizing the excitation of different sub-arrays of an acoustic energy source, exciting different sub-arrays or groups of sub-arrays in series or in partially overlapping fashion, using frequency sweeping techniques, or combinations of these.
In other modes of practice, the intensity of the sound energy field in a processing liquid is modulated for a variety of purposes such as to enhance particle removal efficiency and/or to allow at least a portion of a treatment to occur with more intense sound energy than might otherwise be practical without modulation.
In one aspect, the present invention relates to a method for processing one or more wafers in a sound field. One or more wafers are provided in a processing apparatus having a processing tank and a source of sound energy acoustically coupled to the processing tank. A sound field is established in the processing tank by inputting a non-constant driving signal to the source of sound energy.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of driving a sound energy source. Information indicative of a resonant characteristic of a sound energy source is determined. Data comprising said information indicative of a resonant characteristic of a sound energy source is used to provide a non-constant driving signal as an input to modulate sound energy of the source.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of modulating a sound field. Information indicative of a nonuniformity characteristic of a sound field is generated in a process fluid is determined. Data comprising said information indicative of a nonuniformity characteristic of a sound field generated in a process fluid is used to modulate the sound field.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for processing one or more wafers in a sound field. One or more wafers that are immersed in a processing liquid are provided, wherein the processing liquid is acoustically coupled to a source of sound energy. A sound field is provided in the processing tank by inputting a non-constant driving signal to the source of sound energy, wherein the non-constant driving signal causes the source of sound energy to output sound energy whose intensity varies between one or more sound intensity maxima and one or more sound intensity minima.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for processing one or more wafers in a sound field. One or more wafers are provided that are immersed in a processing liquid, wherein the processing liquid is acoustically coupled to a source of sound energy. An acoustic output of the source of sound energy is caused to vary between one or more sound intensity maxima and one or more sound intensity minima during at least a portion of carrying out a treatment of the one or more wafers.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for processing one or more wafers in a sound field. One or more wafers are provided that are immersed in a processing liquid, wherein the processing liquid is acoustically coupled to a source of sound energy. The source of sound energy is caused to output sound energy at a duty cycle less than 100% during at least a portion of carrying out a treatment of the one or more wafers.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for processing one or more wafers in a sound field. One or more wafers are provided that are immersed in a processing liquid, wherein the processing liquid is acoustically coupled to a source of sound energy. The source of sound energy is caused to pulse on and off during at least a portion of carrying out a treatment of the one or more wafers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The above mentioned and other advantages of the present invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of the embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a schematic side view shown in cross section of an exemplary immersion processing tank useful for practicing embodiments of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the megasonic energy source used in the tank of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of an alternative megasonic energy source that could be used in the tank of FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 schematically shows how the intensity of the sound field established inside the tank of FIG. 1 can vary when the megasonic energy source is operated conventionally;
FIG. 5 schematically shows a saw tooth frequency profile useful in practicing frequency sweeping in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 6 schematically shows an alternative frequency profile useful in practicing frequency sweeping in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 7 schematically shows one manner in which sub-arrays may be excited in groups to practice embodiments of the present invention;
FIG. 8 schematically shows another manner in which sub-arrays may be excited in groups to practice embodiments of the present invention;
FIG. 9 schematically shows a duty cycle profile by which a megasonic energy source may be modulated between sound field maxima and minima in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 10 is a schematic side view shown in cross section of an exemplary immersion processing tank useful for practicing embodiments of the present invention in which the megasonic energy source is modulated between sound field maxima and minima in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 11 is a bar graph showing particle removal efficiencies obtained at various combinations of duty cycle and repetition rate characteristics; and
FIG. 12 is a bar graph showing particle removal efficiencies obtained at various combinations of duty cycle and repetition rate characteristics.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The embodiments of the present invention described below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may appreciate and understand the principles and practices of the present invention.
The principles of the present invention may be practiced in any kind of equipment in which one or more wafers are immersed in a sonified bath during the course of a treatment. One suitable and representative processing tank 10 with megasonic capabilities of the type used in a wet bench tool (such as the MAGELLAN tool® commercially available from FSI International, Inc., Chaska, Minn.) is shown schematically in cross-section in FIG. 1. Tank 10 may be used to treat wafers either singly or in batches. For higher throughput, batch processing is preferred. Tank 10 generally includes a housing 12 defining a process chamber 14 in which one or more wafers 16 are immersed in a cascading flow of process liquid 18. Liquid 18 may be introduced into process chamber 14 through one or more entry ports (not shown) located generally toward the bottom of process chamber 14. Liquid 18 exits process chamber 14 by cascadingly overflowing into overflow weir 20 generally at the top of process chamber 14.
Acoustic energy source 22 provides sound energy to the processing liquid 18. In this example, the acoustic energy source 22 is external to the process chamber 14. In typical embodiments, the acoustic energy source 22 incorporates a resonant structure (not shown) that generally comprises (from bottom to top) piezoelectric crystals bonded to a metal or ceramic support plate or the like. The acoustic energy source 22 is acoustically coupled to the contents inside the processing chamber 14 by a coupling fluid 24 such as water or the like. A quartz window 26 provides a pathway for acoustic energy to pass from the coupling fluid 24 into the process chamber 14.
The coupling fluid 24 is used to isolate the acoustic energy source 22 from the processing liquid 18 for a number of possible reasons such as (a) to prevent attack on the acoustic energy source 22 by the process liquid 18; (b) to prevent contamination of the processing liquid 18 by the acoustic energy source 22; and/or (c) to maintain a temperature differential between the coupling water 24 and the process liquid 18. The temperature of the coupling liquid 24 can be reduced to limit the temperature of the acoustic energy source 22.
Ideally, the quartz window 26 would be parallel to the transducer (not shown) of acoustic energy source 22 and spaced such that the standing waves in the coupling liquid 24 enhance transmission into the processing liquid 18. Achieving this would require holding dimensional tolerances to a fraction of the wavelength of the acoustic energy, e.g., a fraction of the 1.5 mm wavelength of 971 kHz (megasonic energy in DI). This can be difficult to achieve practically. In reality, the quartz window 26 is often deliberately tilted to create a rapid oscillation in the transmission pattern that hopefully “smoothes out” by the time the sound reaches the wafer(s) 16. This smoothening is unlikely to occur with the small plate-to-wafer spacing on certain tanks. As an optional component, an acoustic lens of the type described in Assignee's Co-pending Acoustic Lens Application may be interposed between the wafer(s) 16 and the acoustic energy source 22 to help provide more uniform sonification of process liquid 18.
The megasonic energy source 22 typically includes a plurality of piezoelectric crystals bonded in an array to a metal plate or other suitable support. The crystals may be driven by one or more power supplies, whose driving frequencies may or may not be coordinated. When more than one power supply is used, each power supply typically will drive sub-arrays of the crystals. For example, systems including two and four sub-arrays of crystals bonded to a support are commercially available and can be used for processing any desired wafers, including 200 mm and 300 mm wafers for example.
FIG. 2 schematically shows how megasonic energy source 22 might include four power supplies 32 that are used to drive four sub-arrays 34 a, 34 b, 34 c, and 34 d of crystals 36. Each crystal 36 (itself a resonating element) then drives the resonating elements, e.g., support plate, coupling water and quartz window, etc. to which the megasonic energy source 22 is acoustically coupled.
FIG. 3 schematically illustrates an alternative embodiment of a megasonic energy source 40 in which two, more powerful power supplies 42 can be used to drive the same number of crystals 44 arranged in two sub-arrays 46 a and 46 b wherein each sub-array 46 a and 46 b respectively includes eight crystals 44 and associated resonating elements.
The present invention appreciates that the megasonic field established in the processing liquid 18 resulting from using megasonic energy source 22 in a conventional manner tends to be nonuniform both spatially and temporally. On a tank-wide basis, some areas of processing liquid 18 may tend to experience higher average megasonic field energy over time than other areas. FIG. 4 schematically shows a plot 50 of field intensity in process liquid 18 varying as a function of time at a localized region in a processing tank according to conventional practices. FIG. 4 shows the desired field intensities associated with a desired cleaning regime 52, a non-cleaning regime 54 in which field intensity is too low, and a damage regime 56 in which field intensity is too high. The megasonic field of FIG. 4 may vary in time due to one or more factors including constructive and destructive interference effects attributable to the manner in which the various sub-arrays of megasonic energy source 22 output sound energy to process liquid 18. In various areas, interference effects among the fields attributable to different sub-arrays may cause the megasonic energy field established in process liquid 18 to fall or rise outside of the desired cleaning regime 52. This can be problematic.
For example, if the megasonic energy is too high, as may occur at field maxima 58 associated with constructive interference, device features can be damaged. If too low, as may occur at minima 59 associated with destructive interference, poor process performance may result.
With such interference effects in mind, in some embodiments it is desirable to generate megasonic fields in a process liquid that are more spatially and temporally uniform both throughout process liquid 18 and at localized regions within process liquid 18 by minimizing such interference effects and other sources of field nonuniformities.
The present invention appreciates that there are multiple sources of field nonuniformity that can lead to undesired spatial and temporal nonuniformities of the sonified process liquid. Representative sources of nonuniformity include equipment features, how crystals are grouped with respect to being driven by one or more power sources, gaps in the arrangement of the piezoelectric crystals, reflections, imperfections in the individual crystals, or the like.
For instance, variations in thickness or acoustic properties of any of the components of a resonant structure can cause a variation in the “resonate frequency” of maximum transmission across the structure. Areas of high transmission will contribute to high-intensity regions in the processing liquid where damage is most likely to occur. Areas of low transmission contribute to low-intensity regions where process performance may be impaired. As the resonate structure has a very high “Q”, small variations in resonate frequency would translate to large variations in delivered acoustic intensity.
Grouping of crystals into sub-arrays can lead to nonuniformity, such as when multiple power sources are used to drive multiple crystal sub-arrays. For instance, large baths typically have multiple generators that operate at slightly different frequencies, each tuned to the average resonance frequency of their part of the resonate structure. The result is usually a field output not coordinated for the different sub-arrays. A result of having multiple frequencies in the sound field of a processing tank is that the field can be time varying in intensity in localized regions due to factors such as constructive and destructive interference of the waves. When the driving frequencies for each sub-array are not coordinated, each sub-array will tend to generate a field output that constructively and destructively interferes with the output of other sub-arrays. In general, such phase non-uniformity may tend to be more severe in areas influenced by more than one sub-array, such as in tank locations overlying a sub-array boundary or the like.
Practically, the temporal and spatial variation of field intensity causes “beats” in the process liquid's sound field. These beats may result in the sonic intensity varying from as little as zero to as much as four times the average. This can cause non-uniform processing, such as cleaning, for wafer(s) in the tank. Some portions of wafers can experience too little cleaning on average and at the other extreme some portions of wafers may be damaged due to high intensity sound waves. Consequently, reducing and/or eliminating the magnitude of these beats can help reduce damage that may occur during the high-intensity portion of the beat as well as lead to better cleaning performance during the low-intensity portion of the beat.
Accordingly, one embodiment of the present invention involves synchronizing the field output among sub-arrays of megasonic energy source 22, particularly when different power generators drive such sub-arrays. An experiment was performed to test the benefits of synchronizing the output of the different sub-arrays. The experiment was conducted in an FSI MAGELLAN® Alpha tank coupled to a megasonic energy source commercially available from Kaijo, Corporation of Japan. The Kaijo megasonic energy source included 4 sub-arrays driven by 4 separate generators, each tuned to its own frequency. Each sub-array included 4 crystals. This megasonic energy source was arranged similarly to megasonic energy source 22 shown in FIG. 2. Interference effects associated with the boundary between two of the sub-arrays were studied. When the two sub-arrays are driven at 300 W by separate, non-synchronized power sources, a stripe of non-cleaning was be observed in tank areas associated with the boundary between the sub-arrays. When both sub-arrays were hooked up to a single, 600 W power source, such that the sub-arrays were driven at the same frequency, the stripe of non-cleaning was dramatically reduced. This shows how coordinating the output of different sub-arrays reduces interference effects and improves cleaning performance. The same benefit would be observed by coordinating the two 300 W power sources instead of using a single 600 W power source.
An additional experiment was conducted with this same equipment to evaluate megasonic field output uniformity with unsynchronized generators. A beating of the sound energy waveform in the FSI MAGELLAN® Alpha tank was observed using a hydrophone to monitor sound wave intensity when the power generators were not synchronized. This beating occurred primarily in an area above boundaries between megasonic sub-arrays. This beating was observed to cause a reduction in cleaning efficiency with respect to the cleaning pattern on a 300 mm wafer in slot 13 that spans sub-arrays corresponding to 34 a and 34 c in FIG. 2. It was subsequently observed that the interference can be reduced or eliminated, and the cleaning efficiency correspondingly improved, by driving both sub-arrays from a common generator or synchronized generators.
As an alternative to a single common generator or synchronized generators, the interference can be eliminated in modes of practicing the present invention by exciting the individual sub-arrays sequentially and/or in partially overlapping fashion so that interference is eliminated during at least a portion of the processing. Experiments using the MAGELLAN® Alpha tank were conducted to evaluate the benefits of doing this. Cleaning performance was evaluated with respect to a wafer that was positioned over two underlying subarrays of the megasonic energy source. One sub-array was generally under the “left” side of the wafer, while the other sub-array was generally under the “right” side of the wafer. When only the left sub-array was excited during cleaning, cleaning was generally effective on the left side of the wafer while relatively less cleaning occurred on the right side of the wafer. Likewise, when only the right sub-array was excited during cleaning, cleaning was generally effective on the right side of the wafer while relatively less cleaning occurred on the left side of the wafer. It was observed that each sub-array cleans slightly more than about half of the wafer when the other sub-array was off. In another experiment, when both sub-arrays were excited throughout cleaning, interference effects as described above were observed. In another experiment, cleaning efficiency data was obtained from a process that involved alternating between 30 seconds of right array-and 30 seconds of left array during the course of the treatment. The data showed that the entire wafer was cleaned more effectively if the interfering sound fields were not present simultaneously during the entire processing time. This in turn shows that, generally, the interference among co-excited sub-arrays disrupts the cleaning and that reducing such interference improves performance. In sum, one mode of practicing the present invention involves exciting individual sub-arrays in sequential and/or partially overlapping fashion. As one benefit, this would minimize the adverse impact that sound interference might have upon process performance.
During the course of alternating excitation of sub-arrays according to this mode of practice, it may be convenient to pulse the sub-arrays for a shorter period of time, perhaps 1 second on/1 second off, or 1 msec on/off, etc. (With 4 arrays, perhaps 1 second on, 3 seconds off, for example, as the arrays are pulsed on in series fashion). Cycling the arrays on a time scale of seconds can be done in a variety of ways, e.g., with an RS-232 based automation control scheme or the like.
There are other undesired sources of nonuniformity associated with megasonic crystal arrays. In particular, each individual crystal (and its associated resonant elements) tends to have its own resonant frequency that may differ to some degree from other crystals in the same or other sub-arrays. In other words, the resonant frequencies of the individual elements across the entire resonant structure are typically not exactly equal. Indeed, the resonant frequency can differ within an individual crystal. Thus, individual crystals can resonate differently when driven at a single frequency, emitting differing levels of acoustic energy into the processing liquid. The field output still may not be as uniform as might be desired as a consequence. The magnitude of this kind of field variation is large enough to cause cleaning nonuniformities. In short, the individuality of crystal resonating characteristics can be a source of field nonuniformity, and hence cleaning nonuniformity.
Preferred modes of practicing the invention use frequency sweeping when driving megasonic crystals to reduce field nonuniformity attributable to such crystal resonating differences on a time-averaged basis. Optionally, frequency sweeping may be used in combination with synchronizing the excitation of different crystal sub-arrays and/or exciting sub-arrays in a manner so that at least one sub-array is off during at least a portion of the time that one or more other sub-array(s) are on.
Frequency sweeping generally refers to varying the frequency at which crystals are excited over a desired frequency range. Frequency sweeping is a very facile way to render field output more uniform on a time-averaged basis. As the driving frequency is swept, the individual crystals will each be subject to a particular driving frequency, preferably cyclically, in which they are more acoustically emissive than at other times during the sweep. The net effect can be a significant smoothing of the time-averaged spatial power distribution in the processing tank. The time averaged field strength throughout the volume of a tank would be more uniform while, at the same time, the time averaged field strength on a localized basis would also be more uniform with less extreme maxima and minima. Cleaning performance would be more consistent and the potential for acoustic field energy maxima to damage devices would be reduced.
In the practice of the present invention, acoustic field nonuniformities, especially those associated with crystal individuality, are substantially reduced on a time averaged basis using a frequency sweeping approach that varies, preferably cyclically, the frequency at which the crystals are driven. In other words, it has been discovered that by sweeping (dithering, modulating) the driving frequency, of a transducer across a frequency range with time (either one direction, back and forth, etc.), the output of a crystal or transducer array can be more uniform on average over time.
The range over which the driving frequency is swept generally is large enough to improve the time averaged field output to a desired degree. All or only a portion of the resonant frequencies of the individual crystals may be encompassed by a sweep.
For example, a megasonic system that includes crystals that individually resonate at frequencies in the range of 965 kHz to 975 kHz, would require a 10 kHz sweeping range to encompass the resonant frequencies of all the crystals. Of course, this particular range is provided for illustration. In actual practice, the desired upper and lower frequencies may be determined empirically.
A driving frequency sweep encompassing all or only a portion of this range may be used to improve the uniformity of the field output. Depending upon the sweep range, the lower resonant frequencies, the mid range resonant frequencies, and/or the higher range resonant frequencies may be swept. Preferably, at least 10%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least substantially all of the resonant frequencies are swept.
Any kind of driving frequency pattern may be used to vary the driving frequency. A preferred driving frequency profile is a saw tooth pattern such as shown in FIG. 5. With a saw tooth profile, excitation of each crystal having a resonant frequency in the sweep range will tend to occur at evenly spaced intervals once per sweep cycle. Otherwise, in the absence of a sweep, crystals driven near resonance will tend to be more emissive than others over time, leading to a nonuniform field in the process liquid.
The rate of change of the driving frequency during a sweep can vary over a wide range. As guidelines, a sweep changing frequency at a rate in a range from about 0.1 kHz/sec to about 100 kHz/sec, preferably 0.5 kHz/sec to 10 kHz/sec would be suitable. The rate of change of the frequency in the illustrated saw tooth pattern is linear, but this need not be the case. Any suitable profile can be used including those that are exponential, geometric, logarithmic, etc.
It is possible to coordinate the driving frequency profile with the individual crystal characteristics so as to drive some crystals at their resonant frequencies for longer or shorter durations than others. For example, if the crystals resonating in the mid range were known to be more inefficient, the driving frequency could spend more time in the mid range as shown by the exemplary driving frequency pattern of FIG. 6.
The equipment that may be used for frequency sweeping is very simple. In one embodiment, one or more signal generators provide signal(s) of the desired profile to a megasonic array, preferably through a power amplifier. The megasonic array has an acoustic output that can be modulated by a voltage input signal. Under certain conditions, the drive electronics of a power supply may need to be more robust to tolerate the variation in VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) during the sweeping.
Multiple megasonic sub-arrays with multiple frequencies can be operated simultaneously if the sound field from one sub-array does not unduly affect the sound field from another array in the volume where the wafers reside. For example, FIG. 7 shows how sub-arrays 81 of an array 80 could be excited together as a group in alternating or partially overlapping fashion with sub-arrays 82 excited together as a group (two total generators). Of course, FIG. 7 shows only one possible grouping of sub-arrays. In other modes of practice, the sub-arrays could be arranged into groups for alternating or partially overlapping excitation in any desired combination.
Group excitation of sub-arrays may be more desirable when there is a smaller number of individual crystals in each sub-array. The smaller the number of individual crystals in a group, the closer it is possible to match to the exact resonate frequency of the group. For instance, FIG. 8 shows an array 90 of crystals paired into 8 groups (small sub-arrays) a through h. With 2 generators 91 and 93, groups a, c, e, and g could be excited simultaneously at a common frequency followed by exciting b, d, f, and h simultaneously at a common frequency.
The above-described embodiments of the invention concern modes of practice in which it is desired to sonify a process liquid more uniformly both spatially and temporally. However, the present invention also appreciates that purposely modulating the sound field intensity over time in all or one or more portions of a processing tank may be beneficial when treating immersed wafers. In other words, it may be desirable to establish a sound field that modulates between maxima and minima, e.g., pulses on and off, on purpose. Temporal sound field modulation is particularly useful in particle cleaning applications to enhance particle removal efficiency and/or to allow use of an intermittent but relatively strong field that might otherwise damage wafer features if operated at a 100% duty cycle.
Generally, temporal sound intensity modulation occurs by modulating the intensity of sound energy emitted from an acoustic energy source that is acoustically coupled to the vessel in which an immersion treatment takes place. Such modulation generally involves causing the sound energy output of the acoustic energy source to vary according to a desired profile in which the output intensity ranges between one or more intensity maxima and one or more intensity minima. Preferably, the modulation occurs by pulsing the sound energy output on and off according to a desired duty cycle.
Such modulation may occur in any suitable fashion such as by directly modulating the sound energy source and/or controllably altering the acoustic coupling pathway between the sound energy source and the bath. Preferably, modulation occurs by modulating the output of the sound energy source, such as by pulsing one or more sub-arrays of the sound energy source on and off. When a sound energy source includes multiple arrays of crystals, all or a portion of the arrays may be modulated independently or together. In some embodiments, e.g., the so-called “sweet spot” embodiment described further below, it is preferred to modulate all of the arrays together in synchronized fashion.
Modulating the sound field intensity over time, e.g., by pulsing sub-arrays on and off, may be desirable for a number of reasons. First, pulsing can help reduce megasonic-induced damage that might otherwise occur if the sound field was to be on all the time. This also could allow more intense sound energy to be used during those portion(s) of the treatment during which sound energy is relatively high. In defiance of conventional wisdom, and as discussed further below, modulating the sound field intensity between relative maximum(s) and relative minimum(s) at an appropriate duty cycle and repetition rate provides improved particle removal efficiency. This improvement in particle removal efficiency is surprising because one would not expect more work (i.e., greater particle removal efficiency) to be accomplished when the sound energy is working less (i.e., less in the sense that the sound energy is used to sonify the process liquid only during a portion of a duty cycle).
Such modulation may be practiced so that the duty cycle is repeating, random, patterned, or the like. For instance, FIG. 9 shows an illustrative repeating duty cycle pattern 100 in which the sound energy output of an acoustic energy source is pulsed between a field maximum portion 102 and minimum portion 104 (for instance, here the field is pulsed on and off) once per duty cycle 106. The duty cycle pattern 100 is uniquely characterized by the relative amounts that the sound field is on and off as well as the period (the period is also conveniently represented in terms its repetition rate, e.g., in cycles per second) of each duty cycle. For purposes of illustration, the duty cycle has a period of 1 millisecond. Typical embodiments may involve repeating the duty cycle in a regular fashion at repetition rates of from about 0.1 Hz to 100,000 Hz in the course of treatments lasting from several seconds to several minutes.
For purposes of the present invention, the duty cycle may be expressed as a percentage that refers to that portion of each duty cycle during which the sound field is at relative maximum(s). In actual practice, the duty cycle percentage may vary over a wide range as desired. Suitable embodiments would involve practicing duty cycles in the range of from about 50% to about 99.9%, more preferably at least about 90% to about 99.9%. For purposes of illustration, the duty cycle shown in FIG. 9 is 80% in that the sound field is on for 80% of the duty cycle and off for 20% of the duty cycle.
The sound field may be propagated at one or more acoustic frequencies during the course of one or more duty cycles. In some embodiments, a single acoustic frequency is used. In other embodiments, the acoustic frequency may be swept through a range of frequencies during the course of a duty cycle. Such acoustic sweeping is described further above.
Wafers are typically immersed in a liquid bath during an acoustic treatment. The bath liquid typically is flowing during at least a portion of the treatment. In accordance with conventional practices, acoustic treatments, especially particle removal treatments, appear to be more effective when dissolved gas is present in the bath liquid. A wide variety of dissolved gases may be used. Examples include nitrogen, carbon dioxide, oxygen, ozone, helium, argon, combinations of these, and the like. Some dissolved liquids would also have a substantial vapor pressure and could act similarly to a dissolved gas. Examples include organic compounds (e.g., isopropyl alcohol), halogenated organic compounds, combinations of these, and the like. Nitrogen is preferred. The amount of dissolved gas in the process liquid may vary over a wide range. Typically, the gas may be present at a concentration of from about 1% to 100% of the saturation amount, preferably about 20% to 100% of the saturation amount. In one mode of practice, for example, using a bath liquid containing about 10.5 ppm nitrogen on a weight basis (about half the saturation amount) was found to be suitable. In other modes of practice, it may be desirable to dissolve gas in the liquid at an elevated pressure before dispensing the liquid into the bath so that the concentration of dissolved gas in the bath, at least before outgassing occurs, is supersaturated with respect to the gas solute.
According to conventional wisdom, one might expect an acoustic wafer treatment to provide a particle removal efficiency that roughly correlates to the duty cycle percentage of the acoustic energy. That is, one might expect less cleaning to occur with a lesser duty cycle percentage and more cleaning to occur with a greater duty cycle percentage. This correlation has in fact been observed in many modes of practice. In one experiment, for instance, carrying out cleaning at 50% duty cycle provided particle removal efficiencies that were roughly 50% of the particle removal efficiency provided by a 100% duty cycle.
Likewise, if the repetition rate of a particular duty cycle is fast enough, the acoustic energy might appear to be always on as a practical matter from the perspective of wafer(s) being treated. This kind of correlation, too, has been observed. In one experiment, carrying out an acoustic treatment at a duty cycle of 99.8% duty cycle at a repetition rate of 99.8 Hz provide particle removal efficiency that was about the same as carrying out an otherwise identical treatment carried out at a 100% duty cycle.
Surprisingly, though, it has been discovered that reducing the duty cycle does not always lead to lesser cleaning. In some instances, more cleaning occurs. Specifically, it has been found that carrying out acoustic treatments with certain duty cycle and/or repetition rate characteristics leads to significantly enhanced particle removal efficiency as compared to an otherwise identical treatment carried out at a 100% duty cycle. The duty cycle in such modes of practice might be reduced from 100%, yet more particles are being removed. For example, in one so-called “sweet spot”, we have observed that carrying out an acoustic treatment at a repetition rate of 10,000 Hz at a 99.8% duty cycle (time ratio of on:off is 10,000:100) yielded more than a 10% improvement in particle removal efficiency as compared to use of a 100% duty cycle. Another such “sweet spot” was observed when using a repetition rate of 999.9 Hz at a 99.8% duty cycle (relatively, the duty cycle involves 10,000 clock ticks at a maximum, e.g., on, and 100 clock ticks at a minimum, e.g., off).
As a consequence, preferred modes of practicing sound modulation during the course of wafer treatments, particularly particle removal treatments, involves determining duty cycle and/or repetition rate conditions that provide such sweet spots, i.e., conditions under which using a duty cycle less than 100% and/or repetition rate provides better performance with respect to a desired result, e.g., particle removal efficiency, than an otherwise identical treatment carried out at a duty cycle of 100%.
To find such sweet spot conditions, design experiments in which duty cycle and/or repetition rate are varied may be performed. According to an illustrative design experiment for determining one or more sweet spots for particle removal, test wafers are contaminated with particles. The contaminated wafers are then subjected to particle removal treatments in which particle removal efficiencies at various duty cycles and repetition rates are determined. These results may then be used to select conditions, particularly sweet spot conditions, for using acoustic treatments to clean particles from wafers.
Other preferred modes of practicing sound modulation during the course of wafer treatments, particularly particle removal treatments, involves carrying out wafer treatments under duty cycle and/or repetition rate conditions that provide such sweet spots. Examples of such treatments involve immersing one or more wafers in a sonified bath, which may be flowing, while the acoustic energy used to sonify the bath is modulated at a repetition rate in the range of 500 Hz to 20,000 Hz, preferably 800 Hz to 15,000 Hz, more preferably 800 Hz to 12,000 Hz at a duty cycle in the range of 10% to 99.99%, preferably 80% to 99.9%, more preferably 90% to 99.9%.
While not wishing to be bound by theory, a possible rationale to explain the advantages observed at duty cycle and repetition rates providing sweet spots may be suggested. Particle removal maps of test wafers have shown that modulating the sound energy used to sonify immersed wafers under conditions providing a sweet spot tends to remove particles to a greater degree over more surface areas of the wafers. The boost in particle removal efficiency is believed to result from the greater degree of particle removal occurring in these additional areas.
Acoustic treatment of wafers in which the intensity of the sonic energy is modulated, e.g., pulsed on and off in preferred embodiments, between intensity maxima and minima may be practiced in a wide variety of equipment. Preferably, the equipment includes an immersion tank in which the wafers can be fully immersed in a suitable liquid during sonification. Specific examples of suitable wet bench equipment having megasonic capability include the MAGELLAN® tool commercially available from FSI International, Inc., Chaska, Minn.; the FC-3000 and FC03010 tools available from Dainippon Screen Mfg., Co. Ltd., the UW200Z and UW300Z tools available from Tokyo Electron Limited; and the ECLIPSE 300, AWP300, and AWP 200 tools available from SCP Global Technologies, Inc. The present invention may also be practiced in single wafer immersion tools such as the EMERSION 300 available from SCP Global Technologies.
FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of a tank 110 having acoustic capabilities and being useful in practicing pulsing modes of the present invention. Tank 110 may be used to treat wafers either singly or in batches. For higher throughput, batch processing is preferred. Tank 110 generally includes a housing 112 defining a process chamber 114 in which one or more wafers 116 are immersed in a cascading flow of process liquid 118. Liquid 118 may be introduced into process chamber 114 through one or more entry ports such as sparger bars 115 located generally toward the bottom of process chamber 114 and/or spray bars 117 at the top of tank 110. Sparger bars 115 are conveniently used to fill and/or rinse tank 110, while spray bars 117 are conveniently used to rinse tank 110. Liquid 118 exits process chamber 114 by cascadingly overflowing into overflow weir 120 generally at the top of process chamber 114. Liquid 118 may also exit process chamber 114 through quick dump valves 119. Housing 112 and overflow weir 120 are conveniently manufactured from an acoustically transmissive material such as quartz and/or a chemically inert polymer, including one or more fluoropolymers such as polyvinylidene fluoride (often referred to as PVDF).
Acoustic energy source 122 provides sound energy to the processing liquid 118. In this example, the acoustic energy source 122 is external to the process chamber 114. The acoustic energy source 122 is acoustically coupled to the contents inside the processing chamber 114 by a coupling fluid 124 such as water or the like. A quartz window 126 provides a pathway for acoustic energy to pass from the coupling fluid 124 into the process chamber 114. The tilting of quartz window 126 helps liquid to drain and reduces bubble formation. An acoustic lens 128 of the type shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 of Assignee's Co-pending Non-Provisional Application is positioned between the quartz window 126 and the wafer(s) 116. The area of the lens elements of acoustic lens 128 is larger than the footprint of wafer(s) 116 overlying the acoustic lens 128. Pulsing of the megasonic energy is controlled by control system 130, which includes a signal generator 132, power amplifier 134, and matching network 136.
The present invention will now be further described in connection with the following examples. One exemplary process recipe for cleaning immersed wafers using a MAGELLAN tool fitted with the immersion tank 110 of FIG. 10 is described in the examples.
EXAMPLE 1
Si3N4 Slurry Contamination
A Si3N4 stock slurry was prepared by adding 40 mg of Alfa Aesar silicon (IV) nitride, electronic grade, to 100 ml of DI water. This was ultrasonicated for 5 minutes. Then 40 microliters of the slurry was pipetted into the 50 liter tank of a Yield Up Model 2000 tool as the bath was filling with DI water at about 20° C. Additionally, aqueous HCl (50 ml of concentrated HCl dissolved in 4 liters of DI water) was added to lower the pH of the bath to below about 2 as the tank was being filled. The flow of DI water was stopped before overflow began. 200 mm or 300 mm wafers were immersed in the Si3N4-containing bath, rinsed with DI water, and then dried. The Si3N4 particles were aged on the wafers for about 24 hours before use.
EXAMPLE 2
Wafer Cleaning and Assessment of Particle Removal Efficiency
Wafer cleaning and drying of contaminated wafers was carried out in a MAGELLAN® Alpha tool commercially available from FSI International, Inc., Chaska Minn. Cleaning and rinsing occurred in a megasonic immersion tank of the tool modified in accordance with FIG. 10. Drying occurred in a separate tank of the tool using the standard STG™ drying recipe. Several batches of wafers were processed to assess the impact of duty cycle and repetition rate upon particle removal efficiency.
For each test batch, the megasonic immersion tank was filled with a cascading flow of 1:1:200 SC-1 solution at 40° C. This solution included 1 part by weight of 29% aqueous ammonium hydroxide, 1 part by weight of 30% aqueous hydrogen peroxide, and 200 parts by weight of DI water. The DI water included about 10.5 ppm (on a weight basis) dissolved N2. The solution flowed at 20 lpm. Megasonic energy was used to sonify the bath. The megasonic energy source was a megasonic plate and generator obtained from Kaijo. This had about a 360 W forward power at 971 kHz. Initially, megasonics were off. A carrier including 1 test wafer in slot 12 and 8 dummy wafers positioned in slots 8-11 and 13-16 was immersed in the cascading bath. Then, the megasonic energy was engaged according to the desired duty cycle and repetition rate to sonify the cascading bath and expose the contaminated wafers to the acoustic energy. Megasonic cleaning occurred for 6 minutes. After 6 minutes, the megasonic energy source was turned off and the flow of liquid was transitioned to a 20 second flow of room temperature DI water at 20 lpm. This was followed by a quick dump of the liquid contents of the vessel for about 30 seconds. Then, according to a first, follow up rinsing/dumping treatment, the vessel holding the wafers was filled with a cascading flow 40 lpm) of room temperature DI water. The filling and cascading occurred over a time of 120 seconds. Then, the liquid contents of the vessel were quick-dumped over a time period of 30 seconds. This rinsing/dumping treatment was repeated two more times. After the third rinsing/dumping treatment, the carrier holding the wafers was transferred to a different tank of the MAGELLAN® tool filled with room temperature DI water in which the wafers were dried using the standard STG™ drying recipe. The drying treatment according to the STG™ drying recipe involves slowly draining the water in the tank while exposing the wafers to a drying composition including nitrogen gas and IPA vapor that is prepared by bubbling the nitrogen gas through IPA liquid. The nitrogen gas was supplied at about 65° C., and the IPA liquid was at about 26° C. The STG™ drying recipe occurred over 9 minutes.
For each cleaned batch, the test wafer from slot 12 of the carrier was tested to assess particle removal efficiency (PRE). PRE was determined by performing three measurements of the particles on the wafer surface using a KLA Tencor Surfacan SP1-TBI instrument and then using the following formula:
[(ND−NP)]/[(ND−No)]×100%
wherein:
ND is the number of Si3N4 particles after deposition; NP is the number of Si3N4 particles after processing; and No is the number of particles before contamination.
The results for each test condition as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 represent an average of the three measurements.
The results are shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. The test results show that, generally, reducing the duty cycle of the megasonic energy used to sonify the cleaning bath leads to a commensurate reduction in cleaning efficiency. For instance, the cleaning that occurred with the megasonic energy source pulsed at a 50% duty cycle at 5 kHz and 500 Hz, respectively, yielded about half of the cleaning performance as the 100% duty cycle. However, certain “sweet spots” were observed in which the combination of a reduced duty cycle and a moderately fast repetition rate yielded cleaning performance even better than that observed with a 100% duty cycle.
Other embodiments of this invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of this specification or from practice of the invention disclosed herein. Various omissions, modifications, and changes to the principles and embodiments described herein may be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the true scope and spirit of the invention which is indicated by the following claims.
1. A method for processing one or more wafers in a sound field, the method comprising:
providing one or more wafers in a processing apparatus having a processing tank and a source of sound energy acoustically coupled to the processing tank; and producing a sound field in the processing tank by inputting a non-constant driving signal to the source of sound energy.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the driving signal has a cyclic saw-tooth profile.
3. A processing apparatus, the apparatus comprising:
a processing tank in which one or more wafers are positioned in a process fluid during a treatment; and a modulatable sound energy source acoustically coupled to the processing tank.
4. The processing apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a source of a non-constant input signal modulatingly coupled to the modulatable sound energy source.
5. The processing apparatus of claim 4, wherein the modulatable sound energy source comprises two or more crystals and the input signal cyclically sweeps in a frequency range encompassing a resonant frequency of the two or more crystals.
6. A method of driving a sound energy source, the method comprising the steps of:
determining information indicative of a resonant characteristic of a sound energy source; and using data comprising said information indicative of a resonant characteristic of a sound energy source to provide a non-constant driving signal as an input to modulate sound energy of the source.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein the non-constant driving signal comprises a driving signal that cyclically modulates the sound energy of the source.
8. The method of claim 6, wherein the non-constant driving signal comprises a driving signal that follows a saw-tooth profile to modulate the sound energy of the source.
9. A method of modulating a sound field, the method comprising the steps of:
determining information indicative of a nonuniformity of a sound field generated in a process fluid; and using data comprising said information indicative of a nonuniformity of a sound field generated in a process fluid to modulate the sound field.
10. The method of claim 9, further comprising the step of cyclically modulating the sound field.
11. The method of claim 9, further comprising the step of sweeping the sound field in at least one frequency range.
12. The method of claim 9, further comprising the step of modulating the sound field by a saw-tooth profile.
13. A method for processing one or more wafers in a sound field, the method comprising:
providing one or more wafers that are immersed in a processing liquid, wherein the processing liquid is acoustically coupled to a source of sound energy; and producing a sound field in the processing tank by inputting a non-constant driving signal to the source of sound energy, wherein the non-constant driving signal causes the source of sound energy to output sound energy whose intensity varies between one or more sound intensity maxima and one or more sound intensity minima.
14. A method for processing one or more wafers in a sound field, the method comprising:
providing one or more wafers that are immersed in a processing liquid, wherein the processing liquid is acoustically coupled to a source of sound energy; and causing an acoustic output of the source of sound energy to vary between one or more sound intensity maxima and one or more sound intensity minima during at least a portion of carrying out a treatment of the one or more wafers.
15. A method for processing one or more wafers in a sound field, the method comprising:
providing one or more wafers that are immersed in a processing liquid, wherein the processing liquid is acoustically coupled to a source of sound energy; and causing the source of sound energy to output sound energy at a duty cycle less than 100% during at least a portion of carrying out a treatment of the one or more wafers.
16. A method for processing one or more wafers in a sound field, the method comprising:
providing one or more wafers that are immersed in a processing liquid, wherein the processing liquid is acoustically coupled to a source of sound energy; and causing the source of sound energy to pulse on and off during at least a portion of carrying out a treatment of the one or more wafers.
| 2004-09-10 | en | 2005-05-12 |
US-201214111700-A | Flexible wire or metal reinforced weatherstrip with integral method for controlling neutral axis
ABSTRACT
A weatherstrip includes an elastomeric body having a first material that encapsulates a carrier. A second material having a higher hardness than the first material of the body is selectively positioned at a predetermined location in the body to support compressive loads imposed on the body. In this manner, the neutral axis of the weatherstrip can be controlled by selective location of the second material in the cross-section.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This disclosure relates to a weatherstrip, and particularly one having a generally channel-shaped body used to secure a seal or cover a flange of a vehicle. Oftentimes, such strips include a seal lip or bulb extending from a portion thereof to seal or cover one portion of a vehicle relative to another.
A generally U-shaped channel typically incorporates a carrier or core, such as a metal core or carrier, which is then encapsulated at least partially by a first material. The material is oftentimes an elastomeric material such as a rubber or plastic. The assembly is preferably formed through an extruding process.
When a carrier is designed in a weatherstrip, it is strategically positioned so that the backbone of the carrier controls the neutral axis of the surrounding profile. A poorly positioned or single direction supporting backbone can cause the seal bulb or seal lips of the weatherstrip profile to buckle, wrinkle, or move in an undesired direction. Moreover, depending on the type of carrier used, the backbone can withstand either tension, compression, or both.
One of the most economical types of carrier is a wire carrier. Although a wire carrier is desirable from the perspective of cost, the wire carrier cannot support a compressive load and thus has limited ability to control the neutral axis of the weatherstrip. The same is true with some lanced and stretched carriers so that their use is limited because of the inability to adequately support a compressive load. Consequently, a need exists for a flexible weatherstrip carrier to use a lower cost carrier while still allowing the control of location of the neutral axis.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A weatherstrip includes a generally U-shaped body having first and second legs interconnected by a third leg that forms a cavity for receipt over an associated mounting flange of a vehicle. A flexible carrier is received in the body for added strength and is unable to support compressive loads imposed on the body. A second material having a higher hardness than the first material of the body is selectively positioned at a predetermined location in the U-shaped body for supporting compressive loads and thereby assisting in the control of the location of the neutral axis of the weatherstrip.
The second material is one of a rubber, plastic, or thermoplastic. Preferably, the second material is a rubber having a higher durometer than the first material of the remainder of the body, and more preferably on the order of Shore A hardness of 85-95.
The carrier is preferably a wire, but may be a lanced and stretched metal carrier.
A method of controlling a neutral axis of the weatherstrip that allows a low cost carrier to be employed includes providing a carrier, encapsulating the carrier in an elastomeric first material, and including a second material having a higher hardness than the first material.
The second material preferably defines a minor portion of the body relative to the first material.
Preferably, the first and second materials are co-extruded on the carrier.
A primary benefit of the disclosure is the ability to use a low-cost carrier in a situation where control of the neutral axis is required.
Another advantage is the ability to easily incorporate the harder material into the weatherstrip.
Still another advantage resides in the ability to easily alter the location of the second material.
Yet another advantage relates to having tension and compression carrying capacities located in different areas of the carrier.
Still other benefits and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a weatherstrip according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view, taken generally along the lines 2-2, of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of another weatherstrip using the concepts of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
As shown in FIGS. 1-3, a weatherstrip 100 includes an elongated body 102 the preferably has a channel or generally U-shaped conformation. That is, the body is comprised of first and second generally parallel legs 104, 106 that are interconnected at one end by a third or interconnecting leg 108 to form a cavity 110. Preferably, the body includes a reinforcing member or core 120. In a more preferred arrangement, the core is a wire carrier or cord such as a composite cord, although other selected cores that do not carry or limited compressive loads imposed on the body are also contemplated. For example, the core may also adopt a generally U-shaped cross-section where the metal core may be lanced and stretched and the semi-solid backbone of such a lanced and stretched carrier limits the compression carrying capacity of this carrier. However, the wire carrier or cord is preferred in some instances because of the reduced cost associated therewith.
Received about a majority of the core is a first material, preferably an elastomeric material 122. Any suitable elastomer such as rubber or plastic (either a thermoset or thermoplastic) may be used. Again, this first material covers the major portion of the core. A second material 124, which is either an elastomeric or plastic material such as a thermosetting rubber, TPR, TPE, or TPV is provided or located at a preselected position in the cross-section of the body. The second material is harder than the first material and thus is capable of handling the compressive loads and allowing a less expensive core to be used for control of or assisting in the control of a desired position of the neutral axis of the weatherstrip, for example, to keep an associated seal bulb integrated into the weatherstrip from buckling.
As illustrated in FIG. 2, the second material 124 is provided over the core, and over only a minor portion of the cross-section thereof. As shown, the second or harder material preferably extends across an entire cross-sectional portion of the second leg of the body so that compressive forces, for example from sponge rubber seal 126, can be transmitted through the body, and particularly through the second leg. It will be further appreciated that the second material 124 may be located at other positions on the body, i.e., other locations along the first or second legs 104, 106 or the interconnecting leg 108, and as represented by reference numeral 124′ in the interconnecting leg in FIG. 2. The Figures should not infer that these are the only locations of the second, harder material in the weatherstrip, or that a greater or lesser amount of the second material could not be incorporated into the cross-section of the weatherstrip or there may be instances where distinct, multiple second material additions in the cross-section may be desired (see FIG. 3) and the use of distinct, plural second material additions 124′ that impact the control of the neutral axis of the entire cross-section which may include an extension of the body 140 that includes a continuation 142 of the core (a generally N-shaped or S-shaped core within a similarly configured body) and first and second seal lips 144, 146. Likewise, the weatherstrip may incorporate other structural features such as the bulb seal 126 noted above, sponge rubber seal lip 128, one or more retaining members or fingers 130 extending from either or both of the first and second legs 104, 106, or other design configurations that include still other structural features of the weatherseal without departing from the scope and intent of the present disclosure.
Providing a higher hardness material that is strategically placed around the carrier will support a compressive load and allow the weatherstrip designer to use lower cost carriers in applications where the less expensive carrier was not traditionally usable. Preferably this higher hardness material is a higher durometer rubber, plastic, or thermoplastic elastomer, but also achieves reduced weight of the final product, as well as reduced cost as noted above. Further, the ability to control the location of the neutral axis of the weatherstrip can be achieved without adding metal, undesired thickness, a weld, etc. to a conventional weatherstrip in an effort to control the neutral axis.
Without intending to limit the present disclosure, an exemplary embodiment of a weatherstrip 100 includes a generally U-shaped metal lanced and stretched carrier or core 120 that is at least substantially encapsulated in a body comprising a first material such as an elastomer 122 having a hardness in the range of 60-70 Shore A hardness. One of the legs 104, 106, 108 includes a region of a second material 124 that extends at least substantially across the cross section of at least one leg in a desired, preselected location in order to assist in controlling the location of the neutral axis. The second material has a hardness greater than the first material, for example in the range of 85-95 Shore A. A backbone of the lanced and stretched carrier provides some limited compressive strength to the weatherstrip but is deemed insufficient to carry all the desired compressive forces as may be required for neutral axis control of the weatherstrip. Consequently, the second material is provided to at least assist in supporting the compressive loads which impacts the location of the neutral axis. Thus, in this embodiment, the carrier carries the tensile loads and possibly a part of the compressive load while the second material is provided to carry a majority, if not all, of the compressive loads imposed on the weatherstrip.
In another preferred embodiment, the core is a wire carrier or cord which by its nature does not carry any compressive load, although it does carry the tensile loads. By strategically positioning the second material in this embodiment, the compressive load is adequately addressed by the second material and in a structure that normally could not accommodate design parameters that require compressive load capabilities.
In summary, the neutral axis is controlled by the tension carrying capacity of the strings/cord of the wire carrier and/or the semi-solid backbone of the lanced and stretched carrier. Along with the compression carrying capacity of the high durometer material, with the present disclosure it is conceivable to have the tension and compression carrying capacities in different areas of the carrier which is not possible with any other type of carrier. With a stamped and lanced carrier, the tension and compression carrying portion of the carrier are in the same place due to the location of the backbone. This could be a significant advantage and provides greater options for weatherstrip design and function.
It is also recognized that existing weatherstrips include different materials in the cross-section, however, these materials are not designed to control the ability to assist in the control of the location of the neutral axis of the weatherstrip. This is particularly true with regard to those weatherstrip designs that use string/cords for carrying tension forces but do not have a compressive load carrying capability.
The invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiment. Modifications and alterations will occur to others upon reading and understanding this specification. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations in so far as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.
Having thus described the invention, it is now claimed:
1. A weatherstrip comprising:
a body formed from an elastomeric first material having first, second and third interconnected legs generally forming a U-shape for receipt over an associated mounting flange of a vehicle; a flexible carrier received in the elastomeric body for added strength, the carrier being unable to support compressive loads imposed on the body; and wherein the body includes a second material having a different hardness than the first material of the body, the second material selectively positioned at a predetermined location in the U-shape for supporting compressive loads imposed on the body and thereby control the neutral axis of the weatherstrip.
2. The weatherstrip of claim 1 wherein the second material is a rubber.
3. The weatherstrip of claim 2 wherein the rubber is a higher durometer than the first material.
4. The weatherstrip of claim 3 wherein the rubber has a durometer of approximately 85-95 Shore A hardness.
5. The weatherstrip of claim 1 wherein the second material is capable of supporting the compressive loads of the weatherstrip.
6. The weatherstrip of claim 1 wherein the second material is a plastic.
7. The weatherstrip of claim 1 wherein the elastomeric material encapsulates the carrier.
8. The weatherstrip of claim 1 wherein the carrier is metal.
9. The weatherstrip of claim 8 wherein the metal carrier is lanced and stretched.
10. The weatherstrip of claim 1 wherein the carrier is a plastic.
11. The weatherstrip of claim 1 wherein the carrier is wire.
12. The weatherstrip of claim 1 wherein the carrier is generally N-shaped.
13. The weatherstrip of claim 1 wherein the weatherstrip includes the higher hardness second material at first and second spaced locations in the body.
14. A method of controlling a neutral axis in a weatherstrip that includes a carrier in an elastomeric material, comprising:
providing a carrier; at least substantially encapsulating the carrier in an elastomeric first material; and including a second material having a higher hardness than the first material to carry compressive loads imposed on the weatherstrip.
15. The method of claim 14 wherein the carrier providing step includes using a wire carrier.
16. The method of claim 14 wherein the carrier providing step includes using a metal carrier.
17. The method of claim 16 further comprising lancing and stretching the metal carrier.
18. The method of claim 16 wherein the second material defines a minor portion relative to the elastomeric material.
19. The method of claim 14 further comprising coextruding the first and second materials on the carrier.
20. The method of claim 14 further comprising selecting the second material from among one of a rubber, plastic and thermoplastic.
| 2012-04-05 | en | 2014-03-06 |
US-201715831662-A | Electronic device and card registration method thereof
ABSTRACT
An electronic device and method are disclosed herein. The electronic device includes a communication module configured to communicate with an external device, a memory configured to store security information controlling registration of secured information, the security information indicating a plurality of data types, an input module, and a processor. The processor implements the method, including security information for storage in a memory, the security information indicating a plurality of data types, in response to detecting a user input by an input module, retrieving account information corresponding to a user account, and in response to detecting that data elements of the account information correspond to the plurality of data types in the security information, transmitting a request to register the user account on a first transactional server.
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(a) of a Korean patent application filed on Dec. 7, 2016 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office and assigned Serial number 10-2016-0165792, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to an electronic device supporting a payment service and a card registration method thereof.
BACKGROUND
With the development of information technology (IT), high-performance electronic devices have been widely used, and these electronic devices may provide a variety of functions for users. Electronic devices may provide network-based communication services, such as a music streaming service, a video streaming service, a digital broadcasting service, a telephone call, wireless Internet, a short message service (SMS), a multimedia messaging service (MMS), and the like.
In recent years, a lot of attention has been paid to security for information technology, including any operation that involves the transfer of sensitive information on the part of a user or a consumer.
SUMMARY
One form of security involves security implementing in the context of a mobile payment service, a user registers a substantial amount of sensitive information (such as credit card information stored in a server operated by an issuing financial company). A variety of corporations that deal in secure information provide various forms of security for executing services through separate servers, such as mobile payments. Since an electronic device requests registration of sensitive information from the servers of the various companies (e.g., as in when registering a credit card), a user may experience inconvenience at the increased amount of time and complexity for completing the secure registration process.
Aspects of the present disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an electronic device and a security registration method thereof that are capable of reducing time utilized for security registration by preferentially requesting secured registration from a server to which the user information is being registered.
In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is disclosed, including a communication module configured to communicate with an external device, a memory configured to store security information controlling registration of secured information, the security information indicating a plurality of data types, an input module, and a processor. The processor executes in response to detecting a user input by the input module, retrieve account information corresponding to a user account, in response to detecting that data elements of the account information correspond to the plurality of data types in the security information, transmit a request to register the user account on a first transactional server.
In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a method in an electronic device is disclosed, including receiving by a communication module security information for storage in a memory, the security information indicating a plurality of data types, in response to detecting a user input by an input module, retrieving account information corresponding to a user account, and in response to detecting that data elements of the account information correspond to the plurality of data types in the security information, transmitting a request to register the user account on a first transactional server.
In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer readable medium is disclosed, including instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to receive by a communication module security information for storage in a memory, the security information indicating a plurality of data types, in response to detecting a user input by an input module, retrieve account information corresponding to a user account, in response to detecting that data elements of the account information correspond to the plurality of data types in the security information, transmit a request to register the user account on a first transactional server.:
According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, by requesting card registration from payment servers according to specified priorities on the basis of card registration information, it is possible to reduce time utilized for the card registration and to enhance convenience of use.
Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses various embodiments of the present disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration of an secure system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 2 is a signal flow diagram illustrating a method of managing secured information by an secure system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 3 is a signal flow diagram illustrating a secure information method of an secure system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 4 is a signal flow diagram illustrating a registration method of an secure payment system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 5 illustrates a configuration of an secure information system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a secure information registration method of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 8 illustrates an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure; and
FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a program module according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present disclosure may be described with reference to accompanying drawings. Embodiments and terms used herein are not intended to limit the technologies described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, and it should be understood that the embodiments and the terms include modification, equivalent, and/or alternative on the corresponding embodiments described herein. With regard to description of drawings, similar elements may be marked by similar reference numerals. The terms of a singular form may include plural forms unless otherwise specified. In the disclosure disclosed herein, the expressions “A or B”, “at least one of A or/and B”, and the like used herein may include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Expressions such as “first,” or “second,” and the like, may express their elements regardless of their priority or importance and may be used to distinguish one element from another element but is not limited to these components. When an (e.g., first) element is referred to as being “(operatively or communicatively) coupled with/to” or “connected to” another (e.g., second) element, it may be directly coupled with/to or connected to the other element or an intervening element (e.g., a third element) may be present.
According to the situation, the expression “configured to” used herein may be interchangeably used as, for example, the expression “suitable for”, “having the capacity to”, “designed to”, “adapted to”, “made to”, or “capable of”. The expression “a device configured to” may mean that the device is “capable of” operating together with another device or other components. For example, a “processor configured to (or set to) perform A, B, and C” may mean a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) for performing a corresponding operation or a generic-purpose processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor) which performs corresponding operations by executing one or more software programs which are stored in a memory device.
According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include at least one of, for example, smartphones, tablet personal computers (PCs), mobile phones, video telephones, electronic book readers, desktop PCs, laptop PCs, netbook computers, workstations, servers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), Motion Picture Experts Group (MPEG-1 or MPEG-2) Audio Layer 3 (MP3) players, medical devices, cameras, or wearable devices. A wearable device may include at least one of an accessory type of a device (e.g., a timepiece, a ring, a bracelet, an anklet, a necklace, glasses, a contact lens, or a head-mounted-device (HMD)), one-piece fabric or clothes type of a circuit (e.g., electronic clothes), a body-attached type of a circuit (e.g., a skin pad or a tattoo), or a bio-implantable type of a circuit. According to an embodiment, the electronic device may include at least one of, for example, televisions (TVs), digital versatile disc (DVD) players, audios, refrigerators, air conditioners, cleaners, ovens, microwave ovens, washing machines, air cleaners, set-top boxes, home automation control panels, security control panels, media boxes (e.g., Samsung HomeSync™, Apple TV™, or Google TV™), game consoles (e.g., Xbox™ or PlayStation™), electronic dictionaries, electronic keys, camcorders, electronic picture frames, or the like.
According to another embodiment, the electronic devices may include at least one of medical devices (e.g., various portable medical measurement devices (e.g., a blood glucose monitoring device, a heartbeat measuring device, a blood pressure measuring device, a body temperature measuring device, and the like)), a magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a computed tomography (CT), scanners, and ultrasonic devices), navigation devices, global navigation satellite system (GNSS), event data recorders (EDRs), flight data recorders (FDRs), vehicle infotainment devices, electronic equipment for vessels (e.g., navigation systems, gyrocompasses, and the like), avionics, security devices, head units for vehicles, industrial or home robots, drones, automatic teller's machines (ATMs), points of sales (POSs), or internet of things (e.g., light bulbs, various sensors, sprinkler devices, fire alarms, thermostats, street lamps, toasters, exercise equipment, hot water tanks, heaters, boilers, and the like). According to another embodiment, the electronic devices may include at least one of parts of furniture, buildings/structures, or vehicles, electronic boards, electronic signature receiving devices, projectors, or various measuring instruments (e.g., water meters, electricity meters, gas meters, or wave meters, and the like). According to various embodiments, an electronic device may be a flexible electronic device or may be a combination of two or more of the above-described devices. An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may not be limited to the above-described electronic devices. The term “user” used herein may refer to a person who uses an electronic device or may refer to a device (e.g., an artificial intelligence electronic device) that uses an electronic device.
FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration of a secure information system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 1, a secure information system may in some examples refer to executing secure information transfers for facilitating consumer payments, and thus be called an “electronic payment” system 1000, although it is recognized the present invention is not limited to electronic payments but rather encompasses any form of secure information transfer. The system may include an electronic device 100. The secure information system may further include a first server 200, a second server 300, a third server 400 for executing information transactions (e.g., payments, and may in this example be referred to as “payment servers”). The secure information system may further include a first server 500, a second server 600, and a third server 700 for storing information used to execute the information transactions (e.g., financial information, which in this example may be referred to as “finance servers”).
The elements included in the electronic payment system 1000 illustrated in FIG. 1 may be connected together through a network. For example, the electronic device 100, the first payment server 200, the second payment server 300, the third payment server 400, the first finance server 500, the second finance server 600, and the third finance server 700 may be connected together through a mobile communication network or an Internet network.
The electronic device 100 may be a user device used by a user that wants to register secured information (e.g., a card in a payment server or a finance server according to various embodiments). The user may register a card by using the electronic device 100 and may make a payment (or deposit/withdrawal) on/off-line by using the registered card. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may manage payment-service-related information (e.g., a user account such as a Samsung account), user authentication information, financial information (e.g., card information or account information) interlocked with the user account, a payment token, and the like).
According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may store security information indicating what information should be provided to register secure information related to a particular user account. For example, the security information may, in the case of electronic transactions, include information required to register user accounts. In some cases, the user accounts correspond to credit card accounts, and thus the card management information received from the first payment server 200 may include, for example, identification information for a financial company and a bank identification number (BIN) range managed by the financial company. The card management information may further include, for example, an indication as to whether to provide a global service, a country, and condition information utilized for card registration. The condition information utilized for card registration may include, for example, the number of digits in a card number (PAN length), whether a card validation code (CVC or CVV) is utilized, and whether an address is utilized.
According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may register an account to a secure server in order to facilitate related data transactions related to the account. For example, following some embodiments described below, a credit card account in a finance server may facilitate provision of electronic payment services. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may obtain user account information for use as card registration information from the user. The account information in this example may include, for example, a card number. The card registration information may further include other relevant data. For example, in the case of a credit card account, account information used for registration may include a user's name and address, a card validation code, and card expiration date. Various methods of obtaining card registration information by the electronic device 100 will be described below with reference to FIG. 6. It is understood that the present invention is not limited to electronic financial transactions but can be utilized with respect to registration of any account utilizing secure information.
According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may request card registration from the plurality of payment servers 200, 300, and 400 according to specified priorities. For example, if card registration information is obtained, the electronic device 100 may identify card management information corresponding to the card registration information. If card management information corresponding to the card registration information is identified, the electronic device 100 may request card registration from the first payment server 200. If card management information corresponding to the card registration information is not identified, the electronic device 100 may request card registration from the second payment server 300. If the electronic device 100 fails in the card registration through the second payment server 300, the electronic device 100 may request card registration from the third payment server 400.
According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may provide a payment service to the user by using a payment application (e.g., Samsung Pay™ Application). According to an embodiment, the payment application may provide a payment-related user interface. For example, the payment application may provide a user interface relating to card registration, payment, or transaction. Furthermore, the payment application may provide, for example, an interface relating to user authentication through identification and verification (ID&V).
According to an embodiment, the plurality of payment servers 200, 300, and 400 may manage payment-service-related information (e.g., a user account (e.g., Samsung account), user authentication information, financial information (e.g., card information or account information) interlocked with the user account, and the like) and may transmit and receive the payment-service-related information between the electronic device 100 and the plurality of finance servers 500, 600, and 700.
According to an embodiment, the first payment server 200 may store card management information received from the first finance server 500. According to an embodiment, the first payment server 200 may transmit, to the electronic device 100, the card management information received from the first finance server 500.
According to an embodiment, the plurality of finance servers 500, 600, and 700 may be servers operated in card companies or banks. According to an embodiment, the plurality of finance servers 500, 600, and 700 may issue cards and may manage financial information. According to an embodiment, if card registration is requested, the plurality of finance servers 500, 600, and 700 may finally determine whether to approve the card registration on the basis of financial information. According to an embodiment, the plurality of finance servers 500, 600, and 700 may manage card management information.
According to an embodiment, the plurality of finance servers 500, 600, and 700 may generate a payment token. For example, if payment (or deposit/withdrawal) is requested by the plurality of payment servers 200, 300, and 400, or if card registration is completed, the plurality of finance servers 500, 600, and 700 may generate a payment token and may transmit the payment token to the plurality of payment servers 200, 300, and 400.
According to an embodiment, the plurality of finance servers 500, 600, and 700 may be classified into a first group, a second group, and a third group according to service areas and service characteristics. According to an embodiment, a finance server included in the first group may be a local finance server that provides card management information to a payment server (e.g., the first payment server 200), a finance server included in the second group may be a local finance server that does not provide card management information to a payment server (e.g., the first payment server 200), and a finance server included in the third group may be a global finance server. According to an embodiment, the first finance server 500 may be a finance server included in the first group, the second finance server 600 may be a finance server included in the second group, and the third finance server 700 may be a finance server included in the third group.
According to an embodiment, the first payment server 200 may provide a payment service in conjunction with a finance server (e.g., the first finance server 500) included in the first group, the second payment server 300 may provide a payment service in conjunction with a finance server (e.g., the second finance server 600) included in the second group, and the third payment server 400 may provide a payment service in conjunction with a finance server (e.g., the third finance server 700) included in the third group. That is, each transactional server is communicatively coupled with each of a number of account servers.
In the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 1, the plurality of payment servers 200, 300, and 400 have been described as separate servers. However, the plurality of payment servers 200, 300, and 400 may be implemented with a single server. For example, the plurality of payment servers 200, 300, and 400 may be functionally separated from one another in a single server to provide a payment service. In the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 1, the first payment server 200 has been described as managing card management information. However, the electronic payment system 1000 may include a separate database server connected with the first payment server 200 to manage card management information.
FIG. 2 is a signal flow diagram illustrating a method of managing secure management information by a secure electronic system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
According to an embodiment, as in the example above, the secure information may in some embodiments relate to secure consumer financial information utilized for executing digital transactions. Accordingly, the disclosure will continue with this example, although it is understood the invention is not limited to such transactions. In operation 201, the first finance server 500 may transmit secure information, such as card management information to the first payment server 200.
According to an embodiment, in operation 203, the first payment server 200 may store the card management information received from the first finance server 500. In the case where the first payment server 200 operates in conjunction with a plurality of first finance servers 500, the first payment server 200 may store a plurality of data elements within the card management information received from the plurality of first finance servers 500.
According to an embodiment, in operation 205, the first payment server 200 may transmit the card management information to the electronic device 100. According to an embodiment, the first payment server 200 may transmit the card management information through a payment application installed in the electronic device 100. For example, if the electronic device 100 having the payment application installed therein requests transmission of card management information, the first payment server 200 may transmit card management information to the electronic device 100.
According to an embodiment, in operation 207, the electronic device 100 may store the card management information received from the first payment server 200.
According to an embodiment, in operation 209, the first finance server 500 may update the card management information. For example, the first finance server 500 may change part of the card management information or may add new information to the card management information depending on a payment service operating policy.
According to an embodiment, in operation 211, the first finance server 500 may transmit the updated card management information to the first payment server 200.
According to an embodiment, in operation 213, the first payment server 200 may update the card management information using the updated card management information. For example, the first payment server 200 may replace the stored card management information with the updated card management information.
According to an embodiment, in operation 215, the electronic device 100 may request the latest version information of the card management information from the first payment server 200.
According to an embodiment, in operation 217, the first payment server 200 may transmit the latest version information of the card management information to the electronic device 100.
According to an embodiment, in operation 219, the electronic device 100 may determine whether the card management information is updated, using the latest version information received from the first payment server 200. For example, the electronic device 100 may compare the latest version information and version information of the card management information stored in a memory to determine whether the card management information has been updated.
The operation of determining whether the card management information has been updated may be periodically or aperiodically performed. For example, the electronic device 100 may request the latest version information from the first payment server 200 every specified period (e.g., every day or every week) to determine whether the card management information has been updated. In another example, the electronic device 100 may request the latest version information from the first payment server 200 according to a user input to determine whether the card management information has been updated.
According to an embodiment, in operation 221, the electronic device 100 may request the updated card management information from the first payment server 200 if it is determined that the card management information has been updated.
According to an embodiment, in operation 223, the first payment server 200 may transmit the updated card management information to the electronic device 100.
According to an embodiment, in operation 225, the electronic device 100 may update the card management information by using the updated card management information. For example, the electronic device 100 may replace the stored card management information with the updated card management information.
In the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 2, the first payment server 200 has been described as transmitting the updated card management information to the electronic device 100 in response to a request of the electronic device 100. However, the first payment server 200 may transmit the updated card management information to the electronic device 100 even without a request of the electronic device 100 if the updated card management information is received from the first finance server 500.
According to the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 2, the electronic device 100 and the first payment server 200 may periodically or aperiodically update the card management information and may store the latest version of the card management information.
FIG. 3 is a signal flow diagram illustrating a secure information registration method of a secure electronic system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
According to an embodiment, as in the above descriptions, the example may continue to refer to an electronic payment system as a common form of information system requiring secure transactions. Referring then to FIG. 3, in operation 301, the electronic device 100 may obtain card registration information.
According to an embodiment, in operation 303, the electronic device 100 may identify card management information corresponding to the card registration information. For example, the electronic device 100 may determine whether a BIN corresponding to a card number included in the card registration information exists.
According to an embodiment, if card management information corresponding to the card registration information exists, the electronic device 100 may, in operation 305, request card registration from the first payment server 200. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may request card registration destined for a finance server (e.g., the first finance server 500) corresponding to the card registration information among a plurality of finance servers operating in conjunction with the first payment server 200. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may transmit the card registration information together with the card registration request.
According to an embodiment, in operation 307, the first payment server 200 may request card registration from the first finance server 500. For example, the first payment server 200 may identify a destination for the card registration request received from the electronic device 100 and may request card registration from the first finance server 500 that corresponds to the identified destination.
In the above-described embodiment, the electronic device 100 has been described as requesting card registration from the finance server corresponding to the card registration information via the first payment server 200. However, according to another embodiment, the electronic device 100 may directly request card registration from the finance server corresponding to the card registration information without the first payment server 200.
According to an embodiment, in operation 309, the first finance server 500 may register a card. For example, the first finance server 500 may register a using the card registration information included in the card registration request. According to an embodiment, the first finance server 500 may generate a payment token if card registration is successful.
According to an embodiment, in operation 311, the first finance server 500 may transmit a card registration result to the first payment server 200. For example, if the card registration is completed, the first finance server 500 may transmit information that the card registration has been completed. In another example, card registration fails, the first finance server 500 may transmit information that the card registration has failed.
According to an embodiment, the first finance server 500 may generate a payment token if succeeding in the card registration and may transmit the payment token together with the card registration result to the first payment server 200.
According to an embodiment, in operation 313, the first payment server 200 may transmit the card registration result to the electronic device 100. According to an embodiment, if the card registration result is received, the electronic device 100 may inform a user of the card registration result, for example, through a display or a speaker. According to an embodiment, in the case where the first payment server 200 receives the payment token from the first finance server 500, the first payment server 200 may transmit the payment token together with the card registration result to the electronic device 100.
FIG. 4 is a signal flow diagram illustrating a secure information registration method of a secure electronic system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
According to an embodiment, as in the above descriptions, the example of a secure electronic payment system will continue to be used, although the invention is not limited to this embodiment. Referring to FIG. 4, in operation 401, the electronic device 100 may obtain card registration information.
According to an embodiment, in operation 403, the electronic device 100 may identify card management information corresponding to the card registration information. For example, the electronic device 100 may determine whether a BIN corresponding to a card number included in the card registration information exists. In the case where a card to be registered is associated with the second finance server 600 or the third finance server 700, card management information corresponding to the card registration information may not exist.
According to an embodiment, if card management information corresponding to the card registration information is not identified, the electronic device 100 may, in operation 405, request card registration from the second payment server 300. For example, if card management information corresponding to the card registration information is not identified, the electronic device 100 may request card registration from the second payment server 300 in preference to the third payment server 400. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may transmit the card registration information together with the card registration request.
According to an embodiment, in operation 407, the second payment server 300 may request card registration from the second finance server 600.
According to an embodiment, in operation 409, the second finance server 600 may register a card. For example, the second finance server 600 may register a card on the basis of the card registration information included in the card registration request.
According to an embodiment, in operation 411, the second finance server 600 may transmit a card registration result to the second payment server 300. For example, if the card registration is completed, the second finance server 600 may transmit information that the card registration has been completed. In another example, in the case where there is an error in the card registration information or some of the card registration information utilized for card registration is omitted, the second finance server 600 may transmit information that the card registration has failed.
According to an embodiment, in operation 413, the second payment server 300 may transmit the card registration result to the electronic device 100. According to an embodiment, the second payment server 300 may sequentially request card registration from a plurality of finance servers operating in conjunction with the second payment server 300. For example, if failing to register a card in the second finance server 600, the second payment server 300 may request card registration from another finance server operating in conjunction with the second payment server 300. According to an embodiment, if information that the card registration has failed is received from all the finance servers operating in conjunction with the second payment server 300, the second payment server 300 may transmit, to the electronic device 100, the information that the card registration has failed.
According to an embodiment, if information that the card registration has failed is received from the second payment server 300, the electronic device 100 may, in operation 415, request card registration from the third payment server 400. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may request card registration destined for a finance server corresponding to the card registration information among a plurality of finance servers operating in conjunction with the third payment server 400. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may identify a finance server corresponding to the card registration information by using the card number included in the card registration information. For example, the electronic device 100 may identify a finance server corresponding to the card registration information by using the first digit of the card number or the first and second digits of the card number. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may transmit the card registration information together with the card registration request.
According to an embodiment, in operation 417, the third payment server 400 may request card registration from the third finance server 700.
According to an embodiment, in operation 419, the third finance server 700 may register a card. For example, the third finance server 700 may register a card on the basis of the card registration information included in the card registration request.
According to an embodiment, in operation 421, the third finance server 700 may transmit a card registration result to the third payment server 400. For example, if the card registration is completed, the third finance server 700 may transmit information that the card registration has been completed. In another example, in the case where there is an error in the card registration information or some of the card registration information utilized for card registration is omitted, the third finance server 700 may transmit information that the card registration has failed.
According to an embodiment, in operation 423, the third payment server 400 may transmit the card registration result to the electronic device 100. According to an embodiment, if the card registration result is received, the electronic device 100 may inform a user of the card registration result, for example, through a display or a speaker.
According to the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 4, the electronic device 100 has been described as requesting the card registration from the second or third finance server 600 or 700 via the second or third payment server 300 or 400. However, according to another embodiment, the electronic device 100 may directly request card registration from the second or third finance server 600 or 700 without the second or third payment server 300 or 400.
According to the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 4, the electronic device 100 has been described as preferentially requesting card registration from the second payment server 300 if a payment server corresponding to the card registration information is not identified. However, the electronic device 100 may preferentially request card registration from the third payment server 400.
FIG. 5 illustrates a configuration of a secure electronic system, such as the example electronic payment system described above, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 5, an electronic payment system 2000 may include an electronic device 10, a payment system 20, and a finance system 30.
According to an embodiment, the electronic device 10 may include a payment application 11, a payment framework 12, and a memory 13.
According to an embodiment, the payment application 11 may provide a user interface relating to payment and may perform card registration and electronic payment. The payment application 11 may store payment-service-related information in the memory 13. According to an embodiment, the payment framework 12 may provide functions utilized for card registration and electronic payment to the payment application 11.
According to an embodiment, the memory 13 may store payment-service-related information (e.g., a user account (e.g., Samsung account), user authentication information, financial information (e.g., card information or account information) interlocked with the user account, a payment token, and the like). According to an embodiment, the memory 13 may include a normal area and a security area (or a “secure” area). The normal area and the security area may be separate memory components (e.g., separate memory modules, units or components), or may be functionally-separated areas in a single memory component (e.g., separate partitions). According to an embodiment, among the information stored in the memory 13, relatively high security information may be stored in the security area (e.g., an embedded secure element or “eSE”, an embedded subscriber identity module “eSIM”, or a trust zone) accessible in a trusted execution environment (TEE), and relatively low security information may be stored in the normal area accessible in a rich execution environment (REE). For example, a payment token or user authentication information may be stored in the security area, and bank identification number (BIN) information 5 may be stored in the normal area.
According to an embodiment, the payment system 20 may include a plurality of payment servers 21, 22, and 23, a bank identification number database (BIN DB) 24, and a routing server 25.
According to an embodiment, the plurality of payment servers 21, 22, and 23 may manage payment-service-related information (e.g., a user account such as a Samsung account), user authentication information, financial information (e.g., card information or account information) interlocked with the user account, and the like) and may transmit and receive the payment-service-related information between the electronic device 10 and a plurality of finance servers 31, 32, and 33. According to an embodiment, the first payment server 21 may receive the BIN information 5 from at least one (e.g., a plurality of) first finance server(s) 31 and may transmit the BIN information 5 to the BIN DB 24.
According to an embodiment, the BIN DB 24 may store and manage the BIN information 5 received from the first payment server 21. According to an embodiment, if the new BIN information 5 is received from the first finance server 31 through the first payment server 21, the BIN DB 24 may update the stored BIN information 5.
According to an embodiment, if the electronic device 10 requests transmission of data, the routing server 25 may configure a transmission path for the requested information. For example, if card registration is requested by the electronic device 10, the routing server 25 may transmit the card registration request to one of the first to third payment servers 21, 22, and 23 through the configured transmission path.
According to an embodiment, the finance system 30 may include the plurality of finance servers 31, 32, and 33. According to an embodiment, the plurality of finance servers 31, 32, and 33 may be servers operated by or otherwise representing card companies or banks. According to an embodiment, the plurality of finance servers 31, 32, and 33 may issue cards and may manage financial information. According to an embodiment, the plurality of finance servers 31, 32, and 33 may manage card management information.
According to an embodiment, the first finance server 31 alone, among the plurality of finance servers 31, 32, and 33, may provide the BIN information 5 to the first payment server 21. For example, a card company or a bank that manages the first finance server 31 may provide BIN information to the first payment server 21 through consultation with a payment company that operates the payment system 20.
According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the BIN information 5 managed by the first finance server 31 may be provided to, and managed by, the electronic device 10 as well as the BIN DB 24. Accordingly, the electronic device 10 may request card registration from the plurality of payment servers 21, 22, and 23 according to specified priorities by using the BIN information 5.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 6, the electronic device 100 may include a communication module 110, an input module 120, a memory 130, and a processor 140.
According to an embodiment, the communication module (or communication circuit) 110 may communicate with payment servers (e.g., the first payment server 200, the second payment server 300, and the third payment server 400). According to an embodiment, the communication module 110 may transmit and receive information through a network (e.g., a mobile communication network or an Internet network). According to an embodiment, the communication module 110 may include at least one of a cellular module, wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) module, a Bluetooth module, a near field communication (NFC) module, a magnetic secure transmission (MST) module, and a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) module.
According to an embodiment, the input module (or input circuit) 120 may receive a user input. According to an embodiment, the input module 120 may include a touch sensor panel that senses a user's touch operation or a pen sensor panel that senses the user's pen operation. According to an embodiment, the input module 120 may sense a user operation input within a specific distance from a panel (e.g., the touch sensor panel or the pen sensor panel) without direct contact with the panel, as well as a user operation making direct contact with the panel. According to an embodiment, the input module 120 may include a gesture sensor (e.g., a motion recognition sensor) that recognizes the user's motion or a speech recognition sensor that recognizes the user's speech. According to an embodiment, the input module 120 may include a character recognition sensor. For example, the character recognition sensor may include a camera that takes an image and a character recognition module (e.g., an optical character reader (OCR)) that recognizes characters included in an image taken by the camera.
According to an embodiment, the input module 120 may obtain card registration information. For example, the user may enter card registration information through the touch sensor panel. In another example, the character recognition module may obtain card registration information by recognizing characters included in a card image taken by the user.
According to an embodiment, the memory 130 may store payment-service-related information (e.g., a user account (e.g., Samsung account), user authentication information, financial information (e.g., card information or account information) interlocked with the user account, a payment token, and the like).
According to an embodiment, among the information stored in the memory 130, high security information (e.g., a payment token or user authentication information) may be stored in a security area (e.g., an embedded secure element (eSE), an embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM), or a trust zone) accessible in a trusted execution environment (TEE).
According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may store card management information received from the first payment server 200. Table 1 below shows an example of the card management information stored in the memory 130.
TABLE 1
bank information
condition
BIN range
co-
PAN
from
to
bank
branded
country
length
CVC
address
435211
435299
bank 1
N
CA
19
Y
Y
553141
553150
bank 2
Y
BR
16
Y
N
. . .
. . .
. . .
. . .
. . .
. . .
. . .
. . .
Referring to Table 1, the card management information may be stored in a table format. According to an embodiment, the card management information may include identification information (bank) for a financial company, a bank identification number range (BIN range) managed by the financial company, whether to provide a global service (co-branded), a country (country), and condition information utilized for card registration. The condition information utilized for card registration may include, for example, the number of digits in a card number (PAN length), whether a card validation code (CVC or CVV) is utilized, and whether an address is utilized.
According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may control an overall operation of the electronic device 100. For example, the processor 140 may control the communication module 110, the input module 120, and the memory 130 to register a card through a payment server according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may include at least one processor 140. For example, the electronic device 100 may a plurality of processors 140 capable of performing at least one function. According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may be implemented with a system on chip (SoC) that includes a central processing unit (CPU), a graphic processing unit (GPU), a memory, and the like.
According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may receive card management information from the first payment server 200 through the communication module 110. According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may store the received card management information in the memory 130. According to an embodiment, in the case where card management information is stored in a database server separate from the first payment server 200, the processor 140 may receive card management information from the database server having card management information stored therein.
According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may update the card management information stored in the memory 130. According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may request the latest version information of the card management information from the first payment server 200. According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may determine whether the card management information has been updated, based on the latest version information received from the first payment server 200. For example, the processor 140 may compare the latest version information with version information of the card management information stored in the memory 130. If the latest version information differs from the version of the card management information stored in the memory 130, the processor 140 may determine that the card management information has been updated. According to an embodiment, if the card management information is updated, the processor 140 may request the updated card management information from the first payment server 200. According to an embodiment, if the updated card management information is received, the processor 140 may store the updated card management information in the memory 130.
According to an embodiment, if card registration information is obtained through the input module 120, the processor 140 may determine whether all of the information utilized for card registration has been obtained, based on the card management information stored in the memory 130. For example, the processor 140 may compare a card number included in the card registration information and a BIN range included in the card management information to verify information utilized for card registration. According to an embodiment, if all of information utilized for card registration is not obtained, the processor 140 may additionally request utilized information from the user. For example, the processor 140 may display, on a display (not illustrated), a user interface for requesting the utilized information.
According to an embodiment, if card registration information is obtained through the input module 120, the processor 140 may register a card by using the card registration information. According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may request card registration from the plurality of payment servers 200, 300, and 400 according to specified priorities on the basis of the card registration information. According to an embodiment, if the card registration information is obtained through the input module 120, the processor 140 may identify card management information corresponding to the card registration information. For example, the electronic device 100 may determine whether a BIN corresponding to a card number included in the card registration information exists.
According to an embodiment, if card management information corresponding to the card registration information exists, the processor 140 may request card registration from the first payment server 200 (or the second finance server 500). According to an embodiment, if card management information corresponding to the card registration information exists, the processor 140 may identify a finance server corresponding to the card registration information. For example, the processor 140 may identify financial company identification information corresponding to the card management information. According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may request card registration destined for a finance server (e.g., the first finance server 500) corresponding to the card registration information among a plurality of finance servers operating in conjunction with the first payment server 200. According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may transmit the card registration information together with the card registration request.
According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may receive a card registration result from the first payment server 200 (or the first finance server 500). For example, if card registration is completed, the processor 140 may receive information that the card registration has been completed. In another example, if card registration fails, the processor 140 may receive information that the card registration has failed. According to an embodiment, if the card registration result is received from the first payment server 200, the processor 140 may inform the user of the card registration result. For example, the processor 140 may display, on the display (not illustrated), a user interface for informing of the card registration result.
According to an embodiment, if a payment server corresponding to the card registration information is not identified, the processor 140 may request card registration from the second payment server 300 (or the second finance server 600). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may transmit the card registration information together with the card registration request. According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may receive a card registration result from the second payment server 300. For example, if the card registration is completed, the processor 140 may receive information that the card registration has been completed. In another example, if the card registration fails, the processor 140 may receive information that the card registration has failed.
According to an embodiment, if information that card registration has failed is received from the second payment server 300 (or the second finance server 600), the processor 140 may request card registration from the third payment server 400 (or the third finance server 700). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may request card registration destined for a finance server corresponding to the card registration information among a plurality of finance servers operating in conjunction with the third payment server 400. For example, the electronic device 100 may identify a finance server corresponding to the card registration information by using the first digit of a card number or the first and second digits of the card number. For example, the processor 140 may determine that a card company is VISA Card Company if the first digit of a card number is “4”, AMEX Card Company if the first and second digits of a card number are “34” or “37”, or MASTER Card Company if the first and second digits of a card number are “51” to “55”. According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may transmit the card registration information together with the card registration request. According to an embodiment, the processor 140 may receive a card registration result from the third payment server 400 (or the third finance server 700). For example, if the card registration is completed, the processor 140 may receive information that the card registration has been completed. In another example, if the card registration fails, the processor 140 may receive information that the card registration has failed.
According to an embodiment, if a card registration result is received from the second or third payment server 300 or 400, the processor 140 may inform the user of the card registration result. For example, the processor 140 may display, on the display (not illustrated), a user interface for informing of the card registration result.
According to an embodiment, if card registration is completed through the first or second payment server 200 or 300, the processor 140 may determine whether the registered card provides a global service. For example, the processor 140 may determine whether the registered card provides a global service, by using information as to whether to provide a global service, the information being included in card management information. In another example, the processor 140 may determine whether the registered card provides a global service, by using the first digit of a card number included in the card registration information.
According to an embodiment, if a card to be registered provides a global service, the processor 140 may request card registration from the third payment server 400. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may request card registration destined for a finance server corresponding to the card registration information among a plurality of finance servers operating in conjunction with the third payment server 400.
According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the processor 140 may request card registration from payment servers according to specified priorities on the basis of the card registration information. For example, the processor 140 may request card registration in the sequence of a local finance server (the first finance server) that provides card management information, a local finance server (the second finance server) that does not provide card management information, and a global finance server (the third finance server). Accordingly, it is possible to reduce time utilized for card registration and to enhance user convenience.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a secure information registration method of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
The flowchart illustrated in FIG. 7 may be configured with operations processed in the electronic device 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6. Accordingly, although omitted in the following description, the contents set forth in relation to the electronic device 100 with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6 may also be applied to the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 7. Further, the example embodiment of a card registration will continue to be used.
According to an embodiment, in operation 710, the electronic device 100 may receive card management information from the first payment server 200. The card management information may include, for example, identification information for a financial company and a bank identification number (BIN) range managed by the financial company. The card management information may further include as indication as to whether provision of a global service, a country, and condition information is utilized for card registration. The condition information utilized for card registration may include, for example, the number of digits in a card number (PAN length), whether a card validation code (CVC or CVV) is utilized, and whether a physical address is utilized.
According to an embodiment, in operation 720, the electronic device 100 may store the card management information in memory 130. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may update the card management information stored in memory 130. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may request the latest version information of the card management information from the first payment server 200. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may determine whether the card management information has been updated, based on the latest version information received from the first payment server 200. According to an embodiment, if the card management information is updated, the electronic device 100 may request the updated card management information from the first payment server 200. According to an embodiment, if the updated card management information is received, the electronic device 100 may store the updated card management information in the memory 130.
According to an embodiment, in operation 730, the electronic device 100 may receive card registration information. The card registration information may include, for example, a card number. The card registration information may further include at least one of, for example, the card user's name and address, a card validation code, and card expiration date.
According to an embodiment, in operation 740, the electronic device 100 may identify card management information corresponding to the card registration information. For example, the electronic device 100 may determine whether a BIN corresponding to the card number included in the card registration information exists.
According to an embodiment, if card management information corresponding to the card registration information is identified, the electronic device 100 may, in operation 750, request card registration from the first payment server 200. That is, when security information (e.g., information indicating what kinds of data should be provided for registration) corresponds to elements within received account data. According to an embodiment, if card management information corresponding to the card registration information exists, the electronic device 100 may identify a finance server corresponding to the card registration information. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may request card registration destined for a finance server corresponding to the card registration information among a plurality of finance servers operating in conjunction with the first payment server 200. For example, the electronic device 100 may request card registration from a finance server corresponding to the card registration information through the first payment server 200 or directly. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may transmit the card registration information together with the card registration request.
According to an embodiment, if card management information corresponding to the card registration information is not identified, the electronic device 100 may, in operation 760, request card registration from the second payment server 300. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may transmit the card registration information together with the card registration request. That is, when data elements of the account data fail to correspond to the security information, registration proceeds on a different transactional server.
According to an embodiment, in operation 770, the electronic device 100 may determine whether the card registration has succeeded. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may receive a card registration result from the second payment server 300. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may determine whether the card registration has succeeded, based on the card registration result.
According to an embodiment, if the card registration fails, the electronic device 100 may request card registration from a payment server included in the third group. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may request card registration destined for a finance server corresponding to the card registration information among a plurality of finance servers operating in conjunction with the third payment server 400. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may transmit the card registration information together with the card registration request. That is, when registration of the account fails on the second transactional server, an attempt is made on a new and different third transactional server.
FIG. 8 illustrates an electronic device in a network environment, according to various embodiments.
Referring to FIG. 8, according to various embodiments, an electronic device 801in a network environment 800 is described. For example, the electronic device 801 may include all or a part of the electronic device 100 illustrated in FIG. 6. The electronic device 801 may include a bus 810, a processor 820, a memory 830, an input/output interface 850, a display 860, and a communication interface 870. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 801 may not include at least one of the above-described elements or may further include other element(s).
For example, the bus 810 may interconnect the above-described elements 810 to 870 and may include a circuit for conveying communications (e.g., a control message and/or data) among the above-described elements.
The processor 820 may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), or a communication processor (CP). For example, the processor 820 may perform an arithmetic operation or data processing associated with control and/or communication of at least other elements of the electronic device 801.
The memory 830 may include a volatile and/or nonvolatile memory. For example, the memory 830 may store instructions or data associated with at least one other element(s) of the electronic device 801. According to an embodiment, the memory 830 may store software and/or a program 840.
According to an embodiment, the memory 830 may include a main memory 831 and an auxiliary memory 833. For example, while the processor 820 executes a program, the main memory 831 may store the program itself and data processed by the program. The auxiliary memory 833 may be, for example, storage capable of supplementing limited storage capacity of the main memory 831 and may store a large amount of program (or data). According to an embodiment, in the case where the processor 820 attempts to execute a specific program (or data) stored in the auxiliary memory 833, the specific program may be loaded into the main memory 831 from the auxiliary memory 833. According to an embodiment, the main memory 831 and the auxiliary memory 833 may mutually transmit or receive data by using a direct memory access (DMA) method even without the control of the processor 820.
The program 840 may include, for example, a kernel 841, a middleware 843, an application programming interface (API) 845, and/or an application program (or “an application”) 847. At least a part of the kernel 841, the middleware 843, or the API 845 may be referred to as an “operating system (OS)”.
For example, the kernel 841 may control or manage system resources (e.g., the bus 810, the processor 820, the memory 830, and the like) that are used to execute operations or functions of other programs (e.g., the middleware 843, the API 845, and the application program 847). Furthermore, the kernel 841 may provide an interface that allows the middleware 843, the API 845, or the application program 847 to access discrete elements of the electronic device 801 so as to control or manage system resources.
The middleware 843 may perform, for example, a mediation role such that the API 845 or the application program 847 communicates with the kernel 841 to exchange data. Furthermore, the middleware 843 may process one or more task requests received from the application program 847 according to a priority. For example, the middleware 843 may assign the priority, which makes it possible to use a system resource (e.g., the bus 810, the processor 820, the memory 830, or the like) of the electronic device 801, to at least one of the application program 847 and may process the one or more task requests.
The API 845 may be, for example, an interface through which the application program 847 controls a function provided by the kernel 841 or the middleware 843, and may include, for example, at least one interface or function (e.g., an instruction) for a file control, a window control, image processing, a character control, or the like.
The input/output interface 850 may play a role, for example, an interface which transmits an instruction or data input from a user or another external device, to other element(s) of the electronic device 801. Furthermore, the input/output interface 850 may output an instruction or data, received from other element(s) of the electronic device 801, to a user or another external device.
The display 860 may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, an organic LED (OLED) display, a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) display, or an electronic paper display. The display 860 may display, for example, various contents (e.g., a text, an image, a video, an icon, a symbol, and the like) to a user. The display 860 may include a touch screen and may receive, for example, a touch, gesture, proximity, or hovering input using an electronic pen or a part of a user's body.
For example, the communication interface 870 may establish communication between the electronic device 801 and an external device (e.g., the first external electronic device 802, the second external electronic device 804, or the server 806). For example, the communication interface 870 may be connected to the network 862 over wireless communication or wired communication to communicate with the external device (e.g., the second external electronic device 804 or the server 806).
The wireless communication may use at least one of, for example, long-term evolution (LTE), LTE Advanced (LTE-A), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Wireless Broadband (WiBro), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), or the like, as cellular communication protocol. Furthermore, the wireless communication may include, for example, the local wireless communication 864. The local wireless communication 864 may include at least one of wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy (BLE), Zigbee, near field communication (NFC), magnetic stripe transmission (MST), a global navigation satellite system (GNSS), or the like. The GNSS may include at least one of, for example, a global positioning system (GPS), a global navigation satellite system (Glonass), a Beidou navigation satellite system (hereinafter referred to as “Beidou”), or an European global satellite-based navigation system (hereinafter referred to as “Galileo”). Hereinafter, in this disclosure, “GPS” and “GNSS” may be interchangeably used.
The wired communication may include at least one of, for example, a universal serial bus (USB), a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a recommended standard-232 (RS-232), power-line communication, a plain old telephone service (POTS), or the like. The network 862 may include at least one of telecommunications networks, for example, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN), an Internet, or a telephone network.
Each of the first and second external electronic devices 802 and 804 may be a device of which the type is different from or the same as that of the electronic device 801. According to an embodiment, the server 806 may include a group of one or more servers. According to various embodiments, all or a portion of operations that the electronic device 801 will perform may be executed by another or plural electronic devices (e.g., the first external electronic device 802, the second external electronic device 804 or the server 806). According to an embodiment, in the case where the electronic device 801 executes any function or service automatically or in response to a request, the electronic device 801 may not perform the function or the service internally, but, alternatively additionally, it may request at least a portion of a function associated with the electronic device 801 at other electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device 802 or 804 or the server 806). The other electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device 802 or 804 or the server 806) may execute the requested function or additional function and may transmit the execution result to the electronic device 801. The electronic device 801 may provide the requested function or service using the received result or may additionally process the received result to provide the requested function or service. To this end, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, or client-server computing may be used.
FIG. 9 illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device, according to an embodiment.
An electronic device 901 may include, for example, all or a part of the electronic device 100 illustrated in FIG. 6. The electronic device 901 may include one or more processors (e.g., an application processor (AP)) 910, a communication module 920, a subscriber identification module 929, a memory 930, a sensor module 940, an input device 950, a display 960, an interface 970, an audio module 980, a camera module 991, a power management module 995, a battery 996, an indicator 997, and a motor 998.
The processor 910 may drive, for example, an operating system (OS) or an application to control a plurality of hardware or software elements connected to the processor 910 and may process and compute a variety of data. For example, the processor 910 may be implemented with a System on Chip (SoC). According to an embodiment, the processor 910 may further include a graphic processing unit (GPU) and/or an image signal processor. The processor 910 may include at least a part (e.g., a cellular module 921) of elements illustrated in FIG. 9. The processor 910 may load an instruction or data, which is received from at least one of other elements (e.g., a nonvolatile memory), into a volatile memory and process the loaded instruction or data. The processor 910 may store a variety of data in the nonvolatile memory.
The communication module 920 may be configured the same as or similar to the communication interface 870 of FIG. 8. The communication module 920 may include the cellular module 921, a Wi-Fi module 922, a Bluetooth (BT) module 923, a GNSS module 924(e.g., a GPS module, a Glonass module, a Beidou module, or a Galileo module), a near field communication (NFC) module 925, a MST module 926 and a radio frequency (RF) module 927.
The cellular module 921 may provide, for example, voice communication, video communication, a character service, an Internet service, or the like over a communication network. According to an embodiment, the cellular module 921 may perform discrimination and authentication of the electronic device 901 within a communication network by using the subscriber identification module (e.g., a SIM card) 929. According to an embodiment, the cellular module 921 may perform at least a portion of functions that the processor 910 provides. According to an embodiment, the cellular module 921 may include a communication processor (CP).
Each of the Wi-Fi module 922, the BT module 923, the GNSS module 924, the NFC module 925, or the MST module 926 may include a processor for processing data exchanged through a corresponding module, for example. According to an embodiment, at least a part (e.g., two or more) of the cellular module 921, the Wi-Fi module 922, the BT module 923, the GNSS module 924, the NFC module 925, or the MST module 926 may be included within one Integrated Circuit (IC) or an IC package.
For example, the RF module 927 may transmit and receive a communication signal (e.g., an RF signal). For example, the RF module 927 may include a transceiver, a power amplifier module (PAM), a frequency filter, a low noise amplifier (LNA), an antenna, or the like. According to another embodiment, at least one of the cellular module 921, the Wi-Fi module 922, the BT module 923, the GNSS module 924, the NFC module 925, or the MST module 926may transmit and receive an RF signal through a separate RF module.
The subscriber identification module 929 may include, for example, a card and/or embedded SIM that includes a subscriber identification module and may include unique identify information (e.g., integrated circuit card identifier (ICCID)) or subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)).
The memory 930 (e.g., the memory 830) may include an internal memory 932 or an external memory 934. For example, the internal memory 932 may include at least one of a volatile memory (e.g., a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a static RAM (SRAM), a synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), or the like), a nonvolatile memory (e.g., a one-time programmable read only memory (OTPROM), a programmable ROM (PROM), an erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), an electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), a mask ROM, a flash ROM, a flash memory (e.g., a NAND flash memory or a NOR flash memory), or the like), a hard drive, or a solid state drive (SSD).
The external memory 934 may further include a flash drive such as compact flash (CF), secure digital (SD), micro secure digital (Micro-SD), mini secure digital (Mini-SD), extreme digital (xD), a multimedia card (MMC), a memory stick, or the like. The external memory 934 may be operatively and/or physically connected to the electronic device 901 through various interfaces.
A security module 936 (or a security memory, which may for example correspond to the memory 160) may implement a storage space in which a data access security level is higher than that of the memory 930, guaranteeing safe data storage in a protected execution environment. The security module 936 may be implemented using a separate circuit and may include a separate processor. For example, the security module 936 may be disposed within a smart chip or a secure digital (SD) card which is removable, or may include an embedded secure element (eSE) embedded in a fixed chip of the electronic device 901. Furthermore, the security module 936 may operate based on an operating system (OS) different from the OS of the electronic device 901. For example, the security module 936 may operate based on “Java card open platform” (JCOP) OS.
The sensor module 940 may measure, for example, a physical quantity or may detect an operation state of the electronic device 901. The sensor module 940 may convert the measured or detected information to an electric signal. For example, the sensor module 940may include at least one of a gesture sensor 940A, a gyro sensor 940B, a barometric pressure sensor 940C, a magnetic sensor 940D, an acceleration sensor 940E, a grip sensor 940F, the proximity sensor 940G, a color sensor 940H (e.g., red, green, blue (RGB) sensor), a biometric sensor 940I, a temperature/humidity sensor 940J, an illuminance sensor 940K, or an UV sensor 940M. Although not illustrated, additionally or alternatively, the sensor module 940 may further include, for example, an E-nose sensor, an electromyography (EMG) sensor, an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor, an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, an iris sensor, and/or a fingerprint sensor. The sensor module 940 may further include a control circuit for controlling at least one or more sensors included therein. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 901 may further include a processor that is a part of the processor 910 or independent of the processor 910 and is configured to control the sensor module 940. The processor may control the sensor module 940 while the processor 910 remains at a sleep state.
The input device 950 may include, for example, a touch panel 952, a (digital) pen sensor 954, a key 956, or an ultrasonic input device 958. For example, the touch panel 952 may use at least one of capacitive, resistive, infrared and ultrasonic detecting methods. Also, the touch panel 952 may further include a control circuit. The touch panel 952 may further include a tactile layer to provide a tactile reaction to a user.
The (digital) pen sensor 954 may be, for example, a part of a touch panel or may include an additional sheet for recognition. The key 956 may include, for example, a physical button, an optical key, or a keypad. The ultrasonic input device 958 may detect (or sense) an ultrasonic signal, which is generated from an input device, through a microphone (e.g., a microphone 988) and may check data corresponding to the detected ultrasonic signal.
The display 960 may include a panel 962, a hologram device 964, or a projector 966. The panel 962 may be implemented, for example, to be flexible, transparent or wearable. The panel 962 and the touch panel 952 may be integrated into a single module. The hologram device 964 may display a stereoscopic image in a space using a light interference phenomenon. The projector 966 may project light onto a screen so as to display an image. For example, the screen may be arranged in the inside or the outside of the electronic device 901. According to an embodiment, the display 960 may further include a control circuit for controlling the panel 962, the hologram device 964, or the projector 966.
The interface 970 may include, for example, a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) 972, a universal serial bus (USB) 974, an optical interface 976, or a D-subminiature (D-sub) 978. The interface 970 may be included, for example, in the communication interface 870 illustrated in FIG. 8. Additionally or alternatively, the interface 970 may include, for example, a mobile high definition link (MHL) interface, a SD card/multi-media card (MMC) interface, or an infrared data association (IrDA) standard interface.
The audio module 980 may convert a sound and an electric signal in dual directions. The audio module 980 may process, for example, sound information that is input or output through a speaker 982, a receiver 984, an earphone 986, or the microphone 988.
For example, the camera module 991 may shoot a still image or a video. According to an embodiment, the camera module 991 may include at least one or more image sensors (e.g., a front sensor or a rear sensor), a lens, an image signal processor (ISP), or a flash (e.g., an LED or a xenon lamp).
The power management module 995 may manage, for example, power of the electronic device 901. According to an embodiment, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC), a charger IC, or a battery or fuel gauge may be included in the power management module 995. The PMIC may have a wired charging method and/or a wireless charging method. The wireless charging method may include, for example, a magnetic resonance method, a magnetic induction method or an electromagnetic method and may further include an additional circuit, for example, a coil loop, a resonant circuit, a rectifier, or the like. The battery gauge may measure, for example, a remaining capacity of the battery 996 and a voltage, current or temperature thereof while the battery is charged. The battery 996 may include, for example, a rechargeable battery and/or a solar battery.
The indicator 997 may display a specific state of the electronic device 901 or a part thereof (e.g., the processor 910), such as a booting state, a message state, a charging state, and the like. The motor 998 may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical vibration and may generate the following effects: vibration, haptic, and the like. Although not illustrated, a processing device (e.g., a GPU) for supporting a mobile TV may be included in the electronic device 901. The processing device for supporting the mobile TV may process media data according to the standards of digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB), digital video broadcasting (DVB), MediaFLO™, or the like.
FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of a program module, according to various embodiments.
According to an embodiment, a program module 1010 (e.g., the program 840) may include an operating system (OS) to control resources associated with an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 801), and/or diverse applications (e.g., the application program 847) driven on the OS. The OS may be, for example, Android, iOS, Windows, Symbian, Tizen, or Bada.
The program module 1010 may include a kernel 1020, a middleware 1030, an application programming interface (API) 1060, and/or an application 1070. At least a portion of the program module 1010 may be preloaded on an electronic device or may be downloadable from an external electronic device (e.g., the first external electronic device 802, the second external electronic device 804, or the server 806).
The kernel 1020 (e.g., the kernel 841) may include, for example, a system resource manager 1021 or a device driver 1023. The system resource manager 1021 may control, allocate, or retrieve system resources. According to an embodiment, the system resource manager 1021 may include a process managing unit, a memory managing unit, a file system managing unit, or the like. The device driver 1023 may include, for example, a display driver, a camera driver, a Bluetooth driver, a shared memory driver, a USB driver, a keypad driver, a Wi-Fi driver, an audio driver, or an inter-process communication (IPC) driver.
The middleware 1030 may provide, for example, a function that the application 1070 needs in common, or may provide diverse functions to the application 1070 through the API 1060 to allow the application 1070 to efficiently use limited system resources of the electronic device. According to an embodiment, the middleware 1030 (e.g., the middleware 843) may include at least one of a runtime library 1035, an application manager 1041, a window manager 1042, a multimedia manager 1043, a resource manager 1044, a power manager 1045, a database manager 1046, a package manager 1047, a connectivity manager 1048, a notification manager 1049, a location manager 1050, a graphic manager 1051, or a security manager 1052 and a payment manager 1054 for managing secure electronic financial payments.
The runtime library 1035 may include, for example, a library module that is used by a compiler to add a new function through a programming language while the application 1070 is being executed. The runtime library 1035 may perform input/output management, memory management, or capacities about arithmetic functions.
The application manager 1041 may manage, for example, a life cycle of at least one application of the application 1070. The window manager 1042 may manage a graphic user interface (GUI) resource that is used in a screen. The multimedia manager 1043 may identify a format utilized for playing diverse media files, and may perform encoding or decoding of media files by using a codec suitable for the format. The resource manager 1044 may manage resources such as a storage space, memory, or source code of at least one application of the application 1070.
The power manager 1045 may operate, for example, with a basic input/output system (BIOS) to manage a battery or power, and may provide power information for an operation of an electronic device. The database manager 1046 may generate, search for, or modify database that is to be used in at least one application of the application 1070. The package manager 1047 may install or update an application that is distributed in the form of package file.
The connectivity manager 1048 may manage, for example, wireless connection such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The notification manager 1049 may display or notify an event such as arrival message, appointment, or proximity notification in a mode that does not disturb a user. The location manager 1050 may manage location information about an electronic device. The graphic manager 1051 may manage a graphic effect that is provided to a user, or manage a user interface relevant thereto. The security manager 1052 may provide a general security function utilized for system security, user authentication, or the like. According to an embodiment, in the case where an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 801) includes a telephony function, the middleware 1030 may further include a telephony manager for managing a voice or video call function of the electronic device.
The middleware 1030 may include a middleware module that combines diverse functions of the above-described elements. The middleware 1030 may provide a module specialized to each OS kind to provide differentiated functions. Additionally, the middleware 1030 may dynamically remove a part of the preexisting elements or may add new elements thereto.
The API 1060 (e.g., the API 845) may be, for example, a set of programming functions and may be provided with a configuration that is variable depending on an OS. For example, in the case where an OS is the android or the iOS, it may provide one API set per platform. In the case where an OS is the Tizen, it may provide two or more API sets per platform.
The application 1070 (e.g., the application program 847) may include, for example, one or more applications capable of providing functions for a home 1071, a dialer 1072, an SMS/MMS 1073, an instant message (IM) 1074, a browser 1075, a camera 1076, an alarm 1077, a contact 1078, a voice dial 1079, an e-mail 1080, a calendar 1081, a media player 1082, an album 1083, a timepiece 1084, a payment module 1085, health care (e.g., measuring an exercise quantity, blood sugar, or the like) or offering of environment information (e.g., information of barometric pressure, humidity, temperature, or the like).
According to an embodiment, the application 1070 may include an application (hereinafter referred to as “information exchanging application” for descriptive convenience) to support information exchange between an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 801) and an external electronic device (e.g., the first external electronic device 802 or the second external electronic device 804). The information exchanging application may include, for example, a notification relay application for transmitting specific information to an external electronic device, or a device management application for managing the external electronic device.
For example, the notification relay application may include a function of transmitting notification information, which arise from other applications (e.g., applications for SMS/MMS, e-mail, health care, or environmental information), to an external electronic device (e.g., the first external electronic device 802 or the second external electronic device 804). Additionally, the notification relay application may receive, for example, notification information from an external electronic device and provide the notification information to a user.
The device management application may manage (e.g., install, delete, or update), for example, at least one function (e.g., turn-on/turn-off of an external electronic device itself (or a part of components) or adjustment of brightness (or resolution) of a display) of the external electronic device(e.g., the first external electronic device 802 or the second external electronic device 804) which communicates with the electronic device, an application running in the external electronic device, or a service (e.g., a call service, a message service, or the like) provided from the external electronic device.
According to an embodiment, the application 1070 may include an application (e.g., a health care application of a mobile medical device) that is assigned in accordance with an attribute of an external electronic device (e.g., the first external electronic device 802 or the second external electronic device 804). According to an embodiment, the application 1070 may include an application that is received from an external electronic device (e.g., the first external electronic device 802, the second external electronic device 804, or the server 806). According to an embodiment, the application 1070 may include a preloaded application or a third party application that is downloadable from a server. The names of elements of the program module 1010 according to the embodiment may be modifiable depending on kinds of operating systems.
According to various embodiments, at least a portion of the program module 1010 may be implemented by software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of two or more thereof. At least a portion of the program module 1010 may be implemented (e.g., executed), for example, by the processor. At least a portion of the program module 1010 may include, for example, modules, programs, routines, sets of instructions, processes, or the like for performing one or more functions. Each of the above-mentioned elements of the electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured with one or more components, and the names of the elements may be changed according to the type of the electronic device. In various embodiments, the electronic device may be implemented including at least one of the elements described in this disclosure, some elements of the electronic device may be omitted or other additional elements may be added. Furthermore, some of the elements of the electronic device may be combined with each other so as to form one entity, so that the functions of the elements may be performed in the same manner as before the combination.
The term “module” used in this disclosure may represent, for example, a unit including one or more combinations of hardware, software and firmware. The term “module” may be interchangeably used with the terms “unit”, “logic”, “logical block”, “component” and “circuit”. The “module” may be a minimum unit of an integrated component or may be a part thereof. The “module” may be a minimum unit for performing one or more functions or a part thereof. The “module” may be implemented mechanically or electronically. For example, the “module” may include at least one of an application-specific IC (ASIC) chip, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and a programmable-logic device for performing some operations, which are known or will be developed.
At least a part of an apparatus (e.g., modules or functions thereof) or a method (e.g., operations) according to various embodiments may be, for example, implemented by instructions stored in computer-readable storage media in the form of a program module. The instruction, when executed by a processor, may cause the one or more processors to perform a function corresponding to the instruction.
A computer-readable recording medium may include a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic media (e.g., a magnetic tape), an optical media (e.g., a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM) and a digital versatile disc (DVD), a magneto-optical media (e.g., a floptical disk)), and hardware devices (e.g., a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), or a flash memory). Also, a program instruction may include not only a mechanical code such as things generated by a compiler but also a high-level language code executable on a computer using an interpreter. The above hardware unit may be configured to operate via one or more software modules for performing an operation of various embodiments of the present disclosure, and vice versa.
A module or a program module according to various embodiments may include at least one of the above elements, or a part of the above elements may be omitted, or additional other elements may be further included. Operations performed by a module, a program module, or other elements according to various embodiments may be executed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or in a heuristic method. In addition, some operations may be executed in different sequences or may be omitted. Alternatively, other operations may be added.
While the present disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
What is claimed is:
1. An electronic device, comprising:
a communication module configured to communicate with an external device; a memory configured to store security information controlling registration of secured information, the security information indicating a plurality of data types; an input module; and a processor configured to:
in response to detecting a user input by the input module, retrieving account information corresponding to a user account, and
in response to detecting that data elements of the account information correspond to the plurality of data types in the security information, transmitting a request to register the user account on a first transactional server.
2. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to:
in response to detecting that the data elements of the account information do not correspond to the plurality of data types in the security information, transmitting a request to register the user account on a second transactional server different from the first transactional server.
3. The electronic device of claim 2, wherein the processor is further configured to:
in response to detecting a failure to register the user account on the second transactional server, transmitting a request to register the user account on a third transactional server.
4. The electronic device of claim 3, wherein the first transactional server is communicatively coupled to a first local account server providing the security information;
wherein the second transactional server is communicatively coupled to a second local account server that does not provide the security information; and wherein the third transactional server is communicatively coupled to a global account server.
5. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of data types within the security information includes identification information identifying a transactional entity, an identification number range corresponding to the transactional entity, and
wherein the account information includes a string of numbers.
6. The electronic device of claim 5, wherein the plurality of data types within the security information further include at least one of whether to provide a global service, country information, and condition information utilized for card registration.
7. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to:
determine whether an update to the security information is detected; in response to detecting the update, request the updated security information from the first transactional server using the communication module; receive the updated security information from the first transactional server for storage in the memory.
8. The electronic device of claim 7, wherein requesting the updated security information comprises request a latest version of the security information; and
confirming that the security information has been updated by comparing the latest version of the security information and a last-stored version of the security information stored in the memory when the latest version information is received from the first transactional server.
9. A method in an electronic device, comprising:
receiving by a communication module security information for storage in a memory, the security information indicating a plurality of data types; in response to detecting a user input by an input module, retrieving account information corresponding to a user account; and in response to detecting that data elements of the account information correspond to the plurality of data types in the security information, transmitting a request to register the user account on a first transactional server.
10. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
in response to detecting that the data elements of the account information do not correspond to the plurality of data types in the security information, transmitting a request to register the user account on a second transactional server different from the first transactional server.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising:
in response to detecting a failure to register the user account on the second transactional server, transmitting a request to register the user account on a third transactional server.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the first transactional server is communicatively coupled to a first local account server providing the security information;
wherein the second transactional server is communicatively coupled to a second local account server that does not provide the security information; and wherein the third transactional server is communicatively coupled to a global account server.
13. The method of claim 9, wherein the plurality of data types within the security information includes identification information identifying a transactional entity, an identification number range corresponding to the transactional entity, and
wherein the account information includes a string of numbers.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the plurality of data types within the security information further include at least one of whether to provide a global service, country information, and condition information utilized for card registration.
15. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
determining whether an update to the security information is detected; in response to detecting the update, requesting the updated security information from the first transactional server using the communication module; receiving the updated security information from the first transactional server for storage in the memory.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein requesting the updated security information comprises request a latest version of the security information; and
confirming that the security information has been updated by comparing the latest version of the security information and a last-stored version of the security information stored in the memory when the latest version information is received from the first transactional server.
17. A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:
receive by a communication module security information for storage in a memory, the security information indicating a plurality of data types; in response to detecting a user input by an input module, retrieve account information corresponding to a user account; and in response to detecting that data elements of the account information correspond to the plurality of data types in the security information, transmit a request to register the user account on a first transactional server.
| 2017-12-05 | en | 2018-06-07 |
US-202117220157-A | Method for connecting an energy storage module to a module support, in particular a cooling element
ABSTRACT
A method for connecting an energy storage module to a module support, in particular a cooling element, The energy storage module is fastened on the module support by multiple connecting screws, which are each screwed into threaded bores provided on the module support. A gap is provided between the bottom of the energy storage module and the bottom of the module support, into which a thermally-conductive compound is introduced, which is distributed to fill the gap due to a reduction of the gap width when the energy storage module is screwed down.
FIELD
The invention relates to method for connecting an energy storage module to a module support, in particular a cooling element, wherein the energy module is fastened on the module support by means of multiple connecting screws, which are each screwed into threaded bores provided on the module support, and wherein a gap is provided between the bottom of the energy storage module and the bottom of the module support, into which a thermally-conductive compound is introduced, which is distributed to fill the gap when the energy storage module is screwed on as a result of a reduction of the gap width.
BACKGROUND
Electrically-operated motor vehicles require one or more energy storage devices, also called batteries, which typically comprise a plurality of individual energy storage modules. These modules are fixedly connected to a module support, in particular a cooling element, via which cooling of the energy storage modules is possible. Introducing a thermally-conductive compound, typically pasty, into a gap existing between the bottom of the energy storage module and the bottom of the module support is known here, see, for example EP 2 104 121 A1, which is compressed upon tightening of the connecting screws because the gap width is reduced as they are screwed in. The compound, typically called “gap filler,” is distributed in the entire gap space, so that thermal coupling is provided between the bottom of the energy storage module and the module support, in particular the cooling element. This type of fastening the energy storage module or modules is problematic insofar as cases of soft screws can occur during the tightening of the screws, i.e., the screw head can be screwed slightly into the soft surface, for example of the housing of the energy storage module. In this case, the rotational movement is braked, but not stopped, so that ultimately the torque increases less and thus a “soft” screw connection is provided. Setting equal tightening conditions over all screw connections is therefore not always possible, there are cases in which reworking is necessary. Furthermore, often only a relatively large gap can be set by this system.
In addition, using tolerance compensation elements in manufacturing at the factory of such an energy storage device is known, which elements are placed between the energy storage module and the module support and through which the respective connecting screw extends. Such a tolerance compensation element is a two-part component, comprising a first section fixed on the module support and a second section, which interacts with the connecting screw and is moved opposite to the screwing-in direction and presses against the energy storage module in the connected position. Placing such tolerance compensation elements enables the implementation of a minimal gap, wherein in this known method the thermally-conductive compound is not compressed via the screw connection, but via a press, which applies a force of approximately 10 kN for the compression. After the compression, the connecting screws are placed to finally fix the already compressed energy storage module, wherein the second section of the tolerance compensation element is unscrewed during the screwing in of the connecting screws and the connecting screw spins upon reaching the fastening end position.
Such a connecting technique can be selected at the factory, but not on location in the workshops, since a corresponding press is not available there. If an attempt is made using the typical connecting screws while using such tolerance compensation elements to screw down the energy storage module and simultaneously to compress the compound, this would thus not result in complete distribution of the compound, since the tolerance compensation elements would quasi-freeze the gap existing at the start of the screwing down, since the second section is unscrewed from the first during the screwing down as soon it presses against the bottom of the energy storage module, which would limit the further compression movement.
SUMMARY
The invention is therefore based on the object of specifying an improved method for connecting an energy storage module to a module support, in particular a cooling element, which can also be carried out in particular in a workshop.
To solve this problem, it is provided according to the invention in a method of the type mentioned at the outset that multiple tolerance compensation elements are provided between the energy storage module and the module support, which each have a first section fixed on the module support and a second section, which interacts with the connecting screw and is moved opposite to the screwing-in direction, and which presses against the energy storage module in the connected position, wherein first the energy storage module is screwed down using compression screws, which do not interact with the second sections, in such a way that the height of the gap is reduced and the compound is distributed to fill the gap, after which the compression screws are removed and the connecting screws are placed and screwed down, which interact with the second sections and the second sections are unscrewed from the first sections until the second section presses against the energy storage module.
In the method according to the invention, the compression of the compound is carried out by screwing in special compression screws, which are designed so that the energy storage module is moved toward the module support during the screwing down and the compound is also compressed, but at the same time no mechanical interaction takes place between the compression screws and the respective second sections of the tolerance compensation elements. That is to say, these compression screws are used exclusively for the initial screwing down of the energy storage module on the module support solely to compress the compound, but not for the final fixing of the energy storage module on the module support with activation of the tolerance compensation elements. The actual connecting screws are provided for this purpose, which are screwed down as replacements for the compression screws, and which, as quasi-typical connecting screws also heretofore used, have a corresponding threaded section which can be screwed into the module-support-side threaded bore, on the one hand, and which interacts with the second section, on the other hand, so that it is unscrewed and runs toward the module bottom.
The use of the specific compression screws therefore enables the required high forces to be applied on location in the workshop, which are necessary to move the energy storage module sufficiently forcefully against the module support and to compress the compound in this case, so that it is distributed in the gap while completely filling it without this movement or this compression having been obstructed by the tolerance compensation elements, since the tolerance compensation elements are not actuated.
To enable this, in one refinement of the invention each compression screw can have a threaded section, the length of which is dimensioned so that it can be screwed without problems into the module-support-side threaded bore. A shaft section having reduced diameter adjoins this threaded section. This reduced diameter is provided in particular in the region with which the shaft section extends through the tolerance compensation element. The reduced shaft diameter is dimensioned so that the compression screw does not interact with the second section of the tolerance compensation element, it thus remains unactuated, even when the compression screw is screwed in and tightened. For the compression, the compression screws are accordingly placed through corresponding passages in the housing of the energy storage module or a corresponding placed cover overlapping the energy storage module and positioned with respect to the module-support-side threaded bores. Upon the tightening of the compression screws, the screw heads run against the upper side of the energy storage module or the fastening cover so that with increasing screwing down, the energy storage module is pressed against the module support while compressing the compound. This screwing down takes place until it is ensured that the compound is completely compressed and distributed, which is provided, for example, when a required tightening torque is reached, so that a corresponding gap setting is defined via this, or by a gap filler compound escape on the module side or the like.
In the next step, the compression screws are loosened and the connecting screws, typical standard fastening screws, are inserted through the passages and screwed into the threaded bores. Minor further compression possibly also takes place here. In any case, however, the second sections of the tolerance compensation elements are actuated and unscrewed, thus run against the bottom of the energy storage module and thus clamp the tolerance compensation element between the module support and the energy storage module. Upon reaching this end position, each connecting screw spins, that is to say that the second section is not unscrewed further until the connecting screw has reached its end position. The module is fixed, but the compound is also completely distributed at the same time.
This method can obviously be carried out without problems at the workshop, since the use of the compression screws enables solid compression and the setting of a very small gap width, since the high required screwing force can be applied without the tolerance compensation element limiting the gap width.
As described, each tolerance compensation element interacts using the second section with the connecting screw. In order that this is possible, each tolerance compensation element expediently has a spring element interacting with the connecting screw in the second section, wherein the connecting screw, when the second section presses against the energy storage module, spins inside the spring element or is no longer in contact with the spring element. This spring element is accordingly a driver element which interacts temporarily with the connecting screw until it spins or is no longer in contact with the spring element.
To fasten each tolerance compensation element on the module support, the first section of each compensation element expediently has a threaded section, using which the first section is screwed into a threaded bore provided on the module support, and the second section assumes a predetermined position relative to the first section. That is to say, the tolerance compensation element is screwed in a simple manner into a module-support-side threaded bore and fixed therein. At the same time, the second section is set relative to the first section so that it assumes a defined position in relation thereto. The second section can be screwed with an externally threaded section into an internally threaded bore of the first section, so that it can be unscrewed via this screw connection during the screwing in of the connecting screw, for which purpose the thread ascends opposite to the screwing-in direction.
Any arbitrary module support can be used as the module support, but preferably a cooling element such as a corresponding cooling plate or the like, via which the dissipation of the heat arising during operation of the energy storage module takes place.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
Further advantages and details of the present invention result from the exemplary embodiments described hereinafter and on the basis of the drawings. In the figures:
FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of an energy storage module placed on the module support before the compression using the compression screws,
FIG. 2 shows the arrangement from FIG. 1 after the compression using the compression screws,
FIG. 3 shows the arrangement from FIG. 2 after the replacement of the compression screws with the connecting screws,
FIG. 4 shows a schematic illustration of a tolerance compensation element and the compression screw during the screwing down thereof, and
FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of the tolerance compensation element and the connecting screw after the screwing down thereof.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
FIG. 1 shows an energy storage module 1 and a module support 2, for example a cooling plate 3, which has two side walls 4 and two wall sections 5, on which multiple compensation elements 6, two of which are shown here, which are also described in detail hereinafter, are arranged. Each tolerance compensation element 6 has a first section, which is screwed in on the respective wall section 5, for example into a suitable threaded bore, and fixed therein. Furthermore, each tolerance compensation element 6 has a second section, which can be screwed down via a threaded connection relative to the first section and is unscrewed from the first section upon the placement of a connecting screw.
The energy storage module 2 itself has a housing 7, on which two housing sections 8 are provided in the example shown, which have a corresponding passage 9, through each of which a compression screw 10 is guided in the example shown. This compression screw 10 has in each case a threaded section 11 formed on one end, which is screwed into a threaded bore 12 on the wall section 5. This threaded section 11 is adjoined by a shaft section 13 having reduced diameter, as clearly shown in FIG. 1. This shaft section is located in the region with which the compression screw 10 extends in each case through the tolerance compensation element 6. In the example shown, this reduced shaft section diameter is maintained up to the screw head 14.
Furthermore, a gap 15 is obviously formed between the bottom 16 of the housing 7 of the energy storage module and the bottom 17 of the module support 2 or the cooling element 3. A bead of a thermally-conductive compound 18 is introduced into this gap, which is to be compressed so that it is distributed in the gap.
This takes place in that the compression screw 10 are tightened. This procedure is shown in FIG. 2. The compression screws 10 are screwed via the threaded sections 11 into the threaded bores 12 so that the screw heads 14, which press against the upper side of the housing sections 8, move the energy storage module 1 toward the module support 2. A significant reduction of the width of the gap 15 and a compression of the compound 18 take place here, as shown in FIG. 2.
FIG. 2 furthermore shows that the two tolerance compensation elements 6 remain completely unactuated in this case, that is to say, the second section of the tolerance compensation element 16 is not moved relative to the first section. In the installation position, a narrow gap 19 remains between the tolerance compensation element 6 and the respective wall section 8.
In the next step, which is shown in FIG. 3, the compression screws 10 are removed again and connecting screws 20 are screwed in. These connecting screws 20 have a continuous threaded section 21, i.e., a threaded shaft which is screwed into the threaded bore 12, on the one hand, and which interacts with the second section because of its diameter, on the other hand, so that this second section is unscrewed from the first section until it comes into contact on the lower side of the respective wall section. This situation is shown in FIG. 3, where, on the one hand, the respective first section 22 of the tolerance compensation element is shown, which remains unmoving in its screwed-down position on the wall section 5, while the second section 23, viewed axially, is unscrewed from the first section 22.
During the unscrewing, the second section 23 runs against the housing section 8, which has the result that the threaded section 21, which has interacted up to this point with the second section, because of which the second section 23 was unscrewed from the first section 22, now rotates through the second section, and as a result the second connecting screw 20 can still be screwed in somewhat further until the installation end position is just reached, which can be ascertained, for example, by detecting a corresponding tightening torque.
FIG. 4 shows a more detailed view of a tolerance compensation element 6 with its first section 22 and its second section 23. The first section 22 is inserted, for example screwed, into a receptacle 24 formed on the module support 2. The threaded bore 12 is formed in extension of this receptacle 24, into which the threaded section 11 of the compression screw 10 and also the threaded section 21 of the connecting screw 20 is screwed.
Furthermore, the internally threaded bore 25 of the first section 22 and the externally threaded section 26 of the second section 23 are shown, that is to say, the two can be screwed together relative to one another. The second section 23 has a terminal radial shoulder 27, with which it presses against the lower side of the respective housing section 8 in the installation final position.
A spring element 29 is received in a through bore 28 of the second section 23, which is capable of interacting with the threaded section 21 when the connecting screw 20 is screwed in. As described, the second section 23 is carried along against the screwing-in direction here, that is to say, the second section 23 is unscrewed from the first section 22, as will be described hereinafter.
In the embodiment according to FIG. 4, the compression screw 10 is screwed in. The threaded section 11 obviously engages in the internally threaded bore 12, screwing down and thus tightening of the energy storage module 1 toward the module support 2 is thus possible. However, the shaft section 13 reduced in diameter obviously does not interact with the spring element 29, so that the second section 23 is not moved independently of how deep the connecting screw 10 is also screwed in.
The situation is different according to FIG. 5, where the connecting screw 20 is screwed in. It is inserted and screwed with the threaded section 21 into the threaded bore 12. However, during this screwing down movement, an interaction simultaneously takes place between the threaded section 21 and the spring element 29, so that the second section 23 is moved and, due to the thread pitch of the threaded connection between the first and the second section 22, 23, is unscrewed from the first section 22 against the screwing-in direction, as FIG. 5 clearly shows.
This takes place until the radial flange 27 presses against the lower side of the respective wall section 8. The second connecting screw 20 or the threaded section 21 then spins, that is to say, the clamping action in relation to the spring element 29 is no longer provided and the connecting screw 20 can be finally tightened.
The fastening system according to the invention obviously enables, on the one hand, the energy storage module 1 to be screwed down toward the module support 2 solely by a screw connection, namely by using the compression screws, with sufficiently high force, so that the compound 18 can be compressed and a very narrow gap width can be achieved. At the same time, by replacing the compression screws with the connecting screws, the fastening system subsequently enables the placed tolerance compensation elements, which have been unactuated up to this point, to be actuated and to be quasi-clamped between the respective wall section 5 in the housing section 8, so that possible residual gaps are also compensated here.
1. A method for connecting an energy storage module to a module support, in particular a cooling element, wherein the energy storage module is fastened on the module support by multiple connecting screws, which are each screwed into threaded bores provided on the module support, and wherein a gap is provided between the bottom of the energy storage module and the bottom of the module support, into which gap a thermally-conductive compound is introduced, which is distributed to fill the gap due to a reduction of the gap width when the energy storage module is screwed down, wherein
multiple tolerance compensation elements are provided between the energy storage module and the module support, which each have a first section fixed on the module support and a second section which interacts with the connecting screw and is moved against the screwing-in direction, and which presses against the energy storage module in the connected position, wherein first the energy storage module is screwed down using compression screws, which do not interact with the second sections, in such a way that the width of the gap is reduced and the compound is distributed to fill the gap, after which the compression screws are removed and the connecting screws which interact with the second sections are placed and screwed down, and the second sections are unscrewed from the first sections until the second section presses against the energy storage module.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein compression screws are used having a threaded section that can be screwed into the threaded bore and a shaft section adjoining thereon and reduced in diameter in such a way that the shaft section does not interact with the second section of the tolerance compensation element.
3. The method according to claim 1, wherein each tolerance compensation element in the second section has a spring element interacting with the threaded section of the second connecting screw, wherein the second connecting screw, when the second section presses against the energy storage module, spins inside the spring element or is no longer in contact.
4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first section of each tolerance compensation element is screwed with a threaded section into a threaded bore provided on the module support and the second section assumes a predetermined position relative to the first section.
5. The method according to claim 1, wherein a cooling element is used as the module support.
6. The method according to claim 2, wherein each tolerance compensation element in the second section has a spring element interacting with the threaded section of the second connecting screw, wherein the second connecting screw, when the second section presses against the energy storage module, spins inside the spring element or is no longer in contact.
7. The method according to claim 2, wherein the first section of each tolerance compensation element is screwed with a threaded section into a threaded bore provided on the module support and the second section assumes a predetermined position relative to the first section.
8. The method according to claim 3, wherein the first section of each tolerance compensation element is screwed with a threaded section into a threaded bore provided on the module support and the second section assumes a predetermined position relative to the first section.
9. The method according to claim 2, wherein a cooling element is used as the module support.
10. The method according to claim 3, wherein a cooling element is used as the module support.
11. The method according to claim 4, wherein a cooling element is used as the module support.
| 2021-04-01 | en | 2021-10-21 |
US-202218073614-A | Cable gland
ABSTRACT
A cable gland includes a body, a cover, and an insert. The body is configured to be received in an opening of a housing. The body has a tube defining a first cavity extending circumferentially about an axis. The cover is threadedly engaged with the tube and configured to seal the body to the housing. The insert is disposed in the first cavity and defines a second cavity configured to receive a cable. The insert includes a plurality of ribs engaged with the tube.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/346,356, filed May 27, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated in its entirety by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates generally to a cable gland, and more specifically to a cable gland including a body and an insert including a plurality of ribs engaged with the body.
BACKGROUND
A housing of an assembly, e.g., an actuator, may include openings configured to receive a cable, which may be configured to provide power to electronics within the housing of the assembly. Cable glands are configured to seal the cable to the housing in the opening. However, the cable gland may be improperly sealed to one of the cable or the housing, e.g., due to misalignment of a component seal and/or manufacturing tolerances. Due to possible fluid leakage through an improperly sealed cable gland, it is desirable to have alternate designs and configurations to seal a cable to a housing via a cable gland.
SUMMARY
Embodiments of the present disclosure provides a cable gland including a body, a cover, and an insert. The body is configured to be received in an opening of a housing. The body has a tube defining a first cavity extending circumferentially about an axis. The cover is threadedly engaged with the tube and configured to seal the body to the housing. The insert is disposed in the first cavity and defines a second cavity configured to receive a cable. The insert includes a plurality of ribs engaged with the tube.
In embodiments, a diameter of the second cavity may be smaller than a diameter of the first cavity. In embodiments, the first cavity may be arranged coaxially with the second cavity.
In embodiments, the cover may include a top having a further opening extending therethrough. The further opening may be arranged coaxially with the first cavity. The second cavity and the further opening may have smaller diameters than the first cavity. The diameter of the second cavity may be smaller than the diameter of the further opening. The insert may contact the top entirely around the further opening.
In embodiments, the ribs may be axially spaced from each other. In embodiments, the ribs may be configured to seal the insert to the tube. In embodiments, the ribs may be configured to contact the tube entirely about the axis.
In embodiments, the cable gland may include a seal extending circumferentially about the tube. The seal may be configured to be compressed between the cover, the tube, and the housing.
In embodiments, the body may include a base axially spaced from the cover and extending radially inward of the first cavity. One of the ribs may be arranged to contact the base circumferentially about the axis. The cover may include a top extending radially inward of the first cavity. The insert may contact the top circumferentially about the axis.
In embodiments, each rib may extend circumferentially about the axis. In embodiments, the insert may be configured to contact the cable entirely about the axis.
In embodiments, a diameter of the insert at one of the ribs may be greater than a diameter of the cavity. In embodiments, a diameter of the second cavity may be smaller than a diameter of the cable. In embodiments, the insert may be configured to radially expand when the cable is inserted into the second cavity. In embodiments, the ribs may be axially spaced from each other. The ribs may be configured to axially expand when the insert is inserted into the first cavity.
Embodiments of the present disclosure further provides a method for installing a cable gland. The cable gland includes a body and an insert disposed in the body. The insert defines a second cavity configured to receive a cable and includes a plurality of ribs engaged with the body. The method includes providing a housing defining a cavity and an opening in fluid communication with the cavity. The method further includes inserting the body into the opening via the cavity. The method further includes installing a cable into the insert. The insert is radially deformed by the cable during installation. The method further includes installing the insert into the body. The ribs are axially deformed by the body during installation.
BRIEF DESCRPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary rotary actuator.
FIG. 2 illustrates a magnified cross-sectional view of a cable gland shown in FIG. 1 .
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cable gland in an uninstalled state.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein. It should be appreciated that like drawing numbers appearing in different drawing views identify identical, or functionally similar, structural elements. Also, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples and other embodiments can take various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features could be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the embodiments. As those of ordinary skill in the art will understand, various features illustrated and described with reference to any one of the figures can be combined with features illustrated in one or more other figures to produce embodiments that are not explicitly illustrated or described. The combinations of features illustrated provide representative embodiments for typical applications. Various combinations and modifications of the features consistent with the teachings of this disclosure, however, could be desired for particular applications or implementations.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods, devices or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the disclosure, the following example methods, devices, and materials are now described.
Cable glands may include a body configured to receive a cable, a seal, and a cover configured to compress the seal between the body, the cover and a housing of an assembly. However, misalignment of one of the components and/or manufacturing tolerances can prevent the cable gland from effectively sealing the cable to the housing. Advantageously, a cable gland, in one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, includes an insert configured to receive the cable. The insert includes a plurality of ribs engaged with the body of the cable gland. Providing an insert having a plurality of ribs allows for deformation of the insert and the ribs when the cable is received in the cable gland, which can increase a likelihood of the insert being sealed to the body thereby decreasing a likelihood of fluid intrusion through the cable gland.
With reference to FIGS. 1-3 , an actuator 100 is generally shown. The actuator 100 includes a housing 102 and a plurality of components housed, at least partially, therein. The housing 102 includes a wall 104 defining a cavity 106. The wall 104 includes an opening 108 extending through the wall 104 along an axis A.
The actuator 100 includes a cable 110 extending through the opening 108. The cable 110 includes one or more wires configured to provide electricity to one or more components of the actuator 100, e.g., a sensor, a motor (e.g., an alternating current motor, a direct current motor, etc.), a computing device, etc.
The actuator 100 may include a cable gland 112 disposed in the opening 108. That is, the opening 108 may be designed to receive the cable gland 112. The cable gland 112 is configured to seal the cable 110 to the wall 104 in the opening 108. The cable gland 112 may be arranged coaxially with the opening 108. The cable gland 112 includes: a body 114; a cover 116; a seal 118; and an insert 120. The components of the cable gland 112 may be any suitable material or combination of materials, e.g., rubber, plastic, metal, etc.
The body 114 may include a base 122 disposed in the cavity 106. The base 122 may extend radially outward of the opening 108 relative to the axis A. The base 122 may be configured to engage an axial surface (not numbered) of the housing 102, e.g., to axially constrain the body 114 relative to the housing 102. The base 122 may define an first opening 124 arranged coaxially with the axis A. The first opening 124 may extend axially through the base 122. The first opening 124 may extend circumferentially about the axis A. The first opening 124 may be designed, i.e., sized and shaped, to receive the cable 110. For example, a diameter of the first opening 124 may be larger than a diameter of the cable 110. The diameter of the first opening 124 may be smaller than a diameter of the opening 108.
The base 122 may include a plurality of fingers (not numbered) extending obliquely from the base 122 relative to the axis A. The fingers may spaced from each other about the axis A. The fingers may be arranged at the first opening 124. The fingers may extend towards the axis A and into the cavity 106. Each finger may include an end spaced from the first opening 124 along the axis A. The fingers may be configured such that the ends contact the cable 110, which may assist in retaining the cable 110 in the cable gland 112.
The body 114 may include a tube 126 extending from the base 122 to an end 128 spaced from the base 122 along the axis A. The end 128 is disposed external to the cavity 106. That is, the tube 126 extends through the opening 108. The tube 126 extends annularly about the axis A. That is, the tube 126 defines a first cavity 130 extending axially therethrough. The first cavity 130 may be arranged coaxially with the axis A. The first cavity 130 may extend circumferentially about the axis A. A diameter of the first cavity 130 may be larger than the diameter of the first opening 124. The tube 126 may be configured to contact the wall 104, e.g., entirely, around the opening 108. That is, an outer diameter of the tube 126 may correspond to the diameter of the opening 108. The tube 126 may include a plurality of threads on an outer diameter thereof. The threads may be disposed at the end 128 of the tube 126. The threads may be spaced from the housing 102 when the base 122 contacts the wall 104.
The seal 118 is disposed external to the cavity 106. The seal 118 extends circumferentially about the tube 126. The seal 118 is configured to seal the tube 126 to the housing 102 entirely around the opening 108. For example, the seal 118 may be configured to contact the wall 104 and the tube 126 entirely around the opening 108. The seal 118 may be any suitable type of seal, e.g., an O-ring.
The cover 116 may include a top 132 extending about the axis A and a wall 134 extending from the top 132 axially along the axis A. The top 132 may include an second opening 136 extending therethrough. The second opening 136 may extend circumferentially about the axis A. A diameter of the second opening 136 may be smaller than the diameter the first opening 124. The diameter of the second opening 136 may, for example, be equal to the diameter of the cable 110 such that the top 132 may contact the cable 110, e.g., entirely, around the second opening 136. As another example, the diameter of the second opening 136 may be larger than the diameter of the cable 110. The top 132 may, at least partially, cover the insert 120. The second opening 136 may be arranged coaxially with the axis A.
The wall 134 may include a plurality of threads disposed on an inner axial side of the wall 134 relative to the axis A. The plurality of threads on the wall 134 may be configured to engage the plurality of threads on the tube 126. That is, the cover 116 may be threadedly engage with the body 114 via the threads on the tube 126 and the threads on the wall 134.
The wall 134 includes an end 138 spaced from the top 132 along the axis A. The end 138 is configured to compress the seal 118 against the housing 102 and the body 114 entirely around the opening 108. That is, the cover 116, the seal 118, and the body 114 seal the cable gland 112 around the opening 108. In other words, the cable gland 112 prevents fluid communication between the cavity 106 and the environment around the housing 102 via the opening 108.
The insert 120 is disposed in the first cavity 130. The insert 120 defines a second cavity 140 extending axially therethrough. The second cavity 140 may be arranged coaxially with the axis A. A diameter of the second cavity 140 is smaller than the diameter of the first opening 124. Additionally, the diameter of the second cavity 140 is smaller than the diameter of the second opening 136. The insert 120 may extend from the top 132 to the base 122. The insert 120 may, for example, contact the top 132 entirely about the second opening 136. The insert 120 may, for example, contact the base 122 entirely about the first opening 124. The insert 120 may further include a tab (not numbered) extending, at least partially, through the first opening 124. The tab may be compressed between the cable 110 and the base 122 in the first opening 124.
The insert 120 is configured to seal the cable 110 to the body 114. The insert 120 is designed, i.e., sized and shaped, to contact the cable 110 entirely about the axis A. The diameter of the second cavity 140 is smaller than a diameter of the cable 110 to assist in sealing the cable 110 to the body 114. Specifically, the second cavity 140 is configured to radially expand, e.g., via elastic deformation, to receive the cable 110 during installation of the cable 110 into the insert 120, which allows the insert 120 to radially compress the cable 110 when the cable 110 is installed into the insert 120. That is, a diameter of the second cavity 140 may be smaller in an uninstalled state (as shown in FIG. 3 ) than in an installed state (as shown in FIG. 2 ) of the cable gland 112.
The insert 120 includes a plurality of ribs 142 extending circumferentially about the axis A. The ribs 142 extend radially outward from an outer diameter of the insert 120. Each rib 142 may extend entirely about the insert 120 relative to the axis A. The ribs 142 are axially spaced from each other. An axial spacing between adjacent ribs 142 may be greater when the cable gland 112 is in an uninstalled state than when the cable gland 112 is in an installed state, i.e., prior to installation of the cable 110 into the insert 120. The ribs 142 may be radially aligned with each other, i.e., extend a same distance from the axis A.
The ribs 142 are configured to seal the insert 120 to the body 114. A diameter of the insert 120 at one of the ribs 142 is larger than a diameter of the first cavity 130. That is, the ribs 142 are configured to contact the tube 126 entirely about the axis A. During installation of the insert 120 into the first cavity 130, the ribs 142 are radially compressed against the tube 126. In this situation, the ribs 142 are configured to axially expand towards each other to accommodate the radial expansion of the insert 120 due to installation of the cable 110. That is, the axial spacing between the ribs 142 permits the ribs 142 to deform axially in response to being radially compressed by the tube 126. Said differently, the ribs 142 are configured to, during installation of the insert 120 to the body 114, compensate for deformation of the insert 120 resulting from installation of the cable 110 to the insert 120. In the installed state, one of the ribs 142 may contact the base 122 and/or another of the ribs 142 may contact the top 132. Additionally, or alternatively, at least some of the ribs 142 may be spaced from each other, or the ribs 142 may contact each other.
Configuring the insert 120 such that the second cavity 140 radially expands during installation of the cable 110 to the insert 120 can increase a likelihood of the insert 120 being sealed to the cable 110, e.g., due to radial compression of the insert 120 on the cable 110. Additionally, configuring the ribs 142 to axially expand during installation of the insert 120 to the body 114 allows the ribs 142 to accommodate the radial compression of the insert 120 by the tube 126, which can increase a likelihood of the insert 120 being sealed to the body 114. In other words, the insert 120 increases a likelihood of the cable gland 112 sealing the opening 108 around the cable 110.
The following should be viewed in light of FIGS. 1-3 . The following describes an exemplary method of assembling the cable gland 112 to seal the cable 110 to the housing 102. the opening 108 may be designed to receive the cable gland 112. A first step provides the housing 102. A second step inserts the body 114 into the cavity 106. A third step inserts the tube 126 through the opening 108. A fourth step contacts the base 122 to the wall 104. A fifth step arranges the seal 118 around the tube 126. A sixth step provides the cable 110 and the insert 120. A seventh step routes the cable 110 through the second opening 136 of the cover 116. An eighth step inserts the cable 110 into the insert 120, which radially deforms the insert 120. A ninth step inserts the insert 120 into the tube 126, which axially deforms the ribs 142. A tenth step contacts the base 122 with the insert 120. An eleventh step threadedly engages the cover 116 with the tube 126. A twelfth step compresses the seal 118 against the housing 102 with the cover 116.
While exemplary embodiments are described above, it is not intended that these embodiments describe all possible forms encompassed by the claims. The words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. As previously described, the features of various embodiments can be combined to form further embodiments of the disclosure that may not be explicitly described or illustrated. While various embodiments could have been described as providing advantages or being preferred over other embodiments or prior art implementations with respect to one or more desired characteristics, those of ordinary skill in the art recognize that one or more features or characteristics can be compromised to achieve desired overall system attributes, which depend on the specific application and implementation. These attributes can include, but are not limited to cost, strength, durability, life cycle cost, marketability, appearance, packaging, size, serviceability, weight, manufacturability, ease of assembly, etc. As such, to the extent any embodiments are described as less desirable than other embodiments or prior art implementations with respect to one or more characteristics, these embodiments are not outside the scope of the disclosure and can be desirable for particular applications.
LISTING OF REFERENCE CHARACTERISTICS
100 actuator
102 housing
104 wall
106 cavity
108 opening
110 cable
112 cable gland
114 body
116 cover
118 seal
120 insert
122 base
124 opening
126 tube
128 end
130 cavity
132 top
134 wall
136 opening
138 end
140 cavity
142 ribs A axis
What is claimed is:
1. A cable gland, comprising:
a body configured to be received in an opening of a housing, the body having a tube defining a first cavity extending circumferentially about an axis; a cover threadedly engaged with the tube and configured to seal the body to the housing; and an insert disposed in the first cavity and defining a second cavity configured to receive a cable, the insert including a plurality of ribs engaged with the tube.
2. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the second cavity is smaller than a diameter of the first cavity.
3. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein the first cavity is arranged coaxially with the second cavity.
4. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein the cover includes a top having a further opening extending therethrough, the further opening being arranged coaxially with the first cavity.
5. The cable gland of claim 4, wherein the second cavity and the further opening have smaller diameters than the first cavity.
6. The cable gland of claim 5, wherein the diameter of the second cavity is smaller than the diameter of the further opening.
7. The cable gland of claim 4, wherein the insert contacts the top entirely around the further opening.
8. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein the ribs are axially spaced from each other.
9. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein the ribs are configured to seal the insert to the tube.
10. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein the ribs are configured to contact the tube entirely about the axis.
11. The cable gland of claim 1, further comprising a seal extending circumferentially about the tube, the seal being configured to be compressed between the cover, the tube, and the housing.
12. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein the body includes a base axially spaced from the cover and extending radially inward of the first cavity, one of the ribs being arranged to contact the base circumferentially about the axis.
13. The cable gland of claim 12, wherein the cover includes a top extending radially inward of the first cavity, the insert contacting the top circumferentially about the axis.
14. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein each rib extends circumferentially about the axis.
15. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein the insert is configured to contact the cable entirely about the axis.
16. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the insert at one of the ribs is greater than a diameter of the first cavity.
17. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the second cavity is smaller than a diameter of the cable.
18. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein the insert is configured to radially expand when the cable is inserted into the second cavity.
19. The cable gland of claim 1, wherein the ribs are axially spaced from each other, the ribs being configured to axially expand when the insert is inserted into the first cavity.
20. A method for installing a cable gland, the cable gland including a body and an insert disposed in the body, the insert defines a second cavity configured to receive a cable and includes a plurality of ribs engaged with the body, the method comprising:
providing a housing defining a cavity and an opening in fluid communication with the cavity; inserting the body into the opening via the cavity; installing a cable into the insert, wherein the insert is radially deformed by the cable during installation; and installing the insert into the body, wherein the ribs are axially deformed by the body during installation.
| 2022-12-02 | en | 2023-11-30 |
US-201515126243-A | Apparatus and method for control of thermal appliances
ABSTRACT
A mobile communications device for controlling a thermal appliance. The device comprises a first communications interface configured to communicate over a wireless local area network and a second communications interface configured to communicate over a wide area network. The device also comprises a processor coupled to the communications interfaces and configured to send, via the local area network, commands to control operation of the thermal appliance, and to receive, via the local area network, information relating to operation of the thermal appliance. Additionally, the device comprises a user interface for obtaining user input to control the thermal appliance and for providing a user with information relating to operation of the thermal appliance; wherein the processor is further configured to: monitor connection of the first communication interface with the wireless local area network, determine whether to trigger an alert in response to loss of connection of the first communication interface to the wireless local area network, and to send a command, based on user input provided in response to a triggered alert, to the thermal appliance via the second communications interface.
The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatus for controlling the operation of thermal appliances, such as heating or cooling systems, for example systems such as may be used to heat or cool domestic or commercial premises.
Conventional heating and cooling systems may operate by a user manually switching the heating or cooling system off or on. For example, a user may manually turn a heating or cooling system on when desired depending on the ambient temperature of a room in a house. In some conventional heating and cooling systems a timer program may be used, so that for example the heating is scheduled to automatically turn on and off at set times in the day. However, it is common for such systems to be left on for longer than necessary. Therefore such conventional systems may be considered inefficient, and a more efficient heating or cooling system is desired. Wireless thermostats are one way to provide convenient control of thermal appliances.
Embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1A shows a schematic diagram of a system for controlling the operation of a thermal appliance;
FIG. 1B shows an example flow diagram for a process for controlling the operation of a thermal appliance for use with the system of FIG. 1A or FIG. 2;
FIG. 2A shows a schematic diagram of a system for controlling the operation of a thermal appliance;
FIG. 2B shows an example flow diagram for a process for controlling the operation of a thermal appliance for use with the system of FIG. 1A or FIG. 2;
FIG. 3A shows a schematic diagram of a system for controlling the operation of a thermal appliance;
FIG. 3B shows a schematic diagram of a system for controlling the operation of a thermal appliance;
FIG. 3C shows an example flow diagram for a process for controlling the operation of a thermal appliance for use with the system of FIG. 3A or FIG. 3B;
FIG. 4A shows a schematic diagram of a system for controlling the operation of a thermal appliance; and
FIG. 4B shows an example flow diagram for a process for controlling the operation of a thermal appliance for use with the system of FIG. 4A.
Embodiments of the disclosure relate to the control of thermal appliance for heating or cooling an area of a premises having a wireless local area network associated with that area.
Wireless mobile devices may use a local area network to control a thermal appliance, or to receive information about its operation—for example such as ambient temperature.
In one example of the disclosure a controller identifies wireless mobile wireless devices, such as telecommunications handsets that communicate with a wireless local area network, and monitors their connection to this network. In the event that the status of a connection changes, for example when a connection is lost, the controller can trigger an alert to control the thermal appliance.
In another example of the disclosure a mobile communications device is configured to monitor a connection of the mobile communications device to a wireless local area network, and to determine based on this monitoring whether to trigger an alert to control the thermal appliance. The wireless mobile device can then send a command to control the thermal appliance over a second, wider area network, which may be separate from the wireless local area network.
The decision as to whether to trigger this alert can be based, at least in part, on the number and/or identity of other mobile wireless devices that remain connected to the wireless local area network.
One such example will now be discussed with reference to FIG. 1A.
FIG. 1A illustrates a system for controlling the operation of a thermal appliance 9 for controlling the temperature of a premises 70.
The system comprises a controller 1 and a wireless local area network 71 associated with the premises 70, and a wireless mobile device to be carried by a user.
The wireless local area network 71 comprises a wireless access point and is coupled to a wide area network 73.
The controller 1 comprises a communications interface 3 coupled to a processor 5. The controller also comprises a thermal appliance interface 7. The processor of the controller is coupled to the thermal appliance interface 7.
The wireless mobile device includes a processor 55, coupled to a first communications interface 51 and a second communications interface 53. The wireless mobile device also comprises a data store 57 and a user interface 59, both of which are coupled to the processor 51.
The wireless mobile device and the controller are operable to communicate via the local area network. The controller 1 is operable to communicate with the thermal appliance 9 via the thermal appliance interface 7.
The wireless access point is configured to assign an identifier to each wireless mobile device communicating on the wireless local area network, and to provide wireless network communications to each of these mobile devices.
The controller is configured to control the thermal appliance 9, using the thermal appliance interface 7, based on commands received via the communications interface 3. The thermal appliance 9 is operable to increase or decrease the temperature in the premises 70 in response to received commands.
The wireless mobile device is operable to communicate via its first communication interface with the wireless local area network and to communicate via its second communications interface with the wide area network.
The user interface of the wireless mobile device is configured to provide an interface for controlling the thermal appliance, and the wireless mobile device is configured to transmit user commands from the user interface to the controller over the local area network. The wireless mobile device is further operable to transmit user commands to the controller via the wide area network. In this way, a user can control the thermal appliance 9 over the wireless local area network using their mobile device.
The processor of the wireless mobile device is configured to monitor the connection of the first communication interface to the wireless local area network, and to determine whether to trigger an alert in response to loss of this connection. The processor is also configured to send a message to the thermal appliance 9 via the wide area network, based on user input received in response to this alert.
The alert may comprise information relating to operation of the thermal appliance 9 and/or an identifier of a device, or the number of such devices, that remain connected to the local area network. For example “You have left, and nobody else is at home, and the heating is still on.” The alert may prompt the user to provide a particular response “Do you want to turn the heating off?”. The determination as to whether or not to trigger an alert may be based on the status of a wireless connection of at least one other wireless mobile device to the local area network. For example, “It looks like Aunty Kay is at home, would you like to adjust the heating for her?”. One way to achieve this is for the mobile device to comprise a data store configured to store a plurality of unique identifiers each identifying a registered wireless mobile device, for example relating to a selected group of “registered” devices. The processor of the wireless mobile device may be configured to use the status of one or more of these devices to determine how to control the thermal appliance. To achieve this, the processor of the wireless mobile device may be configured to monitor the connection of one or more of these registered mobile devices to the wireless local area network. Where this is done, the processor is also configured to store, in the data store, an association between each registered device, and the status of its connection to the wireless local area network. Accordingly, the processor can be configured to obtain information as to the status of this connection and to update the corresponding association in the event that the device it identifies loses its wireless connection, or establishes a new wireless connection, with the wireless local area network.
To assist in understanding the present disclosure, FIG. 1B shows a flow chart illustrating a method of operation, which can be applied in apparatus similar to that described above with reference to FIG. 1A, and in other apparatus.
As illustrated a wireless mobile device establishes a connection to the local area network to enable the wireless mobile device to send commands to control operation of a thermal appliance, and to receive information relating to operation of the thermal appliance. The wireless mobile device monitors 103 the status of this connection to the local area network, and triggers an alert in the event that the connection is lost.
For example, when the wireless mobile device leaves the range of the wireless local area network 71, in response to the connection with the wireless local area network being lost, the processor 61 can determine whether to trigger an alert 111 prompting the user of the wireless mobile device to control the thermal appliance. Based on user input provided in response to this triggered alert 111, the processor sends a command 115, via the wide area network, to control the thermal appliance.
If the message 115 is sent to control the thermal appliance 9 it may be received by the controller which controls the thermal appliance using its thermal appliance interface based on the content of the message. The thermal appliance interface may, of course, be a wired or wireless interface and may be provided via the local area network. If the user provides no input, the mobile device may be configured to send a default reply message to the controller 1.
As mentioned above, the wireless mobile device can be configured to monitor 103 connections to the local area network of other mobile devices, and to take these connections into account when determining 109 how to control the thermal appliance. In these examples, the processor can obtain an indication of the status of a connection of at least one other wireless mobile device to the local area network. At intervals (as explained above), this indication is updated. In the event that the wireless mobile device loses connection with the local area network, it is determined 109, based on the loss of its own connection and the indication of other devices connected to the network, whether to prompt the user carrying the wireless mobile device to send the command to control the thermal appliance.
If it is determined 109 to prompt the user, the wireless mobile device displays information relating to the thermal appliance and/or the status of other monitored connections, and obtains input from the user. Based on this input, the wireless mobile device determines whether to send a message, via the wide area network to control the thermal appliance. As mentioned above, the other monitored connections may relate to a selected group of “registered” devices. Accordingly, the alert may be triggered on the condition that no other registered wireless mobile devices are connected to the wireless local area network at the time that the wireless mobile device's own connection is lost.
Where the status of other, e.g. registered, devices is to be taken into account, while it is connected to the local area network, as shown in FIG. 2B, the processor 55 obtains an identifier of at least one registered device that is wirelessly connected to the wireless network. The processor 55 stores an association 61 between this identifier, or identifiers, and the status of the connection of the device of devices they identify in the data store 57. Once this process has been completed the data store comprises an association between each identifier, and the status of the connection to the wireless network of the identified device. At intervals, the wireless mobile device communicates, via the wireless local area network, to update these association(s).
In these examples, the prompt can be based on these association(s), as explained above and can indicate the number and/or identities of other registered device(s) which remain connected to the wireless local area network. For example, the displayed message may be “You have left, and nobody else is at home, and the heating is still on. Do you want to turn the heating off?”. As another example, the prompt may comprise information describing other devices which the associations indicate remain connected to the wireless local area network e.g. “Aunt Katy is at home alone, would you like to adjust the heating for her?”.
Based on the user's input in response to this message, the mobile device 50 sends a message via the second communications interface 53 and the wide area network to the controller 1. The processor 5 of the controller 1 then controls the thermal appliance, via the control interface 7 based on this message. This enables the thermal appliance 9 to be controlled from the wireless mobile device 50.
The alert provided at the wireless mobile device 50 may comprise information relating to operation of the thermal appliance 9, such as for example whether it is on or off, or whether it is operating according to a particular timing program. This information may comprise a description of such a timing program, and/or temperature information obtained from a sensor of the thermal appliance and/or the controller 1, such as a thermostat. In these examples, the wireless mobile device may be configured to obtain this information from the controller 1 either via the local area network, or the wide area network.
The wireless mobile device 50 may be configured to monitor the connection of other devices to the network by obtaining information describing their connection status from at least one of: the controller 1; and the wireless access point of the local area network. To monitor the connection of other wireless mobile devices to the local area network, the wireless mobile device may be configured to send a request to the controller 1 to cause the controller to send back identifiers of other wireless mobile devices connected to the local area network. In another example the controller 1 may be configured to send these identifiers to the wireless mobile device at intervals. These intervals may be periodic, aperiodic, or timed in response to particular events such as other wireless mobile device(s) joining or leaving the local area network. Rather than sending identifiers at these intervals, the controller may be configured to send an indication of the number of other wireless mobile devices connected to the local area network. This indication may comprise the actual number of other wireless mobile devices connected to the local area network, or merely an indication that one or more other wireless mobile devices are connected. Accordingly, the association between the registered device, and the status of the connection stored in the data store may relate only to the wireless mobile device itself. In these examples, the data store indicates the existence of a connection between the wireless mobile device and the local area network and possibly also whether or not other wireless mobile devices are connected to the network. This association may be provided by a specifically allocated data store, or may be associated with the hardware of the wireless mobile device which maintains the connection (e.g. a WLAN interface).
A connection may be considered to be lost in the absence of communication for a time period greater than a time-out period specified by a protocol of the local area network.
The wide area network may comprise a telecommunications network, such as a 2G, 3G, 4G, or LTE network, a plain old telephone network, POTS, such as a public switched telephone network, PSTN, or any other kind of wide area communication network operable to communicate beyond the coverage area of the local area network. In some examples, the local area network may be decoupled from the internet, for example by a local router or firewall.
FIG. 2A shows an apparatus similar to that shown in FIG. 1A, but in which the local area network 71 is not in communication with the internet 73. In this configuration, the controller 1 has a wide area network interface 11 configured to communicate via a telecommunications network 75
In the configuration shown in FIG. 2A, when the wireless mobile device 50 leaves the range of the wireless local area network 71, in response to the connection with the wireless local area network being lost, the processor 61 can determine whether to trigger an alert prompting the user of the wireless mobile device 50 to control the thermal appliance 9. Based on user input provided in response to this triggered alert, the processor 55 sends a command 115, via the telecommunications network to the controller 1, so that the controller 1 can control the thermal appliance 9 based on this message.
Accordingly, the message can be sent direct to the controller 1 from the second communications interface 53 of the mobile device 50. This may provide a system which is more straightforward to install because it does not require communication channels to be opened between the local area network and the internet. Security measures such as firewalls can therefore be unaffected.
There are a variety of different ways in which the mobile device 50 can identify and monitor connection of devices the wireless local area network 71. For example, a wireless access point of the local area network 71 can monitor the status of these connections and broadcast a message providing this status information to wireless mobile devices connected to the wireless access point 71. The controller 1, may also be configured to perform this function. Typically, these broadcast messages will comprise unique identifiers of devices connected to the wireless local area network, and the status of their connections.
The controller may comprise a device that is coupled, wirelessly or by a wired connection to the wireless access point or to the local area network, for example via an Ethernet connection or an IEEE802.11 wireless connection to the wireless access point 71. The functionality of the controller 1 may be distributed between one or more network devices. For example the communications interface of the controller may comprise a wired coupling to the wireless access point which may provide wireless communication for the controller 1.
In some configurations, the processor 55 of the mobile device 50 is configured to send messages over the local area network to request this status information. The request may be sent to a wireless access point of the local area network, or to other mobile devices connected to the local area network to identify those devices by obtaining their unique identifiers and the status of the associated connection.
The processor 55 of the mobile device may also be configured to identify devices connected to the wireless local area network by obtaining the identifiers and connection status information via the wide area network. For example the information can be requested and/or sent to the wireless mobile device from the controller 1, or a wireless access point 71 of the local area network using a message sent via the wide area network. This may be done even when the mobile device 50 is not connected to the local area network 71.
It will be clear from the discussion above, that the monitoring of a selected group, or family, of devices is optional. In the processor 55 may simply trigger an alert and prompt the user when a wireless connection between the mobile device 50 and the local area network 71 is lost.
A variety of different message types can be used to communicate over the wide area network. Examples of such messages include SMS messages, and MMS messages which may be forwarded at least partially over a mobile telecommunications network to the controller 1. Other types of wide area network messages comprise email messages and other kinds of packet switched communication.
In some configurations, the mobile device 50 may be configured to communicate directly with the thermal appliance 9. In such configurations, instead of sending a message to the controller 1 the mobile device 50 may send a control signal over the wide area network, and/or the local area network directly to the thermal appliance 9.
In the context of the present disclosure, it will be appreciated that the mobile device 50 need not perform the connection monitoring function itself. FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate two examples of the disclosure in which a controller 1 is coupled to the local area network to perform this function and to control the thermal appliance 9. Operation of this apparatus is illustrated in the flow diagram shown in FIG. 3C.
FIG. 3A shows a system for controlling the temperature of an area of a building. The system illustrated in FIG. 3A comprises a thermal appliance 9, for heating or cooling the area, and a controller 1 for controlling the thermal appliance. The system also comprises a wireless local area network that provides wireless communication in the area to be heated.
The controller 1 comprises a first communication interface 3, a data store 13, and a processor 5 coupled to the data store 13 and to the first communications interface 3. The controller 1 also comprises a thermal appliance interface 7 that couples the processor 5 to the thermal appliance 9.
The thermal appliance interface 7 is arranged to enable the processor 5 to send commands to the thermal appliance 9 and to receive information describing the operation of the thermal appliance. The first communication interface 3 is configured to communicate between the processor 5 and the local area network.
The processor 5 is configured to communicate over the local area network, and is operable to identify wireless mobile devices connected to the network. The processor 5 is also configured to monitor the status of the connection between identified wireless mobile devices and the local area network.
In operation as illustrated by FIG. 3C, the controller 1 obtains a unique identifier of the mobile device 50, and stores an association 15 between the unique identifier and the status of the corresponding device's connection to the wireless local area network in the data store 13. The processor 5 of the controller 1 monitors 103 the status of this connection by obtaining the information at intervals to update the stored associations.
In the event that the connection status changes 107, the processor 5 updates the corresponding stored association 15. In response to this change in status, the processor 5 determines 109 how to control the thermal appliance 9, and sends a message to the thermal appliance 9 to control its operation based on this determination.
This determination may take a variety of factors into account, and may be achieved in a variety of different ways. For example, the data store 13 of the controller 1 may store a plurality of identifiers that identify a selected group of registered wireless mobile devices. In these examples, the controller 1 can store associations between these identifiers and the status of the corresponding connection to the local area network. Accordingly, the processor 5 of the controller 1 can be configured to monitor the status of the connection of one or more of these registered devices to the local area network. The controller 1 can then determine whether any of the selected group remain connected to the wireless local area network and control the thermal appliance 9 based on this determination.
The controller 1 may comprise a second communications interface 11 configured to communicate via a wide area communications network for communicating over a wider area than the local area network, as shown in FIG. 3B. Where this is present, the processor 5 may be configured to respond to a change in status of a monitored connection to the local area network by sending a message to one or more wireless mobile devices via the wide area communications network. The controller 1 can then control the thermal appliance 9 based on the response to this first message.
The processor 5 may be configured to include, in this first message, information relating to operation of the thermal appliance 9, such as for example whether it is on or off, or whether it is operating according to a particular timing program. This information may comprise a description of such a timing program, and/or temperature information obtained from a sensor of the thermal appliance and/or the controller 1, such as a thermostat.
The processor 5 may also be configured to send information based on the connection status of at least one of the selected group of registered devices in this first message.
A wireless mobile device 50 to which this first message is sent may respond by prompting a user for a command 111. The prompt may include one or more pieces of information obtained from this first message. Based on the user's command in response to this prompt a second message may be sent 115 back to the controller from the wireless mobile device. This second message may be sent via the wide area communication network.
In the event that no such response is received the processor is configured to apply a default control to the thermal appliance.
The controller 1 may obtain the connection status information by sending a request message over the wireless area network. This message may be sent to a wireless access point of the local area network, and may be configured to cause the wireless access point to respond with a list of wireless mobile devices which are wirelessly connected to that access point. In some possibilities, the this request message may be broadcast to wireless mobile devices that are connected to the network and may be configured to cause the wireless mobile devices to respond to the controller if they are connected to the local area network. In this way, the controller can determine which devices are connected to the local area network.
The function of monitoring connections to the local area network, and triggering alerts on user carried devices has been described above as being localised to a particular device, which may be provided in a user carried device (such as the mobile device described with reference to FIG. 1A or FIG. 2A), or which may be provided in a network device such as the controller described with reference to FIG. 3A or FIG. 3B. It will be appreciated that some or all of this function may be spread between different hardware elements, for example in the manner of a distributed system. In addition, in some configurations the monitoring and control functionality is performed by a remote device 85, such as a webserver, which may be coupled to the premises by a wide area network.
FIG. 4A illustrates one example of such a system, a method of operation of this system is illustrated in the flow diagram shown in FIG. 4B.
The apparatus shown in FIG. 4A comprises a thermal appliance 9 and a controller 1 coupled to a local area network 71 at a premises. A remote device 85 is coupled to communicate with the local area network via a wide area network 73.
The apparatus shown in FIG. 4A also comprises a wireless mobile device 50 which can be carried by a user.
The remote device comprises a data store 86 and a processor 88. The processor 88 is coupled to the data store, and is also coupled to communicate over the wide area network via a communications interface.
The controller 1 comprises a communications interface 3 coupled to a processor 5. The controller 1 also comprises a thermal appliance interface 7 coupled to the processor 5.
The wireless mobile device includes a processor 55, coupled to a first communications interface 51 and to a second communications interface 53. The wireless mobile device also comprises a data store 57 and a user interface 59, both of which are coupled to the processor 51.
The wireless mobile device and the controller 1 are operable to communicate with the remote device via the wide area network, and to communicate with the local area network. The controller 1 is operable to communicate with the thermal appliance via the thermal appliance interface 7.
The processor 88 of the remote device 85 is configured identify wireless mobile devices connected to the wireless local area network 71.
The processor 88 of the remote device is configured to communicate with the local area network to obtain a unique identifier of at least one wireless mobile device connected to the local area network 71, and to store, in the data store 86, an association between the at least unique identifier and the status of a corresponding connection to the network. The processor 88 is also configured to communicate with the local area network at intervals to update these associations so as to monitor these wireless connections.
In operation, in the event that the processor 88 of the remote server 85 detects the loss of a connection between a wireless mobile device and the local area network 71, the processor 88 determines, based on the stored associations describing the connections to the local area network, whether to trigger an alert on a wireless mobile device, and/or to send a command to the controller 1 to control the thermal appliance.
As described above with reference to FIG. 1A and FIG. 2A, the data store of the controller may store a plurality of unique identifiers identifying a selected group of “registered” devices. In the event that the processor 88 determines that none of the registered devices has an active connection with the local area network 71, then the processor 88 of the remote server 85 sends a message to the mobile device 50 via the wide area network to prompt the user for a command to control the thermal appliance. This command may be sent back to the controller via the remote device 85, or over the wide area network to the local area network or to the controller 1.
As for the mobile device 50 and the controller 1 described above, in some configurations, the processor 88 of the remote server 85 may simply send a message to trigger an alert on the mobile device 50 in the event that a connection between any mobile device 50 and the wireless local area network 71 is lost.
As will be appreciated by the skilled addressee in the context of the present disclosure, the example system described with reference to the drawings above is merely exemplary, and many variations, alternatives and further refinements of the features described may be applied. For example, the wide area network may comprise at least one of a telecommunications network, such a 2G, 3G, 4G, or LTE network, and an IP based network coupled to the internet.
In some situations a wireless local area network may not be coupled to the internet, or may be at least partially protected from it by a router, which may comprise a firewall or other network security measures. In these examples the controller may comprise an interface to a wide area network via a telecommunications network such as a cellular network, a POTS (plain old telephone system).
The processor may be configured to determine how to control the heating or cooling appliance based on the connection status of the wireless mobile device and the absence of a connection to at least one other wireless mobile device. The wireless mobile devices that are considered in these determinations may be restricted to those devices identified as “registered” devices.
The functionality of the controller may be provided by a device arranged locally in the area to be heated, for example on the premises. In another example all or part of the functionality of the controller may be provided by a remote device, which may be coupled to control the thermal appliance via a wide area communication network such as the internet.
The processor of the controller 1, and/or the processor of the wireless mobile devices described herein may comprise a general purpose processor, which may be configured to perform a method according to any one of those described herein. In some examples the controller may comprise digital logic, such as field programmable gate arrays, FPGA, application specific integrated circuits, ASIC, a digital signal processor, DSP, or any other appropriate hardware.
Where configuration of a processor, or other programmable component, is described this may be achieved by procedural or object oriented programming, or by the use of scripting which incorporates a mixture of both procedural and object oriented approaches. In some cases FGPAs or ASICs may be used to provide these configurations.
The data stores described herein may be provided by volatile or involatile memory storage such as RAM, EEPROM, FLASH memory, or any other form of computer readable media.
The user interfaces of the wireless mobile devices may comprise human input devices such as pointing devices, touch screens, keyboards and voice recognition input systems. The user interfaces may also comprise audio and visual output, which may be graphical and/or text based.
It is suggested that any feature of any one of the examples disclosed herein may be combined with any selected features of any of the other examples described herein. For example, features of methods may be implemented in suitably configured hardware, and the configuration of the specific hardware described herein may be employed in methods implemented using other hardware.
In some configurations the prompt may be raised on a device other than the device 50 causing the change in the status of the connection. For example, the prompt may be raised on a “master” device when a “child” device loses connection with the wireless access point 71. Both the “master” and the “child” device may have a unique identifier corresponding to a unique identifier from a selected list of registered unique identifiers.
In some configurations, the thermal appliance 9 may be a central thermal appliance 9, and may comprise for example a boiler. The thermal appliance 9 may comprise other components, such as a wireless thermostat, or the controller 1 may comprise a thermostat. The thermal appliance 9 may further comprise a hub that couples to the wireless access point 71 to provide a communication channel between the controller 1, the hub and optionally the thermostat.
The thermal appliance 9 may comprise an electric heating system 9, for example an electric heater. The thermal appliance 9 may comprise a water heater, for example a hot water tank coupled to a boiler, or an immersion heater. Information relating to the operation of the appliance may comprises the level and/or temperature of hot water in a hot water tank. It will be appreciated that although a thermal appliance 9 has been described, the present disclosure could equally apply to a cooling system, for example a fan or to a climate control system, for example an air conditioning system.
In some configurations, the process may be configured to turn the heating on. For example, the controller 1, the mobile device 50 or the remote server 85 may determine that the status indicator of an identified device indicates that someone has returned to the premises 70. In such circumstances, the controller 1, the mobile device 50 or the remote device 85 may determine whether a registered device has connected to the local area network 71, and based on the result of the determination may send a message over the wide area network and/or the local area network to turn the heating system 9 on, and/or may cause a prompt to be displayed to the user at the mobile device asking the user whether they wish to turn the heating back on.
It is suggested that any feature of any one of the examples disclosed herein may be combined with any selected features of any of the other examples described herein. For example, features of methods may be implemented in suitably configured hardware, and the configuration of the specific hardware described herein may be employed in methods implemented using other hardware. In the context of the present disclosure, it will be appreciated that other examples and variations of the apparatus and methods described herein may be provided within the scope of the appended claims.
1. A mobile communications device for controlling a thermal appliance, the device comprising:
a first communications interface configured to communicate over a wireless local area network: a second communications interface configured to communicate over a wide area network: a processor coupled to the communications interfaces and configured to send, via the local area network, commands to control operation of the thermal appliance, and to receive, via the local area network, information relating to operation of the thermal appliance; and a user interface for obtaining user input to control the thermal appliance and for providing a user with information relating to operation of the thermal appliance; wherein the processor is further configured to:
monitor connection of the first communication interface with the wireless local area network,
determine whether to trigger an alert in response to loss of connection of the first communication interface to the wireless local area network,
and to send a command, based on user input provided in response to a triggered alert, to the thermal appliance via the second communications interface.
2. The mobile device of claim 1 wherein the alert comprises information relating to operation of the thermal appliance.
3. The mobile device of claim 1 or 2 wherein the determination is based on the status of a wireless connection of at least one other wireless mobile device to the local area network.
4. The mobile device of any preceding claim further comprising a data store configured to store a plurality of unique identifiers each identifying a registered wireless mobile device, wherein the determination is based on the number of other registered mobile devices wirelessly connected to the local area network at the time the connection is lost.
5. The mobile device of claim 4 wherein the alert is triggered on the condition that no other registered wireless mobile devices are connected to the wireless local area network.
6. The mobile device of claim 4 wherein the alert comprises information relating to other registered wireless mobile devices are connected to the wireless local area network.
7. The mobile device of claim 4, 5, or 6 wherein monitoring comprises obtaining information describing the connection status of other wireless mobile devices connected to the local area network from at least one of: a controller coupled to the thermal appliance; and a wireless access point of the local area network.
8. The mobile device of claim 7 wherein obtaining the information comprises receiving a message from at least one of: a controller coupled to the thermal appliance; and a wireless access point of the local area network.
9. The mobile device of claim 7 wherein obtaining the information comprises sending a request to at least one of: a controller coupled to the thermal appliance; and a wireless access point of the local area network.
10. The device of claim 9 wherein the device is configured to make the determination in the event that communication with the local area network is lost for a time period greater than a time-out period specified by a protocol of the local area network.
11. A process comprising:
obtaining, via a user interface of the wireless mobile device commands to control the thermal appliance; sending from a wireless mobile device, via a local area network, a command to control operation of a thermal appliance, receiving at the wireless mobile device, via the local area network, information relating to operation of the thermal appliance; monitoring the status of the wireless connection of the wireless mobile device the local area network; triggering an alert at the wireless mobile device in response to loss of connection with the wireless local area network, and sending a command, based on a user's response to the alert, to control the thermal appliance via a wide area network.
12. The process of claim 11 wherein the alert comprises information relating to operation of the thermal appliance.
13. The process of claim 11 or 12 further comprising determining whether to trigger the alert based on the status of a wireless connection of at least one other wireless mobile device to the local area network.
14. The process of claim 13 further comprising storing a plurality of unique identifiers each identifying a registered wireless mobile device, wherein the determination is based on the number of other registered mobile devices wirelessly connected to the local area network at the time the connection is lost.
15. The process of claim 14 wherein the alert is triggered on the condition that no other registered wireless mobile devices are connected to the wireless local area network at the time the connection is lost.
16. The process of claim 14 wherein the alert comprises information relating to other registered wireless mobile devices that are connected to the wireless local area network at the time the connection is lost.
17. The process of claim 14, 15, or 16 comprising obtaining information describing the connection status of other wireless mobile devices connected to the local area network from at least one of: a controller coupled to the thermal appliance; and a wireless access point of the local area network.
18. The process of claim 17 wherein obtaining the information comprises receiving a message from at least one of: a controller coupled to the thermal appliance; and a wireless access point of the local area network.
19. The process of claim 17 or 18 wherein obtaining the information comprises sending a request to at least one of: a controller coupled to the thermal appliance; and a wireless access point of the local area network.
20. The process of any of claims 11 to 19 wherein controlling the appliance via the wide area network comprises sending a message over the wide area network to a controller coupled to the local area network and configured to control the thermal appliance based on the message.
21. A process comprising:
identifying, at a controller coupled to a local area network, at least one mobile device wirelessly connected to local area network, wherein each device wirelessly connected to the local area network is associated with a unique identifier; obtaining the status of the wireless connection to the local area network of the, or each, at least one identified device; storing, at the controller, an association between the unique identifier of the, or each, at least one identified device and the status of the, or each, corresponding wireless connection to the local area network; monitoring the status of the, or each, wireless connection to the local area network, and in the event that the status of one of said wireless connections changes, updating the corresponding stored association; and, controlling the thermal appliance based on the stored associations.
22. The process of claim 21 wherein controlling the thermal appliance comprises
determining whether to trigger an alert on at least one identified wireless mobile device in response to the change in status:
and, in the event that the alert is to be triggered, sending a first message from the controller to the at least one identified wireless mobile device, and controlling the thermal appliance based on a response to the first message.
23. The process of claim 22 wherein the response comprises a second message received from the at least one identified wireless mobile device.
24. The process of claim 22 or 23 comprising applying a default control to the thermal appliance in the event that no response is received.
25. The process of any of claims 21 to 24 comprising determining, based on the stored associations, whether any of a selected group of registered wireless mobile devices remain connected to the wireless local area network and controlling the thermal appliance based on this determination.
26. The process of any of claims 21 to 25 wherein the updated association relates to the identified wireless mobile device.
27. The process of any of claims 21 to 26, wherein the updated association relates to a wireless mobile device other than the identified wireless mobile device.
28. The process of any of claims 21 to 27 wherein the first message is sent via a wide area communication network, separate from the local area network.
29. The process of any of claims 21 to 28 wherein the second message is received via a wide area communication network, separate from the local area network.
30. A controller for a thermal appliance, the controller comprising:
a first communications interface, configured to communicate over a wireless local area network; a data store; and a processor coupled to the data store and to the first communications interface and configured to: identify at least one wireless mobile device connected to the wireless local area network, wherein each device connected to the wireless access point has a unique identifier; store, in the data store, an association between the, or each, unique identifier and the status of the connection to the wireless local area network of the, or each, corresponding wireless mobile device; monitor the status of the, or each, wireless connection to the local area network, and in the event that the status a wireless connection changes, to update the corresponding stored association and to control the thermal appliance based on the stored associations.
31. The controller of claim 30 wherein the processor is configured to control the thermal appliance via the local area communications network.
32. The controller of claim 30 or 31 wherein the data store is configured to store a plurality of identifiers to identify a selected group of registered wireless mobile devices, and
the processor is configured to determine, based on the stored associations, whether any of the selected group remain connected to the wireless local area network and to control the thermal appliance based on this determination.
33. The controller of claim 30, 31 or 32 comprising a second communications interface configured to communicate via a wide area communications network, wherein the processor is configured to:
send a first message to at least one identified wireless mobile device via the wide area communications network in response to the change of status; and
to control the thermal appliance based on a response to the first message.
34. The controller of claim 33 wherein the response comprises a second message received from the at least one identified wireless mobile device.
35. The controller of claim 33 or 34 wherein the processor is configured to apply a default control to the thermal appliance in the event that no response is received.
36. The controller of any of claims 33 to 35 wherein the second message is received via the wide area communication network.
37. The controller of any of claims 33 to 36 wherein processor is configured to obtain information relating to operation of the thermal appliance, and to send the information in the obtained information in the first message.
38. The controller of any of claims 33 to 37, as dependent upon claim 32, wherein the processor is configured to send information based on the connection status of at least one of the selected group of devices to the at least one identified device.
39. A system for controlling the temperature of an area of a building, the system comprising a thermal appliance and a controller according to any of claims 30 to 38.
40. A system for controlling the temperature of an area of a building, the system comprising a thermal appliance, and a controller coupled to control the thermal appliance and configured to communicate with a wireless mobile device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.
41. A computer program product, or products, comprising program instructions operable to program a programmable wireless mobile device to operate according to the process of any of claims 11 to 20.
42. A method of configuring a wireless mobile device comprising sending to the wireless mobile device, program instructions operable to program the wireless mobile device to operate according to the process of any of claims 11 to 20.
43. A computer program product operable to program a network device to operate according to the process of any of claims 21 to 29.
| 2015-03-13 | en | 2017-03-23 |
US-97924510-A | Automatic baselining of business application service groups comprised of virtual machines
ABSTRACT
An example method of automatically establishing a baseline of virtual machines operating in a network may include parsing service group ontology information stored of an established service group to determine components of a business application service group that are communicating with one another. The example method may also include tracking the current state of the business application service group to determine if any changes have occurred since a previous service business application service group configuration, and, if so, updating the ontology information to reflect those changes, and generating a list of candidate virtual machines that are candidates for participating in the established baseline.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is related to co-pending applications: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/767,173, filed on Jun. 22, 2007, titled “Method and system for cloaked observation and remediation of software attacks”; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/867,456, filed on Oct. 4, 2007, titled “Method and system for collaboration involving enterprise nodes”; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/626,872, filed on Nov. 27, 2009, titled “Network traffic analysis using a dynamically updating ontological network description.”
This application is further related to the Applicant's co-pending applications:
Attorney Docket No. Fortisphere 1: titled “System and method for identification of business process application service groups”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/905,565.
Attorney Docket No. Fortisphere 2: titled “System and method for migration of network entities to a cloud infrastructure”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/905,645.
Attorney Docket No. Fortisphere 3: titled “System and method for monitoring system performance changes based on configuration modification”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/905,688.
Attorney Docket No. Fortisphere 4: titled “System and method for indicating the impact to a business application service group resulting from a change in state of a single business application service group node”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/905,761.
Attorney Docket No. Fortisphere 5: titled “System and method for enterprise nodes that are contained within a public cloud to communicate with private enterprise infrastructure dependencies”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/905,850.
Attorney Docket No. Fortisphere 6: titled “System and method for determination of the root cause of an overall failure of a business application service”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/905,879.
Attorney Docket No. Fortisphere 7: titled “Automatic determination of required resource allocation of virtual machines”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______.
Attorney Docket No. Fortisphere 8: titled “Coalescing virtual machines to enable optimum performance”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______.
Attorney Docket No. Fortisphere 10: titled “xyy”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______.
Attorney Docket No. Fortisphere 11: titled “xyz”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______.
Attorney Docket No. Fortisphere 12: titled “xzx”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______.
The entire contents of each of the above mentioned applications are specifically incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
TECHNICAL FIELD
Embodiments of the invention relate to analyzing network traffic analysis and, in particular, to performing automatic determining of business application service group baselines within a communications network.
BACKGROUND
Traditionally enterprises are comprised of various nodes that contribute to an overall business process. An enterprise may be thought of as a geographically dispersed network under the jurisdiction of one organization. It often includes several different types of networks and computer systems from different vendors.
These network nodes that are part of the enterprise may be comprised of both physical and virtual machines. Enterprise networks that include a plurality of virtual machines may require a physical host, which is required to allocate resources among the virtual machines.
Groups of network nodes included in the enterprise may form business process application service groups (BASGs). The “components” of these groups are comprised of virtual machines, hosts, storage devices and network devices. Each of these components may be dependent on one another. In an operational enterprise environment, enterprise nodes change dynamically. For instance, nodes are configured, re-configured, migrated, placed off-line, and may experience varying changes throughout the life of the node. Measuring the performance of the network and its corresponding nodes may provide the information necessary to maintain optimal operating conditions of the BASGs.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Features of the invention are more fully disclosed in the following detailed description of the invention, reference being had to the accompanying drawings described in detail below.
FIG. 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a system for creating and updating an ontological description of a network.
FIG. 2A illustrates an example baseline logic diagram, according to an example embodiment.
FIG. 2B illustrates a detail of ontological creation engine, according to an example embodiment.
FIG. 3A illustrates an example graphical user interface to view the amount of allocated resources used over time, according to example embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 3B illustrates an example table of BASG profile information and related input data and corresponding threshold metric values for the virtual machine candidates, according to example embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 4 illustrates a graphical user interface used to view the network hierarchy, according to example embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 5 illustrates an example flow diagram, according to example embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 6 illustrates another example flow diagram, according to example embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an exemplary computer system that may perform one or more of the operations described herein, according to example embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Example embodiments of the present invention may include a method of automatically establishing a baseline of virtual machines operating in a network. The method may include parsing service group ontology information stored in a memory of an established service group to determine components of a business application service group that are communicating with one another. The method may also include tracking the current state of the business application service group to determine if any changes have occurred since a previous business application service group configuration, and, if so, updating the ontology information to reflect those changes. The method may also include generating a list of candidate virtual machines that are candidates for participating in the established baseline.
Another example embodiment of the present invention may include an apparatus to automatically establish a baseline of virtual machines operating in a network. The apparatus may include a memory, and a processor. The processor may be configured to parse service group ontology information, stored in the memory, of an established service group to determine components of a business application service group that are communicating with one another. The processor may be further configured to track the current state of the business application service group to determine if any changes have occurred since a previous business application service group configuration, and, if so, the processor is further configured to update the ontology information to reflect those changes, and generate a list of candidate virtual machines that are candidates for participating in the established baseline.
It will be readily understood that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following detailed description of the embodiments of a method, apparatus, and system, as represented in the attached figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the invention as claimed, but is merely representative of selected embodiments of the invention.
The features, structures, or characteristics of the invention described throughout this specification may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. For example, the usage of the phrases “example embodiments”, “some embodiments”, or other similar language, throughout this specification refers to the fact that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “example embodiments”, “in some embodiments”, “in other embodiments”, or other similar language, throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same group of embodiments, and the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
In addition, while the term “message” has been used in the description of embodiments of the present invention, the invention may be applied to many types of network data, such as packet, frame, datagram, etc. For purposes of this invention, the term “message” also includes packet, frame, datagram, and any equivalents thereof. Furthermore, while certain types of messages and signaling are depicted in exemplary embodiments of the invention, the invention is not limited to a certain type of message, and the invention is not limited to a certain type of signaling.
Specific example embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms, and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.
It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected” or “coupled” to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be present. Furthermore, “connected” or “coupled” as used herein may include wirelessly connected or coupled. It will be understood that although the terms “first” and “second” are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms.
FIG. 1 illustrates an example logic diagram of a system 100 configured to deploy data collection agents onto network nodes, according to example embodiments of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, an application server 101 interfaces with a web browser 102 and a local agent data collection network element 500. Certain operations may be performed, such as, monitoring network connections instantiated at each network node, acquiring resulting data, automatically creating an ontological description of the network from the acquired data, dynamically updating the ontological description, etc.
According to an example embodiment, elements of system 100 may utilize the Java® software platform and Enterprise Java Bean® (EJB) architecture to provide certain functionality. These well-known terms may be used in the description that follows. Other software platforms and architectures, providing similar functionality may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.
System 100 may include an application server 101, which interacts across a network with a number of data collection agents 500. Application server 101, may be an element of an administrative console (AC) that also provides a suite of network management tools. A system administrator may perform network traffic analysis and/or other network management tasks by accessing application server 101 through a web browser 102. Application server 101 may consist of an EJB module 612, an ontological description creation engine 613, and a web application 111. Web browser 102 may include a rendering engine 102B and a knowledge browser 102A.
In operation, data collection agent(s) 500 may be deployed onto network nodes including physical and/or virtual machines in an enterprise information technology (IT) infrastructure environment. After such deployment, application server 101 receives messages from data collection agents 500. These messages may include data representing, for example, state and relationship information about the network nodes, configuration information related to the IT infrastructure, performance/utilization data and network communication. Thresholds are assigned to a component and/or can be assigned to an entire business application service groups (BASG). A host may provide CPU usage as a resource allocated to a virtual machine, the CPU operational usage performance is an example metric. The virtual machine and host machine are both examples of components.
The received messages may be initially handled by EJB module 612. For example, message driven EJB 623 may initially inspect a received message. A received message relating to network traffic or node status may be forwarded by message driven EJB 623 to the business logic EJB 624. Business logic EJB 624 may call network traffic analysis engine 625 for messages relating to network traffic. Alternatively, “infrastructure messages” (i.e., those messages relating to node status) may be forwarded directly to the state and profiling engine 626.
Messages forwarded to the state and profiling engine 626 may undergo sorting and processing. The state and profiling engine 626, for example, may identify the entities within the IT infrastructure as well as their dependency on one another, based on messages received from the platform. In addition, state and profiling engine 626 may perform further processing to determine the state of one or more entities. State may be based on a threshold that has been defined, for example, by the system administrator. The threshold may include a metric that either exceeds or underperforms in a specific area of interest to the system administrator. An example threshold may be set for a server operating in the enterprise network that is exceeding a specified CPU utilization percentage, a disk utilization percentage and/or a memory utilization percentage.
A data output from state and profiling engine 626 may be sent to ontological description creation engine 613. Initially, the data may be handled by a resource description framework (RDF) application programming interface (API) knowledge base 620, where the data is categorized and stored utilizing a predefined entity relationship determined by ontology web language (OWL) API or ontology model 621.
Messages handled by the network traffic analysis engine 625 may include source-to-destination data, qualified by a communicating application within the operating system of the originating node, as well as frequency of communication information. This received data is analyzed by processing the number and type of connections to determine if an ontological “communicates_with” relationship exists. A determination may be made by tracking the number of connections of a specific application over a period of time. The period of time may be preselected, for example, by the system administrator.
Data output from network traffic analysis engine 625 may be sent to ontological description creation engine 613. Initially, the data may be handled by the RDF API knowledge base 620 where the data is categorized and stored utilizing a predefined entity relationship, determined by OWL API ontology model 621. For example, OWL API ontology model 621 may define what entity classes exist, their possible relationship to each other, and their possible state.
FIG. 2A illustrates a detailed diagram of ontological description creation engine 613, according to example embodiments of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 2A, as data is received by RDF API knowledge base 620, logic in the RDF API knowledge base 620 may map the incoming data to the appropriate ontological classes and relationships defined by OWL ontology API model 621. Once the correct classes and relationships are selected, the entity and relationship information may be entered into RDF API knowledge base 620. The knowledge base may also be forwarded to a SPARQL database or query engine 622 for later inference processing by inference engine 633. Inference engine 633 may determine inferred relationships based on the ontology model contained in OWL ontology API model 621.
The model and structure the system uses to create and update the knowledge base is contained within a web ontology language (OWL) file present on the application server 101. OWL is a family of knowledge representation languages for authoring ontologies which are a formal representation of the knowledge by a set of concepts within a domain and the relationships between those concepts. Ontologies are used to reason about the properties of that domain, and may be used to describe the domain. The ontology provides the direct and indirect dependency information the (SPARQL) query engine 622 requires to infer the impact a change in “state” will have on the rest of a service group or BASG.
In an enterprise network, a business application will typically include a primary application with one or more executables that execute on one or more nodes of the network. These nodes may have direct and indirect dependencies on other nodes of the network. The business application may be described by a network ontology. When an alert state occurs for the business application, the components of the business application ontology may be analyzed to determine what adjustments are required to achieve a steady state based on assigned thresholds. The root cause may be a direct or indirect root cause which may then be reported to the system administrator.
According to an example embodiment, a visualization of a current network state and/or communication activity may be provided to an administrator. The system administrator may be provided with a visual rendering (e.g., on a computer monitor) of the knowledge base. The visualization may be filtered to any selected entity of interest. For example, referring again to FIG. 1, the system administrator or other user may use a web browser 102 to request rendering of data via web application 111 from controllers 627.
Controllers 627 may pass along any filtering information such as a specific Host ID. Next, business logic EJB 624 may be called by the controllers. Business logic EJB 624 may query RDF API knowledge base 620 for requested data. The requested data may be returned through controllers 627 to the web browser. The requested data may then be converted into a directed graph by a rendering engine.
Example embodiments of the present invention may provide the ability to automatically determine allocation adjustments that may be required for virtual machine performance, and monitoring the service tier thresholds assigned to a specified virtual machine. Thresholds are directly related to a node “state”. The state may be defined as an indicator to the system and the user of a business application service, such as, whether, the business application service meets a specified or threshold requirement. The process to determine the state of an individual element may be based on a threshold that has been defined, for example, by the system administrator. The threshold may include a metric that either exceeds or underperforms in a specific area of interest of the system administrator. An example would be a server in a network that is exceeding a specified CPU utilization percentage.
Example embodiments of the present invention may also provide the ability to baseline business process application service groups (BASGs) within an operational enterprise environment. A service group may be comprised of one to many nodes operating on a network. The automatic base-lining may be performed based on the ontological structure of the categorized BASGs.
A file may be created and stored in memory. The file may be a resource definition framework (RDF) based knowledge base file included in the ontology web language (OWL) format. The format of the file may be constructed of “triples” and data values. A triple may include a particular format, for example, CLASS-Object-Property-CLASS. The specific classes are referred to as “individuals”, for instance, Person-Drove-Car may be an example triple. Another example may be “John(Individual)-Drove(Object Property)-Car(Class).” In this example, “Car” is an example class and “Drove” is an object value. If, for example, a TRIPLE existed that included “CAR-Has_name-Ferrari(Individual)”, then the inference engine 633 may infer that if only one car existed in the knowledge base 620, then John(Individual)-Drove(Object property)-Ferrari(Individual) and car would be the class. This is referred to as a “triple” because there are 3 objects.
Data values provide information about the objects contained within the triple. The system 100 will automatically look for other triples that contain the same objects to build an ontology for the overall knowledge base 602. For example, after reading “John-Drove-Car” the inference engine 633 will look for other triples that have John, Drove and Car. When an analysis is required of the originating component “John” the system 100 may discover that only one “car” component and one class and car exist.
The file may contain a structure that includes classes, object properties, and data values that may be utilized for any analysis. Classes may be represented as components such as, hosts, virtual machines, storage devices, network devices, users, primary applications, regular applications, owners, etc. Object properties may be thought of as verbs associated with the relationship. For example, host “uses” storage devices, and virtual machine “uses” network devices. Data values are the specific values associated with a class or object property, and are usually associated with the state or volume of relationships. For example, a virtual machine identified as “w2k3004” uses “4” storage devices, and may have a state of “Red.” In the preceding example both “4” and “Red” are data values.
An analysis may be performed on a single service group component, and the analysis data may then be applied to a BASG baseline. For example, a component: “Virtual Machine w2k3004” may be analyzed to convey information to the user and to the system 100. The inference engine 633 may traverse the RDF frame work file and read the specific entries for a specific component. For example, for “Virtual Machine w2k3004 uses storage device Gig2Network,” traversing this triple will result in the system being directed to read the triples for the classes that end the component triple of the originating query. If the component being analyzed is “John-Drove-Car” the inference engine 633 will search for “Car” triples and analyze those triples in the same way until all avenues are exhausted. The resulting ontology is based on the results of this analysis. Further analysis can be performed on the resulting ontology by taking into account the data values in the form of a “state” or explicit data received from external sources that also describes the triple members as well as the individual components.
Analyzing a triple yields a relationship, and following all the members of that triple as references for other triples yields an aggregated analysis. Taking into account the data values of triple members that are not related to the original analyzed triple and correlating the results based on data values provides an advanced aggregated analysis. For example, an analysis that yields the result “John-Drove-Car”, yields an aggregated advanced analysis “John-Drove-Ferrari.” Continuing with the same analysis, another advanced aggregated analysis may yield that “John-Drove-Ferrari”, “Ferrari Exceeded 190 mph”, and that “Lamborghini also Exceeded 190 mph.”
The baseline is processed for a single entity comprised of an aggregate of component nodes. For example, the baseline may be performed for a BASG that includes multiple different components. A baseline may be established for a business process, such as, corporate E-mail. The components of the BASG may include various components as included in the example baseline configuration of FIG. 2B. Referring to FIG. 2B, baseline components may include examples, such as, class: storage device, individual storage: “Netapp1” 222, class: storage device, individual storage, “Netapp2” 223, class: storage device, individual storage: “Netapp3” 224, class: primary application: individual e-mail 231, class: primary application: host individual: ESX1 230, class application: individual logging 241, class: primary application, primary application: individual e-mail, class application: individual message tracking 242, class: primary application, primary application: individual E-mail, class application: individual queuing 210, class: primary application, primary application: individual e-mail, class application: individual storage driver 212, class: primary application, primary application: individual e-mail, class application: individual transport components 211, virtual machine individual: SMTP server 220, virtual machine: individual: SMTP message server 221.
As noted above, the components along with their object properties and data values are used to provide a base-lined state. A modification to the baseline, such as, accepting a greater or lesser state for an individual entity of the BASG will result in a new baseline being established for this particular BASG.
In operation, the system 100 monitors for a steady state condition of a currently operating BASG by tracking BASG service tier thresholds that have been assigned to accomplish a business process cycle (completed task) while operating within the thresholds identified as normal (green). When the BASG being monitored operates within normal service tier threshold parameters through three consecutive business application cycles, the system 100 will consider the operating conditions of that base-lined BASG based on those currently assigned and observed service tier thresholds.
A business application process cycle may be comprised of a session that contains an initiation of network activity that is observed by the executables that are part of the primary application for the BASG. Once the communications have ceased and are verified by the user to have been completed successfully, the business application process cycle is recorded in the database.
The business application process cycle is assigned as a baseline candidate for the BASG. The system creates candidates automatically by creating a record of the service tier threshold performance during a business application process cycle (BAPC), which may be validated by the user initially. The system will then automatically create a baseline as illustrated in FIG. 2B. The BAPC yields the components that are involved in the “communicates_with” object value and the indirect components that support those components. The result is an automatic base-lining of service groups which form the basis for the components included in the BASG. That is, the components are used to create a relative match to a user selected categorized BASG.
The process to automatically baseline a BASG is achieved by the business logic 624 requesting the known service groups from the RDF API knowledge base 620. The SQARQL query engine 622 then initiates a query to gather all the class, object properties, and data values from the knowledge base 620. The SQARQL query engine 622 simultaneously initiates a query for performance threshold data in a database. This performance data is comprised of three separate instances of normal threshold data obtained within a business application process cycle.
The business application process cycle may be comprised of a session that contains an initiation of network activity that is observed by an agent of the executables included in the primary application for the BASG. Once the communication has ceased and is verified by the user via the web browser 102, a message is sent through the controllers 627 to the business logic 624. This business application process cycle is assigned as a baseline candidate by the resulting EJB 612, which, in turn, records the established candidate in the database.
Candidates may be created automatically by the system 100 via the SPARQL query engine 622 initiating a query for any existing candidates upon startup of the application server 101, such as, JBOSS. The SPARQL query engine 622 creates a Java Bean EJB, which, in turn sends a Java message service (JMS) message to the agent to observe network traffic that is initiated by an executable contained within a primary application. The agent will then observe for a successful completion of the business application cycle. The web browser 102 then updates the user that a baseline for a given BASG exists. The BASG baseline (see FIG. 2B) may then be monitored for changes by utilizing a configuration drift analysis.
A drift analysis method will now be described with reference to FIG. 1. Referring to FIG. 1, a user selection of a node that has been reported to have changed state via an administrative console interface inventory view is received. Nodes that are of particular importance may include those nodes that are now indicated to be in an alert state. The web browser 102, via the administrative console interface inventory view receives the request and processes the network ontology for a given node to determine any related enterprise entities that also include a changed state, including other network nodes, applications, service groups, etc. In one embodiment, related entities that are now in an alert state are determined, whether or not the indicated node is in an alert state. An RDF API knowledge base engine 620 uses the state information for the node's network ontology to generate an impact summary view that indicates the states of the related enterprise entities. The impact summary view may then be displayed to the user through the web application interface 111.
A specific example for generating an impact summary will now be described. When an agent 500 first begins acquiring data, inventory, configuration and events, messages are sent from the agent 500 to the message driven EJB 623 as shown in FIG. 1. The data is received and forwarded to an I/O processor for routing to a queue of the business logic EJB 624. Once routed an appropriate entity java bean (EJB) is created in the EJB message driven engine 623 for the agent message. Entity Java beans (EJB) are created for the inventory, configuration, and event messages separately. A notification is sent to a real-time bus once the EJB message driven bean engine 623 has created the entity bean. At the same time, notification is sent to the RDF (resource definition frame work) API knowledge base engine 620 and the OWL (ontological web language) file is updated.
The agent 500 continues to periodically report the node inventory, configuration and events in subsequent messages which create further beans at the EJB message driven engine 623. Entity beans are sent to a database as configuration tables via an object-relational mapping (ORM) library, such as, Hibernate or Toplink. For example, Hibernate provides a framework for mapping an object-oriented domain model to a traditional relational database and controls object-relational impedance mismatch problems by replacing direct persistence-related database accesses with high-level object handling functions.
The web application interface 111 may be configured to provide an inventory view to the web browser 102. An example inventory view may provide a list of available nodes as well as related data for that node, such as a state. The inventory view may be ranked by state, so that nodes that have a high alert level are listed at the top. Selecting a node ID, e.g. virtual machine “WXP32 bit_fse—4025”, creates a summary view for that node. An example summary view is generated when the user selects a node ID by first sending the node ID in a query to the database. The query returns data relating to the node ID. The impact summary view is then generated by the web application 111 from the returned query data.
In one example embodiment, the query returns any related applications and nodes that have been placed into an alert state. For example, the query may return nodes and applications having a service tier threshold change that is “Red” (Error), or an infrastructure status condition warning, or a communication severed message. These state messages may be returned by the state and profiling engine 626. The user is able to view the impact that a changed state of a particular node has had on other nodes of the enterprise network, particularly when that node enters an alert state. Using this view, the user is able to determine whether the changed state is critical or not. A critical changed state will be a state where the business applications are no longer able to function adequately, whereas a less critical alert state will have had minimal impact on other applications and nodes.
An example of virtual machine summary indicates the configuration of the VM, properties, and relationships, such as, an assigned baseline, cluster, host and service tier. Each of the elements may be summarized by a hyperlink that, when selected, provides more detailed data. For example, selecting a number of application hyperlinks of the configuration menu provides a table listing of all applications executed by the VM.
The impact summary for the virtual machine indicates the current CPU and memory status as well as any alert messages. In one example, the CPU may be indicated to be critical at 100% usage while the memory may be indicated to be operating within normal parameters below 80%. The impact summary may also indicate any dependent nodes and any affected applications. Examples of affected applications may be listed as “SQL”, “SAP” and “EXCHANGE.” The affected nodes may include storage and network device nodes. With configuration drift analysis of a BASG the only difference is that these items are “grouped” and a change to any one or more of these components them will result in a “configuration drift” of the whole BASG.
When the RDF API knowledge base 620 subsequently reports the existence of a new BASG, the configuration will be compared to the newly assigned BASG baseline to determine whether any parameters of the configuration are outside of the allowable limits set by the baseline. Over time, natural use and evolution of the network will cause changes to occur. The RDF knowledge base 620 will continue to report the current configuration of the node by way of configuration messages that include the updated configuration information.
The configuration messages are received at the state and profiling engine 626 included in a configuration bean that details the relevant data elements included within the aggregate of network nodes. For example, configuration messages may include the BASG baseline, which may include node ID, system properties, security (users and groups), applications, resource allocations (e.g., media, CPU, memory, and other system resources). These data elements are then compared by the state and profiling engine 626 by comparing their current components, such as, classes having specific individuals and data values, and the object properties with corresponding specific data values.
Virtual infrastructure messages may also be generated and communicated via the data agents 500 and these may indicate memory, CPU, disk allocations by the infrastructure and infrastructure warning messages provided by the vendor management system, such as, a VMware ESX server. The state and profiling engine 626 analyzes the configuration beans to determine whether there are any differences present when compared to the assigned baseline information. Configuration changes either relative to the baseline, or, to a previously reported configuration, may cause the state and profiling engine 626 to create a corresponding tracking entity bean that details the changes that have been made and the timing of these changes.
According to example embodiments of the present invention, tracking beans may be created for every detected configuration change. In another example, tracking beans may be created for configuration changes that violate previously defined allowable baseline drifts. In a further alternative, a combination of these methods and operations may be utilized to permit tracking beans to be created for drifts in some parameters, yet selectively created for drifts in other parameters.
In general, configuration drifts may be present in the operating conditions of the BASG(s), which would cause tracking beans to be created each time the RDF API knowledge base 621 reports the node configuration. To avoid unnecessary and persistent configuration drift alerts from being generated, comparisons may be made between a configuration report from the agent 500 and earlier generated tracking beans for that node so that tracking beans are created only for new configuration drifts.
The following terminology is used only to distinguish one element from another element. Thus, for example, a first user terminal could be termed a second user terminal, and similarly, a second user terminal may be termed a first user terminal without departing from the teachings of the present invention. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The symbol “/” is also used as a shorthand notation for “and/or”.
Networks including computer entities, physical and/or virtual machines operating on network nodes, etc., may be advantageously described via an ontology that describes the operational usage and current state of the entities rather than being based on a fixed IT infrastructure architecture. The ontological description may be automatically and dynamically updated based on data acquired from data collection agents deployed to the nodes of the network. The data collection agents observe communicative relationships based on connections between nodes in operational use, while annotating a class state. Using the ontological description, a network analyst or system operator may be provided with an improved ability to analyze network traffic.
Data relating to actual connections may be acquired automatically in near real-time. For example, an actual connection may be monitored in an interrupt-driven way while collecting information regarding an application that made the connection. Moreover a “volume for the connections” may be derived. A software-based data collection agent may be received by a computing device at a node within a communications network. The agent may be distributed to one or more nodes from a central node via the network. Once the software-based data collection agent is received, it may be inserted in an operating system of the receiving node. Advantageously, the agent may be inserted in the kernel of the operating system or in a user space (i.e., an area in virtual memory of a computer that contains user applications that execute at the application layer). The installation may be performed such that it is transparent or undetectable by a user of the node. The installed data collection agent may monitor data packet traffic between an adaptive driver layer and a protocol layer and report results of the monitoring to the central node.
In one example, the data collection agent may have an interface to an operating system's network stack and may periodically determine what applications are using the network stack. As a result, the data collection agent may track information regarding a network connection, the connection duration, and any applications and systems involved in the connection. Moreover, the data collection agent may normalize the foregoing information and report it to an administration console so that different operating systems may be correlated by the administration console.
As a further example, the data collection agent may include a network filter inserted into the network stack to determine exactly when a connection is made between entities. The filter component of the data collection agent may be inserted at one or more layers of the OSI model. For example, a data collection agent may have a filter interface at the transport layer and/or a filter interface at the network layer. The data collection agent may track information regarding a network connection, the connection duration, and any applications and systems involved in the connection. Moreover, the data collection agent may normalize the foregoing information and report it to the administration console so that different operating systems may be correlated by the administration console.
As yet a further example, the data collection agent described in the preceding paragraph may also include a packet filter inserted into the network stack to track connection data. For example, a data collection agent may have a filter interface at the data link layer. Then, the data collection agent may correlate and normalize (if required) data from the network filter and the packet filter to track information regarding the network connection, the connection duration, any applications and systems involved in the connection, connection status and connection resource usage information. Moreover, the data collection agent may normalize the foregoing information and report it to the administration console so that different operating systems may be correlated by the administration console.
Referring again to FIG. 1, an illustrative system 100 for deploying data collection agents onto network nodes, monitoring network connections instantiated at each network node, acquiring resulting data, automatically creating an ontological description of the network from the acquired data, and dynamically updating the ontological description will be described. The system 100 may further be used for monitoring configuration drifts within an enterprise network as will be described in more detail below. In an embodiment, elements of system 100 utilize the Java software platform and Enterprise Java Bean (EJB) architecture to provide certain functionality, and these well-known terms may be used in the description that follows.
According to example embodiments of the present invention, the process to automatically determine a performance allocation may begin by monitoring those virtual machines that have sustained a service tier threshold in either a critical low and/or a critical high level for more than 24 hours. Such an observation may be observed by the virtual machine agent. The SQARQL query engine 622 simultaneously initiates a query for current performance threshold data stored in a database.
The components' states may be determined because they have thresholds that are achieved, overachieved, or underachieved. Nodes, executables and the business application service groups (BASGs) may also incorporate status and alerts from infrastructure providers. The Executables may have a state that relates to the “communicates_with” relationship. For example, if an executable such as sqlservr.exe no longer communicates with node X, it may be designated critical high and indicated on a user interface as red or as a warning. This example may be true of a node that represents a “communicates_with” relationship as well as a primary application represented as a node.
The state and profiling engine 626 may set the state of the business application service group (BASG) using the agent data and system information. When any component of the BASG has achieved a “High Warning” state, the user may view the component as red (indicating a high warning) as well as the BASG in red on a graphical user interface.
The process to determine the state of an individual element may be based on a threshold that has been defined, for example, by the system administrator. The threshold may include a metric that either exceeds or underperforms in a specific area of interest to the system administrator. An example would be where a server in a network is exceeding a specified CPU utilization percentage.
Example embodiments of the present invention may automatically determine the optimum pairing of virtual machines in a business process application service group (BASG) to maximize performance as measured by a service tier threshold system. Example may include automatically analyzing the baseline of direct and indirect connections based on network interactivity of the applications that are utilized to perform a process.
A BASG is comprised of one to many nodes operating on the enterprise network. The basis for an automatic base-lining procedure may be in the ontological structure of the categorized BASG. The resulting data file may contain a structure that includes classes, object properties, and data values. The system creates a profile type for each selected BASG host, storage device, and other network dependent components/elements. This profile may include specific attributes that are used to pair virtual machines with BASGs that allow the virtual machine to execute optimally.
Example operations may provide identifying specific virtual machines to pair with a specific business BASG. One or more virtual machines may be paired with one or more BASGs. The system may determine which BASGs are best suited for a pairing based on parameters that include high availability, high capacity, high speed, moderate capacity, moderate speed, moderate availability, low capacity, low speed, and low availability. These are considered by the system to be the BASG types. The virtual machines that require these attributes are then paired to these BASGS.
Initially, the system 100 may analyze each of the BASGs performance data to determine if any of the BASGs would benefit from a newly added virtual machine pairing. This analysis may be performed by processing the aggregate service tier thresholds of the host member(s) of the BASG. For example, by processing the state information of both the storage and network BASG dependencies, the need for additional virtual machines may be apparent. The storage and network state information may be factored with the host performance threshold data and state information to determine a profile of the BASG The BASG profile may include categories, such as, categories, which may include but are not limited to high availability, high capacity, high speed, moderate capacity, moderate speed, moderate availability, low capacity, low speed, and low availability.
FIG. 3B illustrates an example table of a BASG profile and its corresponding threshold data input and service tier threshold metric information required for a virtual machine candidate selection. Depending on the metrics that are measured, a virtual machine that is operating less than or above the specified metric ranges included in FIG. 3B, may not be considered a candidate for pairing with a particular BASG. The service tier thresholds may be based on the requirements of a particular BASG and its current operating baseline.
The system 100 may analyze the virtual machines to determine the optimal combination of host applications, storage required and network performance by analyzing the service tier threshold performance data acquired. Each virtual machine is assigned a profile requirement, such as, high availability, high capacity, high speed, moderate capacity, moderate speed, moderate availability, low capacity, low speed, and low availability. The system then pairs the virtual machine with at least one host, network, and storage group that has availability and may be assigned to a BASG. Or, alternatively, the BASG can produce availability by migrating one or more less optimally paired virtual machine elsewhere.
The system 100 may analyze the virtual machines to determine the optimal combination of host applications, storage required and network performance by analyzing the service tier threshold performance data acquired. Each virtual machine is assigned a profile requirement, such as, high availability, high capacity, high speed, moderate capacity, moderate speed, moderate availability, low capacity, low speed, and low availability. The system then pairs the virtual machine with at least one host, network, and storage group that has availability and may be assigned to a BASG. Or, alternatively, the BASG can produce availability by migrating one or more less optimally paired virtual machine elsewhere.
The system 100 may also provide a work order that can be processed by an orchestration system, or, individual, who is responsible for executing the changes. The system 100 routinely (as defined through the user interface) monitors the networking environment to maintain optimum virtual machine pairings with host, storage, and speed groups that include one or more BASGs.
FIG. 3A illustrates an example graphical user interface (GUI) used to demonstrate resource allocation and usage over time, according to example embodiments of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 3A, a GUI for a system administrator may include a graph of percentage of capacity vs. time (weeks). Four example resources are included in the graph, including, CPU allocation 301, memory allocation 302, memory usage 303 and CPU usage 304. The performance details are illustrated it a table that includes the current baseline information, last week, last four weeks and last three months, and days remaining.
In FIG. 3A, a physical capacity summary is also provided for easy summarization of the total CPU capacity, memory capacity and disk capacity. This baseline summary provides a system administrator with a snapshot of operating conditions of the BASGs, virtual machines and overall available resources. This provides the system administrator with the information necessary to determine if the BASGs, virtual machines and available resources are being utilized efficiently throughout the network.
FIG. 4 illustrates another example GUI according to example embodiments of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 4, a hierarchical logic flow diagram 400 includes a host device 401 and two different virtual machines 402 and 403. The various network resources 404-411 are illustrated as being assigned to at least one virtual machine. Resource icon 404 represents a logical network in the “enterprise” for virtual machine 402. It is associated with a device at the virtual infrastructure management level (i.e., ESX Server), which is a name for the network as it is known to the enterprise for our purposes.
Resource icon 405 is the physical host (hardware) for the virtual machine 402 along with other virtual machines, and is referred to as the hypervisor. Resource icon 406 is the network for virtual machine 402. It is the same as 404, a logical network in the “Enterprise”, and is associated with a device at the virtual infrastructure management level (i.e., ESX Server), which is a name for the network as it is known to the enterprise for our purposes.
Resource icon 407 is a datastore for virtual machine 402. It represents a physical allocation of disk storage, and is associated with a hard disk storage device at the virtual infrastructure management level. Resource icon 408 is the “User” assigned to both virtual machines 402 and 403. It has been defined and assigned by this virtualization management software. Resource icon 409 is the host for virtual machine 403. The host is a physical host (hardware) that the virtual machine is running on, along with other virtual machines, and may be referred to as the hypervisor. Resource icon 410 is the primary application that is being executed on the virtual machine 403. Lastly, 411 is the datastore for the virtual machine 403. These resource icons may be dragged and dropped to reassign resources to the virtual machines, and, in turn, modify the allocations of the BASGS.
According to example embodiments of the present invention, they system 100 will automatically determine the optimum pairing of virtual machines with BASGs to maximize performance as measured by a service tier threshold monitoring system. In operation, upon initiation by the user through the web browser interface 102, the application server 101 may receive a message to survey the virtual machines for their respective CPU and memory usage over the past 30 days. The survey may be performed by the web application server 101 sending a request to the state and profiling engine 626 to compile the usage data from the database.
The state and profiling engine 626 may transmit a JMS message to the business logic 624 that compiles the database query. The business logic 624 generates an EJB based query that includes a request for CPU and memory usage data for the last 30 days. A ranking may be performed by the SPARQL query engine 622. An example of the data returned by the database is described with reference to FIG. 1. This data is used to rank the virtual machines. The ranking is averaged over the range of virtual machines returned. The ranked virtual machines are then assigned a profile by the state and profiling engine 626. The profiles may include high availability, high capacity, high speed, moderate capacity, moderate speed, moderate availability, low capacity, low speed, and low availability.
The breakpoints for the profiles may match the predefined service tier thresholds assigned by the system. Once all of the virtual machines have been assigned a profile based on their usage, the state and profiling engine 626 sends this list via a profile EJB to the RDF API knowledge base 620. Once completed, the system 100 initiates the process to compile a candidate list of BASG dependencies. The virtual machines that reside in the described ontological structures are not considered for the candidate process. The BASG candidate process is initiated by the state and profiling engine 626.
The state and profiling engine 626 sends a JMS request message to the business logic 624 to compile a list of candidate hosts, networks, and storage groups that are configured within the BASGs. The request is included within a profile EJB. This results in a database query for usage data for the last 30 days from the database. The business logic sends a request to the RDF API knowledge base 620 for state data for host, network, and storage roll-up data based on 24 hour roll-ups for the last 30 days.
The state data may contain warning or errors that resulted in a “red” state for the given nodes. The usage and state information are sent back to the state and profiling engine 626, where they are used to rank and profile the BASGs. The ranked BASGs are then assigned a profile by the state and profiling engine. The BASG profiles may include high availability, high capacity, high speed, moderate capacity, moderate speed, moderate availability, low capacity, low speed, and low availability. The breakpoints for the profiles may match the service tier thresholds previously assigned by the system.
The state information for each BASG may be used to assign a profile by automatically assigning a “low” profile to any BASG that is experiencing a warning or error (red indication). The error may be based on a 20% margin of exceeding the predefined resource threshold, and may be based on a 24 hour data roll-up for a 30-day period. No virtual machines are used to rank a BASG. The virtual machine itself is ranked in the virtual machine profile process mentioned above. Once all BASGs have been profiled, the state and profiling engine 626 may use a standard matching algorithm to pair the virtual machines with BASGs. The state and profiling engine 626 generates a report that details the recommended change in virtual machine assignment to BASGs. This list may be formatted in XML to be utilized by an orchestration system to complete the changes, or, to be read by a user for manual adjustments to assignments.
The states of the individual business application service components may be aggregated to calculate an overall state for the BASG. Any support nodes within the BASG ontology that have achieved a high warning may be labeled under the BASG as having a high warning. The ontology begins as a file and then it is migrated to memory. If any one node with a “communicates_with” relationship achieves a high warning status it may be identified as having a high warning for its associated BASG. High errors may be identified in a similar manner. For example, in order for a node to achieve these states, the states must have been observed and processed by the state and profiling engine 626 three times within one hour, or, within a similar time frame. As a result, spurious errors and random faults will not lead to warnings being generated for the overall business application process.
One example method for processing state information of the elements of a business process ontology, and, more specifically, for a BASG that is in an error state will now be described with reference to FIG. 5. The method of FIG. 5 may be performed by processing logic that may comprise hardware (e.g., circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, etc.), software (such as instructions run on a processing device), firmware, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the method is performed by a server (e.g., application server 101 of FIG. 1).
At operation 501, a query is sent to the RDF knowledgebase 620 that identifies the BASG that is currently in an error state. The RDF knowledge base 620 returns the list of components of the BASG (e.g., hardware nodes, virtual nodes, executables, processes, primary applications, etc) and their state.
It should be noted that the primary application of the BASG is considered by the RDF knowledge base to be a “node.” Any of these components of the BASG may have independent thresholds assigned by the system administrator. Examples of components may include virtual machines, host machines, storage devices, network devices, etc. Examples of resources that are allocated may include memory, CPU, storage disk space, network adapters, etc. Examples of metrics may include a CPU utilization of 1024 Ghz, a memory utilization of 8 gigabytes, a network adapter operating at 100 Mbps, etc.
At operation 502, a filter is applied to determine those components that may have contributed to the “high warning” threshold that was exceeded and which triggered an alarm. In one example embodiment, the filter omits any individual component that has not exceeded a “high warning” threshold individually from the process. This may reduce the chances of false alarms occurring due to random instances of a predefined threshold being exceeded.
At operation 503, the process continues by inspecting each of the filtered components to determine a root cause. The inspection process looks up performance data previously reported by the agents deployed to the nodes. The inspection process may yield all of the component's relevant data for determining a root cause. In one example, the data used for this determination is service tier data, such as, CPU, memory, disk, and network operation threshold roll-up data (last 30 days), though other relevant data may also be used.
The root cause process may also use virtualization infrastructure alarms and network status updates. These are available to the system for host, virtual machines, disks, and network devices, and may be sent in messages from a proxy agent. The proxy agent may contain an instruction for translating virtual infrastructure messages to a format that the state and profile engine 626 can process. If, for example, the proxy agent receives a message from the virtual infrastructure stating a disk has achieved full capacity and has an error level of 3, the proxy agent will modify the received message with a translation on the “level of 3” to “High Error.” This is then sent to the message driven bean factory 623, where an EJB is created with the contents received from the proxy agent. The business logic then routes the new state EJB to the state and profiling engine 626. This data is provided to the user as evidence for the root cause conclusion.
The SPARQL query engine 622 determines the state of the primary applications and the contributing executables that make up the primary application by requesting the ontology for the business application service. The ontology is analyzed for breaks in communication with nodes, as described in the Applicant's co-pending applications referenced above.
The SPARQL query engine 622 will send a request to the agent to send back the performance statistics of the executables that make up the primary application of the business application service. This will provide the user with the real-time performance statistics of the executables to provide support for a conclusion that a root cause of failure is due to the failure of the primary application support nodes, at operation 504. The result of conclusion may automatically trigger a recommendation to perform an increase and/or decrease in the present resource allocation of resources provided by a virtual machine(s), at operation 505. For example, CPU resources and disk space may be reallocated from among the network resources by the system administrator as a result of receiving the recommendation. Or, alternatively, certain reallocation measures may be performed automatically.
System 100 may comprise an application server 101, which interacts across a network with a number of data collection agents 500 deployed in various nodes of the network. Advantageously, application server 101, may be an element of an administrative console (AC) that also provides a suite of network management tools. A system administrator may perform network traffic analysis and/or other network management tasks by accessing application server 101 by way of web browser 102. Application server 101 may comprise an EJB module 612, an ontological description creation engine 613, and a web application 111.
Data collection agents 500, as described throughout the specification, may be deployed onto network nodes including physical and/or virtual machines in an enterprise IT infrastructure environment. After such deployment, application server 101 receives messages from data collection agents 500. These messages may include data representing, for example, state and relationship information about the network nodes, configuration information related to the IT infrastructure, performance/utilization data and network communication.
The received messages may be initially handled by EJB module 612. For example, message driven EJB module 623 may initially inspect a received message. A received message relating to network traffic or node status may be forwarded by message driven EJB 623 to the business logic EJB 624. Business logic EJB 624 may call network traffic analysis engine 625 for messages relating to network traffic. Alternatively, “infrastructure messages” (i.e., those relating to node status) may be forwarded directly to the state and profiling engine 626.
Messages forwarded to the state and profiling engine 626 may then undergo sorting and processing. The state and profiling engine 626, for example, may identify the entities within the IT infrastructure as well as their dependency on one another, based on messages received from the platform. In addition, state and profiling engine 626 may perform further processing to determine the state of one or more entities. The states may be based on a threshold that has been defined, for example, by the system administrator. The threshold may be based on a metric that either exceeds or underperforms in a specific area of interest to the system administrator. An example would be a server operating in a network that is exceeding a specified CPU utilization percentage. The threshold may be set to 80% CPU utilization and if the server is operating at 81%, the threshold is being exceeded.
Example embodiments for determining a required resource allocation of a virtual machine based on thresholds are discussed below. The web application server business logic creates a message request to provide the necessary changes in virtual machine performance allocation variables to create a condition of no critical low and/or no critical high conditions for the next 24 hours. If the recommended change is not successful, the cycle repeats by incrementing the 24 hour period with no critical low and/or no critical high warning by the service tier threshold system. Another 24 hour monitoring period may then begin.
A recommendation of a change in a variable by a factor of 10% (increase or reduction) may be a general modification used to satisfy a threshold condition that has been exceeded/underperformed. The 10% factor modification may be used until the virtual machine exceeds a performance request, which results in the web browser 102 initiating a message to the web application 111 and controllers 627 of the virtual machine. This modification, in turn, creates a message driven entity bean that contains the request, which is transferred to a rules engine. The rules engine sends a request to gather a historical period of information to the web browser 102. Such historical information may be for a period of 1 to 90 days. The rules engine (not shown) may be part of creation engine 613 and/or EJBs 612.
The rules engine message is sent to a database (not shown) to gather the data tables requested. The database sends the data back to the rules engine. The rules engine factors the data resulting in a recommendation to increase or decrease the allocation for each of the performance threshold criteria, which may include, for example, CPU utilization, memory utilization, data storage utilization, and network resource utilization.
The resource modification recommendation is created by the rules engine 613. The creation engine 613 may also be referred to as the rules engine. The rules engine 613 may perform averaging the actual threshold observed by the service tier threshold integer (0-100 scale). The average is only taken from metrics observed while the virtual machine is observed in its normal operating range. If no normal range is observed, than the rules engine will increment the recommended change by increasing or decreasing the allocated resource(s) by 20% until a normal range is observed over a period of 24 hours. According to one example, the recommended increase or decrease is only 10% for a period following 24 hours if the data gathered does contain “normal” range input data.
A proxy agent (not shown) may be part of the local agent 500 that is used to collect data. In operation, the proxy agent collects data from the virtual infrastructure management provider. The user will utilize the default thresholds or adjust them as deemed necessary. Thresholds are used by the state and profile engine for tracking the “state” of the nodes that make up the components for a business application process. The inventory in the database may be updated by the proxy agent with a list of virtual machines, storage, hosts, and network devices.
The agent may be deployed via the physical hosts connected directly to the virtual machine's O/S. The state and profile engine 626 assigns the “state” of the various network components and receives additional input from the proxy agent to factor into the “state” (e.g., alarms, network, and “communicates_with” relationship status) and updates the RDF knowledge base 620 ontologies to reflect the assignments. The agent tracks executable applications to determine what other nodes are communicating with the virtual machines (VMs) in the enterprise.
The network traffic analysis engine 625 determines which executable applications and services are communicating with other nodes that constitute a “communicates_with relationship.” A determination may be made as to whether any pairs of nodes have a “communicates_with relationship.” Upon the assignment of a “communicates_with” relationship to the ontology of a node and its direct and indirect relationships, the state and profiling engine 626 assigns the group of nodes as a “service group.”
The RDF knowledge base 620 contains an ontology for each individual node. The model and structure the system uses to create and update the knowledge base is contained within the ontology web language (OWL) file present on the application server 101. The state and profiling engine 626 tracks the “state” continually of the components and receives additional input from the proxy agent to factor into the “state” (e.g., alarms, network, and “communicates_with” relationship status).
The user may identify a “service group” of network nodes as a business application service group (BASG) by selecting a name for the group of nodes and the executables that are the basis for the “communicates_with” relationship. The user may also add nodes that the system did not auto-detect as a component of the service group. Those added nodes will be recorded and stored in the ontology model 621.
A determination may then be made as to whether the user has assigned additional nodes and/or names to the service group. The ontology itself provides the direct and indirect dependency information of the nodes that the SPARQL query engine 622 requires to infer the impact a change in “state” will have on the rest of the service group. For instance, if a storage device's (component) state is changed to “RED” because it is almost full (e.g., only two gigabytes left of a 1500 gigabyte memory) then this may cause the physical host to start the paging memory, which will effect the performance of any and all virtual machines running on that physical host.
The SPARQL query engine 622 parses the service group ontology for the components that have a “communicates_with” relationship, which forms the basis for a primary application. The state and profiling engine 626 tracks the “state” of the BASG by requesting the current “state” from the RDF knowledge base 620 and updating the ontology when any new messages are received from the business logic EJB factory 624. A new message can be created by an agent or the virtual infrastructure provider management system. The new message will include items, such as, new hosts, virtual machines, network devices, storage devices, as well as statuses for these items. The inference engine 633 adds these items into the RDF API knowledge base 620 while it is in memory. If any of these items exist as components, then the new data is added/modified in the ontology stored in memory.
The ontology itself provides the direct and indirect dependency information the SPARQL query engine 622 requires to infer the impact a change in “state” will have on the rest of the BASG. SPARQL query engine 622 parses the BASG ontology for the components that have a “communicates_with” relationship, which forms the basis for a primary application.
For example, SPARQL query engine 622 provides a list of candidate BASG members for base-lining and adjusting that may be needed to achieve “normal” acceptable performance levels. By parsing the BASG ontology for primary applications that have “communicates_with” relationships with “virtual machines” that have operated in a “normal” level of threshold for 3 consecutive business cycles may yield a list of qualifying components. SPARQL query engine 622 may parse the BASG ontology to determine the components that have a “communicates_with” relationship. Such components may be used to form the basis for a primary application. SPARQL query engine 622 may generate a list of virtual machine and BASG member pairing recommendations.
Web application server 101 may receive the message to survey the virtual machines for their CPU and/or memory usage over the past 30 days. Web application server 101 may send a request to the state and profiling engine 626 to compile the usage data from the database. The state and profiling engine 626 sends a message to the business Logic that compiles the database query. The business logic 624 generates an EJB based query that includes a request for CPU and memory usage data for the last 30 days.
According to example embodiments of the present invention, the SPARQL query engine 622 may parse the service group ontology data to determine the components that have a “communicates_with” relationship. This relationship information may be used to form the basis for a primary application. The user may communicate via a web interface of the web application 111 and assign a name to the service group.
The state and profiling engine 626 tracks the “state” of the BASG as an aggregate of each of the components of the BASG, by requesting the current “state” from the RDF API knowledge base 620 and updating the ontology information when any new messages are received from the business logic 624 of the EJBs 612. SPARQL query engine 622 provides a list of BASGs that may be used for base-lining and for making any adjustments to achieve “normal” acceptable performance levels. Parsing the BASG ontologies for primary applications that have “communicates_with” relationships with “virtual machines” that have operated in a “normal” threshold level for three consecutive business cycles may yield a list of primary applications that have associated triples with data values associated with those triple members.
The business logic 624 may perform requesting the service groups from the RDF API knowledge base 620. The SPARQL query engine 622 then initiates a query to gather all the class, object properties, and data values from the API knowledge base 620. The SQARQL query engine 622 may simultaneously initiate a query for performance threshold data from a remote database (not shown). The performance threshold data may include three separate instances of normal threshold data within a business application process cycle (BAPC). The BAPC may include a session that provokes network activity that is observed by the agent of the corresponding executable of the primary application for the BASG.
Once the communication has ceased and is verified by the user via the web browser 102, a message may be sent through the controllers 627 to the business logic 624. The BAPC may be assigned as a baseline candidate by the resulting EJB 612, which, in turn, records the candidate into a database. Candidates are then created automatically by the system 100 via the SPARQL query engine 622 which performs initiating a query for any existing candidates. The query may be performed upon startup of the application server 101. The SPARQL query engine 622 creates an EJB 612, which, in turn, sends a Java® message service (JMS) message to the agent to observe network traffic that is created by an executable contained within a primary application. This results in a base-lined BASG that can be monitored for changes just as a single entity may be monitored within the configuration drift system.
The BASG baseline may be monitored for changes by utilizing a configuration drift analysis by the state and profiling engine. SPARQL query engine 622 may provide a list of identified BASG baselines. These baselines may then be inserted into the state and profiling engine 626 for a configuration drift analysis. Drifting may include any changes that have occurred from a previous BASG configuration. For example, a component (class), an object value (verb), or, a data value, such as, the state of any of the assets of a BASG, each represent examples of potential changes that may occur.
After a drift analysis is performed, the SPARQL query engine 622 provides the business logic 624 of the EJB 612 with a message detailing a list of BASGs, and updates the user by providing the information via the web browser 102. The user selects one or more of the baselines of the BASGs. The baseline may be selected for use by a future simulation engine and/or for use by a future prediction engine.
FIG. 6 illustrates an example method of operation of a method of automatically establishing a baseline of virtual machines operating in a network, according to example embodiments of the present invention. The method may be performed by processing logic that may comprise hardware (e.g., circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, etc.), software (such as instructions run on a processing device), firmware, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the method is performed by a server (e.g., application server 101 of FIG. 1).
The method may include parsing service group ontology information stored in a memory of an established service group to determine components of a business application service group that are communicating with one another, at operation 601. The method may also include tracking the current state of the business application service group to determine if any changes have occurred since a previous service business application service group configuration, and, if so, updating the ontology information to reflect those changes, at operation 602, and generating a list of candidate virtual machines that are candidates for participating in the established baseline, at operation 603.
FIG. 7 illustrates a diagrammatic representation of a machine in the exemplary form of a computer system 1000 within which a set of instructions, for causing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein, may be executed. In alternative embodiments, the machine may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines in a Local Area Network (LAN), an intranet, an extranet, or the Internet. The machine may operate in the capacity of a server or a client machine in a client-server network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The machine may be a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a cellular telephone, a web appliance, a server, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. Further, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term “machine” shall also be taken to include any collection of machines (e.g., computers) that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein.
The exemplary computer system 1000 includes a processing device 1002, a main memory 1004 (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, dynamic random access memory (DRAM) such as synchronous DRAM (SDRAM) or Rambus DRAM (RDRAM), etc.), a static memory 1006 (e.g., flash memory, static random access memory (SRAM), etc.), and a secondary memory 1016 (e.g., a data storage device), which communicate with each other via a bus 1008.
Processing device 1002 represents one or more general-purpose processing devices such as a microprocessor, central processing unit, or the like. More particularly, the processing device 1002 may be a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, processor implementing other instruction sets, or processors implementing a combination of instruction sets. Processing device 1002 may also be one or more special-purpose processing devices such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), network processor, or the like. Processing device 1002 is configured to execute instructions 1026 for performing the operations and steps discussed herein.
The computer system 1000 may further include a network interface device 1022. The computer system 1000 also may include a video display unit 1010 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT)), an alphanumeric input device 1012 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device 1014 (e.g., a mouse), and a signal generation device 1020 (e.g., a speaker).
The secondary memory 1016 may include a machine-readable storage medium (or more specifically a computer-readable storage medium) 1024 on which is stored one or more sets of instructions 1026 embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. The instructions 1026 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 1004 and/or within the processing device 1002 during execution thereof by the computer system 1000, the main memory 1004 and the processing device 1002 also constituting machine-readable storage media.
The machine-readable storage medium 1024 may also be used to store software performing the operations discussed herein, and/or a software library containing methods that call this software. While the machine-readable storage medium 1024 is shown in an exemplary embodiment to be a single medium, the term “machine-readable storage medium” should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term “machine-readable storage medium” shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing or encoding a set of instructions for execution by the machine and that cause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present invention. The term “machine-readable storage medium” shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, and optical and magnetic media.
Some portions of the detailed description above are presented in terms of algorithms and symbolic representations of operations on data bits within a computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are the means used by those skilled in the data processing arts to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. An algorithm is here, and generally, conceived to be a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result. The steps are those requiring physical manipulations of physical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It has proven convenient at times, principally for reasons of common usage, to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, or the like.
It should be borne in mind, however, that all of these and similar terms are to be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities. Unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the following discussion, it is appreciated that throughout the description, discussions utilizing terms such as “receiving”, “determining”, “encrypting”, “decrypting”, “sending” or the like, refer to the actions and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (e.g., electronic) quantities within the computer system's registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage devices.
Embodiments of the invention also relate to an apparatus for performing the operations herein. This apparatus may be specially constructed for the required purposes, or it may comprise a general purpose computer selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer. Such a computer program may be stored in a computer readable storage medium, such as, but not limited to, any type of disk including floppy disks, optical disks, CD-ROMs, and magnetic-optical disks, read-only memories (ROMs), random access memories (RAMs), EPROMs, EEPROMs, magnetic or optical cards, or any type of media suitable for storing electronic instructions.
The algorithms and displays presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various general purpose systems may be used with programs in accordance with the teachings herein, or it may prove convenient to construct a more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps. The required structure for a variety of these systems will appear from the description below. In addition, the present invention is not described with reference to any particular programming language. It will be appreciated that a variety of programming languages may be used to implement the teachings of the invention as described herein.
The operations of a method or algorithm described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a computer program executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. A computer program may be embodied on a computer readable medium, such as a storage medium. For example, a computer program may reside in random access memory (“RAM”), flash memory, read-only memory (“ROM”), erasable programmable read-only memory (“EPROM”), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (“EEPROM”), registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a compact disk read-only memory (“CD-ROM”), or any other form of storage medium known in the art.
An exemplary storage medium may be coupled to the processor such that the processor may read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in an application specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”). In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium may reside as discrete components.
It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments, it will be recognized that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described, but can be practiced with modification and alteration within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative sense rather than a restrictive sense. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described, it is to be understood that the embodiments described are illustrative only and the scope of the invention is to be defined solely by the appended claims when considered with a full range of equivalents and modifications (e.g., protocols, hardware devices, software platforms etc.) thereto.
1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
parsing service group ontology information stored in a memory of an established service group to determine components of a business application service group that are communicating with one another; tracking the current state of the business application service group to determine if any changes have occurred since a previous business application service group configuration, and, if so, updating the ontology information to reflect those changes; and generating a list of candidate virtual machines that are candidates for participating in an established baseline.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
modifying the business application service group by adding or removing one or more of the candidate virtual machines; and monitoring the business application service group for any changes in the established baseline.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein monitoring the business application service group comprises determining if any drifting has occurred by determining if any changes have occurred from the previous business application service group configuration.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein the changes comprise changes to at least one of a component class, an object value, and a state of a plurality of assets of the business application service group.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the components comprise at least one of hardware nodes, virtual nodes, executables, processes and primary applications operating in the business application service group.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
establishing the baseline by sending a query to a database to obtain performance threshold data based on a plurality of separate instances of measuring the performance threshold data within a common business cycle.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
establishing a plurality of baselines for the business application service group and applying one or more of the selected baselines to at least one of a future simulation analysis and a future prediction analysis.
8. An apparatus comprising:
a memory; and a processor, coupled to the memory, to parse service group ontology information, stored in the memory, of an established service group to determine components of a business application service group that are communicating with one another, and track the current state of the business application service group to determine if any changes have occurred since a previous business application service group configuration, and, if so, to update the ontology information to reflect those changes, and generate a list of candidate virtual machines that are candidates for participating in an established baseline.
9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the processor is further to modify the business application service group by adding or removing one or more of the candidate virtual machines, and monitor the business application service group for any changes in the established baseline.
10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the business application service group is monitored by determining if any drifting has occurred by determining if any changes have occurred from the previous business application service group configuration.
11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the changes comprise changes to at least one of a component class, an object value, and a state of a plurality of assets of the business application service group.
12. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the components comprise at least one of hardware nodes, virtual nodes, executables, processes and primary applications operating in the business application service group.
13. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the processor is further to establish the baseline by transmitting a query via a transmitter to a database to obtain performance threshold data based on a plurality of separate instances of measuring the performance threshold data within a common business cycle.
14. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the processor is further to establish a plurality of baselines for the business application service group and apply one or more of the selected baselines to at least one of a future simulation analysis and a future prediction analysis.
15. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium comprising instructions that when executed cause a processor to perform operations comprising:
parsing service group ontology information stored in a memory of an established service group to determine components of a business application service group that are communicating with one another; tracking the current state of the business application service group to determine if any changes have occurred since a previous business application service group configuration, and, if so, updating the ontology information to reflect those changes; and generating a list of candidate virtual machines that are candidates for participating in the established baseline.
16. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the operations further comprise:
modifying the business application service group by adding or removing one or more of the candidate virtual machines; and monitoring the business application service group for any changes in the established baseline.
17. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein monitoring the business application service group comprises determining if any drifting has occurred by determining if any changes have occurred from the previous business application service group configuration.
18. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 17, wherein the changes comprise changes to at least one of a component class, an object value, and a state of a plurality of assets of the business application service group.
19. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the components comprise at least one of hardware nodes, virtual nodes, executables, processes and primary applications operating in the business application service group.
20. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the operations further comprise:
establishing the baseline by sending a query to a database to obtain performance threshold data based on a plurality of separate instances of measuring the performance threshold data within a common business cycle.
| 2010-12-27 | en | 2012-06-28 |
US-30539205-A | Curb-style drain filter kit
ABSTRACT
A curb style drain filter kit has a length of flexible filter material of film or mesh with interstices sized to separate small particles from run-off water. The material is wrapped around a conduit which lays in the gutter and fits in a storm sewer inlet. The filter material extends outwardly from the conduit and covers the storm drain grate. An anchor is attached to the outer edge of the material to keep the material flat and covering the grate.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to site preparation of construction projects and, more particularly, to devices to prevent soil and other water pollutants from entering the storm water drainage system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Once a construction site has been graded or denuded of vegetative cover, one of the major pollutant transport mechanisms is water run-off resulting from rainfall or ground water from other sources. Such run-off often contains soil or other water pollutants found on construction sites. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES, a derivative of the 1978 Federal Clean Water Act) requires developers and builders to prevent the transport of water pollutants from all construction sites sized one acre and larger. NPDES infractions may incur fines upwards of $10,000 per day per violation.
Numerous Best Management Practices (BMPs) are commonly employed to prevent storm water transport of pollutants. BMPs may take the form of procedural management practices, or a BMP may take the form of a physical barrier or device. An effective storm water pollution prevention program most often utilizes a redundant series of BMPs positioned inside the boundary of the construction site. Some BMPs may serve to slow water velocity thus allowing suspended solids to settle. Other BMPs may filter water pollutants from the water stream. Logically, one strategic location for installing pollution prevention BMP devices is at storm sewer inlets.
Typically, water supply, sewer, and storm drainage systems are installed at the beginning of the construction cycle along with curbs and gutters. Also, new construction is sometimes accomplished in established neighborhoods where the storm drainage system is already in place. It is not uncommon for large, planned communities to have hundreds of active storm sewer inlets that, under NPDES regulations, need to be monitored or maintained on a weekly basis. For this reason it is imperative that storm water inlet protection devices are economically priced, as well as easily installed and quickly maintained.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,632,888; U.S. Pat. No. 5,725,782; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,010,622 to Chinn, et. al. disclose a filter for a storm drainage inlet to separate water run-off from debris. The filter devices include a porous envelop into which the storm sewer grate is inserted. The storm grate envelop is joined with an upright cylindrical “roll” of filter material filled with impermeable or relatively impermeable material. The upright roll is intended to block water entry into the upright portion of the curb-style storm sewer inlet.
However, experience shows that, in high volume storms, the porous envelop (with two porous layers through which water must pass) drains too slowly, and/or is very likely to become clogged with soil particulate matter. Moreover, the envelop nature of these devices renders them useful for only one size storm grate, and very time consuming to install.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,954,952 to Strawser, Sr. discloses a storm water catch basin filter assembly which fixes to the catch basin inlet frame. The device consists of more than 50 separate parts requiring multi-stepped assembly/disassembly for installation and/or maintenance. Owing to time and cost, the device would be impractical for use on large scale construction sites.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,709,579 to Singleton, et. al. discloses a stand alone, cylindrical storm water filter device intended for use with vertical curb inlets. The device includes an elongated body with weighted anchors at the ends. The elongated body contains a filter medium that may enclose a support member; once positioned the device is held in place only by gravity. Since the device lacks a means for physical anchoring, it therefore may be moved about during high volume storm water flows. Also, the device lacks a means for preventing sediments from passing underneath the elongated body and into the storm sewer.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,843,306; U.S. Pat. No. 6,004,457; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,261,445 to Singleton disclose a domed silt guard to fit over a drop inlet of the storm sewer system. The device has a filter material which drapes over a pre-formed, rigid frame. This device is intended for off-road use because the domed nature of the filter does not lend itself to street traffic.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,372,714 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,575,925 to Logue, Jr.; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,884,343 to Harris disclose a basket style storm filter designed to hang down inside storm sewer catch basins. When installed, the devices are supported by walls of the catch basin or by the storm sewer grate. These devices are more suited to non-construction site applications, such as intercepting leaves and other light debris carried by storm water flow during the Autumn season. However, on construction sites, experience shows that the basket style storm water filter accumulates large loads of water saturated sediment making the device heavy and, therefore, difficult to remove for cleaning. Also, under heavy sediment loads the basket style filter tends to separate at seams and/or joints. Such separations result in large holes or gaps in the filter material rendering it useless as a construction site storm water filter device. U.S. Pat. No. 5,958,226 to Fleischmann discloses another basket style storm water filter. This device is comprised of many components, making it prohibitively time consuming to install and service on large construction sites.
Commercial products similar to the patented devices mentioned above may be found at a website entitled newpic.com. These devices, however, are intended as blocking mechanisms during HAZMAT spill response incidents rather than as storm water filters.
Thus, what is lacking in the art is a curb style drain filter kit that: fulfills the primary objective of separating suspended solids from storm water drainage, is economical and easy to use; can be sized at the job site to meet particular drain requirements, and also, by virtue of its design and material components, allows storm water to enter curb inlets during high volume rain events.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Disclosed is a curb-style inlet drain filter kit comprising a length of flexible filter material of film or mesh with interstices sized to separate small particles from run-off water. The material is wrapped around a perforated, plastic flexible conduit which lays in the gutter so as to cover the entire length of the curb-style storm sewer inlet, but only partially covering the height of the inlet opening. During maintenance work a rigid rod is inserted inside the perforated, plastic flex-pipe. The porous material extends outward from the conduit (away from the curb) covering the horizontal storm drain opening. The outer edge of the porous fabric is constructed with a sleeve designed to accept a rigid rod. With the rods inserted, the fabric is supported on both the curb side and the street side preventing it from falling into the catch basin. With the porous fabric positioned over the storm sewer opening, the inlet grate is then placed atop the fabric and seated in the inlet frame anchoring the porous fabric and, as such, keeping the fabric from falling into the catch basin even under the weight of storm water and/or accumulated sediments. With the storm grate in place, and while the filter fabric is in service, the rigid rods are removed to eliminate any potential impediments or dangers to construction traffic. Before servicing the filter fabric one rigid rod is inserted back into the outer sleeve and the second rod into the flexible plastic pipe. Then, after the anchoring storm grate is removed, the entire assembly (assumed to be laden with accumulated sediments and/or storm water) can be lifted from the storm inlet for cleaning or replacement. In periods of high storm water volume, the porous plastic pipe and filter material create a “dam” which slows the storm water movement, thus allowing larger suspended solids to settle. If water volume is sufficient to continue rising in the gutter, the excess storm water will spill over the top of the pipe/fabric “dam” into the curb inlet leaving the larger suspended solids behind in the gutter or on the filter fabric under the inlet grate.
The filter material and plastic pipe are relatively inexpensive and quickly tailored to different sized storm sewer inlets. The rigid rods are assumed to be excess or scrap construction materials.
Accordingly, it is a primary objective of the instant invention to provide an effective curb-style filter kit consisting of a quantity of filter material, a conduit, and rigid rods (for servicing) for installing a plurality of storm sewer filters on different sized storm sewer inlets.
It is a further objective of the instant invention to provide a pervious filter material that is durable, but easily tailored in the field to fit varying sized storm inlets. In particular, the filter material can be pre-sewn, and made into a long length roll, e.g. 200 feet. The material is then unrolled, and cut to fit the size of the inlet opening to be protected. Similarly, perforated plastic pipe is purchased in rolls, e.g. 250 feet, and can be cut to length. Rigid rods are generally available on construction sites as excess or scrap concrete reinforcement material.
It is yet another objective of the instant invention to provide a perforated tubular conduit which is easily sized to span the mouths of different sized storm sewer inlets.
It is still a further objective of the invention to provide two anchor sleeves in the filter material through which rigid rods can be inserted during maintenance activities to prevent the soil/debris laden material from falling into the catch basin when the anchoring storm sewer grate is removed to clean or replace the filter fabric.
Another objective is to employ the perforated conduit as additional surface area for filtering of water passing into the drain, while also using the height of the perforated conduit as a “dam” to slow the movement of storm water such that suspended solids will settle, while also allowing an “escape” route for water over the top of the “dam” during high volume storm events.
Other objectives and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with any accompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments of this invention. Any drawings contained herein constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
FIG. 1 is a top plan view of the filter material of this invention;
FIG. 2 is a perspective of the filter material with an open seam of this invention;
FIG. 3 is a perspective of the curb-style filter kit of this invention;
FIG. 4 is a pictorial of a drain;
FIG. 5 is a pictorial of the filter kit placed over an open drain with anchor rods in position;
FIG. 6 is a pictorial of the filter kit beneath a drain grate;
FIG. 7 is a pictorial of the filter kit with anchor rods removed when in service;
FIG. 8 is a pictorial of the filter kit with anchor rods re-inserted for maintenance; and
FIG. 9 is a pictorial of the filter kit with the drain grate removed to clean the soil laden filter fabric.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The curb-style filter kit 10 is shown in FIG. 3. The kit is composed of a length of filter material 11 which may be a single ply or multiple plies, as shown in FIG. 1. The material may be a woven or non-woven web or a fenestrated film of natural or synthetic composition that is pervious to water but acts as a sieve to prevent the passage of small particles carried by the water. The material has interstices ranging from pin hole to one-quarter inch size and above. The material has adequate strength to support larger pieces of debris without rupture. The material may be supplied in rolls and cut to size at the individual drains.
The multiple ply material has a seam 12 about the perimeter 13, 14 to join the plies together. The seam 12 can be sewn or secured by a line of adhesive or formed by heat and pressure.
The multiple plies can have different characteristics, such as a heavier ply for strength and support joined to a finer ply with smaller interstices. As an alternative to the seam, the plies of material may be randomly stitched or otherwise joined throughout the superposed surfaces. This allows different sized smaller filters to be removed from a supply roll, not shown, and still maintain the integrity of the material.
The drain filter may be pre-formed with an open hem 15 along one edge secured by seam 16, as shown in FIG. 2, such as described above. The hem 15 is of a size to permit a conduit 18 to telescope through the opening 17. The open hem allows quick and easy assembly of a conduit 18 and a piece of filter material having the open hem 16 when it is determined that a conduit is necessary. In some situations, the individual drain filters may be fabricated on the spot from a supply of several conduits and several rolls of filter material by cutting the material and conduit to size.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, a second open hem 19 is formed on the edge opposite the larger hem 16 and parallel thereto. The hem is formed by folding the edge over the material and securing it with a seam 20. The second open hem is of such a size to accommodate an anchor 21. As shown, the anchor 21 is a length of concrete reinforcing rod, usually referred to as re-bar, and readily available about construction sites. The anchor may be made of other elongated rods, bars, wooden stakes, chain, etc. The anchor 21 holds the free end of the filter material flat and in place to prevent the filter from uncovering the drain inlet or grate.
Alternatively, the material is placed beneath the sewer grate eliminating the need for an anchor. In either event, the material is pre-made into a long length roll, e.g. 200 feet. The material is removed from the roll and cut to size the grate to be covered and either anchored or placed beneath the grate.
The conduit 18 is, preferably, a lightweight corrugated plastic or rubberized tubing usually sized to partially fit within the drain inlet in the curb and serves to reinforce and stabilize the filter over the storm drain grate. The conduit further provides a pathway for flowing water in the gutter to by-pass the storm drain inlet, if it is clogged or draining slowly. In this manner, the run-off water is distributed within the storm drain system rather than becoming an uncontrolled flow. Preferably the conduit is constructed from a roll (e.g. 250 feet) of plastic perforated flexible pipe that can be cut to length as necessary.
While the kit is shown with hems to secure the conduit and anchor, it is understood that the material, as shown in FIG. 1, could be rolled about the conduit and/or the anchor using them as a mandrel. The multiple wraps of filter material serve to hold the assembly in place.
It is contemplated that a construction crew would visit storm drain inlets in the affected construction site. They would quickly cut the individual filters and conduits to approximate the size of the inlets and grates and install the kit.
By way of illustration, FIG. 4 is a pictorial of a drain 100 positioned along a curb 102 having a curb drain 104 and a grate 106 placed over a sewer opening. FIG. 5 is a pictorial of the filter kit 10 placed over an open drain, not shown, with anchor rods 21 and 21′ in position. The filter material 11 is prevented from falling into the drain opening by use of the anchor rods 21 and 21′ which is placed within conduit 18. FIG. 6 depicts the filter kit 10 in position with the grate placed over the drain opening. The anchor rods 21 and 21′ can now be removed.
FIG. 7 is a pictorial of the filter kit 10 with anchor rods removed allowing the filter material to catch soil that would have otherwise dropped into the sewer opening.
FIG. 8 is a pictorial of the filter kit 10 with anchor rods 21 and 21′ re-inserted allowing for removal of the grate for cleaning maintenance.
FIG. 9 is a pictorial of the filter kit 10 with the drain grate 106 removed allowing the soil 110 to removed from the filter fabric 11. The soil stopped from entering the sewer opening 112.
It is to be understood that while a certain form of the invention is illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangement herein described and shown. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention and the invention is not to be considered limited to what is shown and described in the specification and any drawings/figures included herein.
1. A curb style drain filter kit for preventing silt and debris carried by run-off water from entering the storm drainage system comprising a sieve-like filter material having interstices sized to remove particles of silt from run-off water, said filter material having a first elongated edge and a second elongated edge opposite said first edge, a first open hem along said first edge and a second open hem along said second edge of said material.
2. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 1 comprising a tubular conduit telescoped in said first open hem.
3. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 2 comprising an anchor telescoped in said second open hem.
4. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 1 comprising an anchor telescoped in said second open hem.
5. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 1 comprising said material composed of multiple plies.
6. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 2 comprising said material composed of multiple plies.
7. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 3 comprising said material composed of multiple plies.
8. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 7 comprising said multiple plies have different interstice size.
9. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 1 wherein said conduit is perforated to allow additional filtering.
10. A curb style drain filter kit for preventing silt and debris carried by run-off water from entering the storm drainage system comprising an elongated tubular conduit having a first end and a second end and of a length to span a storm drain inlet in a gutter, said first end of said conduit adapted to be disposed in the gutter on one side of the inlet and said second end of said conduit adapted to be disposed in the gutter on the other side of the inlet, a length of filter material having a first end and a free end, said first end wrapped about said conduit, said length adapted to fit beneath a storm drain grate, said filter material being pervious to run-off water whereby said material filters run-off water entering the inlet and said conduit provides a passageway for excess run-off water by-passing the inlet.
11. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 10 comprising an open hem in said first end of said material, said conduit telescoped into said open hem.
12. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 10 comprising an open hem in said free end of said material.
13. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 10 wherein said material is cut to fit a sewer grate.
14. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 10 wherein said conduit is cut to fit a sewer grate opening.
15. A curb style drain filter kit of claim 10 wherein said conduit is perforated to allow additional filtering.
16. A curb style drain filter kit for preventing silt and debris carried by run-off water from entering the storm drainage system comprising an elongated tubular conduit having a first end and a second end; a length of filter material having a_first end and a free end, said first end secured along a length of said material forming an aperture sized to receive said conduit; whereby said conduit is cut at a job site to a length that spans a storm drain inlet in a gutter, said material is cut at the job site to a length that spans a storm drain grate, wherein said conduit is positioned with said aperture and said material is anchored to said drain upon placement beneath said grate, said filter material being pervious to run-off water whereby said material filters run-off water and said conduit provides a passageway for excess run-off water by-passing the inlet.
| 2005-12-16 | en | 2007-06-21 |
US-201313947526-A | Mobility route optimization
ABSTRACT
A processor-implemented method, system, and/or computer program product guides mobility-impaired pedestrians. Mobile tracking readings are received from multiple mobility assistance devices, each of which has an affixed tracking device. Based on these mobile tracking readings, multiple pedestrian routes for mobility-impaired pedestrians, including an optimal pedestrian route that has the highest tracking history to a desired destination, are generated.
The present application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/252,342 (Atty. Docket No. END920110098US1), filed on Oct. 4, 2011, and entitled, “Mobility Route Optimization,” which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
The present disclosure relates to the field of computers and tracking sensors, and specifically to the use of computers and tracking sensors in the field of pedestrian navigation. Still more particularly, the present disclosure relates to the use of computers and tracking sensors in providing suggested pedestrian routes to mobility-impaired users.
Accessibility to public facilities and buildings can often be challenging to pedestrians that are mobility-impaired. A mobility-impaired pedestrian is a person who has physical or other conditions that impede mobility. Such mobility-impaired persons experience unique challenges when traversing across unfamiliar landscapes to reach a desired destination.
SUMMARY
A processor-implemented method, system, and/or computer program product guides mobility-impaired pedestrians. Mobile tracking readings are received from multiple mobility assistance devices, each of which has an affixed tracking device. Based on these mobile tracking readings, multiple pedestrian routes for mobility-impaired pedestrians, including an optimal pedestrian route that has the highest tracking history to a desired destination, are generated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary computer in which the present disclosure may be implemented;
FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary mobile assistance device to which a tracking device is affixed;
FIG. 3 depicts multiple exemplary pedestrian routes generated by readings from tracking devices on multiple mobile assistance devices; and
FIG. 4 is a high-level flow-chart of one or more actions performed by a processor to direct a mobility-impaired pedestrian to an optimal pedestrian route to a desired destination.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, aspects of the present invention may be embodied as a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.” Furthermore, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable medium(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon.
Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) may be utilized. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.
A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.
Program code embodied on a computer readable medium may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including, but not limited to, wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.
Computer program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).
Aspects of the present invention are described below with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other devices to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
With reference now to the figures, and in particular to FIG. 1, there is depicted a block diagram of an exemplary computer 102, which may be utilized by the present invention. Note that some or all of the exemplary architecture, including both depicted hardware and software, shown for and within computer 102 may be utilized by software deploying server 150, tracking devices 152, Global Positioning System (GPS) devices 154, and/or mobile communication device 156 shown in FIG. 1, and/or local processing/transmitting system 202, tracking device 252, and/or GPS device 254 shown in FIG. 2.
Computer 102 includes a processing unit 104 that is coupled to a system bus 106. Processing unit 104 may utilize one or more processors, each of which has one or more processor cores. A video adapter 108, which drives/supports a display 110, is also coupled to system bus 106. System bus 106 is coupled via a bus bridge 112 to an input/output (I/O) bus 114. An I/O interface 116 is coupled to I/O bus 114. I/O interface 116 affords communication with various I/O devices, including a keyboard 118, a mouse 120, a media tray 122 (which may include storage devices such as CD-ROM drives, multi-media interfaces, etc.), a wireless signal receiver 124, and external USB port(s) 126. While the format of the ports connected to I/O interface 116 may be any known to those skilled in the art of computer architecture, in one embodiment some or all of these ports are universal serial bus (USB) ports.
As depicted, computer 102 is able to communicate with a software deploying server 150 using a network interface 130. Network 128 may be an external network such as the Internet, or an internal network such as an Ethernet or a virtual private network (VPN).
A hard drive interface 132 is also coupled to system bus 106. Hard drive interface 132 interfaces with a hard drive 134. In one embodiment, hard drive 134 populates a system memory 136, which is also coupled to system bus 106. System memory is defined as a lowest level of volatile memory in computer 102. This volatile memory includes additional higher levels of volatile memory (not shown), including, but not limited to, cache memory, registers and buffers. Data that populates system memory 136 includes computer 102's operating system (OS) 138 and application programs 144.
OS 138 includes a shell 140, for providing transparent user access to resources such as application programs 144. Generally, shell 140 is a program that provides an interpreter and an interface between the user and the operating system. More specifically, shell 140 executes commands that are entered into a command line user interface or from a file. Thus, shell 140, also called a command processor, is generally the highest level of the operating system software hierarchy and serves as a command interpreter. The shell provides a system prompt, interprets commands entered by keyboard, mouse, or other user input media, and sends the interpreted command(s) to the appropriate lower levels of the operating system (e.g., a kernel 142) for processing. Note that while shell 140 is a text-based, line-oriented user interface, the present invention will equally well support other user interface modes, such as graphical, voice, gestural, etc.
As depicted, OS 138 also includes kernel 142, which includes lower levels of functionality for OS 138, including providing essential services required by other parts of OS 138 and application programs 144, including memory management, process and task management, disk management, and mouse and keyboard management.
Application programs 144 include a renderer, shown in exemplary manner as a browser 146. Browser 146 includes program modules and instructions enabling a world wide web (WWW) client (i.e., computer 102) to send and receive network messages to the Internet using hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) messaging, thus enabling communication with software deploying server 150 and other computer systems.
Application programs 144 in computer 102's system memory (and, in one embodiment, software deploying server 150's system memory) also include a mobility-impaired pedestrian route optimization program (MPROP) 148. MPROP 148 includes code for implementing the processes described below, including those described in FIGS. 2-4. In one embodiment, computer 102 is able to download MPROP 148 from software deploying server 150, including in an on-demand basis, wherein the code in MPROP 148 is not downloaded until needed for execution. Note further that, in one embodiment of the present invention, software deploying server 150 performs all of the functions associated with the present invention (including execution of MPROP 148), thus freeing computer 102 from having to use its own internal computing resources to execute MPROP 148.
The hardware elements depicted in computer 102 are not intended to be exhaustive, but rather are representative to highlight essential components required by the present invention. For instance, computer 102 may include alternate memory storage devices such as magnetic cassettes, digital versatile disks (DVDs), Bernoulli cartridges, and the like. These and other variations are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
With reference now to FIG. 2, an exemplary mobile assistance device (MAD) 200, to which a tracking device 252 (analogous to one of the tracking devices 152 depicted in FIG. 1) is affixed, is presented. MAD 200 is any assistance device used to aid a mobility-impaired pedestrian. As used herein, a mobility-impaired pedestrian is defined as a person who has a physical and/or emotional condition that limits his ability to be locomotive. Examples of such physical/emotional conditions include, but are not limited to, loss of or loss of use of one or more extremities, low vision or total blindness in one or both eyes, reduced hearing or total deafness in one or both ears, emotional issues such as anxiety or chronic disorientation that prevent traversal across certain routes due to environmental issues, stamina issues causes by decreased heart/lung capacity, etc. Examples of a MAD 200 include, but are not limited to, a wheelchair, crutches, a support cane, a “white” cane used by the blind, a cast worn by the pedestrian, etc. The tracking device 252, when used in conjunction with a location determining device such as the global positioning system (GPS) device 254 (analogous to one of GPS devices 154 shown in FIG. 1), is able to send out location signals to a wireless signal receiver 206 (e.g., the wireless signal receiver 124 shown in FIG. 1). These location signals may be remotely processed (e.g., by computer 102 shown in FIG. 1) or locally processed (e.g., by local processing system 202). In either embodiment, the tracking device 252 generates a plurality of mobile tracking readings that describe where (and optionally when) the MAD 200 has been. In one embodiment, the mobile tracking readings are transmitted every predetermined period of time (e.g., every 60 seconds). In another embodiment, the mobile tracking readings are transmitted continuously.
As depicted in FIG. 3, these mobile tracking readings are plotted on a map 300, which shows an origination point A (302), a destination point B (304), and pedestrian routes 306, 308, and 310 that are represented by the mobile tracking readings from the signals generated by the tracking device. Note that map 300 is a plot of multiple MAD 200 s. Assume that the tracking device 252 in each of the multiple MAD 200 s emits a location signal every 60 seconds. The high number of tracking points in pedestrian routes 308 and 310 indicate that these routes have a history of many MAD 200 s following these routes, while the dearth of tracking points for pedestrian route 306 indicates that relatively few MAD 200 s have taken this route, even though it is the shortest route between the origination point A and the destination point B. The present invention takes advantage of the historical trends shown to identify the optimal routes between point A and point B. That is, since map 300 shows that most mobility-impaired pedestrians (using MAD 200 s) took pedestrian routes 308 or 310, then an assumption is made that these are the best routes for a current mobility-impaired pedestrian to take.
Note that pedestrian route 308 and pedestrian route 310 have a substantially similar number of tracking points. This similarity may be due to simple randomness, in which both routes are equally optimal (i.e., have the easiest sidewalks, pathways, fields, etc. to cross in a wheelchair or when on crutches), and past users have randomly chosen which route to take. In one embodiment, however, data analysis reveals that when it is snowing, raining, dark, etc., most mobility-impaired pedestrians will choose pedestrian route 308 (e.g., due to paved pathways, good lighting, etc.), but when the weather is clear during daytime hours, most mobility-impaired pedestrians will choose pedestrian route 310 (e.g., due to nicer scenery, proximity to popular coffee shops, etc.). Thus, in one embodiment a processor first correlates when the tracking points were taken to historical data from a local weather service. This historical data reveals what the local weather conditions (e.g., snowing, raining, etc.) were when the tracking points were taken. Based on this revelation/correlation, the processor is able to identify the most popular pedestrian routes according to current weather conditions. Similarly, in one embodiment, a processor determines whether the past tracking points were taken during the daytime or nighttime by correlating the taken tracking points to a time/date stamp on the tracking points, which is then correlated to a local sunrise/sunset database. Based on this determination/correlation, the processor is able to identify the most popular pedestrian routes according to whether it was dark or light when the tracking points were taken.
With reference now to FIG. 4, a high-level flow-chart of one or more actions performed by a processor to direct a mobility-impaired pedestrian to an optimal pedestrian route to a desired destination is presented. After initiator block 402, a processor receives a plurality of mobile tracking readings from each of multiple mobility assistance devices (block 404). That is, a computer system (such as computer 102 shown in FIG. 1) receives periodic or continuous tracking signals from the tracking device that is affixed to each mobility assistance device. This results in the identification of multiple pedestrian routes from a starting position to a desired destination (block 406), such as those depicted in FIG. 3. As described herein, these pedestrian routes are identified by the mobile tracking readings that have been generated in the past by tracking devices that are affixed to the mobility assistance devices (e.g., wheelchairs, crutches, canes, etc.). Note that in one embodiment, the tracking devices are simply worn or carried by mobility-impaired pedestrians. For example, the tracking devices may be incorporated into a smart phone being carried by mobility-impaired pedestrians, thus enabling the capture of preferred routes by pedestrians whose mobility-impairment is emotional rather than physical (and thus there is an absence of a mobility assistance device such as a wheelchair, cane, etc.). Note that in one embodiment, if tracking histories are skewed by large recurring events (such as athletic events), then any mobile tracking readings that were taken during these recurring public events (or even a single event that would skew the route history) will be eliminated from the mobile tracking readings, in order to provide a more accurate route usage history. That is, in one embodiment a processor correlates when the mobile tracking readings were taken to a database that describes recurring public events. Thus, if a time/date stamp on a particular set of mobile tracking readings correlates to a time/date of a recurring public event, then there is an association of the recurring public event and the mobile tracking readings that were taken during such a recurring public event.
In one embodiment, the determination of the optimal pedestrian route may include locating and identifying an elevator, which if not on a route, will eliminate that route as a possible candidate for the optimal pedestrian route for a particular mobility-impaired pedestrian. For example, assume that a mobility-impaired pedestrian is in a wheelchair, and desires to get to the third floor of a parking facility. If there is no elevator in the parking facility, then that mobility-impaired pedestrian will be required to roll uphill on the parking facility ramps, which is may be physically exhausting, if not physically impossible, for that mobility-impaired pedestrian. In the present embodiment, an elevator is located by a processor (e.g., computer 102 in FIG. 1) detecting that a normally continuous signal from a tracking device goes silent at a same location along a pedestrian route (e.g., within the parking facility), and then reappears at a different altitude (i.e., a higher or lower floor), as indicated by an altimeter function in a GPS device associated with the tracking device. This pattern of loss of signal followed by a change in altitude indicates that past mobility-impaired pedestrians have used an elevator, in which GPS signals typically are blocked. Based on this historical pattern, the location of the elevator is determined and transmitted to the mobility-impaired pedestrian.
As described in block 408, an optimal pedestrian route is then identified for a current mobility-impaired pedestrian. The current mobility-impaired pedestrian is defined as a mobility-impaired pedestrian who is currently at an origination point A of the past pedestrian routes that have been identified, and who desires to travel to a destination point B on these past pedestrian routes. A preliminary determination is made that whichever route has been taken the most often in the past, as indicated by having more mobile tracking readings than other routes from the origination point A to the destination point B, is the optimal pedestrian route. Note that in one embodiment, a correlation is made between the mobility-impaired pedestrians whose tracking devices generated the route histories and the current mobility-impaired pedestrian. That is, the route taken most often in the past by persons with a same mobility-impairment as the current mobility-impaired pedestrian will be deemed the optimal route for that mobility-impaired pedestrian. Thus, a recommendation will be made to person in a wheelchair to follow the route most often taken by other wheelchair-using pedestrians, while a visually impaired pedestrian will be advised to follow the most popular route taken by other visually impaired pedestrians in the past (all as indicated by the tracking history generated by the tracking devices associated with the past pedestrians). Stated another way, a specific mobility-impairment affecting a specific type of user of one of the multiple mobility assistance devices that provided past mobile tracking readings is identified. A type-specific pedestrian route is then generated for mobility-impaired pedestrians having that same specific mobility-impairment. After a processor identifies which mobility-impairment affects the current mobility-impaired pedestrian, and then matches the mobility-impairment of the current mobility-impaired pedestrian to the specific mobility-impairment affecting the specific type of user of one of the multiple mobility assistance devices that provided past mobile tracking readings.
As indicated above, certain pedestrian routes are deemed optimal according to current conditions surrounding the current mobility-impaired pedestrian who is in need of route advice. For example, a route that was most popular, particularly with mobility-impaired pedestrians having a same mobility impairment as the current mobility-impaired pedestrian, during certain weather conditions, time of day or night, time of year, etc., will be recommended to the current mobility-impaired pedestrian. Similarly, if the current mobility-impaired pedestrian wants to get to a venue where a recurring public event is occurring (e.g., a college athletic game), whichever route was preferred in the past by those having his same mobility impairment will be recommended to that current mobility-impaired pedestrian.
As indicated in block 410 of FIG. 4, once the optimal pedestrian route is determined (based on the highest past usage) for the current mobility-impaired pedestrian, directions that describe this identified optimal pedestrian route are transmitted to the current mobility-impaired pedestrian (e.g., to his smart phone, personal digital assistant (PDA), etc.). The process ends at terminator block 412.
The flowchart and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of various embodiments of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.
Note further that any methods described in the present disclosure may be implemented through the use of a VHDL (VHSIC Hardware Description Language) program and a VHDL chip. VHDL is an exemplary design-entry language for Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), and other similar electronic devices. Thus, any software-implemented method described herein may be emulated by a hardware-based VHDL program, which is then applied to a VHDL chip, such as a FPGA.
Having thus described embodiments of the invention of the present application in detail and by reference to illustrative embodiments thereof, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention defined in the appended claims.
What is claimed is:
1. A processor-implemented method of guiding mobility-impaired pedestrians, the processor-implemented method comprising:
a processor receiving a plurality of mobile tracking readings from each of multiple mobility assistance devices, wherein a tracking device is affixed to each of the multiple mobility assistance devices to generate the plurality of mobile tracking readings; the processor identifying a plurality of pedestrian routes taken by the multiple mobility assistance devices to a desired destination, wherein the plurality of pedestrian routes are identified by the plurality of mobile tracking readings generated by tracking devices affixed to the multiple mobility assistance devices; the processor identifying multiple optimal pedestrian routes from the plurality of pedestrian routes, wherein said multiple optimal pedestrian routes are identified as having more mobile tracking readings than other pedestrian routes from the plurality of pedestrian routes; the processor associating a first local weather condition to times during which mobile tracking readings were taken for a first optimal pedestrian route, wherein the first optimal pedestrian route is from the multiple optimal pedestrian routes; the processor associating a second local weather condition to times during which mobile tracking readings were taken for a second optimal pedestrian route, wherein the second optimal pedestrian route is from the multiple optimal pedestrian routes; the processor identifying a real-time local weather condition for a current mobility-impaired pedestrian traveling to the desired destination; the processor, in response to determining that the first local weather condition and the real-time local weather condition are substantially similar, selecting the first optimal pedestrian route over the second optimal pedestrian route for transmission to the current mobility-impaired pedestrian; and the processor transmitting directions that describe said first optimal pedestrian route, to the desired destination, to the current mobility-impaired pedestrian for traveling to the desired destination.
2. The processor-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
the processor associating a first time of day during which mobile tracking readings were taken for the first optimal pedestrian route; the processor associating a second time of day during which mobile tracking readings were taken for the second optimal pedestrian route; the processor identifying a current time of day for the current mobility-impaired pedestrian traveling to the desired destination; the processor, in response to determining that the second time of day and the current time of day are substantially similar, selecting the second optimal pedestrian route for transmission to the current mobility-impaired pedestrian.
3. The processor-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
the processor detecting a change in altitude location of at least one of the multiple mobility assistance devices after losing and then subsequently regaining a signal from the tracking device on said at least one of the multiple mobility assistance devices; the processor interpreting said change in altitude location after losing and then subsequently regaining said signal from the tracking device as being caused by said at least one of the multiple mobility assistance devices being transported in an elevator; and the processor transmitting a location of said elevator to said current mobility-impaired pedestrian.
4. The processor-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
the processor identifying occurrences of a recurring public event; and the processor eliminating any mobile tracking readings that were taken during the recurring public event when identifying the plurality of pedestrian routes.
5. The processor-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
the processor identifying a specific mobility-impairment affecting a specific type of user of one of said multiple mobility assistance devices that provided past mobile tracking readings; the processor generating a type-specific pedestrian route for mobility-impaired pedestrians having said specific mobility-impairment, wherein said type-specific pedestrian route is generated from past mobile tracking readings for said specific type of user; the processor identifying a mobility-impairment of said current mobility-impaired pedestrian; and the processor, in response to matching the mobility-impairment of said current mobility-impaired pedestrian to the specific mobility-impairment affecting the specific type of user of one of said multiple mobility assistance devices that provided past mobile tracking readings, transmitting the type-specific pedestrian route to the current mobility-impaired pedestrian.
6. A computer program product for guiding mobility-impaired pedestrians, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable storage media; first program instructions to receive a plurality of mobile tracking readings from each of multiple mobility assistance devices, wherein a tracking device is affixed to each of the multiple mobility assistance devices to generate the plurality of mobile tracking readings; second program instructions to identify a plurality of pedestrian routes taken by the multiple mobility assistance devices to a desired destination, wherein the plurality of pedestrian routes are identified by the plurality of mobile tracking readings generated by tracking devices affixed to the multiple mobility assistance devices; third program instructions to identify multiple optimal pedestrian routes from the plurality of pedestrian routes, wherein said multiple optimal pedestrian routes are identified as having more mobile tracking readings than other pedestrian routes from the plurality of pedestrian routes; and fourth program instructions to associate a first time of day during which mobile tracking readings were taken for a first optimal pedestrian route, wherein the first optimal pedestrian route is from the multiple optimal pedestrian routes; fifth program instructions to associate a second time of day during which mobile tracking readings were taken for a second optimal pedestrian route, wherein the second optimal pedestrian route is from the multiple optimal pedestrian routes; sixth program instructions to identify a current time of day for a current mobility-impaired pedestrian traveling to the desired destination; seventh program instructions to, in response to determining that the first time of day and the current time of day are substantially similar, select the first optimal pedestrian route for transmission to the current mobility-impaired pedestrian; and wherein
the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth, sixth, and seventh program instructions are stored on the computer readable storage media.
7. The computer program product of claim 6, further comprising:
eighth program instructions to associate a first local weather condition to times during which mobile tracking readings were taken for a first optimal pedestrian route, wherein the first optimal pedestrian route is from the multiple optimal pedestrian routes; ninth program instructions to associate a second local weather condition to times during which mobile tracking readings were taken for a second optimal pedestrian route, wherein the second optimal pedestrian route is from the multiple optimal pedestrian routes; tenth program instructions to identify a real-time local weather condition for the current mobility-impaired pedestrian traveling to the desired destination; and eleventh program instructions to, in response to determining that the second local weather condition and the real-time local weather condition are substantially similar, select the second optimal pedestrian route for transmission to the current mobility-impaired pedestrian; and
wherein the eighth, ninth, tenth, and eleventh program instructions are stored on the computer readable storage media.
8. The computer program product of claim 6, further comprising:
eighth program instructions to detect a change in altitude location of at least one of the multiple mobility assistance devices after losing and then subsequently regaining a signal from the tracking device on said at least one of the multiple mobility assistance devices; ninth program instructions to interpret said change in altitude location after losing and then subsequently regaining said signal from the tracking device as being caused by said at least one of the multiple mobility assistance devices being transported in an elevator; and tenth program instructions to transmit a location of said elevator to said current mobility-impaired pedestrian; and wherein the eighth, ninth, and tenth program instructions are stored on the computer readable storage media.
9. The computer program product of claim 6, further comprising:
eighth program instructions to identify occurrences of a recurring public event; and ninth program instructions to eliminate any mobile tracking readings that were taken during the recurring public event when identifying the plurality of pedestrian routes; and wherein the eighth and ninth program instructions are stored on the computer readable storage media.
10. The computer program product of claim 6, further comprising:
eighth program instructions to identify a specific mobility-impairment affecting a specific type of user of one of said multiple mobility assistance devices that provided past mobile tracking readings; ninth program instructions to generate a type-specific pedestrian route for mobility-impaired pedestrians having said specific mobility-impairment, wherein said type-specific pedestrian route is generated from past mobile tracking readings for said specific type of user; tenth program instructions to identify a mobility-impairment of said current mobility-impaired pedestrian; and eleventh program instructions to, in response to matching the mobility-impairment of said current mobility-impaired pedestrian to the specific mobility-impairment affecting the specific type of user of one of said multiple mobility assistance devices that provided past mobile tracking readings, transmit the type-specific pedestrian route to the current mobility-impaired pedestrian; and wherein the eighth, ninth, tenth, and eleventh program instructions are stored on the computer readable storage media.
11. A computer system comprising:
a processor, a computer readable memory, and a computer readable storage media; first program instructions to receive a plurality of mobile tracking readings from each of multiple mobility assistance devices, wherein a tracking device is affixed to each of the multiple mobility assistance devices to generate the plurality of mobile tracking readings; second program instructions to identify a plurality of pedestrian routes taken by the multiple mobility assistance devices to a desired destination, wherein the plurality of pedestrian routes are identified by the plurality of mobile tracking readings generated by tracking devices affixed to the multiple mobility assistance devices; third program instructions to identify multiple optimal pedestrian routes from the plurality of pedestrian routes, wherein said multiple pedestrian routes are identified as having more mobile tracking readings than other pedestrian routes from the plurality of pedestrian routes; fourth program instructions to identify a specific mobility-impairment affecting a specific type of user of one of said multiple mobility assistance devices that provided past mobile tracking readings; fifth program instructions to generate a type-specific pedestrian route for mobility-impaired pedestrians having said specific mobility-impairment, wherein the type-specific pedestrian route is from the multiple optimal pedestrian routes, and wherein said type-specific pedestrian route is generated from past mobile tracking readings for said specific type of user; sixth program instructions to identify a mobility-impairment of said current mobility-impaired pedestrian; and seventh program instructions to, in response to matching the mobility-impairment of said current mobility-impaired pedestrian to the specific mobility-impairment affecting the specific type of user of one of said multiple mobility assistance devices that provided past mobile tracking readings, transmit the type-specific pedestrian route to the current mobility-impaired pedestrian; and wherein
the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh program instructions are stored on the computer readable storage media for execution by the processor via the computer readable memory.
12. The computer system of claim 11, further comprising:
eighth program instructions to detect a change in altitude location of at least one of the multiple mobility assistance devices after losing and then subsequently regaining a signal from the tracking device on said at least one of the multiple mobility assistance devices; ninth program instructions to interpret said change in altitude location after losing and then subsequently regaining said signal from the tracking device as being caused by said at least one of the multiple mobility assistance devices being transported in an elevator; and tenth program instructions to transmit a location of said elevator to said current mobility-impaired pedestrian; and wherein the eighth, ninth, and tenth program instructions are stored on the computer readable storage media for execution by the processor via the computer readable memory.
13. The computer system of claim 11, further comprising:
eighth program instructions to identify occurrences of a recurring public event; and ninth program instructions to eliminate any mobile tracking readings that were taken during the recurring public event when identifying the plurality of pedestrian routes; and wherein the eighth and ninth program instructions are stored on the computer readable storage media for execution by the processor via the computer readable memory.
| 2013-07-22 | en | 2013-11-21 |
US-202318213498-A | Comb style connector and connecting assembly with the same
ABSTRACT
Disclosed are a comb type connector and a connector assembly having the same. The disclosed comb type connector comprises: a base made of a conductive metal material; and a plurality of thin plate terminals made of a conductive metal material and which protrude in a thin film shape and are spaced apart from and overlap each other on one side surface of the base.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary comb type connector according to an aspect of the disclosure.
FIGS. 2 and 3 are cross-sectional views of an exemplary connector assembly including an exemplary comb type connector according to an aspect of the disclosure and an exemplary comb type connector according to another aspect of the disclosure, wherein FIG. 2 is a view illustrating a state in which a pair of exemplary comb type connectors are spaced apart from each other, and FIG. 3 is a view illustrating a state in which a pair of exemplary comb type connectors are coupled to each other.
FIGS. 4 and 5 are cross-sectional views of an exemplary connector assembly including a comb type connector according to an aspect of the disclosure and a comb type connector according to another aspect of the disclosure, wherein FIG. 4 is a view illustrating a state in which a pair of exemplary comb type connectors are spaced apart from each other, and FIG. 5 is a view illustrating a state in which a pair of exemplary comb type connectors are coupled to each other.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The disclosure relates to a connector for transmitting electrical energy, and more particularly, to a comb type connector and a connector assembly having the same.
A connector is an electronic component that electrically connects a power source to a device, a device to a device, or units inside a device to each other. The connector through which weak current such as a control signal and a detection signal flow may be designed to have a small size because it may not matter if a contact area of a terminal is small. However, the connector supplying power for driving a motor or a heater should have a sufficiently large contact area of the terminal so that a large current can flow therethrough, thus there is the problem of the increase in the size of the connector and the connector assembly and the increase in manufacturing costs.
Disclosed is a comb type connector provided with a plurality of thin plate terminals which protrude and may be spaced minute intervals from each other, and a connector assembly having the same. The comb type connector may comprise: a base made of a conductive metal material; and a plurality of thin plate terminals made of a conductive metal material and which protrude in a thin film shape and may be spaced apart from and overlap each other on one side surface of the base.
The conductive metal material may be at least one of copper (Cu), a copper alloy, aluminium (Al), and an aluminium alloy.
A thickness of each of the plurality of thin plate terminals and an interval between the plurality of thin plate terminals may be substantially the same.
A thickness of each of the plurality of thin plate terminals may be 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm.
A distal end of the thin plate terminal may be rounded or tapered.
The thin plate terminal may comprise one of a coupling hook protruding from the side surface and a coupling through-hole formed passing through the thin plate terminal in a thickness direction.
In addition, the present disclosure describes a connector assembly comprising: a first comb type connector including a first base and a plurality of first thin plate terminals which protrude in a thin plate shape and may be spaced apart from and overlap each other on one side surface of the first base; and a second comb type connector including a second base and a plurality of second thin plate terminals which protrude in a thin plate shape and may be spaced apart from and overlap each other on one side surface of the second base, wherein, when approaching the first comb type connector, the plurality of second thin plate terminals may be alternately inserted into the plurality of first thin plate terminals so as to be conductively connected to the first comb type connector.
When the plurality of second thin plate terminals are alternately inserted into the plurality of first thin plate terminals, the first thin plate terminal and the second thin plate terminal, which are adjacent to each other, may be in surface contact with each other.
A thickness of each of the plurality of thin plate terminals, an interval between the plurality of first thin plate terminals, a thickness of each of the second thin plate terminals, and an interval between the plurality of second thin plate terminals may be substantially the same.
A distal end of the first thin plate terminal and a distal end of the second thin plate terminal may be rounded or tapered.
The connector assembly may further comprise a locking unit that locks to prevent the first comb type connector and the second comb type connector from being unintentionally separated from each other when the first comb type connector and the second comb type connector may be conductively connected to each other.
The locking unit may comprise: a coupling hook protruding from a side surface of one of the first thin plate terminal and the second thin plate terminal; and a coupling through-hole formed passing through the other one of the first thin plate terminal and the second thin plate terminal in a thickness direction so that the coupling hook may be seated when the plurality of second thin plate terminals may be alternately inserted into the plurality of first thin plate terminals.
The comb type connector and the connector assembly having the same may comprise a plurality of thin plate terminals densely disposed and spaced minute intervals from each other so that the area of the terminals that may be in electrical contact with each other is very large. Therefore, the connector and the connector assembly may be designed compactly.
Since a large amount of power may be supplied through the small comb type connector, a compact electronic device comprising the connector may be easily designed and manufactured.
Terminologies used in this specification are terms used to appropriately express preferred embodiments, which may vary according to the intention of a user or operator or conventions in the field. Therefore, definitions of these terms should be made based on the content throughout the entirety of this specification.
Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3 together, a connector assembly (100A) may comprise a first comb type connector (10) and a second comb type connector (30).
The first comb type connector (10) may comprise a first conductor (11) made of a conductive metal material and a non-conductor cover (27) made of a non-conductor such as, for example, plastic or rubber. The conductive metal material may be, for example, at least one of copper (Cu), a copper alloy, aluminium (Al), and an aluminium alloy. The first conductor (11) may comprise a first base (12) having substantially a plate shape and a plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) spaced apart from each other on one side surface of the first base (12) and protruding in a thin plate shape. The first conductor (11) may be manufactured by, for example, skiving a metal block made of a conductive metal material. One side surface of the first base (12) may be a side surface facing the second comb type connector (30). A direction in which the first thin plate terminal (20) protrudes may be a direction substantially orthogonal to the plate-shaped first base (12), that is, a substantially normal direction of the first base (12).
A thickness (WD1) of each of the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) and an interval (GP1) between the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) may be substantially the same. For example, the thickness (WD1) of each of the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) and the interval (GP1) between the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) may be 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm. When the thickness (WD1) of the first thin plate terminal (20) is less than 0.2 mm, the first thin plate terminal (20) has insufficient rigidity, and thus, when the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) may be coupled to each other, the first thin plate terminal (20) may be easily bent or damaged. Conversely, when the thickness (WD1) of the first thin plate terminal (20) is greater than 1.0 mm, it is may be difficult to miniaturize the first comb type connector (10), and the manufacturing costs of the first comb type connector (10) may also increase.
A distal end (23) of the first thin plate terminal (20) may be tapered so that a thickness thereof becomes thinner the further from the first base (12). The tapered distal end (23) of the first thin plate terminal (20) prevents connection interference between the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) due to the mutual blocking of the distal end of the first thin plate terminal (20) and the distal end of the second thin plate terminal (40) when the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) may be close to each other. For example, an angle (AN1) of the tapered distal end (23) may be an acute angle greater than 0° and less than 90°. Unlike those shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the distal end of the first thin plate terminal (20) may be rounded.
An electric wire (not shown) is conductively connected to the first base (12). For example, an annular conductor part (2) may be formed at a distal end of the electric wire, and the annular conductor part (2) may be fixed by means of a screw (3) so as to be in close contact with the other side surface of the first base (12), i.e., a side surface opposite to the side surface from which the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) protrude. However, the annular conductor part (2) and the screw (3) are only some examples among various means for conductively connecting the electric wire to the first base (12).
The non-conductive cover (27) may cover the other side surface and a circumferential edge surface of the first base (12). When coupling the first comb type connector (10) to the second comb type connector (30), or conversely, separating the first comb type connector (10) from the second comb type connector (30), the non-conductor cover (27) may act as a handle for the operator to hold the first comb type connector (10) in their hands. A portion of the other side surface of the first base (12), for example, a portion with which the annular conductor part (2) is in close contact and a portion through which a bolt (28) passes may be exposed without being covered by the non-conductive cover (27).
The second comb type connector (30) may comprise a second conductor (31) made of a conductive metal material. The conductive metal material may be, for example, one of copper (Cu), a copper alloy, aluminium (Al), and an aluminium alloy. The second conductor (31) may comprise a second base (32) having substantially a plate shape and a plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) spaced apart from each other on one side surface of the second base (32) and protruding in a thin plate shape. The second conductor (31) may be manufactured by, for example, skiving a metal block made of a conductive metal material. One side surface of the second base (32) may be a side surface facing the first comb type connector (10). A direction in which the second thin plate terminal (40) protrudes may be a direction substantially orthogonal to the plate-shaped second base (32), that is, a substantially normal direction of the second base (32).
The other side surface of the second base (32) may be fixedly mounted to be conductively connected to a printed circuit board (PCB) 6 of an electronic device (not shown). However, unlike those shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the second base (32) may be conductively connected to the electric wire, like the first base (12).
A thickness (WD2) of each of the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) and an interval (GP2) between the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) may be substantially the same. For example, the thickness (WD2) of each of the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) and the interval (GP2) between the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) may be 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm. As a result, the thickness (WD1) of each of the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20), the interval (GP1) between the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20), the thickness (WD2) of each of the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40), and the intervals (GP2) between the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) may all be 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm so as to be equal to each other.
Like the distal end (23) of the first thin plate terminal (20), the distal end (43) of the second thin plate terminal (40) may be tapered to be thinner the further from the second base (32). Like the tapered distal end (23) of the first thin plate terminal (20), the tapered distal end (43) of the second thin plate terminal (40) prevents the mutual blocking of the distal end of the first thin plate terminal (20) and the distal end of the second thin plate terminal (40) when the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) may be close to each other. For example, an angle (AN2) of the tapered distal end (43) may be an acute angle greater than 0° and less than 90°. Unlike those shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the distal end of the second thin plate terminal (40) may be rounded.
As illustrated in FIG. 2 , in a state in which the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) and the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) face each other and may be aligned to be offset by the thickness (WD1, WD2) of one of the thin plate terminals (20, 40), when the second comb type connector (30) approaches the first comb type connector (10), the distal end (23) of the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) may be inserted into a gap (46) between the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40), and the distal end (43) of the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) may be inserted into a gap (26) between the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20). In addition, as the second base (32) approaches the first base (12), as illustrated in FIG. 3 , the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) may be alternately inserted between the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) so that the second comb type connector (30) may be conductively connected to the first comb type connector (10).
As described above, when the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) are alternately inserted into the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20), the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) and the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40), which are adjacent to each other, may be in surface contact with each other. A depth at which the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) may be inserted into the gap (46) between the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) may be substantially the same as a depth at which the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) may be inserted into the gap (26) between the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20), and as the insertion depth increases, the surface contact pressure may increase so that the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) may be more firmly coupled to each other.
As described above, when the second comb type connector (30) approaches the first comb type connector (10) so that the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) may be inserted into the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20), the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) may be electrically connected to each other, but they are not limited thereto. Even when the comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) approach each other, or the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) move toward each other, the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) may be electrically connected to each other. In other words, when the second comb type connector (30) approaches the first comb type connector (10) in a relative relationship, the second comb type connector (30) may be conductively connected to the first comb type connector (10). Conversely, when the second comb type connector (30) moves away from the first comb type connector (10), the connection between the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) may be broken.
The connector assembly (100A) may further comprise a locking unit that locks to prevent the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) from being unintentionally separated from each other when the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) may be conductively connected to each other. The locking unit may be provided with a plurality of bolts (28). Each of the bolts (28) may comprise a bolt body having a male screw pattern (not shown) formed on an outer circumferential surface thereof, and a bolt head formed at one end of the bolt body to have an expanded diameter. A plurality of bolt through-holes (14) through which the bolt body of each of the plurality of bolts (28) may pass, but the bolt head may not pass may be formed in the first base (12).
A plurality of bolt fastening holes (34) to which a distal end of the bolt body of the plurality of bolts (28) may be inserted and fastened may be formed in the first base (32). A female screw pattern corresponding to the male screw pattern on the outer circumferential surface of the bolt body may be formed on an inner circumferential surface of each of the bolt fastening holes (34). After the plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) and the plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) may be in alternating close contact with each other so that the first conductor (11) and the second conductor (31) are electrically connected, when the bolt bodies of the plurality of bolts (28) pass through a plurality of bolt through-holes (14) and may be fixed to the plurality of bolt fastening holes (34), the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) may not be separated from each other.
In the connector assembly (100A) illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the number of plurality of first thin plate terminals (20) and the number of plurality of second thin plate terminals (40) may be the same, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number of first thin plate terminals and the number of second thin plate terminals may be different from each other. In this case, when the first comb type connector and the second comb type connector may be electrically coupled to each other, the surplus thin plate terminals that may not be in surface contact with the thin plate terminals of the opposing side may function as heat dissipation fins that dissipate heat of the connector assembly (100A). As a result, overheating of the first comb type connector (10) and the second comb type connector (30) may be prevented to reduce a resistance value, thereby improving current and power transmission efficiency through the connector assembly (100A).
The comb type connectors (10, 30) described above and the connector assembly (100A) having the same may comprise the plurality of thin plate terminals (20, 40) spaced minute intervals from each other and densely arranged, and thus, the area of the terminals that may be in electrical contact with each other may significantly increase. Therefore, the connectors (10, 30) and the connector assembly (100A) may be designed compactly. In addition, since a large amount of power may be supplied with the small comb type connectors (10, 30), a compact electronic device including the connectors (10, 30) may be easily designed and manufactured.
Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5 together, a connector assembly (100B) may comprise a first comb type connector (50) and a second comb type connector (70).
The first comb type connector (50) may comprise a first conductor (51) made of a conductive metal material and a non-conductor cover (67). Since the material of the non-conductor cover (67) made of the conductive metal material is the same as that of the connector assembly (100A) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 , duplicated description will be omitted. The first conductor (51) may comprise a first base (52) having substantially a plate shape and a plurality of first thin plate terminals (60) spaced apart from each other on one side surface of the first base (52) and protruding in a thin plate shape. The first conductor (51) may be manufactured by, for example, skiving a metal block made of a conductive metal material.
A thickness (WD3) of each of the plurality of first thin plate terminals (60) and an interval (GP3) between the plurality of first thin plate terminals (60) may be substantially the same and may be 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm. A distal end (63) of the first thin plate terminal (60) may be tapered or rounded so that the thickness becomes thinner the further from the first base (52). An electric wire (not shown) may be conductively connected to the first base (52). For example, an annular conductor part (2) may be formed at a distal end of an electric wire, and the annular conductor part (2) may be fixed by means of a screw (3) so as to be in close contact with the other side surface of the first base (52), i.e., a side surface opposite to the side surface from which the plurality of first thin plate terminals (60) may protrude.
The non-conductive cover (67) may cover the other side surface and a circumferential edge surface of the first base (52). When coupling the first comb type connector (50) to the second comb type connector (70), or conversely, separating the first comb type connector (50) from the second comb type connector (70), the non-conductor cover (67) may act as a handle for the operator to hold the first comb type connector (50) in their hands.
The second comb type connector (70) may comprise a second conductor (71) made of a conductive metal material. The second conductor (71) may comprise a second base (72) having substantially a plate shape and a plurality of second thin plate terminals (80) spaced apart from each other on one side surface of the second base (72) and protruding in a thin plate shape. The other side surface of the second base (72) may be fixedly mounted to be conductively connected to a PCB (6) of an electronic device (not shown). However, unlike those shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the second base (72) may be electrically connected to the electric wire, like the first base (52).
A thickness (WD4) of each of the plurality of second thin plate terminals (80) and an interval (GP4) between the plurality of second thin plate terminals (80) may be substantially the same and may be 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm. As a result, the thickness (WD3) of each of the plurality of first thin plate terminals (60), the interval (GP3) between the plurality of first thin plate terminals (60), the thickness (WD4) of each of the plurality of second thin plate terminals (80), and the intervals (GP4) between the plurality of second thin plate terminals (80) may all be 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm so as to be equal to each other. Like the distal end (63) of the first thin plate terminal (60), the distal end (83) of the second thin plate terminal (80) may be tapered or rounded so that the thickness becomes thinner the further from the second base (72).
As illustrated in FIG. 4 , in a state in which the plurality of first thin plate terminals (60) and the plurality of second thin plate terminals (80) face each other and may be aligned to be offset by the thickness (WD3, WD4) of one of the thin plate terminals (60, 80), when the second comb type connector (70) approaches relative to the first comb type connector (50), the distal end (63) of the plurality of first thin plate terminals (60) may be inserted into a gap (86) between the plurality of second thin plate terminals (80), and the distal end (83) of the plurality of second thin plate terminals (80) may be inserted into a gap (66) between the plurality of first thin plate terminals (60). In addition, as the second base (72) approaches the first base (52), as illustrated in FIG. 5 , the plurality of second thin plate terminals (80) may be alternately inserted into the plurality of first thin plate terminals (60) so that the second comb type connector (70) may be conductively connected to the first comb type connector (50). Conversely, when the second comb type connector (70) is relatively far away from the first comb type connector (50) so that the second comb type connector (70) and the first comb type connector (50) may be spaced apart from each other, the connection between the first comb type connector (50) and the second comb type connector (70) may be broken.
The connector assembly (100B) may further comprise a locking unit that locks to prevent the first comb type connector (50) and the second comb type connector (70) from being unintentionally separated from each other when the first comb type connector (50) and the second comb type connector (70) may be conductively connected to each other. The locking unit may be provided with a plurality of coupling hooks (64) and a plurality of coupling through-holes (84). The plurality of coupling hooks (64) may protrude from a side surface of each of the first thin plate terminals (60) in a direction in which the thickness of the first thin plate terminal (60) partially increases. The plurality of coupling through-holes (84) may be formed to pass through the second thin plate terminals (80) in the thickness direction, respectively.
When the plurality of second thin plate terminals (80) are alternately inserted into the plurality of first thin plate terminals (60), sizes and positions of the coupling hooks (64) and the coupling through-holes (84) may be determined so that the plurality of coupling hooks (64) may be inserted one by one into and seated in the plurality of coupling through-holes (84). To elaborate, a length (PW) of the coupling hook (64) in a direction substantially parallel to the protruding direction of the first thin plate terminal (60) may be equal to or slightly less than a length (GW) of the coupling through-hole (84) in a direction substantially parallel to the protruding direction of the second thin plate terminal (80). A depth of the coupling through-hole (84) may be substantially the same as a thickness (WD4) of the second thin plate terminal (80). A thickness (PT) of the coupling hook (64) may be less than the depth (WD4) of the coupling through-hole (84). A width (not shown) of the coupling hook (64), which may be substantially orthogonal to the length (PW) and thickness (PT) of the coupling hook (64) may be equal to or slightly less than a width (not shown) of the coupling through-hole (84), which may be substantially orthogonal to the length (GW) and depth (WD4) of the coupling through-hole (84).
A distance (LH1) from the distal end (63) of the first thin plate terminal (60) to the coupling hook (64) may be less than or equal to a distance (LH2) from a boundary point between the second base (72) and the second thin plate terminal (80) to the coupling through-hole (84). When the distance (LH1) from the distal end (63) of the first thin plate terminal (60) to the coupling hook (64) is greater than the distance (LH2) from the boundary point between the second base (72) and the second thin plate terminal (80) to the coupling through-hole (84), the coupling hook (64) may be seated in the coupling through-hole (84).
The plurality of first thin plate terminals (60) and the plurality of second thin plate terminals (80) may cross each other and may be inserted into the gaps (66, 86) of the opposing comb connectors (50, 70), and when the plurality of coupling hooks (64) are inserted into and seated in the plurality of coupling through-holes (84), the first comb type connector (50) and the second comb type connector (70) may be stably coupled to each other and may not be unintentionally separated from each other by external force or vibrations.
The coupling hook (64) may protrude from a side surface of the second thin plate terminal (60) so that a cross-sectional shape thereof may have a trapezoidal shape. An inclination angle (AN3) of an inclined surface of a front end of the coupling hook (64) in the protruding direction of the first thin plate terminal (60) may be an acute angle greater than 0° and less than 90°. When the inclination angle (AN3) is greater than 90°, the plurality of first thin plate terminals (60) and the plurality of second thin plate terminals (80) may cross each other, and when being inserted into the gaps (66, 86) between the opposing comb type connectors (50, 70), the front end of the coupling hook (64) may be hooked on the distal end (83) of the second thin plate terminal (80) and may not be inserted any more. If the inclination angle (AN3) is less than 0°, the protruding coupling hook (64) may not be formed.
An inclination angle (AN4) of an inclined surface of a rear end of the coupling hook (64) in the protruding direction of the first thin plate terminal (60) may be an acute angle greater than 0° and less than 90°. When the inclination angle (AN4) is greater than 90°, when the first comb type connector (50) and the second comb type connector (70) are coupled to each other and the first comb type connector (50) and the second comb type connector (70) may be pulled away from each other, the rear end of the coupling hook (64) may be hooked on an inner surface of the rear end that defines the length (GW) of the coupling through-hole (84) so that the first thin plate terminal (60) and the second thin plate terminal (80) may not be separated from each other. If the inclination angle (AN4) is less than 0°, the protruding coupling hook (64) may not be formed.
As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the coupling hook (64) may be provided in the first comb type connector (50), and the coupling through-hole (84) may be provided in the second comb type connector (70), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and on the contrary, the coupling hook may be provided in the second comb type connector (70), and the coupling through-hole may be provided in the first comb type connector (50).
The present disclosure has been described with reference to aspects illustrated in the drawings, but this is only exemplary, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and other equivalent embodiments are possible.
1. A comb type connector comprising:
a base made of a conductive metal material; and a plurality of thin plate terminals made of a conductive metal material and which protrude in a thin film shape and are spaced apart from and overlap each other on one side surface of the base.
2. The comb type connector of claim 1, wherein the conductive metal material comprises at least one of copper (Cu), a copper alloy, aluminium (Al), and an aluminium alloy.
3. The comb type connector of claim 1, wherein a thickness of each of the plurality of thin plate terminals and an interval between the plurality of thin plate terminals are substantially the same.
4. The comb type connector of claim 3, wherein the thickness of each of the plurality of thin plate terminals is 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm.
5. The comb type connector of claim 1, wherein
a distal end of the thin plate terminal is rounded or tapered.
6. The comb type connector of claim 1, wherein the thin plate terminal comprises one of a coupling hook protruding from the side surface and a coupling through-hole formed passing through the thin plate terminal in a thickness direction.
7. A connector assembly comprising:
a first comb type connector comprising a first base and a plurality of first thin plate terminals which protrude in a thin plate shape and are spaced apart from and overlap each other on one side surface of the first base; and a second comb type connector comprising a second base and a plurality of second thin plate terminals which protrude in a thin plate shape and are spaced apart from and overlap each other on one side surface of the second base, wherein, when approaching the first comb type connector, the plurality of second thin plate terminals are alternately inserted into the plurality of first thin plate terminals so as to be conductively connected to the first comb type connector.
8. The connector assembly of claim 7, wherein when the plurality of second thin plate terminals are alternately inserted into the plurality of first thin plate terminals, the first thin plate terminal and the second thin plate terminal, which are adjacent to each other, are in surface contact with each other.
9. The connector assembly of claim 7, wherein a thickness of each of the plurality of thin plate terminals, an interval between the plurality of first thin plate terminals, a thickness of each of the second thin plate terminals, and an interval between the plurality of second thin plate terminals are substantially the same.
10. The connector assembly of claim 7, wherein a distal end of the first thin plate terminal and a distal end of the second thin plate terminal are rounded or tapered.
11. The connector assembly of claim 7, further comprising a locking unit that locks to prevent the first comb type connector and the second comb type connector from being unintentionally separated from each other when the first comb type connector and the second comb type connector are conductively connected to each other.
12. The connector assembly of claim 11, wherein the locking unit comprises:
a coupling hook protruding from a side surface of one of the first thin plate terminal and the second thin plate terminal; and a coupling through-hole formed by passing through the other one of the first thin plate terminal and the second thin plate terminal in a thickness direction so that the coupling hook is seated when the plurality of second thin plate terminals are alternately inserted into the plurality of first thin plate terminals.
| 2023-06-23 | en | 2024-01-04 |
US-201916710593-A | Method and apparatus for personalizing autonomous transportation
ABSTRACT
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a method including receiving, by a processing system at an autonomous vehicle including a processor, a personalized driving style profile associated with a first driver according to first driving information, wherein the personalized driving style profile includes key driving style parameter values associated with the first driver, wherein the first driving information comprises monitoring vehicle context and control information captured during a vehicle driving session, and modifying, by the processing system at the autonomous vehicle, a default driving style algorithm according to the personalized driving style profile to mimic at an autonomous vehicle a driving style of the first driver during operation of the autonomous vehicle. Other embodiments are disclosed.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
The subject disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for personalizing autonomous transportation.
BACKGROUND
Modern telecommunications systems provide consumers with telephony capabilities while accessing a large variety of content. Consumers are no longer bound to specific locations when communicating with others or when enjoying multimedia content or accessing the varied resources available via the Internet. Network capabilities have expanded and have created additional interconnections and new opportunities for using mobile communication devices in a variety of situations. Intelligent devices offer new means for experiencing network interactions in ways that anticipate consumer desires and provide solutions to problems.
Autonomous vehicles will be ubiquitous in the near future. Driverless, fully-automated (autonomous) vehicles are anticipated as an important feature in future transportation systems. Autonomous vehicles may take the form of driverless street vehicles, such as automobiles, trucks, taxis, and/or buses. Other examples of future autonomous vehicles include driverless track-based transit vehicles, such as subway trains, trams, and/or trolleys. Still other future autonomous vehicles may include pilotless boats, ships, airplanes, and/or helicopters.
Such autonomous vehicles may bring many benefits, such as improved safety, productivity, reliability, and so forth. These vehicles will likely bring benefits in the transportation arena, such as reliability, efficiency, automation and productivity. Consumer acceptance and adaptation to autonomous vehicle technology is expected to vary according to many factors. While some consumers may adapt readily, others may find it challenging to relinquish vehicular control. Building trust and confidence in autonomous vehicles is a challenge for this emerging technology.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a communications network in accordance with various aspects described herein.
FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limiting embodiment of a system for determining personalized driving style profiles functioning within the communication network of FIG. 1 in accordance with various aspects described herein.
FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limiting embodiment of a system for using personalized driving style profiles in an autonomous vehicle and functioning within the communication network of FIG. 1 in accordance with various aspects described herein.
FIG. 2C depicts an illustrative embodiment of a method in accordance with various aspects described herein.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limiting embodiment of a virtualized communication network for storage of a driving style profile database in accordance with various aspects described herein.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example, non-limiting embodiment of a computing environment in accordance with various aspects described herein.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an example, non-limiting embodiment of a mobile network platform in accordance with various aspects described herein.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an example, non-limiting embodiment of a communication device in accordance with various aspects described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The subject disclosure describes, among other things, illustrative embodiments for personalize performance of an autonomous vehicle. In various embodiments, a system can capture driving information for a driver by monitoring vehicle context and control information during a vehicle driving session. The system can generate a personalized driving style profile for the driver based on the driving information from the driving session. The system can provide the driver's personalized driving style profile to a control system of an autonomous vehicle, which can modify a default driving style profile based on the driver's profile to thereby mimic or closely replicate the driver's driving style. Other embodiments are described in the subject disclosure.
One or more aspects of the subject disclosure include a device, comprising a processing system including a processor and a memory that stores executable instructions that, when executed by the processing system, facilitate performance of operations. The operations can include capturing first driving information associated with a first driver. The capturing the first driving information can include monitoring vehicle context and control information during a vehicle driving session. The operations can also include generating a personalized driving style profile associated with the first driver according to the first driving information. The personalized driving style profile can include key driving style parameter values associated with the first driver. The operations can further include updating the personalized driving style profile according to a modification to the personalized driving style profile associated with the first driver. The modification can be received from an application at a mobile communication device. The operations can include providing the personalized driving style profile to an autonomous vehicle control system. The providing the personalized driving style profile can be via the application at the mobile communication device. The autonomous vehicle control system can modify a default driving style algorithm according to the personalized driving style profile to mimic or closely replicate an autonomous vehicle a driving style of the first driver during operation of the autonomous vehicle.
One or more aspects of the subject disclosure include a machine-readable medium, comprising executable instructions that, when executed by a processing system including a processor, facilitate performance of operations. The operations can include capturing first driving information associated with a first driver. The capturing the first driving information can include monitoring vehicle context and control information during a vehicle driving session. The operations can also include generating a personalized driving style profile associated with the first driver according to the first driving information. The personalized driving style profile can include key driving style parameter values associated with the first driver. The generating the personalized driving style profile can be via a machine learning engine. The operations can further include providing the personalized driving style profile to an autonomous vehicle control system. The providing the personalized driving style profile can be via an application at a mobile communication device associated with the first driver. The autonomous vehicle control system can modify its default driving style algorithm according to the personalized driving style profile to mimic or closely replicate at an autonomous vehicle a driving style of the first driver during operation of the autonomous vehicle.
One or more aspects of the subject disclosure include a method, performing operations via a processing system at an autonomous vehicle including a processor. The method can include receiving a personalized driving style profile associated with a first driver according to first driving information. The personalized driving style profile can include key driving style parameter values associated with the first driver. The first driving information can comprise monitoring vehicle context and control information captured during a vehicle driving session. The method can include modifying a default driving style algorithm according to the personalized driving style profile to mimic or closely replicate at an autonomous vehicle a driving style of the first driver during operation of the autonomous vehicle.
Referring now to FIG. 1, a block diagram is shown illustrating an example, non-limiting embodiment of a communications network 100 in accordance with various aspects described herein. For example, communications network 100 can facilitate, in whole or in part, capturing driving style profile information for a driver during a vehicle driving session, generating a personalized driving style profile for the first user based on the driving style profile information, and providing the personalized driving style profile to an autonomous vehicle control system to mimic or closely replicate a driving style of the driver at an autonomous vehicle. In particular, a communications network 125 is presented for providing broadband access 110 to a plurality of data terminals 114 via access terminal 112, wireless access 120 to a plurality of mobile devices 124 and vehicle 126 via base station or access point 122, voice access 130 to a plurality of telephony devices 134, via switching device 132 and/or media access 140 to a plurality of audio/video display devices 144 via media terminal 142. In addition, communication network 125 is coupled to one or more content sources 175 of audio, video, graphics, text and/or other media. While broadband access 110, wireless access 120, voice access 130 and media access 140 are shown separately, one or more of these forms of access can be combined to provide multiple access services to a single client device (e.g., mobile devices 124 can receive media content via media terminal 142, data terminal 114 can be provided voice access via switching device 132, and so on).
The communications network 125, which allows the autonomous vehicle to source a driver's personalized driving style profile from the cloud or from a mobile device, includes a plurality of network elements (NE) 150, 152, 154, 156, etc. for facilitating the broadband access 110, wireless access 120, voice access 130, media access 140 and/or the distribution of content from content sources 175. The communications network 125 can include a circuit switched or packet switched network, a voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) network, Internet protocol (IP) network, a cable network, a passive or active optical network, a 4G, 5G, or higher generation wireless access network, WIMAX network, UltraWideband network, personal area network or other wireless access network, a broadcast satellite network and/or other communications network.
In various embodiments, the access terminal 112 can include a digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM), cable modem termination system (CMTS), optical line terminal (OLT) and/or other access terminal. The data terminals 114, which can be used to view and edit a personalized driving style profile, can include personal computers, laptop computers, netbook computers, tablets or other computing devices along with digital subscriber line (DSL) modems, data over coax service interface specification (DOCSIS) modems or other cable modems, a wireless modem such as a 4G, 5G, or higher generation modem, an optical modem and/or other access devices.
In various embodiments, the base station or access point 122 can include a 4G, 5G, or higher generation base station, an access point that operates via an 802.11 standard such as 802.11n, 802.11ac or other wireless access terminal. The mobile devices 124, which can carry and provide the personalized driving style profile to one or more autonomous vehicles, can include mobile phones, e-readers, tablets, phablets, wireless modems, and/or other mobile computing devices.
In various embodiments, the switching device 132 can include a private branch exchange or central office switch, a media services gateway, VoIP gateway or other gateway device and/or other switching device. The telephony devices 134, which can be used for viewing and/or editing a personalized driving style profile, can include traditional telephones (with or without a terminal adapter), VoIP telephones and/or other telephony devices. In one embodiment, a telephony device 134 can use voice print technology to identify and authenticate a driver for permitting editing of their personalized driving style profile.
In various embodiments, the media terminal 142 can include a cable head-end or other TV head-end, a satellite receiver, gateway or other media terminal 142. The display devices 144 can include televisions with or without a set top box, personal computers and/or other display devices. In one embodiment, the media terminal 142 can be used to view training information (e.g., videos) on how to record and generate a personalized driving style profile. In one embodiment, the media terminal 142 can be used for editing an existing personalized driving style profile.
In various embodiments, the content sources 175 include broadcast television and radio sources, video on demand platforms and streaming video and audio services platforms, one or more content data networks, data servers, web servers and other content servers, and/or other sources of media. In one embodiment, a content source 175 can provide training information on how to record and generate a personalized driving style profile.
In various embodiments, the communications network 125 can include wired, optical and/or wireless links and the network elements 150, 152, 154, 156, etc. can include service switching points, signal transfer points, service control points, network gateways, media distribution hubs, servers, firewalls, routers, edge devices, switches and other network nodes for routing and controlling communications traffic over wired, optical and wireless links as part of the Internet and other public networks as well as one or more private networks, for managing subscriber access, for billing and network management and for supporting other network functions.
As described above, driverless, fully-automated (autonomous) vehicles are anticipated as an important feature in future transportation systems. Autonomous vehicles may take the form of driverless street vehicles, such as automobiles, trucks, taxis, and/or buses. Other examples of future autonomous vehicles include driverless track-based transit vehicles, such as subway trains, trams, and/or trolleys. Still other future autonomous vehicles may include pilotless boats, ships, airplanes, and/or helicopters. Such autonomous vehicles may bring many benefits, such as improved safety, productivity, reliability, and so forth.
However, autonomous vehicles can present unique challenges for passengers in these vehicles, particular for passengers, who have formerly driven or piloted similar types of vehicles. These former drivers, now autonomous vehicle passengers, face the prospect of transitioning away from known experiences of controlling their vehicles and driving experiences and/or serving as passengers in vehicles driven by other human drivers/pilots. They further face a new and unknown prospect of passively riding in vehicles totally controlled by autonomous computer systems. For some, this may be a relatively easy transition. For example, many people have experienced flying in commercial airliners, where an unseen pilot controls the airplane in a closed cockpit and, typically, uses highly-complex, computer and satellite-driven autopilot systems. Some autonomous vehicle passengers in this situation may be sufficiently conditioned to giving up control (or the perception of control) to an unseen pilot/computer combination.
However, this transition to autonomous vehicular control may be more challenging for personal vehicles, such as self-driving passenger cars and trucks, self-piloting drones, and so forth, where a large majority of future passengers of autonomous versions may be people, who are used to driving or piloting similar vehicles in similar traffic contexts. Giving over complete control of their vehicles to fully-automated systems based around computers, sonars, cameras, sensors, satellite signals, and communication networks may be a big step, especially for people, who have driven for a lifetime. These passengers (i.e., former drivers) may know, first hand, the complexity, potential hazards, and “unwritten” rules of driving that they have personally relied upon for achieving safety, comfort, efficiency, and “driving the right way.” They may know, intuitively, what “correct driving” feels like, and, for many, this may “correct driving” may feel like the way that they drive. So, conversion to autonomous vehicles may present a challenge for gaining trust and acceptance of passengers, who are former, long-time drivers. However, a pathway for gaining this trust and acceptance may be found in developing ways for autonomous vehicles to mimic the feel of “correct driving” for these new passengers by imitating their driving style.
FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limiting embodiment of a system determining personalized driving style profiles functioning within the communication network of FIG. 1 in accordance with various aspects described herein. In one or more embodiments, a system 200 can determine a personalized driving style profile of a driver 210, where that personalized driving style profile can be used in an autonomous vehicle control system to mimic this driving style when the driver is a passenger in the autonomous vehicle. In one embodiment, the system 200 can include a driving profile server (DPS) 230. In one embodiment, the DPS 230 can monitor various parameters indicative of how a driver 210 approaches driving a vehicle. These parameters can include such factors as vehicle acceleration, deceleration, signaling, distances from other vehicles or objects or traffic markers, lane changing, reversing, parking, and/or road conditions.
In one embodiment, the DPS 230 can capture this driving information during actual driving of a vehicle 220 by the driver 210. In one embodiment, the DPS 230 can couple into an existing control system in the vehicle 220 to capture real-time data for acceleration, deceleration, speed, braking, and so forth. If the vehicle includes systems for capturing sonar information and/or visual imaging, the DPS 230 can capture this information as well. In one embodiment, the DPS 230 can capture all or a portion of these parameters by coupling to a set of specialized sensors that are placed onto the vehicle 220 for the purpose of this monitoring function. For example, the vehicle 220 can be outfitted with a set of sensors (accelerometers, cameras, sonar, etc.,) for a temporary monitoring function for characterizing the person's driving over a period of time. For example, the DPS 230 can monitor actual driving by the driver 210 for a day or a week in order to capture various types of driving conditions typical to that driver. In one embodiment, the driving information can be captured at an autonomous vehicle 220 while that vehicle 220 is operating in manual-driving mode. The autonomous vehicle 220 can access the resources of its autonomous system—its sensors, sonars, cameras, and so forth—to capture all of this driving information while the driver is actually driving the vehicle 220. In one embodiment, the DPS 230 can capture other data such as weather conditions, location and/or map information, traffic information, and/or time day information. The DPS 230 can use this additional information to build a context for the driving information that is captured during the real-world driving session.
In one embodiment, the DPS 230 can capture this driving information via a simulated vehicle 220 and/or simulated driving. Future autonomous vehicles may or may not include means for manual driving. Capturing this driving information from a driver executing a simulated, self-drive driving course can provide an efficient and safe means for capturing driving habits and responses. For example, the simulated driving sequence can provide various weather conditions, road conditions, traffic, pedestrians, urban, rural, and/or highway conditions over a condensed period of minutes. Whereas achieving this range of driving situations can be impractical using real-world driving of an actual vehicle 220. Simulated driving also allows for capture of driving information in a standardized way that can make analysis easier and more predictable. In one embodiment, the simulated vehicle can be a specialized simulator device, such as the type of devices used for training pilots to fly airliners. In one embodiment, the simulated vehicle can be implemented mostly or entirely via software. A driver 210 can engage the simulated driving experience via a personal computer or laptop or smart device in a method similar to playing a video game on the device. Instead of a steering wheel and accelerator/brake pedal, the driver 210 can “drive” the simulated vehicle using typical computer controls (keyboard, mouse, etc.,). However, the simulation would encourage the driver 210 to drive in a way that is consistent with how they drive their own vehicle. The simulated driving software can capture the same type of driving information (acceleration, braking distance, etc.,) that would be captured if driving a real vehicle, but the captured data would actually be simulated data.
In one or more embodiments, the DPS 230 can analyze the driving profile information that has been captured during the vehicle driving session, whether the driving profile information is captured via a real vehicle 220, a simulator vehicle 220, a software-based simulation, or a combination of these tools. The DPS 230 can use a machine learning based application or a machine learning engine. The DPS 230 can digest the driving information from the vehicle driving session into a set of key driving style parameter values for this driver 210. The key driving style parameters can be collated into a personalized driving style profile. This profile can be stored at a cloud-based driving profile repository 247 for future access. The profile can also be stored on a mobile device, such as the personal mobile device of the driver to provide portability, so that the driver can apply this profile to any autonomous vehicle in which they ride as a passenger. In one or more embodiments, the personalized driving style profile can be used to model a driving style. The personalized driving style profile can be standardized so that one or more autonomous control systems for autonomous vehicles can use the contents of the profile. For example, the personalized driving style profile could include a set of standard parameters, such as factors for typical acceleration, braking distance, distance when following a vehicle, and so forth. These standard parameters can map out a range of behaviors for this driver, which can be a subset of the available safe performance range for an autonomous control system model.
A personalized “riding” style profile can similarly be generated for a person, who is typically a passenger in a self-driving vehicle in which a different human driver is the pilot. The personalized riding style profile can represent a “riding style” that reflects how this person is accustomed to experiencing the passenger experience when another driver/human pilot is in charge. In one or more embodiments, a passenger can record, edit, view, and apply riding experiences with another human/pilot at the helm to form their personalized riding style profile, which can be made available to an autonomous vehicle whenever this individual is a passenger of the autonomous vehicle.
FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limiting embodiment of a system 240 for using personalized driving style profiles in an autonomous vehicle 220′ and functioning within the communication network of FIG. 1 in accordance with various aspects described herein. In one or more embodiments, the DPS 230 can provide the personalized driving style profile for a passenger 210′ to an autonomous driving control system 245. In one or more embodiments, the autonomous driving control system 245 can access the personalized driving style profile directly from storage at a network cloud. For example, the DPS 230 can register the personalized driving style profile for a particular autonomous vehicle passenger 210′ (i.e., former self-drive driver) with a network cloud-based driving profile repository 247. The autonomous driving control system 245 can determine an identity of a passenger 210′, using, for example, a biometric recognition marker such as a voice print. Once the identity of the passenger 210′ is known, the autonomous driving control system 245 can query the cloud-based driving profile repository 247 for a personalized driving style profile associated with that identity. In one example, the autonomous vehicle 220′ may be identified to the passenger 210′, such as when the autonomous vehicle 220′ is their personal vehicle. In another example, a mobile device 249 of the passenger 210′ can provide the passenger's identity to the autonomous driving control system 245. In another example, such as when the autonomous vehicle 220′ is being dispatched to the passenger 210′ from a ride hailing system, the ride hailing system can query the cloud-based driving profile repository 247 prior to arrival to pick up the passenger 210′.
In one or more embodiments, the personalized driving style profile for the passenger 210′ can stored on a mobile device 249 of the passenger 210′. For example, after the DPS 230 determines a personalized driving style profile for a driver 210, the DPS 230 can send the profile to a mobile device 249 designated by the driver 210. In one example, an application running at the mobile device 249 can download the personalized driving style profile for this driver from the DPS 230 or from the cloud-based driving profile repository 247. When this driver 220 is now a passenger 210′ entering an autonomous vehicle 220′, the application in the mobile device 249 can automatically connect with the autonomous vehicle 220′, such as via a local area network (LAN), a WiFi connection, a Bluetooth™ connection, or some other wireless connection of the autonomous vehicle 220′. The mobile device 249 can share the personalized driving style profile of the passenger 210′ with the autonomous vehicle 220′. The mobile device 249 can also be used by the passenger 210′ to share this personalized driving style profile with any autonomous vehicle 220′, whether it be a personal vehicle, a fleet vehicle, a ride hailing system vehicle, or a vehicle belonging to someone else (a friend's vehicle).
In one or more embodiments, the passenger 210′ can further access their personalized driving style profile via the application on their mobile device, or any other computing device, to review, edit, update, and validate the settings of their personalized driving style profile. For example, the passenger 210′ can compare their personalized driving style profile to a default driving style profile, or to a “best in class” profile. The passenger 210′ can decide to change one or more values in the personalized driving style profile. For example, the passenger 210′ may find that, after riding in an autonomous vehicle 220′ for a while, they are comfortable with the process and would be fine adopting a default driving style profile or would simply like to change a profile setting, such as a longer-than-average acceleration time. The application can allow the passenger 210′ to update settings and to propagate the updated settings to the DPS 230 and/or the cloud-based driving profile repository 247. In one embodiment, the application can require an authentication from the passenger 210′ to ensure that the requested update is coming from the registered passenger 210′. In one embodiment, the application can validate a proposed update to the personalized driving style profile using a verification algorithm. For example, a proposed change might conflict with an allowed safe range of settings for the autonomous driving control system 245 or for a particular autonomous vehicle 220′. In one embodiment, the application can delay changes to the personalized driving style profile while the passenger 210′ is currently riding in the autonomous vehicle 220′ These changes can be validated and saved for a later time, such as the beginning of the next ride session, to ensure safe operation of the vehicle 220′.
In one or more embodiments, after the autonomous driving control system 245 has loaded a personalized driving style profile for a passenger 210′, the autonomous driving control system 245 can validate the personalized driving style profile against a verification algorithm. The autonomous driving control system 245 can verify that the personalized driving style profile matches the passenger 210′. For example, a user or mobile device identifier can be obtained from the mobile device 249. The personalized driving style profile can include a copy of this identifier, which can be compared by the autonomous driving control system 245 during authentication. For example, biometrics could be used to authenticate the passenger 210′ using voice print, finger print, and/or retinal scan. In another example, the autonomous driving control system 245 can validate the personalized driving style profile against the cloud-based driving profile repository 247 to authenticate the identity of the passenger 210′, the mobile device 249, or both. In one embodiment, the autonomous driving control system 245 can validate the parameters and values in the personalized driving style profile using an algorithm that checks for reasonableness and/or safety of the values. For example, the autonomous driving control system 245 can have a checking algorithm that checks each personalized driving style profile against a set of value ranges that are within the safe and acceptable capability of the autonomous vehicle 220′. If a setting in the personalized driving style profile of the passenger 210′ exceeds a range limit of the checking algorithm, then the autonomous driving control system 245 can flag the error and inform the passenger 210′ of the issue. The autonomous driving control system 245 can reject the personalized driving style profile altogether or, alternatively, the autonomous driving control system 245 can correct one or more settings in the personalized driving style profile so that they are within acceptable ranges.
In one or more embodiments, once the autonomous driving control system 245 has accepted and/or corrected the personalized driving style profile for the passenger 210′, the autonomous driving control system 245 can modify its own default driving style profile according to the personalized driving style profile for the passenger 210′. In one example, the autonomous driving control system 245 can replace its default driving style profile entirely with the personalized driving style profile for the passenger 210′. In another example, the autonomous driving control system 245 can simply update aspects of its default driving style profile with those parts of the personalized driving style profile for the passenger 210′ that differ from the default driving style profile. In one embodiment, the default driving style profile can include a much larger set of parameters than the personalized driving style profile. In such case, only those parameters in the personalized driving style profile would need to be changed in the default driving style profile. Once the default driving style profile has been updated, the autonomous driving control system 245 can control the operation of the autonomous vehicle 220′ using the modified default driving style profile. This operation should mimic the self-drive driving style of the driver 210, who is now the autonomous vehicle passenger 210′ so as to provide performance that is familiar and/or comforting to the passenger 210′
In one or more embodiments, the resulting autonomous vehicle performance can thereby be shaped to closely reflect the familiar, personalized driving style of the autonomous vehicle passenger based on their self-drive driving style. Accordingly, as the passenger 210′ experiences the performance of the autonomous vehicle, the passenger 210′ can feel more comfortable. In one or more embodiments, the personalized driving style profile can be applied to a vehicle that is partially, but not fully autonomous. For example, a partially-autonomous vehicle can include a lane keep assistance function and/or an adaptive cruise control function. A control system for such a vehicle can access, from a personalized driving style profile, one or more parameters that can be used by the control system to modify performance of the partial-autonomous function. For example, the control system can use a parameter associated with vehicle distance from a passenger's personalized driving style profile to modify vehicle distance performance in its adaptive cruise control function. The resulting adaptive cruise control performance can be more comfortable or agreeable for the driver 210 of the partially-autonomous vehicle 220. Whether the vehicle is partially or fully autonomous, modification of performance to mimic the driver's driving performance can provide personalization that aids comfort, safety, trust, and acceptance of the automation. By comparison, providing a passenger 210′ with a “one size fits all” approach can increase anxiety, reduce comfort, and result in reduced adoption of automation, especially among experienced drivers.
The personalized driving style profile is portable and can be applied other autonomous vehicles. The profile enables autonomous vehicles that feel “correct” while avoiding vehicle performance that feels wrong or scary or that produces anxiety in passengers. In various embodiments, piloting style profiles for boating or flying applications can similarly provide a pathway for transitioning from piloting a marine or aerial vehicle to riding in an autonomously piloted marine or aerial vehicle.
FIG. 2C depicts an illustrative embodiment of a method in accordance with various aspects described herein. The method 260 is an illustrative embodiment of a process for determining a personalized driving style profile for a driver and providing this profile for use at an autonomous vehicle when the driver becomes a passenger in the autonomous vehicle. In step 262, a driving profile server can capture driving information as a driver engages in a vehicle driving session. The driving session can include actual real-world driving of a vehicle, driving of a vehicle simulator, interaction with vehicle simulation software, or a combination of these approaches. In step 264, the driving profile server can generate a personalized driving style profile from the captured driving information. The personalized driving style profile can include parameters and values for modeling, mimicking, or replicating the driving style of the driver when that driver is a passenger of an autonomous vehicle. In optional steps 266 and 268, the driving profile server can provide the personalized driving style profile to a client application at a mobile device. The mobile device, in turn, can update the personalized driving style profile by editing the parameters or values. The updated personalized driving style profile can by uploaded to the driving style profile server. In step 270, the personalized driving style profile can be provided to an autonomous vehicle control system. The personalized driving style profile can be sent directly from the driving style profile server or can be provided by a cloud-based profile storage or a mobile device of a passenger. In step 272, the autonomous vehicle control system can modify a default driving style profile based on the personalized driving style profile.
While for purposes of simplicity of explanation, the respective processes are shown and described as a series of blocks in FIG. 2C, it is to be understood and appreciated that the claimed subject matter is not limited by the order of the blocks, as some blocks may occur in different orders and/or concurrently with other blocks from what is depicted and described herein. Moreover, not all illustrated blocks may be required to implement the methods described herein.
Referring now to FIG. 3, a block diagram 300 is shown illustrating an example, non-limiting embodiment of a virtualized communication network in accordance with various aspects described herein. In particular a virtualized communication network is presented that can be used to implement some or all of the subsystems and functions of communication network 100, the subsystems and functions of system 200, and method 230 presented in FIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, 2C, and 3. For example, virtualized communication network 300 can facilitate in whole or in part capturing driving information for a driver during a vehicle driving session, generating a personalized driving style profile for the first driver based on the driving information, and providing the personalized driving style profile to an autonomous vehicle control system to mimic or closely replicate a driving style of the driver at an autonomous vehicle.
In particular, a cloud computer storage to cloud storage architecture is shown that leverages cloud technologies and supports rapid innovation and scalability via a transport layer 350, a virtualized network function cloud 325 and/or one or more cloud-based driving style profile repositories 247. In various embodiments, this cloud storage architecture is an open architecture that leverages application programming interfaces (APIs); reduces complexity from services and operations; supports more nimble business models; and rapidly and seamlessly scales to meet evolving customer requirements including traffic growth, diversity of traffic types, and diversity of performance and reliability expectations. In one or more embodiments, the cloud storage architecture can store personalized driving style profiles and can make these profiles available to autonomous vehicles and/or to smart devices.
In contrast to traditional network elements—which are typically integrated to perform a single function, the virtualized communication network employs virtual network elements (VNEs) 330, 332, 334, etc. that perform some or all of the functions of network elements 150, 152, 154, 156, etc. For example, the network architecture can provide a substrate of networking capability, often called Network Function Virtualization Infrastructure (NFVI) or simply infrastructure that is capable of being directed with software and Software Defined Networking (SDN) protocols to perform a broad variety of network functions and services. This infrastructure can include several types of substrates. The most typical type of substrate being servers that support Network Function Virtualization (NFV), followed by packet forwarding capabilities based on generic computing resources, with specialized network technologies brought to bear when general purpose processors or general purpose integrated circuit devices offered by merchants (referred to herein as merchant silicon) are not appropriate. In this case, communication services can be implemented as cloud-centric workloads. In one or more embodiments, autonomous vehicles and/or passenger smart devices can be connected to a virtualized communication network. As the number of autonomous vehicles and/or smart devices in an area serviced by the communication network vary over time, the virtualization feature allows the virtualized communication network to dynamically allocate and reallocate resources to accommodate these changes.
As an example, a traditional network element 150 (shown in FIG. 1), such as an edge router can be implemented via a VNE 330 composed of NFV software modules, merchant silicon, and associated controllers. The software can be written so that increasing workload consumes incremental resources from a common resource pool, and moreover so that it's elastic: so the resources are only consumed when needed. In a similar fashion, other network elements such as other routers, switches, edge caches, and middle-boxes are instantiated from the common resource pool. Such sharing of infrastructure across a broad set of uses makes planning and growing infrastructure easier to manage. In one or more embodiments, the virtualized communication network can assign a set of network elements for providing personalized driving style profiles to autonomous vehicles and, at a later time, reassign those network element resources to a different use. For example, addition resources can be assigned during peak transportation periods, such as morning or afternoon “rush hour,” and, then, reassigned to other uses during non-peak transportation periods.
In an embodiment, the transport layer 350 includes fiber, cable, wired and/or wireless transport elements, network elements and interfaces to provide broadband access 110, wireless access 120, voice access 130, media access 140 and/or access to content sources 175 for distribution of content to any or all of the access technologies. In particular, in some cases a network element needs to be positioned at a specific place, and this allows for less sharing of common infrastructure. Other times, the network elements have specific physical layer adapters that cannot be abstracted or virtualized, and might require special DSP code and analog front-ends (AFEs) that do not lend themselves to implementation as VNEs 330, 332 or 334. These network elements can be included in transport layer 350. For example, some network elements used for providing access to personalized driving style profiles may be positioned near shopping areas or office buildings, where may autonomous vehicles and passengers may converge during peak transportation hours. These network elements may be reassigned for other uses, such as providing network services to shoppers, employees, and/or businesses during non-peak transportation hours.
The virtualized network function cloud 325 interfaces with the transport layer 350 to provide the VNEs 330, 332, 334, etc. to provide specific NFVs. In particular, the virtualized network function cloud 325 leverages cloud operations, applications, and architectures to support networking workloads. The virtualized network elements 330, 332 and 334 can employ network function software that provides either a one-for-one mapping of traditional network element function or alternately some combination of network functions designed for cloud computing. For example, VNEs 330, 332 and 334 can include route reflectors, domain name system (DNS) servers, and dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) servers, system architecture evolution (SAE) and/or mobility management entity (MME) gateways, broadband network gateways, IP edge routers for IP-VPN, Ethernet and other services, load balancers, distributers and other network elements. Because these elements don't typically need to forward large amounts of traffic, their workload can be distributed across a number of servers—each of which adds a portion of the capability, and overall which creates an elastic function with higher availability than its former monolithic version. These virtual network elements 330, 332, 334, etc. can be instantiated and managed using an orchestration approach similar to those used in cloud compute services. For example, providing access to personalized driving style profiles may not be a particularly data intensive task for a virtualized communication network (when compared, for example, to highly intensive tasks such as streaming media content). Therefore, virtualized network elements that are assigned to this task may well be additionally assigned to other tasks and/or may each be assigned to only provide a small portion of overall throughput for providing these profiles.
The cloud-based driving style profile repository 247 can interface with the virtualized network function cloud 325 via APIs that expose functional capabilities of the VNEs 330, 332, 334, etc. to provide the flexible and expanded capabilities to the virtualized network function cloud 325. In particular, network workloads may have applications distributed across the virtualized network function cloud 325 and cloud-based driving style profile repository 247 and in the commercial cloud, or might simply orchestrate workloads supported entirely in NFV infrastructure from these third party locations. In one or more embodiments, an cloud-based driving profile repository 247 and/or a driving profile server 230 may use API functions to access personalized driving style profiles stored in cloud-based profile storage.
Turning now to FIG. 4, there is illustrated a block diagram of a computing environment in accordance with various aspects described herein. In order to provide additional context for various embodiments of the embodiments described herein, FIG. 4 and the following discussion are intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable computing environment 400 in which the various embodiments of the subject disclosure can be implemented. In particular, computing environment 400 can be used in the implementation of cloud-based driving profile repository 247, a driving profile server 230, network elements 150, 152, 154, 156, access terminal 112, base station or access point 122, switching device 132, media terminal 142, and/or VNEs 330, 332, 334, etc. Each of these devices can be implemented via computer-executable instructions that can run on one or more computers, and/or in combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and software. For example, computing environment 400 can facilitate in whole or in part capturing driving information for a driver during a vehicle driving session, generating a personalized driving style profile for the first driver based on the driving information, and providing the personalized driving style profile to an autonomous vehicle control system to mimic or closely replicate a driving style of the driver at an autonomous vehicle.
Generally, program modules comprise routines, programs, components, data structures, etc., that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the methods can be practiced with other computer system configurations, comprising single-processor or multiprocessor computer systems, minicomputers, mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, hand-held computing devices, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, and the like, each of which can be operatively coupled to one or more associated devices.
As used herein, a processing circuit includes one or more processors as well as other application specific circuits such as an application specific integrated circuit, digital logic circuit, state machine, programmable gate array or other circuit that processes input signals or data and that produces output signals or data in response thereto. It should be noted that while any functions and features described herein in association with the operation of a processor could likewise be performed by a processing circuit.
The illustrated embodiments of the embodiments herein can be also practiced in distributed computing environments where certain tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules can be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.
Computing devices typically comprise a variety of media, which can comprise computer-readable storage media and/or communications media, which two terms are used herein differently from one another as follows. Computer-readable storage media can be any available storage media that can be accessed by the computer and comprises both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable storage media can be implemented in connection with any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, program modules, structured data or unstructured data.
Computer-readable storage media can comprise, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices or other tangible and/or non-transitory media which can be used to store desired information. In this regard, the terms “tangible” or “non-transitory” herein as applied to storage, memory or computer-readable media, are to be understood to exclude only propagating transitory signals per se as modifiers and do not relinquish rights to all standard storage, memory or computer-readable media that are not only propagating transitory signals per se.
Computer-readable storage media can be accessed by one or more local or remote computing devices, e.g., via access requests, queries or other data retrieval protocols, for a variety of operations with respect to the information stored by the medium. For example, computing devices at autonomous vehicles and smart devices may use computer-readable storage in the performance of operations such as accessing personalized driving style profiles.
Communications media typically embody computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other structured or unstructured data in a data signal such as a modulated data signal, e.g., a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and comprises any information delivery or transport media. The term “modulated data signal” or signals refers to a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in one or more signals. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media comprise wired media, such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media.
With reference again to FIG. 4, the example environment can comprise a computer 402, the computer 402 comprising a processing unit 404, a system memory 406 and a system bus 408. The system bus 408 couples system components including, but not limited to, the system memory 406 to the processing unit 404. The processing unit 404 can be any of various commercially available processors. Dual microprocessors and other multiprocessor architectures can also be employed as the processing unit 404.
The system bus 408 can be any of several types of bus structure that can further interconnect to a memory bus (with or without a memory controller), a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of commercially available bus architectures. The system memory 406 comprises ROM 410 and RAM 412. A basic input/output system (BIOS) can be stored in a non-volatile memory such as ROM, erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), EEPROM, which BIOS contains the basic routines that help to transfer information between elements within the computer 402, such as during startup. The RAM 412 can also comprise a high-speed RAM such as static RAM for caching data.
The computer 402 further comprises an internal hard disk drive (HDD) 414 (e.g., EIDE, SATA), which internal HDD 414 can also be configured for external use in a suitable chassis (not shown), a magnetic floppy disk drive (FDD) 416, (e.g., to read from or write to a removable diskette 418) and an optical disk drive 420, (e.g., reading a CD-ROM disk 422 or, to read from or write to other high capacity optical media such as the DVD). The HDD 414, magnetic FDD 416 and optical disk drive 420 can be connected to the system bus 408 by a hard disk drive interface 424, a magnetic disk drive interface 426 and an optical drive interface 428, respectively. The hard disk drive interface 424 for external drive implementations comprises at least one or both of Universal Serial Bus (USB) and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 1394 interface technologies. Other external drive connection technologies are within contemplation of the embodiments described herein.
The drives and their associated computer-readable storage media provide nonvolatile storage of data, data structures, computer-executable instructions, and so forth. For the computer 402, the drives and storage media accommodate the storage of any data in a suitable digital format. Although the description of computer-readable storage media above refers to a hard disk drive (HDD), a removable magnetic diskette, and a removable optical media such as a CD or DVD, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other types of storage media which are readable by a computer, such as zip drives, magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, cartridges, and the like, can also be used in the example operating environment, and further, that any such storage media can contain computer-executable instructions for performing the methods described herein.
A number of program modules can be stored in the drives and RAM 412, comprising an operating system 430, one or more application programs 432, other program modules 434 and program data 436. All or portions of the operating system, applications, modules, and/or data can also be cached in the RAM 412. The systems and methods described herein can be implemented utilizing various commercially available operating systems or combinations of operating systems.
A user can enter commands and information into the computer 402 through one or more wired/wireless input devices, e.g., a keyboard 438 and a pointing device, such as a mouse 440. Other input devices (not shown) can comprise a microphone, an infrared (IR) remote control, a joystick, a game pad, a stylus pen, touch screen or the like. These and other input devices are often connected to the processing unit 404 through an input device interface 442 that can be coupled to the system bus 408, but can be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallel port, an IEEE 1394 serial port, a game port, a universal serial bus (USB) port, an IR interface, etc. For example, a passenger can access a personalized driving style profile stored on a smart device. The passenger can view, edit, and update the profile via a touch panel display on the smart device.
A monitor 444 or other type of display device can be also connected to the system bus 408 via an interface, such as a video adapter 446. It will also be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, a monitor 444 can also be any display device (e.g., another computer having a display, a smart phone, a tablet computer, etc.) for receiving display information associated with computer 402 via any communication means, including via the Internet and cloud-based networks. In addition to the monitor 444, a computer typically comprises other peripheral output devices (not shown), such as speakers, printers, etc.
The computer 402 can operate in a networked environment using logical connections via wired and/or wireless communications to one or more remote computers, such as a remote computer(s) 448. The remote computer(s) 448 can be a workstation, a server computer, a router, a personal computer, portable computer, microprocessor-based entertainment appliance, a peer device or other common network node, and typically comprises many or all of the elements described relative to the computer 402, although, for purposes of brevity, only a remote memory/storage device 450 is illustrated. The logical connections depicted comprise wired/wireless connectivity to a local area network (LAN) 452 and/or larger networks, e.g., a wide area network (WAN) 454. Such LAN and WAN networking environments are commonplace in offices and companies, and facilitate enterprise-wide computer networks, such as intranets, all of which can connect to a global communications network, e.g., the Internet. In one or more embodiments, a driving profile server 230 can communicate with a mobile device 249 of a passenger 210′ via a communication network, such as the Internet or a virtual private network (VPN).
When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer 402 can be connected to the LAN 452 through a wired and/or wireless communication network interface or adapter 456. The adapter 456 can facilitate wired or wireless communication to the LAN 452, which can also comprise a wireless AP disposed thereon for communicating with the adapter 456.
When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer 402 can comprise a modem 458 or can be connected to a communications server on the WAN 454 or has other means for establishing communications over the WAN 454, such as by way of the Internet. The modem 458, which can be internal or external and a wired or wireless device, can be connected to the system bus 408 via the input device interface 442. In a networked environment, program modules depicted relative to the computer 402 or portions thereof, can be stored in the remote memory/storage device 450. It will be appreciated that the network connections shown are example and other means of establishing a communications link between the computers can be used.
The computer 402 can be operable to communicate with any wireless devices or entities operatively disposed in wireless communication, e.g., a printer, scanner, desktop and/or portable computer, portable data assistant, communications satellite, any piece of equipment or location associated with a wirelessly detectable tag (e.g., a kiosk, news stand, restroom), and telephone. This can comprise Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) and BLUETOOTH® wireless technologies. Thus, the communication can be a predefined structure as with a conventional network or simply an ad hoc communication between at least two devices.
WiFi can allow connection to the Internet from a couch at home, a bed in a hotel room or a conference room at work, without wires. WiFi is a wireless technology similar to that used in a cell phone that enables such devices, e.g., computers, to send and receive data indoors and out; anywhere within the range of a base station. WiFi networks use radio technologies called IEEE 802.11 (a, b, g, n, ac, ag, etc.) to provide secure, reliable, fast wireless connectivity. A WiFi network can be used to connect computers to each other, to the Internet, and to wired networks (which can use IEEE 802.3 or Ethernet). WiFi networks operate in the unlicensed 2.4 and 5 GHz radio bands for example or with products that contain both bands (dual band), so the networks can provide real-world performance similar to the basic 10BaseT wired Ethernet networks used in many offices. In one or more embodiments, a mobile device 249 of a passenger 210′ of an autonomous vehicle 220′ can access a driving profile server 230 via a local WiFi network at a premises of the passenger 210′. The passenger 210′ can use this connection to modify their personalized driving style profile and save the modified version at the driving profile server 230 and a cloud-based driving profile repository 247. Further, an autonomous vehicle 220′, particularly a personal vehicle, can be configured to connect to a local WiFi—such as when the vehicle is parked in the garage. The autonomous vehicle 220′ can access a personalized driving style profile and/or update its operating software via the local WiFi connection.
Turning now to FIG. 5, an embodiment 500 of a mobile network platform 510 is shown that is an example of network elements 150, 152, 154, 156, and/or VNEs 330, 332, 334, etc. For example, platform 510 can facilitate, in whole or in part, capturing driving information for a driver during a vehicle driving session, generating a personalized driving style profile for the first driver based on the driving information gathered during the driving session or simulation, and providing the personalized driving style profile to an autonomous vehicle control system to mimic or closely replicate a driving style of the driver at an autonomous vehicle. In one or more embodiments, the mobile network platform 510 can generate and receive signals transmitted and received by base stations or access points such as base station or access point 122. Generally, mobile network platform 510 can comprise components, e.g., nodes, gateways, interfaces, servers, or disparate platforms, that facilitate both packet-switched (PS) (e.g., internet protocol (IP), frame relay, asynchronous transfer mode (ATM)) and circuit-switched (CS) traffic (e.g., voice and data), as well as control generation for networked wireless telecommunication. As a non-limiting example, mobile network platform 510 can be included in telecommunications carrier networks, and can be considered carrier-side components as discussed elsewhere herein. Mobile network platform 510 comprises CS gateway node(s) 512 which can interface CS traffic received from legacy networks like telephony network(s) 540 (e.g., public switched telephone network (PSTN), or public land mobile network (PLMN)) or a signaling system #7 (SS7) network 560. CS gateway node(s) 512 can authorize and authenticate traffic (e.g., voice) arising from such networks. Additionally, CS gateway node(s) 512 can access mobility, or roaming, data generated through SS7 network 560; for instance, mobility data stored in a visited location register (VLR), which can reside in memory 530. Moreover, CS gateway node(s) 512 interfaces CS-based traffic and signaling and PS gateway node(s) 518. As an example, in a 3GPP UMTS network, CS gateway node(s) 512 can be realized at least in part in gateway GPRS support node(s) (GGSN). As a further example, system 500 can implement “3GPP 5G” features for achieving 5G “new radio” (5G NR), such as those described in release 15 of the 3GPP standard. The 3GPP 5G implementation can include enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), capable of delivery of 10 Gbps, ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC) and massive machine type communication (mMTC), wider bandwidths, network capacity extension, and/or advanced signal processing practices for achieving 5G NR. It should be appreciated that functionality and specific operation of CS gateway node(s) 512, PS gateway node(s) 518, and serving node(s) 516, is provided and dictated by radio technology(ies) utilized by mobile network platform 510 for telecommunication over a radio access network 520 with other devices, such as a radiotelephone 575.
In addition to receiving and processing CS-switched traffic and signaling, PS gateway node(s) 518 can authorize and authenticate PS-based data sessions with served mobile devices. Data sessions can comprise traffic, or content(s), exchanged with networks external to the mobile network platform 510, like wide area network(s) (WANs) 550, enterprise network(s) 570, and service network(s) 580, which can be embodied in local area network(s) (LANs), can also be interfaced with mobile network platform 510 through PS gateway node(s) 518. It is to be noted that WANs 550 and enterprise network(s) 570 can embody, at least in part, a service network(s) like IP multimedia subsystem (IMS). Based on radio technology layer(s) available in technology resource(s) or radio access network 520, PS gateway node(s) 518 can generate packet data protocol contexts when a data session is established; other data structures that facilitate routing of packetized data also can be generated. To that end, in an aspect, PS gateway node(s) 518 can comprise a tunnel interface (e.g., tunnel termination gateway (TTG) in 3GPP UMTS network(s) (not shown)) which can facilitate packetized communication with disparate wireless network(s), such as WiFi networks.
In embodiment 500, mobile network platform 510 also comprises serving node(s) 516 that, based upon available radio technology layer(s) within technology resource(s) in the radio access network 520, convey the various packetized flows of data streams received through PS gateway node(s) 518. It is to be noted that for technology resource(s) that rely primarily on CS communication, server node(s) can deliver traffic without reliance on PS gateway node(s) 518; for example, server node(s) can embody at least in part a mobile switching center. As an example, in a 3GPP UMTS network, serving node(s) 516 can be embodied in serving GPRS support node(s) (SGSN). As a further example, system 500 can implement “3GPP 5G” features for achieving 5G “new radio” (5G NR), such as those described above.
For radio technologies that exploit packetized communication, server(s) 514 in mobile network platform 510 can execute numerous applications that can generate multiple disparate packetized data streams or flows, and manage (e.g., schedule, queue, format . . . ) such flows. Such application(s) can comprise add-on features to standard services (for example, provisioning, billing, customer support . . . ) provided by mobile network platform 510. Data streams (e.g., content(s) that are part of a voice call or data session) can be conveyed to PS gateway node(s) 518 for authorization/authentication and initiation of a data session, and to serving node(s) 516 for communication thereafter. In addition to application server, server(s) 514 can comprise utility server(s), a utility server can comprise a provisioning server, an operations and maintenance server, a security server that can implement at least in part a certificate authority and firewalls as well as other security mechanisms, and the like. In an aspect, security server(s) secure communication served through mobile network platform 510 to ensure network's operation and data integrity in addition to authorization and authentication procedures that CS gateway node(s) 512 and PS gateway node(s) 518 can enact. Moreover, provisioning server(s) can provision services from external network(s) like networks operated by a disparate service provider; for instance, WAN 550 or Global Positioning System (GPS) network(s) (not shown). Provisioning server(s) can also provision coverage through networks associated to mobile network platform 510 (e.g., deployed and operated by the same service provider), such as the distributed antennas networks shown in FIG. 1(s) that enhance wireless service coverage by providing more network coverage.
It is to be noted that server(s) 514 can comprise one or more processors configured to confer at least in part the functionality of mobile network platform 510. To that end, the one or more processor can execute code instructions stored in memory 530, for example. It should be appreciated that server(s) 514 can comprise a content manager.
In example embodiment 500, memory 530 can store information related to operation of mobile network platform 510. Other operational information can comprise provisioning information of mobile devices served through mobile network platform 510, subscriber databases; application intelligence, pricing schemes, e.g., promotional rates, flat-rate programs, couponing campaigns; technical specification(s) consistent with telecommunication protocols for operation of disparate radio, or wireless, technology layers; and so forth. Memory 530 can also store information from at least one of telephony network(s) 540, WAN 550, SS7 network 560, or enterprise network(s) 570. In an aspect, memory 530 can be, for example, accessed as part of a data store component or as a remotely connected memory store.
In order to provide a context for the various aspects of the disclosed subject matter, FIG. 5, and the following discussion, are intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable environment in which the various aspects of the disclosed subject matter can be implemented. While the subject matter has been described above in the general context of computer-executable instructions of a computer program that runs on a computer and/or computers, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosed subject matter also can be implemented in combination with other program modules. Generally, program modules comprise routines, programs, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks and/or implement particular abstract data types.
Turning now to FIG. 6, an illustrative embodiment of a communication device 600 is shown. The communication device 600 can serve as an illustrative embodiment of devices such as data terminals 114, mobile devices 124, a connected vehicle 126, display devices 144 or other client devices for communication via either communications network 125. For example, computing device 600 can facilitate, in whole or in part, capturing driving information for a driver during a vehicle driving session or simulation, generating a personalized driving style profile for the first driver based on the driving information, and providing the personalized driving style profile to an autonomous vehicle control system to mimic or closely replicate a driving style of the driver at an autonomous vehicle. In one embodiment, the communication device 600 can facilitate relay of a personalized driving style profile to a cloud storage device and/or to a mobile storage device associated with the driver.
The communication device 600 can comprise a wireline and/or wireless transceiver 602 (herein transceiver 602), a user interface (UI) 604, a power supply 614, a location receiver 616, a motion sensor 618, an orientation sensor 620, and a controller 606 for managing operations thereof. The transceiver 602 can support short-range or long-range wireless access technologies such as Bluetooth®, ZigBee®, WiFi, DECT, or cellular communication technologies, just to mention a few (Bluetooth® and ZigBee® are trademarks registered by the Bluetooth® Special Interest Group and the ZigBee® Alliance, respectively). Cellular technologies can include, for example, CDMA-1X, UMTS/HSDPA, GSM/GPRS, TDMA/EDGE, EV/DO, WiMAX, SDR, LTE, 5G, as well as other next generation wireless communication technologies as they arise. The transceiver 602 can also be adapted to support circuit-switched wireline access technologies (such as PSTN), packet-switched wireline access technologies (such as TCP/IP, VoIP, etc.), and combinations thereof.
The UI 604 can include a depressible or touch-sensitive keypad 608 with a navigation mechanism such as a roller ball, a joystick, a mouse, or a navigation disk for manipulating operations of the communication device 600. The keypad 608 can be an integral part of a housing assembly of the communication device 600 or an independent device operably coupled thereto by a tethered wireline interface (such as a USB cable) or a wireless interface supporting for example Bluetooth®. The keypad 608 can represent a numeric keypad commonly used by phones, and/or a QWERTY keypad with alphanumeric keys. The UI 604 can include a finger print authentication scanner or sensor. The UI 604 can further include a display 610 such as monochrome or color LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) or other suitable display technology for conveying images to an end user of the communication device 600. In an embodiment where the display 610 is touch-sensitive, a portion or all of the keypad 608 can be presented by way of the display 610 with navigation features.
The display 610 can use touch screen technology to also serve as a user interface for detecting user input. As a touch screen display, the communication device 600 can be adapted to present a user interface having graphical user interface (GUI) elements that can be selected by a user with a touch of a finger. The display 610 can be equipped with capacitive, resistive or other forms of sensing technology to detect how much surface area of a user's finger has been placed on a portion of the touch screen display. This sensing information can be used to control the manipulation of the GUI elements or other functions of the user interface. The display 610 can be an integral part of the housing assembly of the communication device 600 or an independent device communicatively coupled thereto by a tethered wireline interface (such as a cable) or a wireless interface.
The UI 604 can also include an audio system 612 that utilizes audio technology for conveying low volume audio (such as audio heard in proximity of a human ear) and high volume audio (such as speakerphone for hands free operation). The audio system 612 can further include a microphone for receiving audible signals of an end user. The audio system 612 can also be used for voice recognition applications. The UI 604 can further include an image sensor 613 such as a charged coupled device (CCD) camera for capturing still or moving images. The image sensor 613 can include a retinal scanner for obtaining biometric authentication information.
The power supply 614 can utilize common power management technologies such as replaceable and rechargeable batteries, supply regulation technologies, and/or charging system technologies for supplying energy to the components of the communication device 600 to facilitate long-range or short-range portable communications. Alternatively, or in combination, the charging system can utilize external power sources such as DC power supplied over a physical interface such as a USB port or other suitable tethering technologies.
The location receiver 616 can utilize location technology such as a global positioning system (GPS) receiver capable of assisted GPS for identifying a location of the communication device 600 based on signals generated by a constellation of GPS satellites, which can be used for facilitating location services such as navigation. The motion sensor 618 can utilize motion sensing technology such as an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or other suitable motion sensing technology to detect motion of the communication device 600 in three-dimensional space. The orientation sensor 620 can utilize orientation sensing technology such as a magnetometer to detect the orientation of the communication device 600 (north, south, west, and east, as well as combined orientations in degrees, minutes, or other suitable orientation metrics).
The communication device 600 can use the transceiver 602 to also determine a proximity to a cellular, WiFi, Bluetooth®, or other wireless access points by sensing techniques such as utilizing a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) and/or signal time of arrival (TOA) or time of flight (TOF) measurements. The controller 606 can utilize computing technologies such as a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), programmable gate arrays, application specific integrated circuits, and/or a video processor with associated storage memory such as Flash, ROM, RAM, SRAM, DRAM or other storage technologies for executing computer instructions, controlling, and processing data supplied by the aforementioned components of the communication device 600.
Other components not shown in FIG. 6 can be used in one or more embodiments of the subject disclosure. For instance, the communication device 600 can include a slot for adding or removing an identity module such as a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card or Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC). SIM or UICC cards can be used for identifying subscriber services, executing programs, storing subscriber data, and so on.
The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and so forth, as used in the claims, unless otherwise clear by context, is for clarity only and doesn't otherwise indicate or imply any order in time. For instance, “a first determination,” “a second determination,” and “a third determination,” does not indicate or imply that the first determination is to be made before the second determination, or vice versa, etc.
In the subject specification, terms such as “store,” “storage,” “data store,” data storage,” “database,” and substantially any other information storage component relevant to operation and functionality of a component, refer to “memory components,” or entities embodied in a “memory” or components comprising the memory. It will be appreciated that the memory components described herein can be either volatile memory or nonvolatile memory, or can comprise both volatile and nonvolatile memory, by way of illustration, and not limitation, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, disk storage, and memory storage. Further, nonvolatile memory can be included in read only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can comprise random access memory (RAM), which acts as external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in many forms such as synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM). Additionally, the disclosed memory components of systems or methods herein are intended to comprise, without being limited to comprising, these and any other suitable types of memory.
Moreover, it will be noted that the disclosed subject matter can be practiced with other computer system configurations, comprising single-processor or multiprocessor computer systems, mini-computing devices, mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, cloud computing resources, hand-held computing devices (e.g., PDA, phone, smartphone, watch, tablet computers, netbook computers, etc.), microprocessor-based or programmable consumer or industrial electronics, and the like. The illustrated aspects can also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules can be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.
In one or more embodiments, information regarding use of services can be generated including services being accessed, media consumption history, user preferences, and so forth. This information can be obtained by various methods including user input, detecting types of communications (e.g., video content vs. audio content), analysis of content streams, sampling, and so forth. The generating, obtaining and/or monitoring of this information can be responsive to an authorization provided by the user. In one or more embodiments, an analysis of data can be subject to authorization from user(s) associated with the data, such as an opt-in, an opt-out, acknowledgement requirements, notifications, selective authorization based on types of data, and so forth. For example, observation and collection of driving style information can be performed with a driver's authorization. This information can be used to generate a personalized driving style profile.
Some of the embodiments described herein can also employ artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate automating one or more features described herein. In one or more embodiments, the driving profile server 230 can use machine learning to determine a personalized driving style profile for a driver based on driving style information. The driving style information can be collected during one or more real world driving session or can be collected during driving simulations. In one or more embodiments, the machine learning can employ various AI-based schemes for carrying out various embodiments thereof. Moreover, a classifier can be employed. A classifier is a function that maps an input attribute vector, x=(x1, x2, x3, x4, . . . , xn), to a confidence that the input belongs to a class, that is, f(x)=confidence (class). Such classification can employ a probabilistic and/or statistical-based analysis (e.g., factoring into the analysis utilities and costs) to determine or infer an action that a user desires to be automatically performed. A support vector machine (SVM) is an example of a classifier that can be employed. The SVM operates by finding a hypersurface in the space of possible inputs, which the hypersurface attempts to split the triggering criteria from the non-triggering events. Intuitively, this makes the classification correct for testing data that is near, but not identical to training data. Other directed and undirected model classification approaches comprise, e.g., naïve Bayes, Bayesian networks, decision trees, neural networks, fuzzy logic models, and probabilistic classification models providing different patterns of independence can be employed. Classification as used herein also is inclusive of statistical regression that is utilized to develop models of priority.
As will be readily appreciated, one or more of the embodiments can employ classifiers that are explicitly trained (e.g., via a generic training data) as well as implicitly trained (e.g., via observing UE behavior, operator preferences, historical information, receiving extrinsic information). For example, SVMs can be configured via a learning or training phase within a classifier constructor and feature selection module. Thus, the classifier(s) can be used to automatically learn and perform a number of functions, including but not limited to determining parameters of a personalized driving style profile based on analyzing driving style information.
As used in some contexts in this application, in some embodiments, the terms “component,” “system” and the like are intended to refer to, or comprise, a computer-related entity or an entity related to an operational apparatus with one or more specific functionalities, wherein the entity can be either hardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. As an example, a component may be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, computer-executable instructions, a program, an application running on a cloud computer resource, and/or a computer. By way of illustration and not limitation, both an application running on a server and the server can be a component. One or more components may reside within a process and/or thread of execution and a component may be localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or more computers and/or reside in a container or virtual machine on a cloud computing resource. In addition, these components can execute from various computer readable media having various data structures stored thereon. The components may communicate via local and/or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system, a cloud-based system, and/or across a network such as the Internet with other systems via the signal). As another example, a component can be an apparatus with specific functionality provided by mechanical parts operated by electric or electronic circuitry, which is operated by a software or firmware application executed by a processor, wherein the processor can be internal or external to the apparatus and executes at least a part of the software or firmware application. As yet another example, a component can be an apparatus that provides specific functionality through electronic components without mechanical parts, the electronic components can comprise a processor therein to execute software or firmware that confers at least in part the functionality of the electronic components. While various components have been illustrated as separate components, it will be appreciated that multiple components can be implemented as a single component, or a single component can be implemented as multiple components, without departing from example embodiments.
Further, the various embodiments can be implemented as a method, apparatus or article of manufacture using standard programming and/or engineering techniques to produce software, firmware, hardware or any combination thereof to control a computer to implement the disclosed subject matter. The term “article of manufacture” as used herein is intended to encompass a computer program accessible from any computer-readable device or computer-readable storage/communications media. For example, computer readable storage media can include, but are not limited to, magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, magnetic strips), optical disks (e.g., compact disk (CD), digital versatile disk (DVD)), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g., card, stick, key drive). Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize many modifications can be made to this configuration without departing from the scope or spirit of the various embodiments.
In addition, the words “example” and “exemplary” are used herein to mean serving as an instance or illustration. Any embodiment or design described herein as “example” or “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or designs. Rather, use of the word example or exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or”. That is, unless specified otherwise or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form.
Moreover, terms such as “user equipment,” “mobile station,” “mobile,” subscriber station,” “access terminal,” “terminal,” “handset,” “mobile device” (and/or terms representing similar terminology) can refer to a wireless device utilized by a subscriber or user of a wireless communication service to receive or convey data, control, voice, video, sound, gaming or substantially any data-stream or signaling-stream. The foregoing terms are utilized interchangeably herein and with reference to the related drawings.
Furthermore, the terms “user,” “subscriber,” “customer,” “consumer” and the like are employed interchangeably throughout, unless context warrants particular distinctions among the terms. It should be appreciated that such terms can refer to human entities or humans using artificial intelligence (e.g., a capacity to make inference based, at least, on complex mathematical formalisms), which can provide autonomous control, simulated driving styles, simulated vision, sound recognition and so forth.
As employed herein, the term “processor” can refer to substantially any computing processing unit or device comprising, but not limited to comprising, single-core processors; single-processors with software multithread execution capability; multi-core processors; multi-core processors with software multithread execution capability; multi-core processors with hardware multithread technology; parallel platforms; parallel platforms with distributed shared memory; and cloud-based platforms. Additionally, a processor can refer to an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic controller (PLC), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), a discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. Processors can exploit nano-scale architectures such as, but not limited to, molecular and quantum-dot based transistors, switches and gates, in order to optimize space usage or enhance performance of user equipment. A processor can also be implemented as a combination of computing processing units.
As used herein, terms such as “data storage,” data storage,” “database,” and substantially any other information storage component relevant to operation and functionality of a component, refer to “memory components,” or entities embodied in a “memory” or components comprising the memory. It will be appreciated that the memory components or computer-readable storage media, described herein can be either volatile memory or nonvolatile memory or can include both volatile and nonvolatile memory.
What has been described above includes mere examples of various embodiments. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing these examples, but one of ordinary skill in the art can recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the present embodiments are possible. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed and/or claimed herein are intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.
In addition, a flow diagram may include a “start” and/or “continue” indication. The “start” and “continue” indications reflect that the steps presented can optionally be incorporated in or otherwise used in conjunction with other routines. In this context, “start” indicates the beginning of the first step presented and may be preceded by other activities not specifically shown. Further, the “continue” indication reflects that the steps presented may be performed multiple times and/or may be succeeded by other activities not specifically shown. Further, while a flow diagram indicates a particular ordering of steps, other orderings are likewise possible provided that the principles of causality are maintained.
As may also be used herein, the term(s) “operably coupled to”, “coupled to”, and/or “coupling” includes direct coupling between items and/or indirect coupling between items via one or more intervening items. Such items and intervening items include, but are not limited to, junctions, communication paths, components, circuit elements, circuits, functional blocks, and/or devices. As an example of indirect coupling, a signal conveyed from a first item to a second item may be modified by one or more intervening items by modifying the form, nature or format of information in a signal, while one or more elements of the information in the signal are nevertheless conveyed in a manner than can be recognized by the second item. In a further example of indirect coupling, an action in a first item can cause a reaction on the second item, as a result of actions and/or reactions in one or more intervening items.
Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any arrangement which achieves the same or similar purpose may be substituted for the embodiments described or shown by the subject disclosure. The subject disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, can be used in the subject disclosure. For instance, one or more features from one or more embodiments can be combined with one or more features of one or more other embodiments. In one or more embodiments, features that are positively recited can also be negatively recited and excluded from the embodiment with or without replacement by another structural and/or functional feature. The steps or functions described with respect to the embodiments of the subject disclosure can be performed in any order. The steps or functions described with respect to the embodiments of the subject disclosure can be performed alone or in combination with other steps or functions of the subject disclosure, as well as from other embodiments or from other steps that have not been described in the subject disclosure. Further, more than or less than all of the features described with respect to an embodiment can also be utilized.
What is claimed is:
1. A device, comprising:
a processing system including a processor; and a memory that stores executable instructions that, when executed by the processing system, facilitate performance of operations, the operations comprising: capturing first driving information associated with a first driver, wherein the capturing the first driving information comprises monitoring vehicle context and control information during a vehicle driving session; generating a personalized driving style profile associated with the first driver according to the first driving information, wherein the personalized driving style profile includes key driving style parameter values associated with the first driver; updating the personalized driving style profile according to a modification to the personalized driving style profile associated with the first driver, wherein the modification is received from an application at a mobile communication device; and providing the personalized driving style profile to an autonomous vehicle control system, wherein the providing the personalized driving style profile is via the application at the mobile communication device, wherein the autonomous vehicle control system modifies a default driving style algorithm according to the personalized driving style profile to mimic at an autonomous vehicle a driving style of the first driver during operation of the autonomous vehicle.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the updating the personalized driving style profile is contingent upon authentication of the first driver.
3. The device of claim 2, wherein the updating the personalized driving style profile is contingent upon a safety verification of the modification of the personalized driving style profile.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the generating the personalized driving style profile is via a machine learning engine.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein the operations further comprise storing the personalized driving style profile associated with the first driver at a network cloud portal, wherein the application at the mobile communication device accesses the personalized driving style profile from the at a network cloud portal.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the vehicle driving session comprises operation of a vehicle in a non-autonomous mode.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the vehicle driving session comprises operation of a driving simulator in a non-autonomous mode.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein the vehicle driving session comprises operation of a software-based driving simulation for non-autonomous driving.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the vehicle context and control information includes acceleration, deceleration, lane changes, turning, signaling information, or any combination thereof.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein the vehicle context and control information includes distances, vehicle presence, road condition information, or any combination thereof.
11. The device of claim 1, wherein the autonomous vehicle control system further modifies the default driving style algorithm within traffic rules and safety margins.
12. A machine-readable medium, comprising executable instructions that, when executed by a processing system including a processor, facilitate performance of operations, the operations comprising:
capturing first driving information associated with a first driver, wherein the capturing the first driving information comprises monitoring vehicle context and control information during a vehicle driving session; generating a personalized driving style profile associated with the first driver according to the first driving information, wherein the personalized driving style profile includes key driving style parameter values associated with the first driver, and wherein the generating the personalized driving style profile is via a machine learning engine; and providing the personalized driving style profile to an autonomous vehicle control system, wherein the providing the personalized driving style profile is via an application at a mobile communication device associated with the first driver, and wherein the autonomous vehicle control system modifies a default driving style algorithm according to the personalized driving style profile to mimic at an autonomous vehicle a driving style of the first driver during operation of the autonomous vehicle.
13. The machine-readable medium of claim 12, wherein the operations further comprise.
14. The machine-readable medium of claim 12, wherein the operations further comprise updating the personalized driving style profile according to a modification to the personalized driving style profile received via the application at the mobile communication device.
15. The machine-readable medium of claim 12, wherein the operations further comprise storing the personalized driving style profile associated with the first driver at a network cloud portal, wherein the application at the mobile communication device accesses the personalized driving style profile from the at a network cloud portal.
16. The machine-readable medium of claim 12, wherein the vehicle context and control information includes acceleration, deceleration, signaling information, distance, vehicle presence, road condition information, or any combination thereof.
17. The machine-readable medium of claim 12, wherein the generating the personalized driving style profile is via a machine learning engine.
18. A method, comprising:
receiving, by a processing system at an autonomous vehicle including a processor, a personalized driving style profile associated with a first driver according to first driving information, wherein the personalized driving style profile includes key driving style parameter values associated with the first driver, wherein the first driving information comprises monitoring vehicle context and control information captured during a vehicle driving session; and modifying, by the processing system at the autonomous vehicle, a default driving style algorithm according to the personalized driving style profile to mimic at an autonomous vehicle a driving style of the first driver during operation of the autonomous vehicle.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein the receiving the personalized driving style profile is via an application executing at a mobile communication device or the autonomous vehicle.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein the receiving the personalized driving style profile is via a network cloud portal.
| 2019-12-11 | en | 2021-06-17 |
US-202017091401-A | Apparatuses and methods involving switching between dual inputs of power amplication circuitry
ABSTRACT
An example apparatus includes power amplification circuitry and current-level switch circuitry. The power amplification circuitry has a first input port, a second input port, and field-effect transistor (FET) circuitry, the FET circuitry to operate in a saturation mode while drawing power provided at the first input port from a first power source. The current-level switch circuitry is to sense a change in a current-level used to maintain the FET circuitry in the saturation mode and, in response to the sensed change in the current-level, to cause the power amplification circuitry to draw power provided at the second input port from a second power source while maintaining the saturation mode of the FET circuitry.
OVERVIEW
Aspects of various embodiments are directed to switching between dual inputs of power amplification circuitry.
Voltage regulation may be used to provide a well-specified and stable direct current (DC) voltage. An example voltage regulator circuitry includes a low-drop out (LDO) voltage regulator in which the input-to-output voltage difference is typically low. LDO voltage regulators operate based on feeding back an amplified error signal used to control an output current flow of a power transistor that is driving the regulated output voltage. LDO may be used in a variety of applications, such as automotive, portable or mobile devices, and industrial applications.
These and other matters have presented challenges to efficiencies of dual input amplification power circuitry implementations, for a variety of applications.
SUMMARY
Various example embodiments are directed to issues such as those addressed above and/or others which may become apparent from the following disclosure concerning switching between power input sources of amplification power circuitry while maintaining a saturation mode.
In certain example embodiments, aspects of the present disclosure involve monitoring a saturation level of a power device, such as a pass field effect transistor (FET) of a dual input voltage regulator and switching power sources in response to detecting the power device exhibiting a saturation level at the limit of saturation.
In a more specific example embodiment, an apparatus includes power amplification circuitry and current-level switch circuitry. The power amplification circuitry has a first input port, a second input port, and FET circuitry. The FET circuitry is to operate in a saturation mode while drawing power provided at the first input port from a first power source. The current-level switch circuitry senses a change in a current-level used to maintain the FET circuitry in the saturation mode and, in response to the sensed change in the current-level, causes the power amplification circuitry to draw power provided at the second input port from a second power source while maintaining the saturation mode of the FET circuitry. As further described herein, when the FET circuitry operates in the saturation mode, a decrease in an input source voltage (from either the first or second power sources) may not cause a change in a regulated output voltage of the power amplification circuitry. This may be achieved, in some specific embodiments, via the use of two power stages, each power stage coupled to one of the first input port and the second input port. The FET circuitry maintains the saturation mode by switching from the first power stage coupled to the first input port in response to the sensed changed in the current-level (which indicates the power FET of the first power stage is out of saturation or about to be out of saturation) to the second power stage coupled to the second input port. The second power stage, once activated, provides power from the second power source and includes a power FET that is saturated. As such, the FET circuitry, which includes both the first and second power stages, maintains the saturation mode.
The power amplification circuitry may form part of a voltage regulator, such as low drop-out (LDO) voltage regulator. The voltage regulator provides an output signal having a regulated output power supply and/or having a regulated output voltage level. For example, the voltage regulated provides a regulated output voltage to an output port. Load circuitry may be coupled to the output port and is supplied or powered by the regulated output voltage. In some specific embodiments, the first power source includes an external power rail supply and the second power source includes a battery. In such embodiments, wherein during operation, in response to the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry begins to draw power from the battery via the second input port. In related and specific embodiments, during operation, in response to the current-level switch circuitry indicating the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry switches on-the-fly from drawing power from the first input port to drawing power from the second input port. For example, during operation, in response to the current-level switch circuitry indicating the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry is to switch from drawing power from the first input port to drawing power from the second input port, to minimize transient impact on the regulated output voltage level.
The load circuitry may include a secure memory element, a near-field communications (NFC) circuit, and/or other types of circuitry which operate based on the regulated output voltage provided by the power amplification circuitry. In a specific embodiment, the load circuitry includes the secure memory element that includes a circuit to store sensitive data. The secure memory element operates based on a supply voltage connected to, and with integrity of the stored sensitive data being reliant on, the regulated output voltage provided from the FET circuitry of the power amplification circuitry. The regulated output voltage may track with the saturation mode of the FET circuitry being maintained. In other examples, the load circuitry includes an NFC circuit to operate based on the regulated output voltage provided in response to an output from the power amplification circuitry. In such examples, during operation, in response to the current-level switch circuitry indicating the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry is to switch on-the-fly from drawing power from the first input port to drawing power from a battery via the second input port without interfering in communications involving the NFC circuit.
The apparatus may further include a feedback path to provide an error-correction signal. As described above, the power amplification circuitry may include a first power stage coupled to the first input port and a second power stage coupled to the second input port, the first and second power stages to provide gate control to the FET circuitry. The apparatus further includes an error amplifier to provide the error-correction signal to the first power stage and the second power stage based on an output signal from the FET circuitry and a reference voltage, and wherein, during operation, the feedback path is used irrespective of whether the power amplification circuitry draws power from the first input port or the second input port. For example, the error amplifier may be shared by both the first and second power stages. In further embodiments, the feedback path provides a feedback signal along a direction from the output signal to another input port of the power amplifier circuitry and wherein, during operation, the feedback path is used irrespective of whether the power amplifier circuitry draws power from the first input port or the second input port. The feedback path may additionally include compensation network circuitry that is shared by the first and second power stages.
The above described apparatus may include additional circuitry and/or variations. For example, the apparatus may include control logic circuitry that operates in an automatic mode and/or manual mode to switch between the power stages and the associated power sources. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes control logic circuitry and mode register. The control logic circuitry may configure the mode register with data to select whether during operation, the power amplification circuitry draws power from the first input port or the second input port. As another example, the apparatus may further include an output port and a capacitor connected to the output port. The output port may provide the regulated output voltage in response to the power amplification circuitry. The capacitor may lessen a magnitude of power spikes at the output port and may provide current to the load circuitry during the transition. In various embodiments, the power amplification circuitry may draw power from both the first and the second input ports in response to the sensed change in the current-level. Other example embodiments are directed to methods of using the apparatuses that include the power amplification circuitry having the first input port, the second input port and the FET circuitry. An example method includes operating the FET circuitry in a saturation mode while drawing power provided at the first input port from a first power source and sensing, via current-level switch circuitry coupled to the FET circuitry, a change in a current-level used to maintain the FET circuitry in the saturation mode. The method further includes, in response, causing the power amplifier circuitry to draw power provided at the second input port from a second power source while maintaining the saturation mode of the FET circuitry. In a number of embodiments, the method further includes causing the power amplification circuitry to switch on-the-fly by switching from drawing power from the first input port to drawing power from the second input port. For example, wherein during operation, in response to the current-level switch circuitry indicating the change in the current-level, drawing, via the power amplifier circuitry, power from a battery via the second input port.
In specific embodiments, the method includes providing gate control to the FET circuitry via a first power stage and a second power stage of the power amplification circuitry, wherein the first power stage is coupled to the first input port, and the second power stage is coupled to the second input port. In such embodiments, causing the power amplifier circuitry to draw power provided at the second input port from the second power source may include switching to the second power stage in response to a decrease in an input source voltage from the first power source such that the decrease in the input source voltage does not cause a reduction in a regulated output voltage provided by the power amplification circuitry. The method may further include providing, via an error amplifier, an error-correction signal to the first power stage and the second power stage based on an output signal from the FET circuitry and a reference voltage.
The above discussion/summary is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation of the present disclosure. The figures and detailed description that follow also exemplify various embodiments.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
Various example embodiments may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates an example apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments;
FIG. 2 illustrates another example apparatus, in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIG. 3 illustrates another example apparatus, in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate example circuitry of an apparatus, in accordance with the present disclosure; and
FIG. 5 illustrates another specific example apparatus, in accordance with the present disclosure.
While various embodiments discussed herein are amenable to modifications and alternative forms, aspects thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the disclosure to the embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure including aspects defined in the claims. In addition, the term “example” as used throughout this application is only by way of illustration, and not limitation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Aspects of the present disclosure are believed to be applicable to a variety of different types of apparatuses, systems and methods involving power amplification circuitry having a first and second input ports coupled to different power sources and field effect transistor (FET) circuitry that maintains a saturation mode while switching from drawing power between the different power sources. In certain implementations, aspects of the present disclosure have been shown to be beneficial when used in the context of a dual input voltage regulator having two different power stages, in which the saturation mode of associated FET circuitry of the power stages is maintained by switching between the power stages. In some embodiments, the FET circuitry maintaining the saturation mode results in a decrease in an input voltage source to the FET circuitry not causing a change in the regulated output voltage of the voltage regulator. While not necessarily so limited, various aspects may be appreciated through the following discussion of non-limiting examples which use exemplary contexts.
Accordingly, in the following description various specific details are set forth to describe specific examples presented herein. It should be apparent to one skilled in the art, however, that one or more other examples and/or variations of these examples may be practiced without all the specific details given below. In other instances, well known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the description of the examples herein. For ease of illustration, the same reference numerals may be used in different diagrams to refer to the same elements or additional instances of the same element. Also, although aspects and features may in some cases be described in individual figures, it will be appreciated that features from one figure or embodiment can be combined with features of another figure or embodiment even though the combination is not explicitly shown or explicitly described as a combination. Various circuits may be powered using multiple power sources. A power regulator, such as low drop-out (LDO) voltage regulator may be coupled to the two (or more) power sources and provides a regulated output voltage. The first power source may include an external power rail from an application platform. As the power rail is external, the integrated circuit may be unaware of when power from the first power source may disappear. For example, the external power rail from the application platform may not always be present. When present, the external power rail provides a good dissipation through a power device of the voltage regulator due to the relatively low voltage compared to a second power source, such as 1.2 volts (V). The second power source may include an internal battery supply (VBAT). VBAT may always be present, such as the battery of a mobile phone or smart watch, but may offer worse dissipation through the power device than the first power source compared to the relatively high voltage of the second power source, such as 2.3 to 5 V. Embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure are directed to a dual input voltage regulator that may switch on-the-fly between power sources, such as switching from an external rail to a battery supply. The dual input voltage regulator monitors the region of operation of the power device, sometimes referred to herein as “the power transistor”. When the power device is out of saturation (or about to be), the dual input voltage regulator switches to the battery supply. The regulated output voltage is maintained to its voltage level by the voltage regulator in case the external supply disappears. In specific applications, the load supplied by the output of the dual input voltage regulator may continue to operate without seeing or otherwise minimizing transient effects on a supply provided. For example, the voltage regulator switches between the power sources, thereby mitigating the transient effects on the regulated output voltage and/or digital brown out issues, such as when the load circuit may not have enough time to terminate or close on-going tasks correctly prior to completing an operation and which may cause errors. In more specific embodiments, the voltage regulator may include two power stages which output power from one of the respective power sources and which share the same error amplifier and/or compensation network for stability of the output power stages, thereby reducing space used.
In accordance with a number of embodiments, an apparatus includes power amplification circuitry and current-level switch circuitry. The power amplification circuitry has a first input port, a second input port, and FET circuitry. The FET circuitry is to operate in a saturation mode while drawing power provided at the first input port from a first power source. The current-level switch circuitry senses a change in a current-level used to maintain the FET circuitry in the saturation mode and, in response to the sensed change in the current-level, causes the power amplification circuitry to draw power provided at the second input port from a second power source while maintaining the saturation mode of the FET circuitry. When the FET circuitry operates in the saturation mode, a decrease in an input source voltage (from either the first or second power source) does not cause a change in a regulated output voltage of the power amplification circuitry. This may be achieved, in some specific embodiments, via the use of two power stages, each power stage coupled to one of the first input port and the second input port. The FET circuitry may maintain the saturation mode by the switching from the first power stage coupled to the first input port in response to the sensed changed in the current-level, which indicates the power FET of the first power stage is out of saturation or about to be out of saturation, to the second power stage coupled to the second input port. In response to the switch, the second power stage provides power from the second power source and includes a power FET that is saturated. For example, in response to the power FET of the first power stage being out of saturation or out of the saturation range, the voltage regulator switches to the second power stage and the power FET of the second power stage moves to saturation. As such, the FET circuitry, which includes both the first and second power stages, maintains the saturation mode.
The power amplification circuitry may be part of a voltage regulator which provides an output signal having a regulated output power supply and/or having a regulated output voltage level. Load circuitry may be coupled to the output port and is supplied or powered by the regulated output voltage. The load circuitry may include a secure memory element, a near-field communications (NFC) circuit, and/or other types of circuitry which operate based on the regulated output voltage provided by the power amplification circuitry.
The apparatus may further include a feedback path. For example, the apparatus further may include an error amplifier that is shared by the two power stages. The error amplifier may provide the error-correction signal to the first power stage and the second power stage based on an output signal from the FET circuitry and a reference voltage. The feedback path may additionally include compensation network circuitry that is shared by the first and second power stages.
Other example embodiments are directed to methods of using the above-described apparatuses, as further described herein.
Turning now to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates an example apparatus, in accordance with various embodiments. As shown, the apparatus includes an integrated circuit (IC) 100 having power amplification circuitry 106 used to provide power to a load circuit. The power supply provided may include a regulated output voltage provided to an output port 112 coupled to the load circuitry.
The power amplification circuitry 106 may be part of a voltage regulator that provides a regulated output voltage or voltage level at an output port 112. The power amplification circuitry 106 includes first and second input ports 102, 104 and FET circuitry 108. The power amplification circuitry 106 may be coupled to two power sources via the first input port 102 and the second input port 104. The two power sources may include an external power rail and battery and/or two different external power rails, in various embodiments. The FET circuitry 108, such as a power transistor coupled to the first input port 102, may operate in a saturation mode while drawing power provided from at the first input port 102 from the first power source. As further described herein, the FET circuitry 108 is to operate in the saturation mode when a decrease (or increase) in an input source voltage (from the power source) to the FET circuitry 108 does not cause a change in the regulated output voltage of the power amplification circuitry 106. In specific embodiments, the second power source is a battery. In response to the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry 106 begins to draw power from the battery via the second input port 104, as further described herein. The change in the current-level may include a drop or increase in the current-level, in various embodiments.
The voltage regulator may provide the regulated output signal to an output port 112 in response to the power amplification circuitry 106 and a capacitor 111 connected to the output port 112. As described above, the regulated output signal includes a regulated power supply, such as a regulated output voltage provided to the output port 112. The capacitor 111 may lessen magnitude of power spikes at the output port 112. The capacitor 111 may further provide current to the coupled load circuitry during transient.
In various specific embodiments, the power amplification circuitry 106 may form part of a dual input LDO voltage regulator. The voltage regulator may include a first power stage coupled to the first input port 102 and a second power stage coupled the second input port 104. The power stages may sometimes be referred to as “power conversion stages” and/or “output power stages”. Each power stage includes FET circuitry including or forming a first stage (e.g., differential pairs of transistors), an intermediate (power) stage, and/or a power transistor, sometimes referred to as a “pass transistor.” For more generic information of LDOs and specific information of power stages of an LDO, reference is made to U.S. Pat. No. 7,253,595, entitled “Low Drop-Out Voltage Regulator”, filed on May 27, 2003, which is herein incorporated in its entirety for its teaching.
The apparatus further includes current-level switch circuitry 110. The current-level switch circuitry 110 may sense a change in a current-level used to maintain the FET circuitry 108 in the saturation mode. In response to the sensed change in the current-level, the current-level switch circuitry 110 causes the power amplification circuitry 106 to draw power from a second power source, as provided at the second input port 104, while maintaining the saturation mode of the FET circuitry 108 and/or maintaining the regulated output voltage (e.g., regulated output voltage level).
As described above, the power amplification circuitry 106 may include a first power stage coupled to the first input port 102 and a second power stage coupled to the second input port 104, and which respectively provide gate control to the FET circuitry 108. Maintaining the saturation mode of the FET circuitry 108 may include switching from the first power stage to the second power stage, in response to detecting the change in the current-level. The change in the current-level may be indicative of the power transistor of the first power stage being out of saturation and/or at a limitation and/or threshold of being out of saturation, sometimes herein referred to “the saturation range”. By switching to the second power stage, which is in saturation, the FET circuitry 108 remains in the saturation mode and the output voltage of the voltage regulator is maintained. For example, in response to the power FET of the first power stage being out of saturation or out of the saturation range, the voltage regulator switches to the second power stage and the power FET of the second power stage moves to saturation. When the FET circuitry 108 (e.g., the power FET of the particular power stage) operates in the saturation mode, a decrease in an input source voltage to the FET circuitry 108 does not cause a change in a regulated output voltage of power amplification circuitry 106.
The apparatus may further include a feedback path to provide a feedback signal along a direction from a regulated output signal (of the FET circuitry 108) to another input port of the power amplification circuitry 106. The feedback signal may include the regulated output voltage, for example. In more specific and related embodiments, as further illustrated herein, the power amplification circuitry 106 further includes an error amplifier. The error amplifier provides an error-correction signal to the first and second power stages based on a comparison of the regulated output signal from the FET circuitry 108 and a reference voltage. The regulated output signal includes the regulated output voltage from the voltage regulator which is used to drive the load circuit. The regulated output signal is feedback along a feedback path to provide the error-correction signal. The feedback path may be used irrespective of whether the power amplification circuitry 106 draws power from the first input port 102 or the second input port 104. Accordingly, in some specific embodiments, the first and second power stages share an error amplifier and/or a compensation network, which provides the same compensation to both the first and second power stages. Although embodiments are not so limited and may include two separate error amplifiers, each associated with one of the power stages and respective feedback paths.
In specific embodiments, during operation, in response to the current-level switch circuitry 110 indicating the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry 106 switches on-the-fly from drawing power from the first input port 102 to drawing power from the second input port 104. For example, the power amplification circuitry 106 is to switch from drawing power from the first input port to drawing power from the second input port, to minimize transient impact on the regulated output voltage (e.g., the voltage level of the regulated output signal).
The current-level switching circuitry 110 may include control logic circuitry and a mode register. The control logic circuitry configures the mode register with data to select whether during operation, the power amplification circuitry 106 draws power from the first input port 102 or from the second input port 104. Although embodiments are not so limited, and the control logic circuitry may switch automatically in an automatic mode and/or using the register control in a manual mode, as further described herein.
Although the above describes switching between the first input port 102 and the second input port 104, embodiments are not so limited. For example, in response to the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry 106 may draw power from both the second input port 104 and the first input port 102.
The output voltage sometimes herein referred to as “the regulated output voltage”, is used to supply a load circuit, such as a near-field communications (NFC) circuit and/or a secure memory element. As previously described, the output voltage is provided to the output port 112 which is coupled the load circuit. In specific examples, the apparatus may further include a secure memory element including a circuit to store sensitive data. The secure memory element operates based on a supply voltage connected to, and with integrity of the stored sensitive data being reliant on, the output voltage provided from the FET circuitry 108. The output voltage tracks with the saturation mode of the FET circuitry 108 being maintained. In response to the sensed change in current-level, the power amplification circuitry 106 is to switch on-the-fly from drawing power from the first input port 102 to drawing power from the second input port 104, such as from a battery via the second input port 104, and without interfering in operations of the secure memory element.
In other specific examples, the apparatus further includes an NFC circuit that operates based on the output voltage (such as a regulated power supply provided in response to the output from the power amplification circuitry 106) as provided at the output port 112. In either example, during operation, in response to the current-level switch circuitry 110 indicating the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry 106 is to switch on-the-fly from drawing power from the first input port 102 to drawing power from the second input port 104, such as from a battery via the second input port 104, and without interfering in communications involving the NFC circuit.
FIG. 2 illustrates another example apparatus, in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates an example IC 220 having a dual input voltage regulator which includes power amplification circuitry having a first input port 223, a second input port 221 and FET circuitry.
As shown and in accordance with various embodiments the power amplification circuitry includes a first power stage 226 and a second power stage 224. The first power stage 226 is coupled to the first input port 223 which is associated with a first power source, e.g., VDDCIN. The second power stage 224 is coupled to the second input port 221 which is associated with a second power source, e.g., VBAT. Each power stage 224, 226 includes FET circuitry including or forming a first stage, an intermediate power stage, and a power FET. The intermediate power stage may provide gate control to the power FET responsive to an error-correction signal from the error amplifier 232.
The power stages 224, 226 may form part of a voltage regulator, such as an LDO voltage regulator, are used to provide a regulated output voltage to the output port 225. The voltage regulator further includes the error amplifier 232 that drives power transistors of the power stages 224, 226. The regulated output voltage is feedback along a feedback path via feedback circuitry 230 and which is input to the error amplifier 232. The feedback circuitry 230 may divide the regulated output voltage and provides the divided regulated output voltage as a feedback signal to the error amplifier 232. For example, the feedback circuitry 230 may include a resistor ladder. The error amplifier 232 compares the regulated output voltage to a reference voltage 234. Current provided by the power transistor of the power stages 224, 226 (depending on which is activated) is controlled according to the comparison of the reference voltage 234 to the feedback signal from the feedback circuitry 230. In specific embodiments, the error amplifier 232 and feedback circuitry 230 is shared by both the first and second power stages 224, 226. Accordingly, the feedback path is used irrespective of whether the power amplification circuitry draws power from the first input port 223 or the second input port 221.
The dual input voltage regulator, illustrated by FIG. 2, may switch between the first and second power sources associated with the first and second input ports 221, 223 via current-level switching circuitry 228. The current-level switch circuitry 228 may include a current-saturation sense circuit 229, a current-saturation detection circuitry 233, control logic circuitry 231 (and which includes a register), and a voltage monitor circuit 235 (e.g., which monitors the input voltage of one or more of the power stages 224, 226). As further described herein, when the power transistor of the first power stage 226 connected to the first input port 223 is in saturation, no current is flowing through the current-level switching circuitry 228. When the power transistor of the first power stage 226 is going out of saturation, current flows through the current-level switching circuitry 228 (e.g., flows through the current-saturation sense circuit 229).
The current-saturation sense circuit 229 may include a FET circuit that is coupled to the power FET of the first power stage 226 and is used to sense the current-level change associated with the first power stage 226 coupled to the first input port 223. The current-saturation detection circuitry 233 may include a current mirror that acts as a current comparator to detect the change in the current-level as sensed by the current-saturation sense circuit 229. The current-saturation detection circuitry 233, in response to the detected change in the current-level, outputs a signal to the control logic circuitry 231 that indicates the detection of the change in the current level (and which is indicative of the first power stage 226 being or about to be out of saturation).
The control logic circuitry 231 provides a control signal to the power stages 224, 226 to select one of (or both, in some embodiments) the power stages 224, 226 based on the signal from the current-saturation detection circuitry 233 and/or a signal from the voltage monitor circuit 235. In specific embodiments, the dual input voltage regulator may switch on-the-fly from VDDCIN external rail to VBAT battery voltage. The current-saturation sense circuit 229 and current-saturation detection circuitry 233 detect whether the first power stage 226 coupled to the VDDCIN external power rail is out of saturation or otherwise exhibits a change in current-level outside a threshold. The voltage monitor circuit 235 detects for the presence of the VDDCIN external power rail. For example, the control logic circuitry 231 switches between the VDDCIN and VBAT based on the output signals of the voltage monitor circuit 235 and/or the current-saturation detection circuitry 233. In specific embodiments, the transition between VDDCIN to VBAT is achieved by or in response to an output signal from the current-saturation detection circuitry 233, and the transition between VBAT to VDDCIN is achieved by or in response to an output signal from the voltage monitor circuit 235. Transitioning between VDDCIN to VBAT by or in response to an output signal from the voltage monitor circuit 235, due to the voltage level, may cause an unwanted or undesirable transient effect on the regulated output, in accordance with various embodiments.
The control logic circuitry 231 may include a mode register, as previously described, that has data to select whether during operation, the power amplifier circuitry draws power from the first input port 223 or from the second input port 221 based on the signal from the current-saturation detection circuitry 233 and/or detection of the presence of a power supply as monitored by the voltage monitor circuit 235. As described above, in various embodiments, the transition between VDDCIN to VBAT is achieved by the current-saturation detection circuitry 233 and the transition between VBAT to VDDCIN is achieved by the voltage monitor circuit 235. For example, the control logic circuitry 231 uses the mode register to determine which of the first and second power stages 224, 226 to activate, and outputs signals to activate or deactivate the first and/or second power stages 224, 226. In other examples, the control logic circuitry 231 automatically switches in an automatic mode by directly providing signals to the first and/or second power stages 224, 226. The signal may be provided to an intermediate power stage of each of the first and second power stages 224, 226 which are coupled between the error amplifier 232 and a gate of the respective power transistor (e.g., FETs) of the power stage 224, 226. The intermediate power stages provide gate control to the power transistors and which may be controlled by a signal input thereto by the control logic circuitry 231 and the error-correction signal from the error amplifier 232.
The first and second power stages 224, 226 of the dual input voltage regulator may share a number of circuit components. For example, the first and second power stages 224, 226 share the error amplifier 232, the feedback path/circuitry 230, and/or compensation network circuitry (as further illustrated by FIG. 3). By sharing components, the size of the voltage regulator may be reduced. Furthermore, the two power stages 224, 226 may use the same compensation via the shared error amplifier 232. In some embodiments, the regulator output performance may be similar and/or the same for both power stages 224, 226.
FIG. 3 illustrates another example apparatus, in accordance with the present disclosure. The IC 320 of FIG. 2 includes the dual input voltage regulator including the first and second power stages 224, 226 which are coupled to the first and second input ports 221, 223 and provide a regulated output voltage to an output port 225, as previously described in connection with FIG. 2. Similar to FIG. 2, the dual input voltage regulator may switch between the two power sources via the current-level switch circuitry 228.
Similar to FIG. 2, the voltage regulator includes feedback circuitry 230 for providing a feedback signal along a feedback path based on the regulated output voltage. As shown, compensation network circuitry 340 is within the feedback path, and is shared between the two output power stages 224, 226 and shared for both a direct current (DC) loop and an alternating current (AC) loop. The compensation network circuitry 340 may include FET circuitry, a capacitor, and/or resister. The voltage regulator may include a first error amplifier 342 and a second error amplifier 344. The first error amplifier 342 is associated with the DC loop which is used to maintain the regulated output voltage level and other DC parameters. The first error amplifier 342 compares the regulated output voltage (e.g., the feedback signal) to the reference voltage 234, and provides an error-correction signal based on the comparison. The second error amplifier 344 is associated with the AC loop which is used to adjust a frequency response of the voltage regulator. For more general and specific information on DC and AC feedback loops and compensation network circuitry, reference is made to U.S. Pat. No. 7,253,595, entitled “Low Drop-Out Voltage Regulator”, filed on May 27, 2003, which is herein incorporated in its entirety for its teaching.
FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate example circuitry of an apparatus, in accordance with the present disclosure. Similar to FIGS. 2-3, the apparatus 450 illustrated by FIGS. 4A-4C includes power amplification circuitry coupled to a first input port 452 and a second input port 451 and including FET circuitry to provide a regulated output voltage at the output port 453. The power amplification circuitry includes a first power stage 456 coupled to the first input port 452 used to provide power from a first power source, e.g., VDDCIN. The power amplification circuitry further includes a second power stage 454 coupled to the second input port 451 used to provide power from a second power source, e.g., VBAT. Each power stage 454, 456 includes at least an intermediate power stage 455, 459 and a power FET 457, 461.
The power stages 454, 456 form part of a voltage regulator coupled to the two power sources and which provides a regulated output voltage at an output port 453. The voltage regulator includes a feedback path including the feedback circuitry (e.g., resistors 449 coupled to the regulated output voltage) that provides a feedback signal indicative of the output voltage to an error amplifier 478. The error amplifier 478 compares the feedback signal to a reference voltage 470 and provides an error-correction signal to the intermediate power stages 455, 459 which drive the gate voltage of the power FETs 457, 461. The intermediate power stages may be activated by the current-level switching circuitry 464.
As previously described with respect to FIG. 2, the current-level switching circuitry 464 is used to switch between power sources, which may occur on-the-fly. The current-level switching circuitry 464 may include a current-saturation sense circuit 462, a current-saturation detection circuitry 465, control logic circuitry 466 (and which includes a register), and a voltage monitor circuit 467.
The following provides example signals used in FIGS. 4A-5:
VDDCIN_AUTO_SWITCH_MODE:
0: manual mode with control from register 1: switching on the fly activated
VBAT_OUTPUT_STAGE_CTRL:
0: VBAT output stage not selected 1: VBAT output stage selected
VDDCIN_OUTPUT_STAGE_CTRL:
0: VDDCIN output stage not selected 1: VDDCIN output stage selected
sat_ok (analog signal):
0: VDDCIN power device not in saturation 1: VDDCIN power device in saturation
vddcin_sat_ok digital signal:
0: VDDCIN power device not in saturation 1: VDDCIN power device in saturation
VDDCIN_SW_SEL: select output stage in manual mode from register
0: VBAT output stage selected 1: VDDCIN output stage selected
VDDCIN_SW_SEL_AUTO: select output stage in automatic mode from register
0: VBAT output stage selected 1: VDDCIN output stage selected
LDO_VDDC_EN: regulator enable LDO_VDDC_VDDCIN_SAT_EN: enable VDDCIN power device saturation monitoring.
FIG. 4B illustrates a close up view of an example current-saturation sense circuit 462 and current-saturation detection circuitry 465A of the current-level switching circuitry 464. The current-saturation sense circuit 462 may include a FET circuit MP2 that is coupled to the power FET 461, e.g., MP1, of the first power stage 456 and is used to sense the current-level change associated with the first power stage 456 coupled to the first input port 452. The current-saturation sense circuit 462 may detect that MP1 is out of the saturation region, which is detected according to voltage, process, and temperature variation of the MP. Additionally, the current-saturation sense circuit 462 may allow for accurate input voltage drop detection and allow for overcurrent detection. FIG. 4C illustrates a close up view of another example current-saturation detection circuitry 465B, which may include the current-saturation sensor circuit 462 in some embodiments. The example current-saturation detection circuitry 465, 465A, 465B illustrated by FIGS. 4A-4C are herein generally referred to as “current-saturation detection circuitry 465” for ease of reference.
The current-saturation detection circuitry 465 may sense gate and drain voltages of MP1 to check if MP1 is in saturation region using the MP2 sense transistor. As previously described, the current-saturation detection circuitry 465 includes a current mirror that acts as a current comparator to detect the change in the current-level as sensed by the current-saturation sense circuit 462.
The current-saturation detection circuitry 465, in response to the detected change in the current-level, outputs a signal (e.g., SAT_OK at a low level) to the control logic circuitry 466 that indicates the detection of the change in the current level. The output signal may be indicative of the first power stage 456 being or about to be out of saturation.
More specifically, MP2 and MP1 may share the same gate voltage and the source of MP2 is connected on the drain of MP1. If MP1 is in the saturation region/mode, then MP2 senses the device is off. When MP1 is in the saturation mode, no current is flowing through MP2 and a signal SAT_OK (at high level) may be provided by the current-saturation detection circuitry 465 indicating that MP1 is in the saturation region. As soon as MP1 is out of saturation region, then MP2 moves to the saturation region. A current is flowing through MP2 and a signal SAT_OK (at low level) may be provided by the current-saturation detection circuitry 465 indicating that MP1 is out of the saturation region.
The sensing of the current-level change may be based on sensing gate and drain voltage of MP1 using MP2 and the current-saturation detection circuitry 465. The current-saturation detection circuitry 465 may include a current mirror (e.g., MN1 and MN2), a current sink and current source I1, I2, and an inverter. MP2 may be associated with the current sink I1. The current sink I1 acts as a pull down and the current source 12 acts as a pull up. MP2 and MP1 share the same gate voltage, and the source of MP2 is connected to the drain of MP1. MP1 may be sized according to the specified max load current and is kept in the saturation region on the whole output load current range for normal operation.
The control logic circuitry 466 responds to the signal output by the current-saturation detection circuitry 465 and/or a signal from the voltage monitor circuit 467 indicating whether or not VDDCIN is present by providing a control signal to the first and second power stages 454, 456. FIG. 4A illustrates an example of the control logic circuitry 466 operating in an automatic mode, in which the power stages are automatically selected. In the automatic mode, the transition of the power stages from the second power stage 454 (e.g., VBAT) to the first power stage 456 (e.g., VDDCIN) is achieved by the signal from the voltage monitor circuit 467. Once the VDDCIN supply is above a threshold (e.g., high enough), the voltage regulator is set under the first power stage 456. The transition of the output stage from the first power stage 456 to the second power stage 454 is achieved by the signal from the current-saturation detection circuitry 465.
In specific embodiments, the control logic circuitry 466 includes output stage control logic 473. As described above, in the automatic mode, the latch of the output stage control logic 473 is set to detect the transition from VBAT to VDDCIN via the voltage monitor circuit 467 and to detect the transition from VDDCIN to VBAT via the current-saturation detection circuitry 465. The transition from VBAT to VDDCIN may be managed by the VDDCTN_OK signal from the voltage monitor circuit 467. If VDDCIN_OK is detected, the voltage regulator moves to the (VDDCIN) first power stage 456. VDDCIN_AUTO_SWITCH_MODE from the register is connected as an input of the D latch.
The following provides example equations for desaturation and saturation of MP1 through MP2. The saturation region of MP1, in the case of normal LDO operation is:
Vds1>Vgs1−Vth1 Vgs1−Vds1<Vth1 (Eq. 1),
where Vds1 is the drain voltage of MP1, Vgs1 is the gate voltage of MP1, and Vth1 is the threshold voltage (e.g., gate voltage when current flows between the source and drain) of MP1. From MP2 connection, the following equation (2) is deduced:
Vgs1=Vgs2+Vds1 Vgs2=Vgs1−Vds1 (Eq. 2),
where Vgs2 is the gate voltage of MP2. Finally, equation (Eq. 3) is deduced from (Eq. 1) and (Eq. 2):
+Vgs2<Vth1 (Eq. 3)
As MP1 and MP2 are same type of transistor, MP1 and MP2 have the same Vth. When MP1 is in the saturation mode or region, MP2 does not flow current (as Vgs2<Vth1). Additionally, the CHECK node is pulled down by II and SAT_OK node is pulled up, meaning that MP1 is in the saturation region.
MP1 may be at the limit of the saturation region in the case that:
Eq. 1 is Vds1=Vgs1−Vth1 Vgs1−Vds1=Vth1
Eq. 2 is Vgs1=Vgs2 Vds1+Vgs2=Vgs1−Vds1
Eq. 3 is Vgs2=Vth1.
MP1 may be out of the saturation region in the case that:
Eq. 1 is Vds1<Vgs1−Vth1 Vth1<Vgs1−Vds1
Eq. 2 is Vgs1=Vgs2 Vds1+Vgs2=Vgs1−Vds1
Eq. 3 is then Vth1<Vgs2.
In case of MP1 being at limit of saturation or out of saturation, MP2 flows current as Vds2>Vgs2 −Vth1>0. The CHECK node is pulled up and SAT_OK node is pulled down, meaning that MP1 is out of saturation region. MN1 and MN2 may be sized to amplify the current difference between MP2 and I1.
FIG. 5 illustrates another specific example apparatus, in accordance with the present disclosure. More specifically, FIG. 5 illustrates an apparatus 555 which has a dual input voltage regulator. The dual input voltage regulator includes the first and second power stages 454, 456 which are coupled to the first and second input ports 451, 452 and provide a regulated output voltage to an output port 453, as previously described in connection with FIG. 4A. Similar to FIG. 4A, the dual input voltage regulator may switch between the two power sources, VBAT and VDDCIN, via the current-level switch circuitry 464. The current-saturation detection circuitry 465 of the apparatus 555 of FIG. 5 may include the circuitry previously described in the close up views illustrated by FIG. 4B and/or FIG. 4C (e.g., the current-saturation detection circuitry 465A and/or 465B).
The control logic circuitry 551 of FIG. 5 illustrates an example in which the control logic circuitry 551 may switch between the power sources in either or both of an automatic mode or a manual mode. The manual mode may be used to switch from the second power stage 454 to the first power stage 456 and the automatic mode may be used to switch from the first power stage 456 to the second power stage 454. The transition from the second power stage 454 associated with VBAT to the first power stage 456 associated with VDDCIN may be achieved by register control in the manual mode. For example, the register control may be achieved through VDDCIN_AUTO_SWITCH_MODE=0 and VDDCIN_SW_SEL registers. VDDCIN_SW_SEL register may be set from 0 to 1 to move from the second power stage 454 (e.g., VBAT) to the first power stage 456 (e.g., VDDCIN). After a delay, the voltage regulator moves from a manual mode to automatic mode by setting VDDCIN_AUTO_SWITCH_MODE=1. The transition from the first power stage 456 to the second power stage 454 may be achieved in an automatic mode in which the current-saturation detection circuitry 465 manages, through the signal provided, the transition from the first power source, VDDCIN, to the second power source, VBAT. Once the current-saturation detection circuitry 465 detects that the first power stage 456 is out of saturation or out of the saturation range, the voltage regulator switches from the first power stage 456 to the second power stage 454. In addition, output signal vddcin_sat_ok is also sent to digital. After a delay, the digital is changed from automatic mode to register control mode through VDDCIN_AUTO_SWITCH_MODE=0.
Similar to FIG. 4A, the control logic circuitry 551 includes output stage control logic 553. In various embodiments, the control logic circuitry 551 operates in both the manual mode and the automatic mode. The latch of the output stage control logic 553 is set to detect the transition from VDDCIN to VBAT only. The transition from VBAT to VDDCIN is set by a register control via VDDCIN_OUTPUT_STAGE_CTRL signal. The D latch input is connected to VDDCIN_OUTPUT_STAGE_CTRL and VDDCIN_AUTO_SWITCH_MODE_rising edge is detected.
Although the embodiments of FIGS. 2-5 illustrate the power stages as being separate, embodiments are not so limited. For example, as illustrated by FIG. 1, the power stages may have overlap, such as shared FET circuitry which is used in both stages. Additionally, although input voltage (e.g., the voltage monitor circuit) and/or saturation monitoring (e.g., the current-saturation sense circuit and current-saturation detection circuitry) is illustrated for only the first power stage, embodiments may additional include input voltage and/or saturation monitoring for the second power stage coupled to the second input port (e.g., VBAT) and/or for both the first and second power stages. In such embodiments, the on-the-fly switching may be from the second conversion stage to the first power stage, and from the first power stage to the second power stage. For example, both input ports may be coupled to external power supply rails.
The above described apparatus may be used to implement a variety of methods. An example method involves power amplification circuitry having a first input port, a second input port, and FET circuitry. The method includes operating the FET circuitry in a saturation mode while drawing power provided at the first input port from a first power source, and sensing, via current-level switch circuitry coupled to the FET circuitry, a change in a current-level used to maintain the FET circuitry in the saturation mode. The method further includes, in response, causing the power amplifier circuitry to draw power provided at the second input port from a second power source while maintaining the saturation mode of the FET circuitry. Maintaining the saturation mode of the FET circuitry may include switching to a different power stage that provides power from the second power source such that the regulated output voltage level of the regulator is maintained.
In various embodiments, the method further including causing the power amplification circuitry to switch on-the-fly by switching from drawing power from the first input port to drawing power from the second input port. For example, wherein during operation, in response to the current-level switch circuitry indicating the change in the current-level, the method includes drawing, via the power amplifier circuitry, power from the second power source, such as a battery, via the second input port.
In a number of related and specific embodiments, the method further includes providing gate control to the FET circuitry via a first power stage and a second power stage of the power amplification circuitry, wherein the first power stage is coupled to the first input port, and the second power stage is coupled to the second input port. The method further includes providing, via an error amplifier, an error-correction signal to the first power stage and the second power stage based on an output signal from the FET circuitry and a reference voltage. The FET circuitry may maintain the saturation mode by switching to the second power stage in response to a decrease in an input source voltage from the first power source (and which causes the first power stage to be at the limit of saturation). Due to the switching, the decrease in the input source voltage from the first power source does not cause a change (e.g., a reduction) in the regulated output voltage of the power amplification circuitry which is used as a power supply for the load circuitry, such as NFC circuitry and/or a secure memory element.
Embodiments as described above are directed to apparatuses and/or IC that include a dual input voltage regulator that may switch between the input power sources. The voltage regulator may switch, for example, on-the-fly, such as from a VDDCIN external power rail supply to a VBAT internal battery supply. The switch between the power sources may minimize transient impact on the output voltage during the switching phase, thereby allowing the load circuity that is supplied by the output voltage to continue operation with minimum or no impact.
In specific embodiments, the voltage regulator includes two different power stages, each associated or coupled to a respective power source, such as VBAT and VDDCIN. The power stages may share the same error amplifier and/or compensation network for providing stability for the stages. The apparatus and/or IC may detect when the power stage is out of saturation and/or at the limit of saturation and switch on-the-fly between the power sources automatically or by register control from VDDCIN to VBAT. The output port may be coupled to an external capacitor which is used as a current tank during the transition to supply the digital and used as a filter to reduce the impact of spikes during the transition. The apparatus may be used in a variety of applications including but not limited to power management, linear regulators, LDO regulators, battery applications, mobile applications, smartwatch applications, linear regulator intellectual property (IP) or modules. In specific embodiments, with rising or falling input voltage from one of the two input supplies, the regulated output voltage remains the same or constant without severe transient voltage.
Terms to exemplify orientation, such as upper/lower, left/right, top/bottom and above/below, may be used herein to refer to relative positions of elements as shown in the figures. It should be understood that the terminology is used for notational convenience only and that in actual use the disclosed structures may be oriented different from the orientation shown in the figures. Thus, the terms should not be construed in a limiting manner.
The skilled artisan would recognize that various terminology as used in the Specification (including claims) connote a plain meaning in the art unless otherwise indicated. As examples, the Specification describes and/or illustrates aspects useful for implementing the claimed disclosure by way of various circuits or circuitry which may be illustrated as or using terms such as blocks, modules, device, system, unit, controller, and/or other circuit-type depictions (e.g., reference numerals 110 and 228 of FIGS. 1 and 2 depict a block/module as described herein). Such circuits or circuitry are used together with other elements to exemplify how certain embodiments may be carried out in the form or structures, steps, functions, operations, activities, etc. For example, in certain of the above-discussed embodiments, one or more modules are discrete logic circuits or programmable logic circuits configured and arranged for implementing these operations/activities, as may be carried out in the approaches descried herein. In certain embodiments, such a programmable circuit is one or more computer circuits, including memory circuitry for storing and accessing a program to be executed as a set (or sets) of instructions (and/or to be used as configuration data to define how the programmable circuit is to perform), and an algorithm or process as described herein is used by the programmable circuit to perform the related steps, functions, operations, activities, etc. Depending on the application, the instructions (and/or configuration data) can be configured for implementation in logic circuitry, with the instructions (whether characterized in the form of object code, firmware or software) stored in and accessible from a memory (circuit).
Based upon the above discussion and illustrations, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that various modifications and changes may be made to the various embodiments without strictly following the exemplary embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein. For example, methods as exemplified in the Figures may involve steps carried out in various orders, with one or more aspects of the embodiments herein retained, or may involve fewer or more steps. For instance, the method described above may be implemented by any of the apparatuses illustrated by FIGS. 1-5. As another example, current-level switch circuitry illustrated by FIG. 4B may be implemented in the apparatuses illustrated by FIG. 1. As a further example, the AC and DC loops illustrated by FIG. 3 may be implemented in the circuitry illustrated by FIGS. 1, 4A-C and 5. Such modifications do not depart from the true spirit and scope of various aspects of the disclosure, including aspects set forth in the claims.
1-15. (canceled)
16. An apparatus comprising:
power amplification circuitry having a first input port, a second input port, and field-effect transistor (FET) circuitry, the FET circuitry to operate in a saturation mode while drawing power provided at the first input port from a first power source; and current-level switch circuitry to sense a change in a current-level used to maintain the FET circuitry in the saturation mode and, in response to the sensed change in the current-level, to cause the power amplification circuitry to draw power provided at the second input port from a second power source while maintaining the saturation mode of the FET circuitry.
17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the FET circuitry is to operate in the saturation mode when a decrease in an input source voltage to the FET circuitry does not cause a change in a regulated output voltage of the power amplification circuitry.
18. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the power amplification circuitry is part of a low drop-out voltage regulator.
19. The apparatus of claim 16, further including a secure memory element including a circuit to store sensitive data, the secure memory element to operate based on a supply voltage connected to, and with integrity of the stored sensitive data being reliant on, a regulated output voltage provided from the FET circuitry, the regulated output voltage to track with the saturation mode of the FET circuitry being maintained.
20. The apparatus of claim 16, further including the second power source which is a battery, and wherein during operation, in response to the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry begins to draw power from the battery via the second input port.
21. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein during operation, in response to the current-level switch circuitry indicating the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry switches on-the-fly from drawing power from the first input port to drawing power from the second input port.
22. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the power amplification circuitry is part of a voltage regulator having a regulated output voltage level, and wherein during operation, in response to the current-level switch circuitry indicating the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry is to switch from drawing power from the first input port to drawing power from the second input port, to minimize transient impact on the regulated output voltage level.
23. The apparatus of claim 16, further including a near-field communications circuit to operate based on a regulated output voltage provided in response to an output from the power amplification circuitry, and wherein during operation, in response to the current-level switch circuitry indicating the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry is to switch on-the-fly from drawing power from the first input port to drawing power from a battery via the second input port without interfering in communications involving the near-field communications circuit.
24. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a feedback path to provide an error-correction signal and the power amplification circuitry including:
a first power stage coupled to the first input port and a second power stage coupled to the second input port, the first and second power stages to provide gate control to the FET circuitry; and an error amplifier to provide the error-correction signal to the first power stage and the second power stage based on an output signal from the FET circuitry and a reference voltage, and wherein, during operation, the feedback path is used irrespective of whether the power amplification circuitry draws power from the first input port or the second input port.
25. The apparatus of claim 16, further including a feedback path to provide a feedback signal along a direction from a regulated output signal to another input port of the power amplifier circuitry and wherein, during operation, the feedback path is used irrespective of whether the power amplifier circuitry draws power from the first input port or the second input port.
26. The apparatus of claim 16, further including control logic circuitry and a mode register, the control logic circuitry to configure the mode register with data to select whether during operation, the power amplifier circuitry draws power from the first input port or from the second input port.
27. The apparatus of claim 16, further including an output port to provide a regulated output voltage in response to the power amplification circuitry and a capacitor connected to the output port, wherein the capacitor is to lessen magnitude of power spikes at the output port.
28. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein in response to the sensed change in the current-level, the power amplification circuitry is to draw power from both the second input port and the first input port.
29. A voltage-regulation method involving power amplification circuitry having a first input port, a second input port, and field-effect transistor (FET) circuitry, the method comprising:
operating the FET circuitry in a saturation mode while drawing power provided at the first input port from a first power source; and sensing, via current-level switch circuitry coupled to the FET circuitry, a change in a current-level used to maintain the FET circuitry in the saturation mode; and in response, causing the power amplifier circuitry to draw power provided at the second input port from a second power source while maintaining the saturation mode of the FET circuitry.
30. The method of claim 29, further including causing the power amplification circuitry to switch on-the-fly by switching from drawing power from the first input port to drawing power from the second input port.
31. The method of claim 29, wherein during operation, in response to the current-level switch circuitry indicating the change in the current-level, drawing, via the power amplifier circuitry, power from a battery via the second input port.
32. The method of claim 29, further including:
providing gate control to the FET circuitry via a first power stage and a second power stage of the power amplification circuitry, wherein the first power stage is coupled to the first input port, and the second power stage is coupled to the second input port; and providing, via an error amplifier, an error-correction signal to the first power stage and the second power stage based on an output signal from the FET circuitry and a reference voltage.
33. The method of claim 32, wherein causing the power amplifier circuitry to draw power provided at the second input port from the second power source includes switching to the second power stage in response to a decrease in an input source voltage from the first power source such that the decrease in the input source voltage does not cause a reduction in a regulated output voltage provided by the power amplification circuitry.
| 2020-11-06 | en | 2021-06-10 |
US-87338310-A | 4-((phenoxyalkyl)thio)-phenoxyacetic acids and analogs
ABSTRACT
The invention features 4-((phenoxyalkyl)thio)-phenoxyacetic acids and analogs, compositions containing them, and methods of using them as PPAR modulators to treat or inhibit the progression of, for example, dyslipidemia.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This Application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/609,942, filed Sep. 15, 2004, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention features 4-((phenoxyalkyl)thio)-phenoxyacetic acids and analogs, compositions containing them, and methods of using them.
BACKGROUND
The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are metabolic sensors regulating the expression of genes involved in glucose and lipid homeostasis. Agonists of the PPARα subtype, such as LOPID® (gemfibrozil) and TRICOR® (fenofibrate), and agonists of the PPARγ subtype, such as AVANDIA® (rosiglitazone maleate), are used for the treatment of dyslipidemia and diabetes, respectively. Another member of this nuclear receptor family, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta (PPAR delta or PPARδ) is also a necessary transcription factor reported to be involved in regulating genes involved in lipid metabolism and energy expenditure. PPAR delta has been shown to act as a “gateway” receptor modulating the expression of the other PPARs (Shi et al., 2002, Proc Natl. Acad. Sci USA, 99(5): 2613-2618). Each receptor subtype has a distinct tissue distribution: 1) PPARα shows the highest expression in liver, 2) PPARγ appears primarily in adipose tissue, and 3) PPARδ has the widest distribution—ubiquitously in adult rat (Braissant et al., 1996, Endocrinology 137(1): 354-366) and in all the human tissues tested to date, including liver, kidney, abdominal adipose and skeletal muscle (Auboeuf et al., 1997, Diabetes 46(8):319-1327).
The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR alpha or PPARα) is a necessary transcription factor regulating genes relating to fatty acid metabolism and insulin action. The genes regulated by PPAR alpha include enzymes involved in the beta-oxidation of fatty acids, the liver fatty acid transport protein, and apo A1, an important component of high density lipoproteins (HDL). Selective, high affinity PPAR alpha agonists increase hepatic fatty acid oxidation, which in turn decreases circulating triglycerides and free fatty acids.
Examples of known PPAR alpha agonists variously useful for hyperlipidemia, diabetes, or atherosclerosis include fibrates such as fenofibrate (Fournier), gemfibrozil (Parke-Davis/Pfizer, Mylan, Watson), clofibrate (Wyeth-Ayerst, Novopharm), bezafibrate, and ciprofibrate and ureidofibrates such as GW 7647, GW 9578, and GW 9820 (GlaxoSmithKline).
Diabetes is a disease caused, or contributed to, by multiple factors and characterized by hyperglycemia which may be associated with increased and premature mortality due to an increased risk for microvascular and macrovascular diseases such as nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, atherosclerosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypertension, ischemia, stroke, and heart disease. Type I diabetes (IDDM) results from genetic deficiency of insulin, the hormone regulating glucose metabolism. Type II diabetes is known as non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), and is due to a profound resistance to insulin regulatory effect on glucose and lipid metabolism in the main insulin-sensitive tissues, i.e., muscle, liver and adipose tissue. This insulin resistance or reduced insulin sensitivity results in insufficient insulin activation of glucose uptake, oxidation and storage in muscle and inadequate insulin repression of lipolysis in adipose tissue as well as glucose production and secretion in liver. Many Type II diabetics are also obese, and obesity is believed to cause and/or exacerbate many health and social problems such as coronary heart disease, stroke, obstructive sleep apnoea, gout, hyperlipidemia, osteoarthritis, reduced fertility, and impaired psychosocial function.
A class of compounds, thiazolidinediones (glitazones), have been suggested to be capable of ameliorating many symptoms of NIDDM by binding to the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) family of receptors. They increase insulin sensitivity in muscle, liver and adipose tissue in several animal models of NIDDM resulting in correction of the elevated plasma levels of glucose, triglycerides and nonesterified free fatty acids without any occurrence of hypoglycemia. However, undesirable effects have occurred in animal and/or human studies including cardiac hypertrophy, hemadilution and liver toxicity.
Many PPARγ agonists currently in development have a thiazolidinedione ring as a common structural element. PPARγ agonists have been demonstrated to be extremely useful for the treatment of NIDDM and other disorders involving insulin resistance. Troglitazone, rosiglitazone, and pioglitazone have been approved for treatment of Type II diabetes in the United States. There is also some indication that benzimidazole-containing thiazolidinedione derivatives may be used to treat irritable bowel disorder (IBD), inflammation, and cataracts (JP 10195057).
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is prevalent in the world and is often associated with other disease states such as diabetes and obesity. Many population studies have attempted to identify the risk factors for CVD; of these, high plasma levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high plasma levels of triglycerides (>200 mg/dl), and low levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) are considered to be among the most important. Currently, there are few therapies targeting low HDL-C and triglycerides.
Recently, potent ligands for PPAR have been published, providing a better understanding of its function in lipid metabolism. The main effect of these compounds in db/db mice (Leibowitz et al., 2000, FEBS Lett. 473(3):333-336) and obese rhesus monkeys (Oliver et al., 2001, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 98(9):5306-5311) was an increase in high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and a decrease in triglycerides, with little effect on glucose (although insulin levels were decreased in monkeys). HDL-C removes cholesterol from peripheral cells through a process called reverse cholesterol transport. The first and rate-limiting step, a transfer of cellular cholesterol and phospholipids to the apolipoprotein A-I component of HDL, is mediated by the ATP binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) (Lawn et al., 1999, J. Clin. Investigation 104(8): R25-R31). PPARδ activation has been shown to increase HDL-C level through transcriptional regulation of ABCA1 (Oliver et al., 2001, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 98(9): 5306-5311). Through induction of ABCA1 mRNA expression in macrophages, PPARδ agonists may increase HDL-C levels in patients and remove excess cholesterol from lipid-laden macrophages, thereby inhibiting the development of atherosclerotic lesions. Existing therapy for hypercholesterolemia includes the statin drugs, which decrease LDL-C but show little effect on HDL-C, and the fibrates, the PPARα agonists that have low potency and induce only modest HDL-C elevation. In addition, like the fibrates, PPARδ agonists may also reduce triglycerides, an additional risk factor for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Elevated free fatty acid level has been shown to contribute to insulin resistance and progression of diabetes (Boden, G. PROCEEDINGS OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN PHYSICIANS (1999 May-June), 111(3), 241-8).
Examples of known PPAR delta agonists variously useful for hyperlipidemia, diabetes, or atherosclerosis include L-165041 (Leibowitz et al., 2000) and GW501516 (Oliver et al., Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America (2001), 98(9), 5306-5311). Treatment of differentiated THP-1 monocytes with GW501516 induced ABCA1 mRNA expression and enhanced cholesterol efflux from these cells.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention features compounds of Formula (I) below:
wherein
X is selected from a covalent bond, S, or O; Y is S or O; - - - W - - - represents a group selected from ═CH—, —CH═, —CH2—, —CH2—CH2—, ═CH—CH2—, —CH2—CH═, ═CH—CH═, and —CH═CH—; Z is selected from O, CH, and CH2, provided when Y is O, Z is O; R1 and R2 are independently selected from H, C1-3 alkyl, C1-3 alkoxy, halo, and NRaRb wherein Ra and Rb are independently H or C1-3 alkyl; R3 and R4 are independently selected from H, halo, cyano, hydroxy, acetyl, C1-5 alkyl, C1-4 alkoxy, and NRcRd wherein Rc and Rd are independently H or C1-3 alkyl, provided that R3 and R4 are not both H; R5 and R6 are independently selected from H, C1-8 alkyl and substituted C1-8 alkyl, provided that R5 and R6 are not both H; R7 is selected from halo, phenyl, phenoxy, (phenyl)C1-5alkoxy, (phenyl)C1-5alkyl, C2-5heteroaryloxy, C2-5heteroarylC1-5alkoxy, C2-5heterocyclyloxy, C1-9 alkyl, C1-8 alkoxy, C2-9 alkenyl, C2-9 alkenyloxy, C2-9 alkynyl, C2-9 alkynyloxy, C3-7 cycloalkyl, C3-7 cycloalkoxy, C3-7cycloalkyl-C1-7alkyl, C3-7cycloalkyl-C1-7alkoxy, C3-7cycloalkyloxy-C1-6alkyl, C1-6alkoxy-C1-6alkyl, C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy, or C3-7cycloalkyloxy-C1-7alkoxy; R8 is H when - - - W - - - represents a group selected from —CH═, —CH2—, —CH2—CH2—, —CH2—CH═, and —CH═CH—, or R8 is absent when - - - W - - - represents a group selected from ═CH—, ═CH—CH2—, and ═CH—CH═; and n is 1 or 2;
or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
The invention also features compositions that include one or more compounds of Formula (I) and a pharmaceutical carrier or excipient.
These compositions and the methods below may further include additional pharmaceutically active agents, such as lipid-lowering agents or blood-pressure lowering agents, or both.
Another aspect of the invention includes methods of using the disclosed compounds or compositions in various methods for treating, preventing, or inhibiting the progression of, a condition directly or indirectly mediated by PPAR delta. Said condition includes, but is not limited to, diabetes, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, polycystic ovary syndrome, hypertension, ischemia, stroke, irritable bowel disorder, inflammation, cataract, cardiovascular diseases, Metabolic X Syndrome, hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia, dyslipidemia (including hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, mixed hyperlipidemia, and hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia), atherosclerosis, obesity, and other disorders related to lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis complications thereof.
One embodiment of the present invention is a method for treating a PPAR mediated condition, such as a PPAR delta-mediated condition and optionally one or more PPAR alpha- or PPAR gamma-mediated conditions, which PPAR alpha- or PPAR gamma-mediated condition(s) may be the same as or different from said PPAR delta-mediated condition, said method comprising administering to a patient in need of treatment a pharmaceutically effective amount of a compound or composition described herein.
Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for inhibiting the onset and/or inhibiting the progression of a PPAR delta-mediated condition, said method comprising administering to a patient in need of treatment a pharmaceutically effective amount of a compound or composition described herein.
Examples of conditions that can be treated with a PPAR-delta agonist include, without limitation, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, Metabolic X Syndrome, hypercholesterolemia, hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia, hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, and obesity. Dyslipidemia includes hypertriglyceridemia, and mixed hyperlipidemia. For example, dyslipidemia (including hyperlipidemia) may be one or more of the following conditions: low HDL (<35 or 40 mg/dl), high triglycerides (>200 mg/dl), and high LDL (>150 mg/dl).
Examples of conditions that can be treated with a PPAR alpha-agonist include Syndrome X (or Metabolic Syndrome), dyslipidemia, high blood pressure, obesity, impaired fasting glucose, insulin resistance, Type II diabetes, atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the detailed discussion, examples, and claims below.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The invention features compositions containing compounds of Formula (I) in the above Summary section, and methods of using them.
Preferred compounds of the invention are PPAR delta agonists that have at least one and preferably two or three of the following characteristics when administered to patients with hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, low-HDL-C, obesity, diabetes and/or Metabolic X Syndrome: 1) increasing HDL-C level, 2) lowering triglycerides, 3) lowering free fatty acids, and 4) decreasing insulin levels. Improvement in HDL-C and triglyceride levels is beneficial for cardiovascular health. In addition, decreased level of triglycerides and free fatty acids contributes to reduce obesity and ameliorate or prevent diabetes.
According to one aspect of the invention, the compounds of the invention are dual PPAR compounds; in other words, they are both PPAR delta agonists and PPAR alpha agonists, preferably where the compound's EC50 potency relating to PPAR delta is less than 0.2 μM and the potency relating to PPAR alpha is less than 3 μM. For example, more preferred dual PPAR alpha-delta agonists are those compounds having an EC50 potency relating to PPAR delta that is less than 0.03 μM and where the potency relating to PPAR alpha is less than 1 μM.
According to another aspect of the invention, the compounds of the invention are pan-PPAR agonists, namely, compounds having PPAR alpha, PPAR delta, and PPAR gamma agonist activity, preferably where the EC50 potency for PPAR delta is less than 0.2 μM; the potency for PPAR alpha is less than 3 μM; and the potency for PPAR gamma is less than 1 μM. More preferred pan-PPAR agonists have an EC50 potency for PPAR delta that is less than 0.03 μM; a potency for PPAR alpha that is less than 1 μM; and a potency for PPAR gamma that is less than 0.7 μM.
PPAR delta, being ubiquitously expressed, can act as a gateway receptor that regulates the expression/activity of other nuclear receptors such as other PPARs. For instance, PPAR delta has been shown to block PPARγ-mediated adipogenesis and acyl-CoA oxidase expression; it has also been shown to be associated with the nuclear receptor corepressors SMRT (silencing mediator for retinoid and thyroid hormone receptors), SHARP (SMART and histone deacetylase-associated repressor protein), and HDACs (histone deacetylase). Thus, conditions directly mediated by these nuclear receptors, such as obesity and Type II diabetes, can be indirectly mediated by PPAR delta (See, for example, Shi et al., 2002, Proc Natl. Acad. Sci USA, 99(5): 2613-2618).
Some aspects of the invention relate to treating hypertriglyceridemia, raising levels of HDL, lowering levels of LDL, and/or lowering total cholesterol. Preferably, the methods of treatment are associated with improvements in the extent, duration, or degree of side effects, such as edema, normally associated with other existing therapies.
The invention is further described below. The specification is arranged as follows: A) Terms; B) Compounds; C) Synthesis; D) Formulation and Administration; E) Use; F) Biological Examples; G) Other Embodiments; and claims.
A. Terms
The term “subject” as used herein, refers to an animal, preferably a mammal, most preferably a human, who has been the object of treatment, observation or experiment.
The term “therapeutically effective amount” as used herein, means that amount of active compound or pharmaceutical agent that elicits the biological or medicinal response in a tissue system, animal or human that is being sought by a researcher, veterinarian, medical doctor or other clinician, which includes alleviation, prevention, treatment, or the delay of the onset or progression of the symptoms of the disease or disorder being treated.
Conditions directly or indirectly mediated by PPAR include, but are not limited to, diabetes, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, polycystic ovary syndrome, hypertension, ischemia, stroke, irritable bowel disorder, inflammation, cataract, cardiovascular diseases, Metabolic X Syndrome, hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia, dyslipidemia (including hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, mixed hyperlipidemia, and hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia), atherosclerosis, obesity, and other disorders related to lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis complications thereof.
For therapeutic purposes, the term “jointly effective amount” as used herein, means that amount of each active compound or pharmaceutical agent, alone or in combination, that elicits the biological or medicinal response in a tissue system, animal or human that is being sought by a researcher, veterinarian, medical doctor or other clinician, which includes alleviation of the symptoms of the disease or disorder being treated. For prophylactic purposes (i.e., inhibiting the onset or progression of a disorder), the term “jointly effective amount” refers to that amount of each active compound or pharmaceutical agent, alone or in combination, that treats or inhibits in a subject the onset or progression of a disorder as being sought by a researcher, veterinarian, medical doctor or other clinician. Thus, the present invention provides combinations of two or more drugs wherein, for example, (a) each drug is administered in an independently therapeutically or prophylactically effective amount; (b) at least one drug in the combination is administered in an amount that is sub-therapeutic or sub-prophylactic if administered alone, but is therapeutic or prophylactic when administered in combination with the second or additional drugs according to the invention; or (c) both (or more) drugs are administered in an amount that is sub-therapeutic or sub-prophylactic if administered alone, but are therapeutic or prophylactic when administered together.
Unless otherwise noted, as used herein and whether used alone or as part of a substituent group, “alkyl” and “alkoxy” include straight and branched chains having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, such as C1-6, C1-4, C3-8, C2-5, or any other range, and unless otherwise noted, include both substituted and unsubstituted moieties. For example, C1-6alkyl radicals include methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl, t-butyl, n-pentyl, 3-(2-methyl)butyl, 2-pentyl, 2-methylbutyl, neopentyl, n-hexyl, 2-hexyl and 2-methylpentyl. Alkoxy radicals are formed from the previously described straight or branched chain alkyl groups. “Alkyl” and “alkoxy” include unsubstituted or substituted moieties with one or more substitutions, such as between 1 and 5, 1 and 3, or 2 and 4 substituents. The substituents may be the same (dihydroxy, dimethyl), similar (chloro, fluoro), or different (chlorobenzyl- or aminomethyl-substituted). Examples of substituted alkyl include haloalkyl (such as fluoromethyl, chloromethyl, difluoromethyl, perchloromethyl, 2-bromoethyl, trifluoromethyl, and 3-iodocyclopentyl), hydroxyalkyl (such as hydroxymethyl, hydroxyethyl, 2-hydroxypropyl), aminoalkyl (such as aminomethyl, 2-aminoethyl, 3-aminopropyl, and 2-aminopropyl), alkoxylalkyl, nitroalkyl, alkylalkyl, cyanoalkyl, phenylalkyl, heteroarylalkyl, heterocyclylalkyl, phenoxyalkyl, heteroaryloxyalkyl (such as 2-pyridyloxyalkyl), heterocyclyloxy-alkyl (such as 2-tetrahydropyranoxy-alkyl), thioalkylalkyl (such as MeS-alkyl), thiophenylalkyl (such as phS-alkyl), carboxylalkyl, and so on. A di(C1-3 alkyl)amino group includes independently selected alkyl groups, to form, for example, methylpropylamino and isopropylmethylamino, in addition dialkylamino groups having two of the same alkyl group such as dimethyl amino or diethylamino.
The term “alkenyl” includes optionally substituted straight chain and branched hydrocarbon radicals as above with at least one carbon-carbon double bond (sp2). Alkenyls include ethenyl (or vinyl), prop-1-enyl, prop-2-enyl (or allyl), isopropenyl (or 1-methylvinyl), but-1-enyl, but-2-enyl, butadienyls, pentenyls, hexa-2,4-dienyl, and so on. Hydrocarbon radicals having a mixture of double bonds and triple bonds, such as 2-penten-4-ynyl, are grouped as alkynyls herein. Alkenyl includes cycloalkenyl. Cis and trans or (E) and (Z) forms are included within the invention. “Alkenyl” may be substituted with one or more substitutions including, but not limited to, cyanoalkenyl, and thioalkenyl.
The term “alkynyl” includes optionally substituted straight chain and branched hydrocarbon radicals as above with at least one carbon-carbon triple bond (sp). Alkynyls include ethynyl, propynyls, butynyls, and pentynyls. Hydrocarbon radicals having a mixture of double bonds and triple bonds, such as 2-penten-4-ynyl, are grouped as alkynyls herein. Alkynyl does not include cycloalkynyl.
The term “Ac” as used herein, whether used alone or as part of a substituent group, means acetyl (CH3CO—). The term “acyl” as used herein, refers to a substituent that has a carbonyl group (C═O) and one or more alkyl or alkylene groups. For example, C2-4 acyl includes without limitation, acetyl, CH3CH2—(C═O)—CH2—, and CH3CH2CH2(C═O)—.
The term “halogen” or “halo” shall include iodo, bromo, chloro and fluoro.
The terms “aryl” or “Ar” as used herein refer to an unsubstituted or substituted aromatic hydrocarbon ring system such as phenyl and naphthyl. When the Ar or aryl group is substituted, it may have one to three substituents which are independently selected from C1-C8 alkyl, C1-C8 alkoxy, fluorinated C1-C8 alkyl (e.g., trifluoromethyl), fluorinated C1-C8 alkoxy (e.g., trifluoromethoxy), halogen, cyano, C1-C8 alkylcarbonyl such as acetyl, carboxyl, hydroxy, amino, nitro, C1-C4 alkylamino (i.e., —NH—C1-C4 alkyl), C1-C4 dialkylamino (i.e., —N—[C1-C4 alkyl]2 wherein the alkyl groups can be the same or different), or unsubstituted, mono-, di- or tri-substituted phenyl wherein the substituents on the phenyl are independently selected from C1-C8 alkyl, C1-C8 alkoxy, fluorinated C1-C8 alkyl, fluorinated C1-C8 alkoxy, halogen, cyano, acetyl, carboxyl, hydroxy, amino, nitro, alkylamino, dialkylamino or five or six membered heteroaryl having 1-3 heteroatoms selected from N, O and S.
The term “heteroaryl” as used herein represents a stable, unsubstituted or substituted five or six membered monocyclic or bicyclic aromatic ring system which consists of carbon atoms and from one to three heteroatoms selected from N, O and S. The heteroaryl group may be attached at any heteroatom or carbon atom which results in the creation of a stable structure. Examples of heteroaryl groups include, but are not limited to, benzimidazolyl, benzisoxazolyl, benzofuranyl, benzopyrazolyl, benzothiadiazolyl, benzothiazolyl, benzothienyl, benzotriazolyl, benzoxazolyl, furanyl, furazanyl, furyl, imidazolyl, indazolyl, indolizinyl, indolinyl, indolyl, isobenzofuranyl, isoindolyl, isothiazolyl, isoxazolyl, oxazolyl, purinyl, pyrazinyl, pyrazolyl, pyridazinyl, pyridinyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrrolyl, quinolinyl, quinolyl, thiadiazolyl, thiazolyl, thiophenyl, or triazolyl. When the heteroaryl group is substituted, the heteroaryl group may have one to three substituents including, but not limited to, C1-C8 alkyl, halogen, and aryl.
The term “heterocyclyl” includes optionally substituted nonaromatic rings having carbon atoms and at least one heteroatom (O, S, N) or heteroatom moiety (SO2, CO, CONN, COO) in the ring. A heterocyclyl may be saturated, partially saturated, nonaromatic, or fused. Examples of heterocyclyl include cyclohexylimino, imdazolidinyl, imidazolinyl, morpholinyl, piperazinyl, piperidyl, pyridyl, pyranyl, pyrazolidinyl, pyrazolinyl, pyrrolidinyl, pyrrolinyl, and thienyl.
Unless otherwise indicated, heteroaryl and heterocyclyl may have a valence connecting it to the rest of the molecule through a carbon atom, such as 3-furyl or 2-imidazolyl, or through a heteroatom, such as N-piperidyl or 1-pyrazolyl. Preferably a monocyclic heterocyclyl has between 5 and 7 ring atoms, or between 5 and 6 ring atoms; there may be between 1 and 5 heteroatoms or heteroatom moieties in the ring, and preferably between 1 and 3, or between 1 and 2 heteroatoms or heteroatom moieties.
Heterocyclyl and heteroaryl also include fused, e.g., bicyclic, rings, such as those optionally fused with an optionally substituted carbocyclic or heterocyclic five- or six-membered aromatic ring. For example, “heteroaryl” includes an optionally substituted six-membered heteroaromatic ring containing 1, 2 or 3 nitrogen atoms fused with an optionally substituted five- or six-membered carbocyclic or heterocyclic aromatic ring. Said heterocyclic five- or six-membered aromatic ring fused with the said five- or six-membered aromatic ring may contain 1, 2 or 3 nitrogen atoms where it is a six-membered ring, or 1, 2 or 3 heteroatoms selected from oxygen, nitrogen and sulfur where it is a five-membered ring.
It is intended that the definition of any substituent or variable at a particular location in a molecule be independent of its definitions elsewhere in that molecule. It is understood that substituents and substitution patterns on the compounds of this invention can be selected by one of ordinary skill in the art to provide compounds that are chemically stable and that can be readily synthesized by techniques known in the art as well as those methods set forth herein.
Where chemical moieties are combined, such as in ethoxymethyl or phenylethyl, the term is described in the direction from the periphery to the connection point of the rest of the molecule. For example, ethoxymethyl is CH3CH2OCH2— and phenylethyl is a phenyl group linked by —CH2CH2— to the rest of the molecule (and not a phenyl group linked to the molecule with a CH3CH2 group as a substituent on the phenyl.) Where parentheses are used, they indicate a peripheral substitution.
As used herein, the term “composition” is intended to encompass a product comprising the specified ingredients in the specified amounts, as well as any product which results, directly or indirectly, from combinations of the specified ingredients in the specified amounts.
Compounds of the invention are further described in the next section.
B. Compounds
The present invention features compositions containing and methods of using compounds of Formula (I) as described above. Unless otherwise noted, in Formula (I), each hydrocarbyl(alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, etc) or heterocarbyl(heterocyclyl, heteroaryl, heteroatom moiety such as sulfonyl, amino, amido, etc.) may be substituted or unsubstituted, for example, “alkyl” includes substituted and unsubstituted alkyl and “heterocyclyl” and “aryl” and “alkoxy” and so on, may also be substituted or unsubstituted. Examples include those compounds wherein: (a) X is S or O; (b) X is a covalent bond; (c) X is O; (d) Y is O; (e) Y is S; (f) Z is O; (g) Z is CH or CH2; (h) - - - W - - - represents —CH2— or —CH2—CH2—; (i) - - - W - - - represents —CH2—; (j) - - - W - - - represents ═CH—, —CH═, ═CH—CH2—, —CH2—CH═, ═CH—CH═, or —CH═CH—; (k) R1 and R2 are independently selected from H, C1-3 alkyl, C1-3 alkoxy, F, Cl, and Br; (l) R3 and R4 are independently selected from H, halo, cyano, C1-4 alkyl, and C1-3 alkoxy; (m) R1 and R2 are independently selected from H, methyl, methoxy, F and Cl; (n) R3 and R4 are independently selected from H, halo, cyano, hydroxy, C2-4 acyl, C1-4 alkyl, and C1-3 alkoxy; (o) R3 is independently selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy; (p) R4 is independently selected from F, Cl, methyl, methoxy, trifluoromethyl, fluoromethyl, difluoromethyl, chlorodifluoromethyl, dichlorofluoromethyl, fluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy, chlorodifluoromethoxy, dichlorofluoromethoxy and trifluoromethoxy; (q) R3 is selected from methyl, methoxy, H, Cl, Br, I, OH, —CH(CF3)2, CF3, —OCF3, —N(CH3)2, —O—CH2COOH, and —COCH3, and R4 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl; (r) R7 is selected from C1-7 alkyl, C1-6 alkoxy, C2-7 alkenyl, C2-7 alkenyloxy, C2-7 alkynyl, C2-7 alkynyloxy, C3-7 cycloalkyl, C3-7 cycloalkoxy, C1-6alkoxy-C1-6alkyl, C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy, and C3-7cycloalkyloxy-C1-7alkoxy; (s) R7 is selected from and phenoxy, (phenyl)C1-5alkoxy, (phenyl)C1-5alkyl, C2-5heteroaryloxy, C2-5heteroarylC1-5alkoxy, C2-5heterocyclyloxy, C3-7cycloalkyl-C1-7alkyl, C3-7cycloalkyl-C1-7alkoxy, and C3-7cycloalkyloxy-C1-6alkyl; (t) R8 is H; (u) R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, fluoromethyl, difluoromethyl, fluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy, trifluoromethyl, trifluoromethoxy, and methoxy; (v) R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, and R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl; (w) R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, and R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, and X is a covalent bond; (x) R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, and R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, X is covalent bond, Y is S, and Z is O; (y) X is O and Y is O; (z) X is O and Y is S; (aa) Y is O and Z is O; (bb) Y is S and Z is O; (cc) R8 is H and R7 is selected from C1-7 alkyl, C1-6 alkoxy, C2-7 alkenyl, C2-7 alkenyloxy, C1-6alkoxy-C1-6alkyl, and C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy; (dd) R8 is H and R7 is selected from C1-5 alkyl, C1-4 alkoxy, C2-5 alkenyl, C2-5 alkenyloxy, and C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy; (ee) R6 is H and R5 is selected from C1-3 alkyl, C1-3 alkoxy, C2-4 alkenyl, C2-4 alkenyloxy, and C1-3alkoxy-C1-3alkoxy; (ff) R8 is H and R7 is selected from methoxy, ethoxy, propoxy, isopropoxy, propenyloxy, isopropenyloxy, ethoxy-methoxy, methoxy-methoxy, methoxy-methyl, methoxyethyl, ethoxymethyl, and ethoxy-ethyl; (gg) R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy; and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, trifluoromethyl, trifluoromethoxy, fluoromethyl, fluoromethoxy, difluoromethyl, difluoromethoxy, and methoxy; (hh) X is O, Y is O, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy; and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy; (ii) X is O, Y is S, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy; (jj) X is covalent bond, Y is S, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3, and methoxy; (kk) Y is O, Z is O, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy; and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy; (II) Y is S, Z is O, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy; (mm) R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3, and methoxy, R5 is selected from C1-7 alkyl, C1-6 alkoxy, C2-7 alkenyl, C2-7 alkenyloxy, C1-6alkoxy-C1-6alkyl, and C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy and R6 is H; (nn) X is O, Y is O, R5 is selected from C1-3 alkyl, C1-3 alkoxy, C2-4 alkenyl, C2-4 alkenyloxy, and C1-3alkoxy-C1-3alkoxy, and R6 is H; (oo) X is O, Y is S, R7 is selected from C1-3 alkyl, C1-3 alkoxy, C2-4 alkenyl, C2-4 alkenyloxy, and C1-3alkoxy-C1-3alkoxy, and R8 is H; (pp) X is O, Y is O, R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy, and n is 1; (qq) X is O, Y is S, R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy; (rr) X is O, Y is S, R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy, and n=1; or (ss) X is O, Y is S, R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy, R7 is selected from C1-3 alkyl, C1-3 alkoxy, C2-4 alkenyl, C2-4 alkenyloxy, and C1-3alkoxy-C1-3alkoxy, R8 is H, and n=1; (tt) R5 and R6 are C1-4 alkyl; (uu) R5 and R6 are methyl; or combinations of the above.
According to another aspect of the invention, Formula (I) is modified such that R8 is H when - - - W - - - represents a group selected from —CH═, —CH2—, —CH2—CH2—, —CH2—CH═, and —CH═CH—, or R8 is absent when - - - W - - - represents a group selected from ═CH—, ═CH—CH2—, and ═CH—CH═.
Particularly, examples of Formula (I) include those compounds wherein: (a) X is O and Y is O; (b) X is a covalent bond and R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, and R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl; (c) X is O and Y is S; (d) X is covalent bond, Y is S and Z is O; (e) Y is S and Z is O; (f) Y is O and Z is O; (g) R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, and R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl; (h) R1 and R2 are independently selected from H, methyl, methoxy, F and Cl; (i) R3 is independently selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy; (j) R4 is independently selected from F, Cl, methyl, methoxy, trifluoromethyl, fluoromethyl, difluoromethyl, chlorodifluoromethyl, dichlorofluoromethyl, fluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy, chlorodifluoromethoxy, dichlorofluoromethoxy and trifluoromethoxy; (k) R3 is selected from methyl, methoxy, H, Cl, Br, I, OH, —CH(CF3)2, CF3, —OCF3, —N(CH3)2, —O—CH2COOH, and —COCH3, and R4 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl; (l) R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, fluoromethyl, difluoromethyl, fluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy, trifluoromethyl, trifluoromethoxy, and methoxy; (m) R7 is selected from C1-7 alkyl, C1-6 alkoxy, C2-7 alkenyl, C2-7 alkenyloxy, C2-7 alkynyl, C2-7 alkynyloxy, C3-7 cycloalkyl, C3-7 cycloalkoxy, C1-6alkoxy-C1-6alkyl, C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy, and C3-7cycloalkyloxy-C1-7alkoxy; (n) R8 is H and R7 is selected from C1-7 alkyl, C1-6 alkoxy, C2-7 alkenyl, C2-7 alkenyloxy, C1-6alkoxy-C1-6alkyl, and C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy; (o) R8 is H and R7 is selected from C1-5 alkyl, C1-4 alkoxy, C2-5 alkenyl, C2-5 alkenyloxy, and C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy; (p) R6 is H and R7 is selected from C1-3 alkyl, C1-3 alkoxy, C2-4 alkenyl, C2-4 alkenyloxy, and C1-3alkoxy-C1-3alkoxy; (q) R8 is H and R7 is selected from methoxy, ethoxy, propoxy, isopropoxy, propenyloxy, isopropenyloxy, ethoxy-methoxy, methoxy-methoxy, methoxy-methyl, methoxyethyl, ethoxymethyl, and ethoxy-ethyl; or - - - W - - - represents a covalent bond; or combinations of the above.
Specific examples of compounds of Formula (I) include:
Examples of preferred compounds include those described in Table 1 below.
TABLE 1
Compound
Number
Structure
1
2
3
The pharmaceutical compounds of the invention include a pharmaceutical composition, comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and a compound of Formula 1.
Preferably, the pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention comprise a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and a compound of formula 1 wherein
(a) X is O and Y is S; (b) Y is S and Z is O; (c) R8 is H and R7 is selected from C1-7 alkyl, C1-6 alkoxy, C2-7 alkenyl, C2-7 alkenyloxy, C1-6alkoxy-C1-6alkyl, and C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy; (d) R7 is selected from C1-5 alkyl, C1-4 alkoxy, C2-5 alkenyl, C2-5 alkenyloxy, and C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy; (e) R7 is selected from C1-3 alkyl, C1-3 alkoxy, C2-4 alkenyl, C2-4 alkenyloxy, and C1-3alkoxy-C1-3alkoxy; (f) R7 is selected from methoxy, ethoxy, propoxy, isopropoxy, propenyloxy, isopropenyloxy, ethoxy-methoxy, methoxy-methoxy, methoxy-methyl, methoxyethyl, ethoxymethyl, and ethoxy-ethyl; (g) R5 and R6 are independently C1-4alkyl; (h) R5 and R6 are methyl, R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, trifluoromethyl, trifluoromethoxy, fluoromethyl, fluoromethoxy, difluoromethyl, difluoromethoxy, and methoxy; (i) The compound of claim 1 wherein X is O, Y is O, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy; (j) X is O, Y is S, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy; (k) X is covalent bond, Y is S, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3, and methoxy; (l) Y is O, Z is O, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy (m) Y is S, Z is O, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and, R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy; (n) R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3, and methoxy, R7 is selected from C1-7 alkyl, C1-6 alkoxy, C2-7 alkenyl, C2-7 alkenyloxy, C1-6alkoxy-C1-6alkyl, and C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy, and R8 is H; (o) X is O, Y is O, R7 is selected from C1-3 alkyl, C1-3 alkoxy, C2-4 alkenyl, C2-4 alkenyloxy, and C1-3alkoxy-C1-3alkoxy, and R8 is H; (p) X is O, Y is S, R7 is selected from C1-3 alkyl, C1-3 alkoxy, C2-4 alkenyl, C2-4 alkenyloxy, and C1-3alkoxy-C1-3alkoxy, and R8 is H; (q) X is O, Y is O, R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy, and n is 1; (r) X is O, Y is S, R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, and R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy; (s) X is O, Y is S, R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy, and n=1; (t) X is O, Y is S, R1 is selected from H, CF3, methyl, Cl, and methoxy, R2 is selected from H, Cl, and methyl, R3 is selected from H, F, Cl, methyl, and methoxy, R4 is selected from F, Cl, methyl, CF3, OCF3 and methoxy, n=1, and R5 is selected from C1-3 alkyl, C1-3 alkoxy, C2-4 alkenyl, C2-4 alkenyloxy, and C1-3alkoxy-C1-3alkoxy; and R8 is H; and (u) combinations of (a) through (t), above
Where the compounds according to this invention have at least one chiral center, they may accordingly exist as enantiomers. Where the compounds possess two or more chiral centers, they may additionally exist as diastereomers. It is to be understood that all such isomers and mixtures thereof are encompassed within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, some of the crystalline forms for the compounds may exist as polymorphs and as such are intended to be included in the present invention. In addition, some of the compounds may form solvates with water (i.e., hydrates) or common organic solvents, and such solvates are also intended to be encompassed within the scope of this invention.
The invention provides the disclosed compounds and closely related, pharmaceutically acceptable forms of the disclosed compounds, such as salts, esters, amides, hydrates or solvated forms thereof; masked or protected forms; and racemic mixtures, or enantiomerically or optically pure forms.
Pharmaceutically acceptable salts, esters, and amides include carboxylate salts (e.g., C1-8alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or non-aromatic heterocyclic) amino acid addition salts, esters, and amides which are within a reasonable benefit/risk ratio, pharmacologically effective and suitable for contact with the tissues of patients without undue toxicity, irritation, or allergic response. Representative salts include hydrobromide, hydrochloride, sulfate, bisulfate, nitrate, acetate, oxalate, valerate, oleate, palmitate, stearate, laurate, borate, benzoate, lactate, phosphate, tosylate, citrate, maleate, fumarate, succinate, tartrate, naphthylate, mesylate, glucoheptonate, lactiobionate, and laurylsulfonate. These may include alkali metal and alkali earth cations such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, as well as non-toxic ammonium, quaternary ammonium, and amine cations such as tetramethyl ammonium, methylamine, trimethylamine, and ethylamine. See example, S. M. Berge, et al., “Pharmaceutical Salts,” J. Pharm. Sci., 1977, 66:1-19, which is incorporated herein by reference. Representative pharmaceutically acceptable amides of the invention include those derived from ammonia, primary C1-6alkyl amines and secondary di(C1-6alkyl)amines. Secondary amines include 5- or 6-membered heterocyclic or heteroaromatic ring moieties containing at least one nitrogen atom and optionally between 1 and 2 additional heteroatoms. Preferred amides are derived from ammonia, C1-3alkyl primary amines, and di(C1-2alkyl)amines. Representative pharmaceutically acceptable esters of the invention include C1-7 alkyl, C5-7cycloalkyl, and phenyl esters. Preferred esters include methyl esters.
The invention also includes disclosed compounds having one or more functional groups (e.g., amino, or carboxyl) masked by a protecting group. Some of these masked or protected compounds are pharmaceutically acceptable; others will be useful as intermediates. Synthetic intermediates and processes disclosed herein, and minor modifications thereof, are also within the scope of the invention.
Hydroxyl Protecting Groups
Protection for the hydroxyl group includes methyl ethers, substituted methyl ethers, substituted ethyl ethers, substitute benzyl ethers, and silyl ethers.
Substituted Methyl Ethers
Examples of substituted methyl ethers include methyoxymethyl, methylthiomethyl, t-butylthiomethyl, (phenyldimethylsilyl)methoxymethyl, benzyloxymethyl, p-methoxybenzyloxymethyl, (4-methoxyphenoxy)methyl, guaiacolmethyl, t-butoxymethyl, 4-pentenyloxymethyl, siloxymethyl, 2-methoxyethoxymethyl, 2,2,2-trichloroethoxymethyl, bis(2-chloroethoxy)methyl, 2-(trimethylsilyl)ethoxymethyl, tetrahydropyranyl, 3-bromotetrahydropyranyl, tetrahydrothiopyranyl, 1-methoxycyclohexyl, 4-methoxytetrahydropyranyl, 4-methoxytetrahydrothiopyranyl, 4-methoxytetrahydrothiopyranyl S,S-dioxido, 1-[(2-chloro-4-methyl)phenyl]-4-methoxypiperidin-4-yl, 1,4-dioxan-2-yl, tetrahydrofuranyl, tetrahydrothiofuranyl and 2,3,3a,4,5,6,7,7a-octahydro-7,8,8-trimethyl-4,7-methanobenzofuran-2-yl.
Substituted Ethyl Ethers
Examples of substituted ethyl ethers include 1-ethoxyethyl, 1-(2-chloroethoxy)ethyl, 1-methyl-1-methoxyethyl, 1-methyl-1-benzyloxyethyl, 1-methyl-1-benzyloxy-2-fluoroethyl, 2,2,2-trichloroethyl, 2-trimethylsilylethyl, 2-(phenylselenyl)ethyl, t-butyl, allyl, p-chlorophenyl, p-methoxyphenyl, 2,4-dinitrophenyl, and benzyl.
Substituted Benzyl Ethers
Examples of substituted benzyl ethers include p-methoxybenzyl, 3,4-dimethoxybenzyl, o-nitrobenzyl, p-nitrobenzyl, p-halobenzyl, 2,6-dichlorobenzyl, p-cyanobenzyl, p-phenylbenzyl, 2- and 4-picolyl, 3-methyl-2-picolyl N-oxido, diphenylmethyl, p,p′-dinitrobenzhydryl, 5-dibenzosuberyl, triphenylmethyl, α-naphthyldiphenylmethyl, p-methoxyphenyldiphenylmethyl, di(p-methoxyphenyl)phenylmethyl, tri(p-methoxyphenyl)methyl, 4-(4′-bromophenacyloxy)phenyldiphenylmethyl, 4,4′,4″-tris(4,5-dichlorophthalimidophenyl)methyl, 4,4′,4″-tris(levulinoyloxyphenyl)methyl, 4,4′,4″-tris(benzoyloxyphenyl)methyl, 3-(Imidazol-1-ylmethyl)bis(4′,4″-dimethoxyphenyl)methyl, 1,1-bis(4-methoxyphenyl)-1′-pyrenylmethyl, 9-anthryl, 9-(9-phenyl)xanthenyl, 9-(9-phenyl-10-oxo)anthryl, 1,3-benzodithiolan-2-yl, and benzisothiazolyl S,S-dioxido.
Silyl Ethers
Examples of silyl ethers include trimethylsilyl, triethylsilyl, triisopropylsilyl, dimethylisopropylsilyl, diethylisopropylsilyl, dimethyithexylsilyl, t-butyldimethyisilyl, t-butyldiphenylsilyl, tribenzylsilyl, tri-p-xylylsilyl, triphenylsilyl, diphenylmethylsilyl, and t-butyl methoxyphenylsilyl.
Esters
In addition to ethers, a hydroxyl group may be protected as an ester. Examples of esters include formate, benzoylformate, acetate, chloroacetate, dichloroacetate, trichloroacetate, trifluoroacetate, methoxyacetate, triphenylmethoxyacetate, phenoxyacetate, p-chlorophenoxyacetate, p-P-phenylacetate, 3-phenylpropionate, 4-oxopentanoate(levulinate), 4,4-(ethylenedithio)pentanoate, pivaloate, adamantoate, crotonate, 4-methoxycrotonate, benzoate, p-phenylbenzoate, 2,4,6-trimethylbenzoate(mesitoate)
Carbonates
Examples of carbonates include methyl, 9-fluorenylmethyl, ethyl, 2,2,2-trichloroethyl, 2-(trimethylsilyl)ethyl, 2-(phenylsulfonyl)ethyl, 2-(triphenylphosphonio)ethyl, isobutyl, vinyl, allyl, p-nitrophenyl, benzyl, p-methoxybenzyl, 3,4-dimethoxybenzyl, o-nitrobenzyl, p-nitrobenzyl, S-benzyl thiocarbonate, 4-ethoxy-1-naphthyl, and methyl dithiocarbonate.
Assisted Cleavage
Examples of assisted cleavage include 2-iodobenzoate, 4-azidobutyrate, 4-nitro-4-methylpentanoate, o-(dibromomethyl)benzoate, 2-formylbenzenesulfonate, 2-(methylthiomethoxy)ethyl carbonate, 4-(methylthiomethoxy)butyrate, and 2-(methylthiomethoxymethyl)benzoate.
Miscellaneous Esters
Examples of miscellaneous esters include 2,6-dichloro-4-methylphenoxyacetate, 2,6-dichloro-4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenoxyacetate, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylpropyl)phenoxyacetate, chlorodiphenylacetate, isobutyrate, monosuccinoate, (E)-2-methyl-2-butenoate(tigloate), o-(methoxycarbonyl)benzoate, p-P-benzoate, a-naphthoate, nitrate, alkyl N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylphosphorodiamidate, N-phenylcarbamate, borate, dimethylphosphinothioyl, and 2,4-dinitrophenylsulfenate
Sulfonates
Examples of sulfonates include sulfate, methanesulfonate(mesylate), benzylsulfonate, and tosylate.
Amino Protecting Groups
Protection for the amino group includes carbamates, amides, and special —NH protective groups.
Examples of carbamates include methyl and ethyl carbamates, substituted ethyl carbamates, assisted cleavage carbamates, photolytic cleavage carbamates, urea-type derivatives, and miscellaneous carbamates.
Carbamates
Examples of methyl and ethyl carbamates include methyl and ethyl, 9-fluorenylmethyl, 9-(2-sulfo)fluorenylmethyl, 9-(2,7-dibromo)fluorenylmethyl, 2,7-di-t-butyl-[9-(10,10-dioxo-10,10,10,10-tetrahydrothioxanthyl)]methyl, and 4-methoxyphenacyl.
Substituted Ethyl
Examples of substituted ethyl carbamates include 2,2,2-trichloroethyl, 2-trimethylsilylethyl, 2-phenylethyl, 1-(1-adamantyl)-1-methylethyl, 1,1-dimethyl-2-haloethyl, 1,1-dimethyl-2,2-dibromoethyl, 1,1-dimethyl-2,2,2-trichloroethyl, 1-methyl-1-(4-biphenylyl)ethyl, 1-(3,5-di-t-butylphenyl)-1-methylethyl, 2-(2′- and 4′-pyridyl)ethyl, 2-(N,N-dicyclohexylcarboxamido)ethyl, t-butyl, 1-adamantyl, vinyl, allyl, 1-isopropylallyl, cinnamyl, 4-nitrocinnamyl, 8-quinolyl, N-hydroxypiperidinyl, alkyldithio, benzyl, p-methoxybenzyl, p-nitrobenzyl, p-bromobenzyl, p-chlorobenzyl, 2,4-dichlorobenzyl, 4-methylsulfinylbenzyl, 9-anthrylmethyl and diphenylmethyl.
Assisted Cleavage
Examples of assisted cleavage include 2-methylthioethyl, 2-methylsulfonylethyl, 2-(p-toluenesulfonyl)ethyl, [2-(1,3-dithianyl)]methyl, 4-methylthiophenyl, 2,4-dimethylthiophenyl, 2-phosphonioethyl, 2-triphenylphosphonioisopropyl, 1,1-dimethyl-2-cyanoethyl, m-chloro-p-acyloxybenzyl, p-(dihydroxyboryl)benzyl, 5-benzisoxazolylmethyl, and 2-(trifluoromethyl)-6-chromonylmethyl.
Photolytic Cleavage
Examples of photolytic cleavage include m-nitrophenyl, 3,5-dimethoxybenzyl, o-nitrobenzyl, 3,4-dimethoxy-6-nitrobenzyl, and phenyl(o-nitrophenyl)methyl.
Urea-Type Derivatives
Examples of urea-type derivatives include phenothiazinyl-(10)-carbonyl derivative, N′-p-toluenesulfonylaminocarbonyl, and N′-phenylaminothiocarbonyl.
Miscellaneous Carbamates
Examples of miscellaneous carbamates include t-amyl, S-benzyl thiocarbamate, p-cyanobenzyl, cyclobutyl, cyclohexyl, cyclopentyl, cyclopropylmethyl, p-decyloxybenzyl, diisopropylmethyl, 2,2-dimethoxycarbonylvinyl, o-(N,N-dimethylcarboxamido)benzyl, 1,1-dimethyl-3-(N,N-dimethylcarboxamido)propyl, 1,1-dimethylpropynyl, di(2-pyridyl)methyl, 2-furanylmethyl, 2-iodoethyl, isobornyl, isobutyl, isonicotinyl, p-(p′-methoxyphenylazo)benzyl, 1-methylcyclobutyl, 1-methylcyclohexyl, 1-methyl-1-cyclopropylmethyl, 1-methyl-1-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)ethyl, 1-methyl-1-(p-phenylazophenyl)ethyl, 1-methyl-1-phenylethyl, 1-methyl-1-(4-pyridyl)ethyl, phenyl, p-(phenylazo)benzyl, 2,4,6-tri-t-butylphenyl, 4-(trimethylammonium)benzyl, and 2,4,6-trimethylbenzyl.
Examples of Amides include:
Amides
N-formyl, N-acetyl, N-chloroacetyl, N-trichloroacetyl, N-trifluoroacetyl, N-phenylacetyl, N-3-phenylpropionyl, N-picolinoyl, N-3-pyridylcarboxamide, N-benzoylphenylalanyl derivative, N-benzoyl, N-p-phenylbenzoyl.
Assisted Cleavage
N-o-nitrophenylacetyl, N-o-nitrophenoxyacetyl, N-acetoacetyl, (N′-dithiobenzyloxycarbonylamino)acetyl, N-3-(p-hydroxyphenyl)propionyl, N-3-(o-nitrophenyl)propionyl, N-2-methyl-2-(o-nitrophenoxy)propionyl, N-2-methyl-2-(o-phenylazophenoxy)propionyl, N-4-chlorobutyryl, N-3-methyl-3-nitrobutyryl, N-o-nitrocinnamoyl, N-acetylmethionine derivative, N-o-nitrobenzoyl, N-o-(benzoyloxymethyl)benzoyl, and 4,5-diphenyl-3-oxazolin-2-one.
Cyclic Imide Derivatives
N-phthalimide, N-dithiasuccinoyl, N-2,3-diphenylmaleoyl, N-2,5-dimethylpyrrolyl, N-1,1,4,4-tetramethyldisilylazacyclopentane adduct, 5-substituted 1,3-dimethyl-1,3,5-triazacyclohexan-2-one, 5-substituted 1,3-dibenzyl-1,3,5-triazacyclohexan-2-one, and 1-substituted 3,5-dinitro-4-pyridonyl.
Special —NH Protective Groups
Examples of special NH protective groups include
N-Alkyl and N-Aryl Amines
N-methyl, N-allyl, N[2-(trimethylsilyl)ethoxy]methyl, N-3-acetoxypropyl, N-(1-isopropyl-4-nitro-2-oxo-3-pyrrolin-3-yl), quaternary ammonium salts, N-benzyl, N-di(4-methoxyphenyl)methyl, N-5-dibenzosuberyl, N-triphenylmethyl, N-(4-methoxyphenyl)diphenylmethyl, N-9-phenylfluorenyl, N-2,7-dichloro-9-fluorenylmethylene, N-ferrocenylmethyl, and N-2-picolylamine N′-oxide.
Imine Derivatives
N-1,1-dimethylthiomethylene, N-benzylidene, N-p-methoxybenzylidene, N-diphenylmethylene, N-[(2-pyridyl)mesityl]methylene, and N—(N′,N′-dimethylaminomethylene).
Protection for the Carboxyl Group
Esters
Examples of esters include formate, benzoylformate, acetate, trichloroacetate, trifluoroacetate, methoxyacetate, phenoxyacetate, p-chlorophenoxyacetate, benzoate.
Substituted Methyl Esters
Examples of substituted methyl esters include 9-fluorenylmethyl, methoxymethyl, methyithiomethyl, tetrahydropyranyl, tetrahydrofuranyl, methoxyethoxymethyl, 2-(trimethylsilyl)ethoxymethyl, benzyloxymethyl, phenacyl, p-bromophenacyl, α-methylphenacyl, p-methoxyphenacyl, carboxamidomethyl, and N-phthalimidomethyl.
2-Substituted Ethyl Esters
Examples of 2-substituted ethyl esters include 2,2,2-trichioroethyl, 2-haloethyl, ω-chloroalkyl, 2-(trimethylsilyl)ethyl, 2-methylthioethyl, 1,3-dithianyl-2-methyl, 2-(p-nitrophenylsulfenyl)ethyl, 2-(p-toluenesulfonyl)ethyl, 2-(2′-pyridyl)ethyl, 2-(diphenyl phosphino)ethyl, 1-methyl-1-phenylethyl, t-butyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, allyl, 3-buten-1-yl, 4-(trimethylsilyl)-2-buten-1-yl, cinnamyl, α-methylcinnamyl, phenyl, p-(methylmercapto)phenyl and benzyl.
Substituted Benzyl Esters
Examples of substituted benzyl esters include triphenylmethyl, diphenylmethyl, bis(o-nitrophenyl)methyl, 9-anthrylmethyl, 2-(9,10-dioxo)anthrylmethyl, 5-dibenzosuberyl, 1-pyrenylmethyl, 2-(trifluoromethyl)-6-chromylmethyl, 2,4,6-trimethylbenzyl, p-bromobenzyl, o-nitrobenzyl, p-nitrobenzyl, p-methoxybenzyl, 2,6-dimethoxybenzyl, 4-(methylsulfinyl)benzyl, 4-sulfobenzyl, piperonyl, 4-picolyl and p-P-benzyl.
Silyl Esters
Examples of silyl esters include trimethylsilyl, triethylsilyl, t-butyldimethylsilyl, i-propyldimethylsilyl, phenyldimethylsilyl and di-t-butylmethylsilyl.
Activated Esters
Examples of activated esters include thiols.
Miscellaneous Derivatives
Examples of miscellaneous derivatives include oxazoles, 2-alkyl-1,3-oxazolines, 4-alkyl-5-oxo-1,3-oxazolidines, 5-alkyl-4-oxo-1,3-dioxolanes, ortho esters, phenyl group and pentaaminocobalt(III) complex.
Stannyl Esters
Examples of stannyl esters include triethylstannyl and tri-n-butylstannyl.
C. Synthesis
The invention provides methods of making the disclosed compounds according to traditional organic synthetic methods as well as matrix or combinatorial synthetic methods. Schemes A through G describe suggested synthetic routes. Using these Schemes, the guidelines below, and the examples, a person of skill in the art may develop analogous or similar methods for a given compound that are within the invention. These methods are representative of the preferred synthetic schemes, but are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.
One skilled in the art will recognize that synthesis of the compounds of the present invention may be effected by purchasing an intermediate or protected intermediate compounds described in any of the schemes disclosed herein. One skilled in the art will further recognize that during any of the processes for preparation of the compounds in the present invention, it may be necessary and/or desirable to protect sensitive or reactive groups on any of the molecules concerned. This may be achieved by means of conventional protecting groups, such as those described in “Protective Groups in Organic Synthesis”, John Wiley & Sons, 1991. These protecting groups may be removed at a convenient stage using methods known from the art.
Where the processes for the preparation of the compounds according to the invention give rise to mixture of stereoisomers, these isomers may be separated by conventional techniques such as preparative chromatography. The compounds may be prepared in racemic form, or individual enantiomers may be prepared either by enantiospecific synthesis or by resolution. The compounds may, for example, be resolved into their components enantiomers by standard techniques, such as the formation of diastereomeric pairs by salt formation. The compounds may also be resolved by formation of diastereomeric esters or amides, followed by chromatographic separation and removal of the chiral auxiliary. Alternatively, the compounds may be resolved using a chiral HPLC column.
Examples of the described synthetic routes include Examples 1 through 7. Compounds analogous to the target compounds of these examples can be made according to similar routes. The disclosed compounds are useful in basic research and as pharmaceutical agents as described in the next section.
General Guidance
A preferred synthesis of Formula (I) is demonstrated in Schemes 1-9.
Abbreviations or acronyms useful herein include: AcOH (glacial acetic acid); DCC (1,3-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide); DCE (1,2-dichloroethane); DIC (2-dimethylaminoisopropyl chloride hydrochloride); DIEA (diisopropylethylamine); DMAP (4-(dimethylamino)pyridine); DMF (dimethylformamide); EDC (1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethylcarbodiimide); EtOAc (ethyl acetate); LAH (lithium aluminum hydride); mCPBA (3-chloroperoxybenzoic acid); NMI (1-methylimidazole); TEA (triethylamine); TFA (trifluoroacetic acid); THF (tetrahydrofuran); TMEDA (N,N,N′,N′-tetramethyl-ethylenediamine).
In accordance with Scheme 1, wherein R1, R2, R5 and R6 are as described above (except that R5 and R6 do not form spiro C3-6 cycloalkyl or Spiro 5- or 6-membered heterocyclyl), phenol 1-A, a variety of which are commercially available (such as 3-methylphenol, 2-ethylphenol, 2-propyl phenol, 2,3-dimethylphenol, 2-chlorophenol, 2,3-dichlorophenol, 2-bromophenol, and 2-aminophenol), is alkylated to form phenoxyacetic acid ethyl ester 1-B with a suitable haloacetic acid ester such as bromoacetic acid ethyl ester or 2-bromo-2-methylpropionic acid ethyl ester, in the presence of an appropriate base such as Cs2CO3, K2CO3, or NaH, in a suitable solvent such as CH3CN or THF. Sulfonation of the phenoxyacetic acid ethyl ester 1-B with an appropriate sulfonating agent, such as chlorosulfonic acid, occurs selectively at the para position to provide 4-chlorosulfonyiphenoxyacetic acid ethyl ester 1-C. Transformation of the sulfonylchloride 1-C to benzenethiol 1-D is accomplished using a metal as a reducing agent, such as tin or zinc, in an acidic medium such as ethanol or dioxane.
In Scheme 2, R7 substituted diethyl malonate 2-A is reduced to propane-1,3-diol 2-B by using a suitable reducing agent such as lithium aluminum hydride or diisobutylaluminum hydride. Mitsunobu reaction of 2-B with phenol 2-C provides compound 2-D by employing a triarylphosphine such as triphenylphosphine, and an azodicarbonyl reagent such as diisopropyl azodicarboxylate, in a suitable solvent such as THF. Phenoxyacetic acid ethyl ester 2-E is obtained in two steps: (1) conversion of the alcohol 2-D to mesylate under standard conditions by employing methanesulfonyl chloride and triethylamine in an appropriate solvent such as CH2Cl2, and (2) alkylation of benzenethiol 1-D, prepared according to Scheme 1 above, with the mesylate intermediate using a suitable base such as Cs2CO3, K2CO3, or NaH, in an appropriate solvent such as CH3CN or THF, under nitrogen. Under standard saponification conditions phenoxyacetic acid ethyl ester 2-E is converted to acid Ia under nitrogen. The preferred hydrolysis conditions include using NaOH as a base in an aqueous alcoholic solvent system such as water-methanol, or using LiOH as a base in a milder water-THF system.
In Scheme 3, enantiomerically pure phenylacetic acid 3-A, a variety of which are commercially available (such as (S)-(+)-2-phenylpropionic acid, (R)-(−)-2-phenylpropionic acid, (S)-(+)-2-phenylbutyric acid, (R)-(−)-2-phenylbutyric acid, (+)-3-methyl-2-phenylbutyric acid, (S)-(+)-2-phenylsuccinic acid, and (R)-(−)-2-phenylsuccinic acid), is reduced to alcohol by using borane and the alcohol is subsequently protected as an acetate 3-B under standard conditions known in arts. Oxydation of the phenyl group in 3-B to acid 3-C is accomplished by employing catalytic amount of ruthenium chloride and a large excess of sodium periodate in a mixed solvent system such as CH3CN—CCl4—H2O. Acid 3-C is converted to alcohol 3-E in four steps: (1) methylation of acid 3-C using (trimethysilyl)diazomethane as a methylating agent, (2) and (3) exchanging of the hydroxyl protecting group from acetate in 3-C to tert-butyldimethyl silyloxy in 3-E under conventional conditions well known in arts, and (4) reduction of methyl ester by using an appropriate reducing agent such as diisobutylaluminum hydride.
Phenoxyacetic acid ethyl ester 3-F is obtained in two steps: (1) conversion of the alcohol 3-E to mesylate under standard conditions by employing methanesulfonyl chloride and triethylamine in an appropriate solvent such as CH2Cl2, and (2) alkylation of benzenethiol 1-D, prepared according to Scheme 1 above, with the mesylate intermediate using a suitable base such as Cs2CO3, K2CO3, or NaH, in an appropriate solvent such as CH3CN or THF, under nitrogen. After revealing of the hydroxyl group by removal of the tert-butyldimethyl silyloxy group in 3-F, alcohol 3-G is transformed to 3-H by reacting with phenol 2-C under Mitsunobu conditions. The preferred conditions include using a triarylphosphine such as triphenylphosphine, and an azodicarbonyl reagent such as diisopropyl azodicarboxylate, in a suitable solvent such as THF. Under standard saponification conditions phenoxyacetic acid ethyl ester 3-H is converted to acid Ia1 under nitrogen. The preferred hydrolysis conditions include using NaOH as a base in an aqueous alcoholic solvent system such as water-methanol, or using LiOH as a base in a milder water-THF system.
In Scheme 4, benzenethiol 1-D is dimerized to phenyl disulfide 4-A in the presence of an appropriate oxidizing agent such as barium manganate.
Mitsunobu reaction of 2-hydroxymethylpropane-1,3-diol 4-B with phenol 2-C provides compound 4-C by employing a triarylphosphine such as triphenylphosphine, and an azodicarbonyl reagent such as diisopropyl azodicarboxylate, in a suitable solvent such as THF. The formation of carbon-sulfur bond in compound 4-D is carried out by Mitsunobu reaction of diol 4-C with phenyl disulfide 4-A by using tri-n-butylphosphine and pyridine. The third Mitsunobu reaction of 4-D with acetone cyanohydrin converted the alcohol 4-D to the cyano compound 4-E under standard Mitsunobu reaction conditions. As usual, basic hydrolysis of phenoxyacetic acid ethyl ester 4-E affords acid Ia2.
As shown in Scheme 5, wherein R is alkyl or aryl, alkyl ether compound 5-A could be prepared by alkylation of alcohol 4-D, an intermediate prepared in Scheme 4 above, with a variety of alkylating agents such as alkyl trifluoromethanesulfonates or alkyl halides in the presence of a suitable base such as sodium hydride or sodium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide. Similarly, aryl ether could be synthesized by Mitsunobu reaction of 4-D with many different substituted phenols available. Finally, saponification of ethyl ester 5-A under standard conditions gives acid Ia3.
In accordance with Scheme 6, Mitsunobu reaction of (R)-(+)-glycidol, or (S)-(−)-glycidol, or racemic glycidol 6-A with phenol 2-C provides epoxide 6-B by employing a triarylphosphine such as triphenylphosphine, and an azodicarbonyl reagent such as diisopropyl azodicarboxylate, in a suitable solvent such as THF. Epoxide ring opening of 6-B with benzenethiol 1-D in the presence of a catalytic amount of tetrabutylammonium fluoride furnishes alcohol 6-C. Alkyl ether compound 6-D could be prepared by alkylation of alcohol 6-C with a variety of alkylating agents such as alkyl trifluoromethanesulfonates or alkyl halides in the presence of a suitable base such as sodium hydride or sodium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide in a suitable solvent such as THF or DMF. Similarly, aryl ether 6-D could be synthesized by Mitsunobu reaction of 6-C with many different substituted phenols available by using triphenylphosphine and an appropriate azodicarbonyl reagent such as 1,1′-(azodicarbonyl)dipiperidine or diethyl azodicarboxylate. Finally, saponification of ethyl ester 6-D under standard conditions gives acid Ia4.
In accordance with Scheme 7, (4-hydroxyphenyl)acetic acid 7-A, a variety of which are commercially available (such as 3-bromo-4-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid, 3-chloro-4-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid, 3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl acetic acid, and 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenyl acetic acid), is methylated to form (4-hydroxyphenyl)acetic acid methyl ester 7-B in methanol in the presence of a catalytic amount of a suitable acid such as sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid. The phenol 7-B is converted to (4-dimethylthiocarbamoyloxyphenyl)acetic acid methyl ester 7-C by reacting with dimethylthiocarbamoyl chloride in the presence of some appropriate bases such as triethylamine and 4-(dimethylamino)pyridine. At high temperature, in the preferred range of 250 to 300° C., 7-C is rearranged to (4-dimethylcarbamoylsulfanylphenyl)acetic acid methyl ester 7-D in a high boiling point solvent such as tetradecane. By treatment with a suitable base such as sodium methoxide 7-D is transformed to (4-mercaptophenyl)acetic acid methyl ester 7-E.
In accordance with Scheme 8, wherein R is alkyl, epoxide 8-B is obtained by treatment of phenol 2-C with an appropriate base such as cesium carbonate followed by alkylation with 2-chloromethyl-oxirane 8-A. Epoxide ring opening of 8-B with benzenethiol 7-E, prepared in Scheme 7 above, in the presence of a catalytic amount of tetrabutylammonium fluoride furnishes alcohol 8-C. Alkyl ether compound 8-D could be prepared by alkylation of alcohol 8-C with a variety of alkylating agents such as alkyl trifluoromethanesulfonates or alkyl halides in the presence of a suitable base such as sodium hydride or sodium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide in a suitable solvent such as THF or DMF. Finally, saponification of methyl ester 8-D under standard conditions gives acid Ib1.
In Scheme 9, wherein R is as shown above, aldehyde 9-B could be prepared in two steps by methylation of acid 9-A using (trimethysilyl)diazomethane as a methylating agent followed by reduction of the methyl ester intermediate with a suitable reducing agent such as diisobutylaluminum hydride. Aldehyde 9-B is transformed to epoxide 9-C by reacting with dimethylsulfonium methylide, which is generated in-situ from treatment of trimethylsulfonium iodide with a strong base such as DMSO anion. Epoxide ring opening of 9-C with benzenethiol 1-D in the presence of a catalytic amount of tetrabutylammonium fluoride furnishes alcohol 9-D. Alkyl ether compound 9-E could be prepared by alkylation of alcohol 9-D with a variety of alkylating agents such as alkyl trifluoromethanesulfonates or alkyl halides in the presence of a suitable base such as sodium hydride or sodium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide in a suitable solvent such as THF or DMF. Finally, saponification of ethyl ester 9-E under standard conditions gives acid Ic1.
Examples
Example A
According to Scheme A1, to a flask containing chlorosulfonic acid (15.0 mL, 226 mmol) at 4° C. was added ethyl(2-methylphenoxy)acetate A1a (10.0 g, 51.6 mmol) slowly. The mixture was stirred at 4° C. for 30 min and room temperature for 2 h, and then poured into ice water. The precipitated white solid was filtered, washed with water, and dried under vacuum overnight to provide 14.0 g (93%) of A1b as a white solid; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.87-7.84 (m, 2H), 6.80 (d, J=9.5 Hz, 1H), 4.76 (s, 2H), 4.29 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 2.37 (s, 3H), 1.31 (t, J=7.1 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 315 (M+Na+).
To a solution of A1b (4.70 g, 16.1 mmol) in EtOH (20 mL) was added a solution of 4.0 M HCl in dioxane (20 mL) followed by 100 mesh tin powder (9.80 g, 82.6 mmol) portionwise. The mixture was refluxed for 2 h, poured into CH2Cl2/ice (100 mL), and filtered. The filtrate was separated, and the aqueous layer was extracted with CH2Cl2. The combined organic phases were washed with water, dried, and concentrated to give 3.56 g (98%) of A1c as a yellow oil; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.14-7.03 (m, 2H), 6.59 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 4.60 (s, 2H), 4.25 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 2.24 (s, 3H), 1.29 (t, J=7.1 Hz, 3H).
To a suspension of lithium aluminum hydride (101 mg, 2.66 mmol) in THF (3 mL) at 0° C. was added diethyl ethylmalonate A2a (250 mg, 1.33 mmol) dropwise. The reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature for 2 h, quenched with water (0.1 mL) and 5 N NaOH (0.2 mL), diluted with water (0.6 mL), filtered through Celite, and washed the solid with MeOH/CH2Cl2. The filtrate was dried, concentrated, and purified by column chromatography to give 110 mg (80%) of A2b; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 3.79 (dd, J=10.7, 3.9 Hz, 2H), 3.64 (dd, J=10.7, 7.5 Hz, 2H), 3.27 (s, 2H), 1.67 (m, 1H), 1.29 (m, 2H), 0.94 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 127 (M+Na+).
To a mixture of A2b (108 mg, 1.04 mmol), trifluoromethylphenol (130 mg, 0.802 mmol), and triphenylphosphine (210 mg, 0.802 mmol) in THF (3 mL) at 0° C. was added diisopropyl azodicarboxylate (162 mg, 0.802 mmol). The mixture was stirred at room temperature overnight, diluted with water, and extracted with Et2O (×3). The extracts were dried, concentrated, and column chromatographed to provide 134 mg (67%) of A2c; 1H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.54 (d, J=8.8 Hz, 2H), 6.97 (d, J=8.8 Hz, 2H), 4.05 (m, 2H), 3.80 (dd, J=10.8, 4.4 Hz, 1H), 3.74 (dd, J=10.8, 6.5 Hz, 1H), 1.94 (m, 1H), 1.50 (m, 2H), 1.00 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 249 (M+H+).
General Procedure 1 for the Formation of Thioether:
To a solution of A2c (143 mg, 0.577 mmol) in CH2Cl2 (3 mL) at 0° C. were added Et3N (0.162 mL, 1.16 mmol) and methanesulfonyl chloride (93 mg, 0.81 mmol). The mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 30 min and room temperature for 1 h and diluted with saturated NaHCO3. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with CH2Cl2 (×3). The combined organic phases were dried and concentrated to provide the mesylate.
A mixture of the above mesylate, (4-mercapto-2-methyl-phenoxy)acetic acid ethyl ester A1c (197 mg, 0.872 mmol), and Cs2CO3 (472 mg, 1.45 mmol) in CH3CN (5 mL) was stirred at room temperature for 3 h. Water was added and the mixture was extracted with Et2O. The combined organic layers were dried, concentrated, and column chromatographed (EtOAc/hexane: 1/10) to provide 213 mg (81%, two steps) of A2d; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.50 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 7.19 (d, J=1.8 Hz, 1H), 7.15 (dd, J=8.4, 2.2 Hz, 1H), 6.89 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 6.56 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 4.56 (s, 2H), 4.25 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 4.01 (m, 2H), 3.00 (d, J=6.4 Hz, 2H), 2.21 (s, 3H), 1.96 (m, 1H), 1.59 (m, 2H), 1.28 (t, J=7.1 Hz, 3H), 0.94 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 479 (M+Na+).
General Procedure 2 for the Hydrolysis of the Ethyl and Methyl Esters:
To a solution of A2d (134 mg, 0.294 mmol) in THF (2 mL) under N2 was added 1.0 M LiOH (0.58 mL, 0.58 mmol). The mixture was stirred for 2 h, acidified with 1 M HCl, and extracted with EtOAc (×3). The extracts were dried, concentrated, and purified by column chromatography (CH2Cl2/MeOH: 10/1) to give 113 mg (90%) of {2-methyl-4-[2-(4-trifluoromethyl-phenoxymethyl)-butylsulfanyl]-phenoxy}-acetic acid; 1H NMR (300 MHz, MeOH-d4) δ 7.53 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.15 (m, 1H), 6.96 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 6.66 (d, J=8.1 Hz, 1H), 4.55 (s, 2H), 4.04 (m, 2H), 3.00 (d, J=6.3 Hz, 2H), 2.16 (s, 3H), 1.92 (m, 1H), 1.58 (m, 2H), 0.94 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 451 (M+Na+).
Example B
A mixture of 4-trifluoromethylphenol (7.80 g, 48.1 mmol), 2-chloromethyloxirane (11.2 g, 121 mmol), and Cs2CO3 (15.7 g, 48.2 mmol) in dioxane (8 mL) was refluxed for 3-4 h and then allowed to cool to room temperature. Water and Et2O were added, the organic phase was separated, and the aqueous phase was extracted with Et2O. The combined organic layers were dried, concentrated, and column chromatographed (CH2Cl2/hexane: 1/1) to provide 8.40 g (80%) of B1; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.55 (d, J=8.5 Hz, 2H), 6.99 (d, J=8.5 Hz, 2H), 4.29 (dd, J=11.1, 3.0 Hz, 1H), 3.98 (dd, J=11.1, 5.8 Hz, 1H), 3.37 (m, 1H), 2.93 (m, 1H), 2.77 (dd, J=4.9, 2.6 Hz, 1H).
To a mixture of B1 (2.57 g, 11.8 mmol) and (4-mercapto-2-methyl-phenoxy)acetic acid ethyl ester A1c (4.00 g, 17.7 mmol) in THF (20 mL) was added 1.0 M tetrabutylammonium fluoride in THF (0.44 mL, 0.44 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature for 1.5 h, heated at 60° C. for 1 h, concentrated, and purified by column chromatography to give 4.45 g (85%) of B2; 1H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.50 (d, J=8.9 Hz, 2H), 7.25 (d, J=2.2 Hz, 1H), 7.21 (dd, J=8.4, 2.3 Hz, 1H), 6.89 (d, J=8.8 Hz, 2H), 6.58 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 4.58 (s, 2H), 4.24 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 4.05-4.00 (m, 3H), 3.13 (dd, J=13.7, 5.1 Hz, 1H), 3.04 (dd, J=13.9, 6.5 Hz, 1H), 2.92 (d, J=4.2 Hz, 1H), 2.23 (s, 3H), 1.28 (t, J=7.1 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 467 (M+Na+).
General Procedure 3 for Alkylation of Alcohols:
To a suspension of NaH (20 mg, 0.50 mmol, 60% in mineral oil) in THF (1 mL) was added a solution of B2 (222 mg, 0.500 mmol) in THF (1 mL) at room temperature. After 30 min, C2H5I (234 mg, 1.50 mmol) was introduced. The reaction mixture was stirred overnight, diluted with water, and extracted with Et2O. The extracts were dried, concentrated, and purified by column chromatography (EtOAc/hexane:1/6) to give B3; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.51 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 7.24 (d, J=1.7 Hz, 1H), 7.19 (dd, J=8.4, 2.2 Hz, 1H), 6.91 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 6.57 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 4.57 (s, 2H), 4.25 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 4.15 (dd, J=9.9, 4.3 Hz, 1H), 4.07 (dd, J=9.9, 5.1 Hz, 1H), 3.76 (m, 1H), 3.61 (q, J=7.0 Hz, 2H), 3.13-3.11 (m, 2H), 2.23 (s, 3H), 1.29 (t, J=7.1 Hz, 3H), 1.18 (t, J=7.0 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 495 (M+Na+).
Following general procedure 2 in Example A gave {4-[2-ethoxy-3-(4-trifluoromethyl-phenoxy)-propylsulfanyl]-2-methyl-phenoxy}-acetic acid (92%); 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.51 (d, J=8.7 Hz, 2H), 7.23 (s, 1H), 7.20 (dd, J=8.4, 2.1 Hz, 1H), 6.91 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 6.59 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 4.61 (s, 2H), 4.14 (dd, J=9.9, 4.4 Hz, 1H), 4.08 (dd, J=9.9, 5.0 Hz, 1H), 3.77 (m, 1H), 3.61 (q, J=7.0 Hz, 2H), 3.20-3.07 (m, 2H), 2.21 (s, 3H), 1.19 (t, J=7.0 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 467 (M+Na+).
Example C
To a solution of A2d (245 mg, 0.54 mmol) in THF (3 mL) at −78° C. was added 1 N solution of lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide in THF (0.54 mL, 0.54 mmol) dropwise. After 30 min, methyl trifluoromethanesulfonate (0.061 mL, 0.54 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was allowed to warm gradually to 0° C. over 1 h, quenched with saturated aqueous NaHCO3 solution, and extracted with Et2O (×3). The extracts were dried, concentrated, and column chromatographed to provide 64.5 mg (25%) of C1; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.51 (d, J=8.8 Hz, 2H), 7.18 (d, J=1.8 Hz, 1H), 7.12 (dd, J=8.5, 1.8 Hz, 1H), 6.90 (d, J=8.8 Hz, 2H), 6.55 (d, J=8.5 Hz, 1H), 4.65 (q, J=6.8 Hz, 1H), 4.19 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 4.01 (m, 2H), 2.99 (d, J=6.5 Hz, 2H), 2.20 (s, 3H), 1.96 (m, 1H), 1.60 (d, J=6.8 Hz, 3H), 1.58 (m, 2H), 1.24 (t, J=6.1 Hz, 3H), 0.94 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 493 (M+Na+).
Compound 1 (91%) was prepared following general procedure 2 in Example A; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.49 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 7.14 (s, 1H), 7.08 (d J=7.9 Hz, 1H), 6.89 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 6.52 (d, J=8.1 Hz, 1H), 4.53 (m, 1H), 3.99 (m, 2H), 2.98 (d, J=6.1 Hz, 2H), 2.13 (s, 3H), 1.95 (m, 1H), 1.52-1.62 (m, 5H), 0.93 (t, J=7.4 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 465 (M+Na+).
Example D
To a solution of 2-bromo-2-methyl-propionic acid ethyl ester (8.27 mL, 64 mmol) and o-methyl-phenol (7.60 g, 70.2 mmol) in dioxane (100 mL) was added Cs2CO3 (31.25 g, 96 mmol). The mixture was refluxed at 100° C. for 4 hours. After cooling down, the solvent was evaporated under vacuum. The residue was dissolved in ether and then the solution was washed with 1 N NaOH. After drying, the solution was concentrated to give 9.69 g (68%) D1; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.13 (d, J=7.3 Hz, 1H), 7.03 (t, J=7.6 Hz, 1H), 6.87 (t, J=7.3 Hz, 1H), 6.66 (d, J=8.2 Hz, 1H), 4.24 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 2.23 (s, 3H), 1.59 (s, 6H), 1.25 (t, J=7.1 Hz).
ClSO3H (15.2 mL, 0.229 mol) was slowly added to D1 (11.3 g, 0.051 mol) at 0° C., The temperature was allowed to warm to room temperature and stir for 1 hour. Upon stirring, the reaction mixture was poured into ice. The solid was filtered and vacuum dried to give 7.7 g (47%) of D2; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.82 (d, J=2.5 Hz, 1H), 7.75 (dd, J=8.9, 2.5 Hz, 1H), 6.67 (d, J=8.8 Hz, 1H), 4.23 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 2.31 (s, 3H), 1.70 (s, 6H), 1.22 (t, J=7.1 Hz); MS (ES) m/z: 343 (M+Na+).
To a solution of D2 (2.0 g, 6.25 mmol) in EtOH (7.8 mL) was added HCl-dioxane (4 M, 7.8 mL, 31.2 mmol) and tin powder (3.7 g, 31.2 mmol). The mixture was refluxed for 3 hours and then poured into ice. The aqueous solution was extracted with CH2Cl2 (50 mL×3). The organic layers were combined and dried over Na2SO4. After filtration, the solution was concentrated to give 3.37 g (˜100%) D3; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.12 (d, J=2.0 Hz, 1H), 7.00 (dd, J=8.4, 2.4 Hz, 1H), 6.56 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 4.23 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 3.31 (s, 1H), 2.18 (s, 3H), 1.57 (s, 6H), 1.25 (t, J=7.1 Hz); MS (ES) m/z: 255 (M+H+).
To a solution of 4-trifluoromethyl-phenol (510 mg, 3.14 mmol), 2-ethyl-propane-1,3-diol (500 mg, 4.71 mmol) and DIAD (634 mg, 3.14 mmol) in CH2Cl2 (10 mL) was added Ph3P (833 mg, 3.14 mmol) under N2. After stirring overnight, the solution was diluted with ether (40 mL) and washed with 1 N NaOH. The organic layer was then dried and concentrated to give 107 mg of the crude product.
To the above intermediate (˜530 mg, <2.54 mmol) in CH2Cl2 (10 mL) at 0° C. was added Et3N (0.75 mL, 5.4 mmol) and then MeSO2Cl (0.32 mL, 4.15 mmol). The mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 10 minutes and then room temperature for 2 hours. After concentration, the crude product was purified by column chromatography (50% CH2Cl2 in hexanes) to give 188 mg of crude intermediate.
The above crude intermediate (183 mg, ˜0.56 mmol), D3 (171 mg, 0.67 mmol) and Cs2CO3 (438 mg, 1.34 mmol) was mixed in CH3CN (10 mL). After stirring for 1.5 hours, the solution was added water-ether, extracted the aqueous portion with ether (20 mL×3). The organic extractions were collected and dried over Na2SO4. After filtration, the filtrate was concentrated and then purified by column chromatography (EtOAc:hexanes=1:20) to give 108 mg (10% for 3 steps) of D4; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.51 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 7.16 (d, J=2.0 Hz, 1H), 7.06 (dd, J=8.5, 2.4 Hz, 1H), 6.91 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 6.56 (d, J=8.5 Hz, 1H), 4.23 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 4.02 (dd, J=5.2, 2.0 Hz, 1H), 3.00 (t, J=6.4 Hz, 2H), 2.15 (s, 3H), 2.00-1.94 (m, 1H), 1.61-1.56 (m, 8H), 1.24 (t, J=7.1 Hz, 3H), 0.94 (t, J=7.4 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 507 (M+Na+).
Compound 4 (54%) was prepared following general procedure 2 in Example A; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.51 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 7.17 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 6.91 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 6.70 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 4.02 (m, 2H), 3.03 (d, J=6.8 Hz, 2H), 2.15 (s, 3H), 2.03-1.95 (m, 1H), 1.64-1.56 (m, 8H), 0.96 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 455 (M−H+).
Example E
To a solution of 2-(4-trifluoromethyl-phenoxymethyl)-oxirane (299 mg, 1.37 mmol) and D3 (348 mg, 1.37 mmol) in anhydrous THF (10 mL) was added TBAF (137 mg, 0.137 mmol). After stirring overnight, the solution was concentrated and the product was purified by column chromatography (20% EtOAc in hexanes) to give 191 mg (31%) of compound E1; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.53 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 7.24 (d, J=2.0 Hz, 2H), 7.13 (dd, J=8.4, 2.3 Hz, 2H), 6.92 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 6.57 (d, J=8.5 Hz, 1H), 4.24 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 4.08-4.02 (m, 3H), 3.16-3.01 (m, 2H), 2.69 (t, J=2.0 Hz, 1H), 2.17 (s, 3H), 1.58 (s, 6H), 1.24 (t, J=7.1 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 495 (M+Na+).
To a solution of E1 (148 mg, 0.313 mmol) in anhydrous THF (1 mL) at −78° C. was added NaHMDS (1 M in THF, 0.313 mL, 0.313 mmol) and EtOTs (55.8 mg, 0.313 mmol). After stirring 10 minutes, the solution was then allowed to warm to 0° C. and continue stirring at 0° C. for one hour. Ether was added and the solution was washed with water and then saturated saline. After dry over Na2SO4 and concentration, the crude product was purified by column chromatography (EtOAc:hexanes=20:1) to give 80 mg (51%) of compound E2; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.52 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 7.21 (d, J=2.0 Hz, 1H), 7.11 (dd, J=8.5, 2.3 Hz, 1H), 6.93 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 6.56 (d, J=8.5 Hz, 1H), 4.23 (q, J=7.1 Hz, 2H), 4.17-4.08 (m, 2H), 3.76 (m, 2H), 3.60 (q, J=6.9 Hz, 2H), 3.11 (d, J=5.7 Hz, 2H), 2.16 (s, 3H), 1.57 (s, 6H), 1.24 (t, J=7.1 Hz, 3 H), 1.18 (t, J=7.0 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 523 (M+Na+).
To a solution of E2 (65 mg, 0.13 mmol) in THF (1 mL) was added NaOH (480 mg, 12 mmol) in MeOH—H2O (2:1 by volume, 3 mL). After stirring for 2 hours, the solution was acidified by 1 N HCl. The solution was then extracted with ether (10 mL×3). The organic layers were combined and dried over Na2SO4 and concentrated. The crude product was then purified by column chromatography (10% MeOH in CH2Cl2) to give 40 mg (65%) of compound 3; 1H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl3) δ 7.51 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 7.21 (s, 1H), 7.13 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 6.92 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 2H), 6.70 (d, J=8.5 Hz, 1H), 4.17-4.06 (m, 2 H), 3.78 (m, 2H), 3.61 (q, J=7.0 Hz, 2H), 3.16-3.13 (m, 2H), 2.16 (s, 3H), 1.56 (s, 6H), 1.18 (t, J=7.0 Hz, 3H); MS (ES) m/z: 471 (M−H+).
D. Formulation and Administration
The present compounds are PPAR delta agonists and are therefore useful in treating or inhibiting the progression of PPAR delta mediated conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, Metabolic X Syndrome, hypercholesterolemia, hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia, hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, obesity, and complications thereof. For instance, complications of diabetes include such conditions as neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy.
The invention features a method for treating a subject with a PPAR delta mediated disease, said method comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of the invention. The invention also provides a method for treating or inhibiting the progression of diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance in a subject, wherein the method comprises administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of the invention.
The compounds of the present invention may be formulated into various pharmaceutical forms for administration purposes. To prepare these pharmaceutical compositions, an effective amount of a particular compound, in base or acid addition salt form, as the active ingredient is intimately mixed with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
A carrier may take a wide variety of forms depending on the form of preparation desired for administration. These pharmaceutical compositions are desirably in unitary dosage form suitable, preferably, for oral administration or parenteral injection. For example, in preparing the compositions in oral dosage form, any of the usual pharmaceutical media may be employed. These include water, glycols, oils, alcohols and the like in the case of oral liquid preparations such as suspensions, syrups, elixirs and solutions; or solid carriers such as starches, sugars, kaolin, lubricants, binders, disintegrating agents and the like in the case of powders, pills, capsules and tablets. In view of their ease in administration, tablets and capsules represent the most advantageous oral dosage unit form, in which case solid pharmaceutical carriers are generally employed. For parenteral compositions, the carrier will usually comprise sterile water, at least in large part, though other ingredients, for example, to aid solubility, may be included. Injectable solutions, for example, may be prepared in which the carrier comprises saline solution, glucose solution or a mixture of saline and glucose solution. Injectable suspensions may also be prepared in which case appropriate liquid carriers, suspending agents and the like may be employed. In the compositions suitable for percutaneous administration, the carrier optionally comprises a penetration enhancing agent and/or a suitable wetting agent, optionally combined with suitable additives of any nature in minor proportions, which additives do not cause a significant deleterious effect to the skin. Such additives may facilitate the administration to the skin and/or may be helpful for preparing the desired compositions. These compositions may be administered in various ways, e.g., as a transdermal patch, as a spot-on, as an ointment. Acid addition salts of the compounds of formula I, due to their increased water solubility over the corresponding base form, are more suitable in the preparation of aqueous compositions.
It is especially advantageous to formulate the aforementioned pharmaceutical compositions in dosage unit form for ease of administration and uniformity of dosage. Dosage unit form as used in the specification herein refers to physically discrete units suitable as unitary dosages, each unit containing a predetermined quantity of active ingredient calculated to produce the desired therapeutic effect in association with the required pharmaceutical carrier. Examples of such dosage unit forms are tablets (including scored or coated tablets), capsules, pills, powder packets, wafers, injectable solutions or suspensions, teaspoonfuls, tablespoonfuls and the like, and segregated multiples thereof.
Pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts include the therapeutically active non-toxic acid addition salts of disclosed compounds. The latter can conveniently be obtained by treating the base form with an appropriate acid. Appropriate acids comprise, for example, inorganic acids such as hydrohalic acids, e.g. hydrochloric or hydrobromic acid; sulfuric; nitric; phosphoric and the like acids; or organic acids such as, for example, acetic, propanoic, hydroxyacetic, lactic, pyruvic, oxalic, malonic, succinic, maleic, fumaric, malic, tartaric, citric, methanesulfonic, ethanesulfonic, benzenesulfonic, p-toluenesulfonic, cyclamic, salicylic, p-aminosalicylic, palmoic and the like acids. The term addition salt also comprises the solvates which the disclosed compounds, as well as the salts thereof, are able to form. Such solvates are for example hydrates, alcoholates and the like. Conversely the salt form can be converted by treatment with alkali into the free base form.
Stereoisomeric forms define all the possible isomeric forms which the compounds of Formula (I) may possess. Unless otherwise mentioned or indicated, the chemical designation of compounds denotes the mixture of all possible stereochemically isomeric forms, said mixtures containing all diastereomers and enantiomers of the basic molecular structure. More in particular, stereogenic centers may have the (R)- or (S)-configuration; substituents on bivalent cyclic saturated radicals may have either the cis- or trans-configuration. The invention encompasses stereochemically isomeric forms including diastereoisomers, as well as mixtures thereof in any proportion of the disclosed compounds. The disclosed compounds may also exist in their tautomeric forms. Such forms although not explicitly indicated in the above and following formulae are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.
Those of skill in the treatment of disorders or conditions mediated by the PPAR delta could easily determine the effective daily amount from the test results presented hereinafter and other information. In general it is contemplated that a therapeutically effective dose would be from 0.001 mg/kg to 5 mg/kg body weight, more preferably from 0.01 mg/kg to 0.5 mg/kg body weight. It may be appropriate to administer the therapeutically effective dose as two, three, four or more sub-doses at appropriate intervals throughout the day. Said sub-doses may be formulated as unit dosage forms, for example, containing 0.05 mg to 250 mg or 750 mg, and in particular 0.5 to 50 mg of active ingredient per unit dosage form. Examples include 2 mg, 4 mg, 7 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 25 mg, and 35 mg dosage forms. Compounds of the invention may also be prepared in time-release or subcutaneous or transdermal patch formulations. Disclosed compound may also be formulated as a spray or other topical or inhalable formulations.
The exact dosage and frequency of administration depends on the particular compound of Formula (I) used, the particular condition being treated, the severity of the condition being treated, the age, weight and general physical condition of the particular patient as well as other medication the patient may be taking, as is well known to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, it is evident that said effective daily amount may be lowered or increased depending on the response of the treated patient and/or depending on the evaluation of the physician prescribing the compounds of the instant invention. The effective daily amount ranges mentioned herein are therefore only guidelines.
The next section includes detailed information relating to the use of the disclosed compounds and compositions.
E. Use
The compounds of the present invention are pharmaceutically active, for example, as PPAR delta agonists and preferably as PPAR alpha/delta dual agonists. According to one aspect of the invention, the compounds are preferably selective PPAR delta agonists, having an activity index (e.g., PPAR delta potency over PPAR alpha/gamma potency) of 10 or more, and preferably 15, 25, 30, 50 or 100 or more. According to another aspect, the compounds are dual PPAR alpha and PPAR delta agonists.
According to the invention, the disclosed compounds and compositions are useful for the amelioration of symptoms associated with, the treatment of, and the prevention of, the following conditions and diseases: phase I hyperlipidemia, pre-clinical hyperlipidemia, phase II hyperlipidemia, hypertension, CAD (coronary artery disease), atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, cardiovascular disease, hypercholesteremia, and hypertriglyceridemia, type II diabetes, insulin resistance, impaired glucose tolerance, dyslipidemia, and low HDL-C. Preferred compounds of the invention are useful in lowering serum levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), intermediate density lipoprotein (IDL), and/or small-density LDL and other atherogenic molecules, or molecules that cause atherosclerotic complications, thereby reducing cardiovascular complications. Preferred compounds also are useful in elevating serum levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDL), in lowering serum levels of triglycerides, LDL, and/or free fatty acids. It is also desirable to lower fasting plasma glucose (FPG)/HbA1c.
PPAR alpha-mediated diseases include Syndrome X (or Metabolic Syndrome), dyslipidemia, high blood pressure, obesity, insulin resistance, impaired fasting glucose, type II diabetes, atherosclerosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and low HDL-C.
According to one aspect of the invention, the disclosed compounds may be used in a method for treating or inhibiting the progression of a PPAR-delta mediated condition and, optionally, an additional PPAR-alpha mediated condition, said method comprising administering to a patient in need of treatment a pharmaceutically effective amount of a composition of the invention.
Another aspect of the invention is a method of use wherein the PPAR-delta mediated condition is selected from hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, hypercholesteremia, type II diabetes, insulin resistance, and impaired glucose tolerance, and other conditions disclosed herein; and a PPAR-alpha mediated condition is selected from Syndrome X (or Metabolic Syndrome), dyslipidemia, high blood pressure, obesity, and impaired fasting glucose, insulin resistance, type II diabetes and other conditions disclosed herein.
A further aspect of the invention is a method for treating at least one PPAR-delta mediated condition and at least one PPAR-alpha mediated condition in a patient, said method comprising administering to a patient in need of treatment a pharmaceutically effective amount of a composition of the invention.
The invention also features pharmaceutical compositions which include, without limitation, one or more of the disclosed compounds, and pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient.
1. Dosages
Those skilled in the art will be able to determine, according to known methods, the appropriate dosage for a patient, taking into account factors such as age, weight, general health, the type of symptoms requiring treatment, and the presence of other medications. In general, an effective amount will be between 0.1 and 1000 mg/kg per day, preferably between 1 and 300 mg/kg body weight, and daily dosages will be between 10 and 5000 mg for an adult subject of normal weight. Capsules, tablets or other formulations (such as liquids and film-coated tablets) may be of between 5 and 200 mg, such as 10, 15, 25, 35, 50 mg, 60 mg, and 100 mg and can be administered according to the disclosed methods.
2. Formulations
Dosage unit forms include tablets, capsules, pills, powders, granules, aqueous and nonaqueous oral solutions and suspensions, and parenteral solutions packaged in containers adapted for subdivision into individual doses. Dosage unit forms can also be adapted for various methods of administration, including controlled release formulations, such as subcutaneous implants. Administration methods include oral, rectal, parenteral (intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous), intracisternal, intravaginal, intraperitoneal, intravesical, local (drops, powders, ointments, gels or cream), and by inhalation (a buccal or nasal spray).
Parenteral formulations include pharmaceutically acceptable aqueous or nonaqueous solutions, dispersion, suspensions, emulsions, and sterile powders for the preparation thereof. Examples of carriers include water, ethanol, polyols (propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol), vegetable oils, and injectable organic esters such as ethyl oleate. Fluidity can be maintained by the use of a coating such as lecithin, a surfactant, or maintaining appropriate particle size. Carriers for solid dosage forms include (a) fillers or extenders, (b) binders, (c) humectants, (d) disintegrating agents, (e) solution retarders, (f) absorption accelerators, (g) adsorbants, (h) lubricants, (i) buffering agents, and (j) propellants.
Compositions may also contain adjuvants such as preserving, wetting, emulsifying, and dispensing agents; antimicrobial agents such as parabens, chlorobutanol, phenol, and sorbic acid; isotonic agents such as a sugar or sodium chloride; absorption-prolonging agents such as aluminum monostearate and gelatin; and absorption-enhancing agents.
3. Combination Therapy
The compounds of the present invention may be used in combination with other pharmaceutically active agents. These agents include lipid lowering agents, and blood pressure lowering agents such as statin drugs and the fibrates.
Methods are known in the art for determining effective doses for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes for the disclosed pharmaceutical compositions or the disclosed drug combinations, whether or not formulated in the same composition. For therapeutic purposes, the term “jointly effective amount” as used herein, means that amount of each active compound or pharmaceutical agent, alone or in combination, that elicits the biological or medicinal response in a tissue system, animal or human that is being sought by a researcher, veterinarian, medical doctor or other clinician, which includes alleviation of the symptoms of the disease or disorder being treated. For prophylactic purposes (i.e., inhibiting the onset or progression of a disorder), the term “jointly effective amount” refers to that amount of each active compound or pharmaceutical agent, alone or in combination, that treats or inhibits in a subject the onset or progression of a disorder as being sought by a researcher, veterinarian, medical doctor or other clinician. Thus, the present invention provides combinations of two or more drugs wherein, for example, (a) each drug is administered in an independently therapeutically or prophylactically effective amount; (b) at least one drug in the combination is administered in an amount that is sub-therapeutic or sub-prophylactic if administered alone, but is therapeutic or prophylactic when administered in combination with the second or additional drugs according to the invention; or (c) both (or more) drugs are administered in an amount that is sub-therapeutic or sub-prophylactic if administered alone, but are therapeutic or prophylactic when administered together.
Anti-diabetic agents include thiazolidinedione and non-thiazolidinedione insulin sensitizers, which decrease peripheral insulin resistance by enhancing the effects of insulin at target organs and tissues.
Some of the following agents are known to bind and activate the nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) which increases transcription of specific insulin-responsive genes. Examples of PPAR-gamma agonists are thiazolidinediones such as:
(1) rosiglitazone(2,4-thiazolidinedione,5-((4-(2-(methyl-2-pyridinylamino)ethoxy)phenyl)methyl)-, (Z)-2-butenedioate (1:1) or 5-((4-(2-(methyl-2-pyridinylamino)ethoxy)phenyl)methyl)-2,4-thiazolidinedione, known as AVANDIA; also known as BRL 49653, BRL 49653C, BRL 49653c, SB 210232, or rosiglitazone maleate); (2) pioglitazone(2,4-thiazolidinedione, 5-((4-(2-(5-ethyl-2-pyridinyl)ethoxy)phenyl)methyl)-, monohydrochloride, (+−)- or 5-((4-(2-(5-ethyl-2-pyridyl)ethoxy)phenyl)methy)-2,4-thiazolidinedione, known as ACTOS, ZACTOS, or GLUSTIN; also known as AD 4833, U 72107, U 72107A, U 72107E, pioglitazone hydrochloride (USAN)); (3) troglitazone(5-((4-((3,4-dihydro-6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2H-1-benzopyran-2-yl)methoxy)phenyl)methyl)-2,4-thiazolidinedione, known as NOSCAL, REZULIN, ROMOZIN, or PRELAY; also known as CI 991, CS 045, GR 92132, GR 92132X); (4) isaglitazone((+)-5-[[6-[(2-fluorophenyl)methoxy]-2-naphthalenyl]methyl]-2,4-thiazolidinedione or 5-((6-((2-fluorophenyl)methoxy)-2-naphthalenyl)methyl-2,4-thiazolidinedione or 5-(6-(2-fluorobenzyloxy)naphthalen-2-ylmethyl)thiazolidine-2,4-dione, also known as MCC-555 or neoglitazone); and (5) 5-BTZD.
Additionally, the non-thiazolidinediones that act as insulin sensitizing agents include, but are not limited to:
(1) JT-501 (JTT 501, PNU-1827, PNU-716-MET-0096, or PNU 182716: isoxazolidine-3,5-dione, 4-((4-(2-phenyl-5-methyl)-1,3-oxazolyl)ethylphenyl-4)methyl-); (2) KRP-297 (5-(2,4-dioxothiazolidin-5-ylmethyl)-2-methoxy-N-(4-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl)benzamide or 5-((2,4-dioxo-5-thiazolidinyl)methyl)-2-methoxy-N-((4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)methyl)benzamide); and (3) Farglitazar(L-tyrosine, N-(2-benzoylphenyl)-o-(2-(5-methyl-2-phenyl-4-oxazolyl)ethyl)- or N-(2-benzoylphenyl)-O-(2-(5-methyl-2-phenyl-4-oxazolyl)ethyl)-L-tyrosine, or GW2570 or GI-262570).
Other agents have also been shown to have PPAR modulator activity such as PPAR gamma, SPPAR gamma, and/or PPAR delta/gamma agonist activity. Examples are listed below:
(1) AD 5075; (2) R 119702 ((+−)-5-(4-(5-Methoxy-1H-benzimidazol-2-ylmethoxy)benzyl)thiazolin-2,4-dione hydrochloride, or CI 1037 or CS 011); (3) CLX-0940 (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha agonist/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonist); (4) LR-90 (2,5,5-tris(4-chlorophenyl)-1,3-dioxane-2-carboxylic acid, PPARdelta/γ agonist); (5) Tularik (PPARγ agonist); (6) CLX-0921 (PPARγ agonist); (7) CGP-52608 (PPAR agonist); (8) GW-409890 (PPAR agonist); (9) GW-7845 (PPAR agonist); (10) L-764406 (PPAR agonist); (11) LG-101280 (PPAR agonist); (12) LM-4156 (PPAR agonist); (13) Risarestat (CT-112); (14) YM 440 (PPAR agonist); (15) AR-H049020 (PPAR agonist); (16) GW 0072 (4-(4-((2S,5S)-5-(2-(bis(phenylmethyl)amino)-2-oxoethyl)-2-heptyl-4-oxo-3-thiazo lidinyl)butyl)benzoic acid); (17) GW 409544 (GW-544 or GW-409544); (18) NN 2344 (DRF 2593); (19) NN 622 (DRF 2725); (20) AR-H039242 (AZ-242); (21) GW 9820 (fibrate); (22) GW 1929 (N-(2-benzoylphenyl)-O-(2-(methyl-2-pyridinylamino)ethyl)-L-tyrosine, known as GW 2331, PPAR alpha/γ agonist); (23) SB 219994 ((S)-4-(2-(2-benzoxazolylmethylamino)ethoxy)-alpha-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)benzenepropanoic acid or 3-(4-(2-(N-(2-benzoxazolyl)-N-methylamino)ethoxy)phenyl)-2(S)-(2, 2,2-trifluoroethoxy)propionic acid or benzenepropanoic acid,4-(2-(2-benzoxazolylmethylamino)ethoxy)-alpha-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)-, (alphaS)-, PPARalpha/γ agonist); (24) L-796449 (PPAR alpha/γ agonist); (25) Fenofibrate (Propanoic acid, 2-[4-(4-chlorobenzoyl)phenoxy]-2-methyl-, 1-methylethyl ester, known as TRICOR, LIPCOR, LIPANTIL, LIPIDIL MICRO PPAR alpha agonist); (26) GW-9578 (PPAR alpha agonist); (27) GW-2433 (PPAR alpha/γ agonist); (28) GW-0207 (PPARγ agonist); (29) LG-100641 (PPARγ agonist); (30) LY-300512 (PPARγ agonist); (31) NID525-209 (NID-525); (32) VDO-52 (VDO-52); (33) LG 100754 (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonist); (34) LY-510929 (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonist); (35) bexarotene(4-(1-(3,5,5,8,8-pentamethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-2-naphthalenyl)ethenyl)benzoic acid, known as TARGRETIN, TARGRETYN, TARGREXIN; also known as LGD 1069, LG 100069, LG 1069, LDG 1069, LG 69, RO 264455); and (36) GW-1536 (PPAR alpha/γ agonist).
(B) Other insulin sensitizing agents include, but are not limited to:
(1) INS-1 (D-chiro inositol or D-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexahydroxycyclohexane); (2) protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 B (PTP-1B) inhibitors; (3) glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) inhibitors; (4) beta 3 adrenoceptor agonists such as ZD 2079 ((R)—N-(2-(4-(carboxymethyl)phenoxy)ethyl)-N-(2-hydroxy-2-phenethyl)ammonium chloride, also known as ICI D 2079) or AZ 40140; (5) glycogen phosphorylase inhibitors; (6) fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase inhibitors; (7) chromic picolinate, vanadyl sulfate (vanadium oxysulfate); (8) KP 102 (organo-vanadium compound); (9) chromic polynicotinate; (10) potassium channel agonist NN 414; (11) YM 268 (5,5′-methylene-bis(1,4-phenylene)bismethylenebis(thiazolidine-2,4-dione); (12) TS 971; (13) T 174 ((+−)-5-(2,4-dioxothiazolidin-5-ylmethyl)-2-(2-naphthylmethyl)benzoxazole); (14) SDZ PGU 693 ((+)-trans-2(S-((4-chiorophenoxy)methyl)-7alpha-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)tetrahydropyrrolo(2,1-b)oxazol-5(6H)-one); (15) S 15261 ((−)-4-(2-((9H-fluoren-9-ylacetyl)amino)ethyl)benzoic acid 2-((2-methoxy-2-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)ethyl)amino)ethylester); (16) AZM 134 (Alizyme); (17) ARIAD; (18) R 102380; (19) PNU 140975 (1-(hydrazinoiminomethyl)hydrazino)acetic acid; (20) PNU 106817 (2-(hydrazinoiminomethyl)hydrazino)acetic acid; (21) NC 2100 (5-((7-(phenylmethoxy)-3-quinolinyl)methyl)-2,4-thiazolidinedione; (22) MXC 3255; (23) MBX 102; (24) ALT 4037; (25) AM 454; (26) JTP 20993 (2-(4-(2-(5-methyl-2-phenyl-4-oxazolyl)ethoxy)benzyl)-malonic acid dimethyl diester); (27) Dexlipotam(5(R)-(1,2-dithiolan-3-yl)pentanoic acid, also known as (R)-alpha lipoic acid or (R)-thioctic acid); (28) BM 170744 (2,2-Dichloro-12-(p-chlorophenyl)dodecanoic acid); (29) BM 152054 (5-(4-(2-(5-methyl-2-(2-thienyl)oxazol-4-yl)ethoxy)benzothien-7-ylmethyl)thiazolidine-2,4-dione); (30) BM 131258 (5-(4-(2-(5-methyl-2-phenyloxazol-4-yl)ethoxy)benzothien-7-ylmethyl)thiazolidine-2,4-dione); (31) CRE 16336 (EML 16336); (32) HQL 975 (3-(4-(2-(5-methyl-2-phenyloxazol-4-yl)ethoxy)phenyl)-2(S)-(propylamino)propionic acid); (33) DRF 2189 (5-((4-(2-(1-Indolyl)ethoxy)phenyl)methyl)thiazolidine-2,4-dione); (34) DRF 554158; (35) DRF-NPCC; (36) CLX 0100, CLX 0101, CLX 0900, or CLX 0901; (37) IkappaB Kinase (IKK B) Inhibitors (38) mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors p38 MAPK Stimulators (39) phosphatidyl-inositide triphosphate (40) insulin recycling receptor inhibitors (41) glucose transporter 4 modulators (42) TNF-α antagonists (43) plasma cell differentiation antigen-1 (PC-1) Antagonists (44) adipocyte lipid-binding protein (ALBP/aP2) inhibitors (45) phosphoglycans (46) Galparan; (47) Receptron; (48) islet cell maturation factor; (49) insulin potentiating factor (IPF or insulin potentiating factor-1); (50) somatomedin C coupled with binding protein (also known as IGF-BP3, IGF-BP3, SomatoKine); (51) Diab II (known as V-411) or Glucanin, produced by Biotech Holdings Ltd. or Volque Pharmaceutical; (52) glucose-6 phosphatase inhibitors; (53) fatty acid glucose transport protein; (54) glucocorticoid receptor antagonists; and (55) glutamine:fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT) modulators.
(C) Biguanides, which decrease liver glucose production and increases the uptake of glucose. Examples include metformin such as:
(1) 1,1-dimethylbiguanide (e.g., Metformin—DepoMed, Metformin—Biovail Corporation, or METFORMIN GR (metformin gastric retention polymer)); and (2) metformin hydrochloride(N,N-dimethylimidodicarbonimidic diamide monohydrochloride, also known as LA 6023, BMS 207150, GLUCOPHAGE, or GLUCOPHAGE XR.
(D) Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, which inhibit alpha-glucosidase. Alpha-glucosidase converts fructose to glucose, thereby delaying the digestion of carbohydrates. The undigested carbohydrates are subsequently broken down in the gut, reducing the post-prandial glucose peak. Examples include, but are not limited to:
(1) acarbose(D-glucose, O-4,6-dideoxy-4-(((1S-(1alpha,4alpha,5beta,6alpha))-4,5,6-trihydroxy-3-(hydroxymethyl)-2-cyclohexen-1-yl)amino)-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-4)-O-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-4)-, also known as AG-5421, Bay-g-542, BAY-g-542, GLUCOBAY, PRECOSE, GLUCOR, PRANDASE, GLUMIDA, or ASCAROSE); (2) Miglitol(3,4,5-piperidinetriol, 1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-(hydroxymethyl)-, (2R(2alpha,3beta,4alpha,5beta))- or (2R,3R,4R,5S)-1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-(hydroxymethyl-3,4,5-piperidinetriol, also known as BAY 1099, BAY M 1099, BAY-m-1099, BAYGLITOL, DIASTABOL, GLYSET, MIGLIBAY, MITOLBAY, PLUMAROL); (3) CKD-711 (0-4-deoxy-4-((2,3-epoxy-3-hydroxymethyl-4,5,6-trihydroxycyclohexane-1-yl)amino)-alpha-b-glucopyranosyl-(1-4)-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-4)-D-glucopyranose); (4) emiglitate(4-(2-((2R,3R,4R,5S)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1-piperidinyl)ethoxy)benzoic acid ethyl ester, also known as BAY o 1248 or MKC 542); (5) MOR 14 (3,4,5-piperidinetriol, 2-(hydroxymethyl)-1-methyl-, (2R-(2alpha,3beta,4alpha,5beta))-, also known as N-methyldeoxynojirimycin or N-methylmoranoline); and (6) Voglibose(3,4-dideoxy-4-((2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl)ethyl)amino)-2-C-(hydroxymethyl)-D-epi-inositol or D-epi-Inositol,3,4-dideoxy-4-((2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl)ethyl)amino)-2-C-(hydroxymethyl)-, also known as A 71100, AO 128, BASEN, GLUSTAT, VOGLISTAT.
(E) Insulins include regular or short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting insulins, non-injectable or inhaled insulin, tissue selective insulin, glucophosphokinin (D-chiroinositol), insulin analogues such as insulin molecules with minor differences in the natural amino acid sequence and small molecule mimics of insulin (insulin mimetics), and endosome modulators. Examples include, but are not limited to:
(1) Biota; (2) LP 100; (3) (SP-5-21)-oxobis(1-pyrrolidinecarbodithioato-S,S′)vanadium, (4) insulin aspart (human insulin (28B-L-aspartic acid) or B28-Asp-insulin, also known as insulin X14, INA-X14, NOVORAPID, NOVOMIX, or NOVOLOG); (5) insulin detemir (Human 29B-(N6-(1-oxotetradecyl)-L-lysine)-(1A-21A), (1B-29B)-Insulin or NN 304); (6) insulin lispro (“28B-L-lysine-29B-L-proline human insulin, or Lys(B28), Pro(B29) human insulin analog, also known as lys-pro insulin, LY 275585, HUMALOG, HUMALOG MIX 75/25, or HUMALOG MIX 50/50); (7) insulin glargine (human (A21-glycine, B31-arginine, B32-arginine) insulin HOE 901, also known as LANTUS, OPTISULIN); (8) Insulin Zinc Suspension, extended (Ultralente), also known as HUMULIN U or ULTRALENTE; (9) Insulin Zinc suspension (Lente), a 70% crystalline and 30% amorphous insulin suspension, also known as LENTE ILETIN II, HUMULIN L, or NOVOLIN L; (10) HUMULIN 50/50 (50% isophane insulin and 50% insulin injection); (11) HUMULIN 70/30 (70% isophane insulin NPH and 30% insulin injection), also known as NOVOLIN 70/30, NOVOLIN 70/30 PenFill, NOVOLIN 70/30 Prefilled; (12) insulin isophane suspension such as NPH ILETIN II, NOVOLIN N, NOVOLIN N PenFill, NOVOLIN N Prefilled, HUMULIN N; (13) regular insulin injection such as ILETIN II Regular, NOVOLIN R, VELOSULIN BR, NOVOLIN R PenFill, NOVOLIN R Prefilled, HUMULIN R, or Regular U-500 (Concentrated); (14) ARIAD; (15) LY 197535; (16) L-783281; and (17) TE-17411.
(F) Insulin secretion modulators such as:
(1) glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and its mimetics; (2) glucose-insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and its mimetics; (3) exendin and its mimetics; (4) dipeptyl protease (DPP or DPPIV) inhibitors such as
(4a) DPP-728 or LAF 237 (2-pyrrolidinecarbonitrile,1-(((2-((5-cyano-2-pyridinyl)amino)ethyl)amino)acetyl), known as NVP-DPP-728, DPP-728A, LAF-237); (4b) P 3298 or P32/98 (di-(3N-((2S,3S)-2-amino-3-methyl-pentanoyl)-1,3-thiazolidine)fumarate); (4c) TSL 225 (tryptophyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-3-carboxylic acid); (4d) Valine pyrrolidide (valpyr); (4e) 1-aminoalkylisoquinolinone-4-carboxylates and analogues thereof; (4f) SDZ 272-070 (1-(L-Valyl)pyrrolidine); (4g) TMC-2A, TMC-2B, or TMC-2C; (4h) Dipeptide nitriles(2-cyanopyrrolodides); (4i) CD26 inhibitors; and (4j) SDZ 274-444;
(5) glucagon antagonists such as AY-279955; and (6) amylin agonists which include, but are not limited to, pramlintide (AC-137, Symlin, tripro-amylin or pramlintide acetate).
The present compounds may also increase insulin sensitivity with little or no increase in body weight than that found with the use of existing PPAR gamma agonists. Oral anti-diabetic agents may include insulin, sulfonylureas, biguanides, meglitinides, AGI's, PPAR alpha agonists, and PPAR gamma agonists, and dual PPAR alpha/gamma agonists.
The present compounds also may increase fat and/or lipid metabolism, providing a method for losing weight, losing fat weight, lowering body mass index, lowering lipids (such as lowering triglycerides), or treating obesity or the condition of being overweight. Examples of lipid lowering agents include bile acid sequestrants, fibric acid derivatives, nicotinic acid, and HMGCoA reductase inhibitors. Specific examples include statins such as LIPITOR®, ZOCOR®, PRAVACHOL®, LESCOL®, and MEVACOR®, and pitavastatin (nisvastatin) (Nissan, Kowa Kogyo, Sankyo, Novartis) and extended release forms thereof, such as ADX-159 (extended release lovastatin), as well as Colestid, Locholest, Questran, Atromid, Lopid, and Tricor.
Examples of blood pressure lowering agents include anti-hypertensive agents, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (Accupril, Altace, Captopril, Lotensin, Mavik, Monopril, Prinivil, Univasc, Vasotec, and Zestril), adrenergic blockers (such as Cardura, Dibenzyline, Hylorel, Hytrin, Minipress, and Minizide) alpha/beta adrenergic blockers (such as Coreg, Normodyne, and Trandate), calcium channel blockers (such as Adalat, Calan, Cardene, Cardizem, Covera-HS, Dilacor, DynaCirc, Isoptin, Nimotop, Norvace, Plendil, Procardia, Procardia XL, Sula, Tiazac, Vascor, and Verelan), diuretics, angiotensin II receptor antagonists (such as Atacand, Avapro, Cozaar, and Diovan), beta adrenergic blockers (such as Betapace, Blocadren, Brevibloc, Cartrol, Inderal, Kerlone, Lavatol, Lopressor, Sectral, Tenormin, Toprol-XL, and Zebeta), vasodilators (such as Deponit, Dilatrate, SR, Imdur, Ismo, Isordil, Isordil Titradose, Monoket, Nitro-Bid, Nitro-Dur, Nitrolingual Spray, Nitrostat, and Sorbitrate), and combinations thereof (such as Lexxel, Lotrel, Tarka, Teczem, Lotensin HCT, Prinzide, Uniretic, Vaseretic, Zestoretic).
F. Biological Examples
Transfection Assay Method for PPAR Receptors
HEK293 cells were grown in DMEM/F12 medium supplemented with 10% FBS and glutamine (Invitrogen) and incubated in a 5% CO2 incubator at 37° C. The cells were co-transfected using DMRIE-C reagent (Invitrogen) in serum free medium (Opti-MEM, Invitrogen) with two mammalian expression plasmids, one containing the DNA sequence coding for the ligand binding domains of either PPARα, γ or δ fused to the yeast GAL4 DNA binding domain and the other containing the promoter sequence of the yeast GAL4 (UAS) fused to the firefly luciferase cDNA reporter. The next day, the medium was changed to DMEM/F12 medium supplemented with 5% charcoal treated serum (Hyclone) and glutamine. After 6 hrs the cells were trypsinized and seeded at a density of 50,000 cells/well into 96 well plates and incubated overnight as above. The cells were then treated with test compounds or vehicle and incubated for 18-24 hrs as above. Luciferase reporter activity was measured using the Steady-Glo Luciferase Assay Kit from Promega. DMRIE-C Reagent was purchased from GIBCO Cat. No. 10459-014. OPTI-MEM I Reduced Serum Medium was purchased from GIBCO (Cat. No. 31985). Steady-Glo Luciferase Assay Kit was purchased from Promega (Part #E254B).
A variety of example compounds have been made and tested, with a range of in vitro results. Below are representative compounds and data; in some cases, where multiple EC50's are shown, multiple measurements were taken. Naturally, different compounds in Formula (I) may have not have activities identical to any one compound below.
TABLE 2
In Vitro Data
Compound
EC50 (PPAR delta)
EC50 (PPAR
EC50 (PPAR alpha)
Number
nM
gamma) nM
nM
1
13.8, 14.9
548
2
9.1, 11.1
278
237
3
34, 27.5
565
537
G. Other Embodiments
The features and principles of the invention are illustrated in the discussion, examples, and claims herein. Various adaptations and modifications of the invention will be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art and such other embodiments are also within the scope of the invention. Publications cited herein are incorporated in their entirety by reference.
1-49. (canceled)
50. A method for treating or inhibiting the progression of a PPAR-delta mediated condition selected from the group consisting of diabetes, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, polycystic ovary syndrome, hypertension, ischemia, stroke, irritable bowel disorder, inflammation, cataract, cardiovascular diseases, Metabolic X Syndrome, hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, mixed hyperlipidemia, hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, obesity, and complications thereof, said method comprising administering to a patient in need of treatment a pharmaceutically effective amount of a compound of Formula (I):
wherein
X is selected from a covalent bond, S, or O;
Y is S or O:
- - - W - - - represents a group selected from ═CH—, —CH═, —CH2—, —CH2—CH2—, ═CH—CH2—, —CH2—CH═, ═CH—CH═, and —CH═CH—;
Z is selected from O, CH, and CH2, provided when Y is O, Z is O;
R1 and R2 are independently selected from H, C1-3 alkyl, C1-3alkoxy, halo, and NRaRb wherein Ra and Rb are independently H or C1-3 alkyl;
R3 and R4 are independently selected from H, halo, cyano, hydroxy, acetyl, C1-5 alkyl, C1-4 alkoxy, and NRcRd wherein Rc and Rd are independently H or C1-3 alkyl, provided that R3 and R4 are not both H;
R5 and R6 are independently selected from H, C1-8 alkyl and substituted C1-8 alkyl, provided that R5 and R6 are not both H;
R7 is selected from halo, phenyl, phenoxy, (phenyl)C1-5alkoxy, (phenyl)C1-5alkyl, C2-5heteroaryloxy, C2-5heteroarylC1-5alkoxy, C2-5heterocyclyloxy, C1-9 alkyl, C1-8 alkoxy, C2-9 alkenyl, C2-9 alkenyloxy, C2-9 alkynyl, C2-9 alkynyloxy, C3-7 cycloalkyl, C3-7 cycloalkoxy, C3-7cycloalkyl-C1-7alkyl, C3-7cycloalkyl-C1-7alkoxy, C3-7cycloalkyloxy-C1-6alkyl, C1-6alkoxy-C1-6alkyl, C1-5alkoxy-C1-5alkoxy, or C3-7cycloalkyloxy-C1-7alkoxy;
R8 is H when - - - W - - - represents a group selected from —CH═, —CH2—, —CH2—CH2—, —CH2—CH═, and —CH═CH—,
or R8 is absent when - - - W - - - represents a group selected from ═CH—, ═CH—CH2—, and ═CH—CH═; and
n is 1 or 2;
or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
51. The method of claim 50 wherein X is S or O.
52. The method of claim 50 wherein X is a covalent bond.
53. The method of claim 50 wherein X is O.
54. The method of claim 50 wherein Y is O.
55. The method of claim 50 wherein Y is S.
56. The method of claim 50 wherein Z is O.
57. The method of claim 50 wherein Z is CH or CH2.
58. The method of claim 50 wherein - - - W - - - represents —CH2— or —CH2—CH2—.
59. The method of claim 50 wherein - - - W - - - represents —CH2—.
60. A compound selected from the group consisting of:
or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
61. A compound selected from the group consisting of:
or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
62. A method for treating or inhibiting the progression of a PPAR-delta mediated condition selected from the group consisting of diabetes, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, polycystic ovary syndrome, hypertension, ischemia, stroke, irritable bowel disorder, inflammation, cataract, cardiovascular diseases, Metabolic X Syndrome, hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, mixed hyperlipidemia, hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, obesity, and complications thereof, said method comprising administering to a patient in need of treatment a pharmaceutically effective amount of a compound of claim 60.
63. A method for treating or inhibiting the progression of a PPAR-delta mediated condition selected from the group consisting of diabetes, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, polycystic ovary syndrome, hypertension, ischemia, stroke, irritable bowel disorder, inflammation, cataract, cardiovascular diseases, Metabolic X Syndrome, hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, mixed hyperlipidemia, hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, obesity, and complications thereof, said method comprising administering to a patient in need of treatment a pharmaceutically effective amount of a compound of claim 61.
| 2010-09-01 | en | 2010-12-30 |
US-54243606-A | Network management apparatus and network system
ABSTRACT
A network management apparatus and a network management system are provided which are capable of reducing setting workloads required when an initial setting operation of a network communication apparatus is performed, and a network structure is changed. The network management apparatus acquires information as to respective network communication apparatus which belong to the same network when an operation of the network is commenced, or when a structure of the network is changed. Then, the network management apparatus determines a concrete operating content of said network communication apparatus based upon the acquired information and an operation policy so as to set the determined operating content. Also, the network management apparatus is equipped with a GUI (Graphical User Interface) used to set a role of the network communication apparatus by a manner.
The present application claims priority from Japanese application JP2005-291901 filed on Oct. 5, 2005, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference into this application.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is related to a network management apparatus connected to an information communication network and for operating/managing the information communication network in an autonomous manner, and also related to a network management system which is arranged by the network management apparatus and the information communication network.
Packet switching type information communication networks (hereinafter simply referred to as “networks”) known as IP (Internet Protocol) networks and the like utilized in enterprises are arranged by employing various sorts of network communication apparatus such as routers, switches, gateways, and access points. In order that these networks may function in correspondence with intentions of managers and/or users, these managers and/or users are required to set proper operations with respect to all of these network communication apparatuses.
There are such trends that currently available networks are constructed in large scales and have high functions. Accordingly, there are similar trends that sorts and amounts as to setting items of packet communication apparatuses are increased. As major setting items, the following setting items are conceivable: security setting items which are required to utilize external networks such as the Internet; network service setting items for guarantee bands which are used by application software such as VoIP (Voice over IP); operation management setting items as to charging, access logs, and monitoring.
As explained above, if the sorts and amounts of these setting items as to these packet communication apparatuses are increased, then the below-mentioned problems may occur in enterprises:
1. Increases in management costs (work time of managers) in connection with increases in work amounts of managers. 2. Delays in network service-in time in connection with increases of setting work time. 3. Increases in mis-setting operations in connection with increases in work contents.
The cause of these problems may be conceived by that complex setting works are increased in an explosive manner. For instance, there is such a case that in order to set security items with respect to an entire network, these security items must be set to almost all of packet communication apparatuses provided within a network, and on the other hand, work amounts of these security setting items are increased directly proportional to scales of networks. Furthermore, in another case that other setting contents such as routing and access controls must be updated in conjunction with the above-explained security setting operations, work amounts thereof are increased in connection with increases in sorts and amounts of these setting items.
In methods of US2003/0069947 and JP-A-2005-050302, setting works are automatically carried out with respect to communication apparatus so as to solve the above-explained problems.
Although the above-explained methods disclosed in US2003/0069947 and JP-A-2005-050302 can reduce work amounts of managers, physical configurations of networks must be determined in advance, and setting contents corresponding to the networks must be previously prepared by these managers. As a result, when the structures of the networks are changed and a failure happens to occur in the networks, the managers must perform setting works.
As changing factors as to the physical configurations of the networks, structures are expanded in a planning manner and failures happen to occur, which may frequently occur. Every time there occurs such an event as an occurrence of a failure or expansion of structure, managers must monitor the failure of a network, must investigate a topology of this network and then, must newly form a configuration definition so as to perform setting works. As a result, work amounts of the above-explained methods are still large.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
To solve the above-explained problems, a network management apparatus, according to one aspect of the present invention, acquires topologies, appliance types and appliance identifiers of respective network communication apparatuses in a network when the network is initially set and a physical configuration of this network is changed, and then, automatically determines roles of these respective network communication apparatuses based upon role assigning information applied by a manger. Furthermore, the network management apparatus acquires such operating contents of the network communication apparatuses to set the acquired operating contents, while these operating contents can satisfy an operation policy given by the manager.
Also, the network management apparatus, according to another aspect of the present invention, is equipped with a GUI (Graphical User Interface) by which a role can be applied by the manager to the network communication apparatuses. Then, the network management apparatus acquires an operating content of a network communication apparatus based upon the roles applied to the respective network communication apparatuses by employing the GUI by the manager and the operation policy given by the manager, and then sets the acquired functional description of this network communication apparatus.
More concretely speaking, the present invention is featured by providing a network management system in a network arranged by one or more network management apparatuses, and one or more network communication apparatuses. That is, in the network management apparatus equipped with a network interface connectable with a network, a storage apparatus for storing thereinto a program and data; and a processor for executing a process operation in accordance with the program, the network management apparatus is comprised of: means for acquiring one or more pieces of information among topologies (connection relationship among respective network communication apparatuses), appliance types, and appliance identifiers as to the respective network communication apparatuses belonging to the same network and for holding the acquired information; means for applying roles to the respective network communication apparatuses; means for holding operation policies in which abstractive operating contents are described with respect to the roles; and means for determining concrete operating contents of the respective network communication apparatuses based upon the information and the operation policies of the respective network communication apparatuses, and for setting the determined concrete operating contents to the network communication apparatuses. In the network communication apparatus equipped with: a network interface connectable to the network; a processor for processing a packet received by the network interface; and a storage apparatus for holding a route table required for the processing operation, the network communication apparatus is comprised of: means responding to an information request issued from the network management apparatus; and means for operating in accordance with a setting condition from the network management apparatus. When the operation of the network is commenced and the structure of the network is changed, the network management apparatus acquires one or more pieces of information among the above-explained topologies, appliance types, and appliance identifiers of the respective network communication apparatuses belonging to the same network; the roles are applied to the respective network communication apparatuses by the means for applying the roles; and the network management apparatus determines concrete operating contents of the respective network communication apparatuses based upon the operation policies from the applied roles, and then, sets the determined concrete operating contents to the network communication apparatuses.
Further, the present invention is to provide a network management system featured by that the network management apparatus is comprised of: means for holding a role assigning rule which describes both roles to be assigned to a network communication apparatus, and a condition with respect to one or more pieces of information among the above-explained topologies., appliance types, and appliance identifiers of such a network communication apparatus, which should be satisfied in order that this network communication apparatus judges as being the roles in correspondence thereto. As the means for applying the roles, the role assigning rule is employed.
In addition, the present invention is featured by providing such a network management system that the network management apparatus is further comprised of: means for notifying one or more pieces of information among the above-explained topologies, appliance types, and appliance identifiers of the network communication apparatuses in the network to the manager, and for designating a role which is applied to the respective network communication apparatuses. The network management apparatus notifies to the manager, one or more pieces of the information among the above-explained topologies, appliance types, and appliance identifiers of the network communication apparatuses, which are acquired by the network communication apparatuses, and determines concrete operating contents of the respective network communication apparatuses based upon the operation policy from the role designated by the manager based on the notified content.
Moreover, the present invention is to provide such a network management system featured by that the operating contents described in the operation policy correspond to packet filtering which describes a permission/non-permission of communication among the roles; and operating contents set to the respective network communication apparatuses correspond to operations of packet filtering functions of the network communication apparatuses.
In accordance with the present invention, the below-mentioned advantages are obtained:
1. Since an apparatus of a packet switching network is automatically set, an increase in management costs, a delay in service-in times, and mis-setting operations can be suppressed. 2. A change in a physical configuration of a network is detected, and thus, a setting operation is carried out without intervening of a manager, or by executing a minimum setting work in accordance with network operation policy established in the beginning.
Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a structural diagram for showing a network where a packet communication apparatus of the present invention is arranged.
FIG. 2 is a structural diagram of a management apparatus 500 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a structural diagram for representing packet communication apparatus 100, 110, 120, 130 and 140.
FIG. 4 is a diagram for representing a topology acquiring process operation of the management apparatus 500 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a diagram for indicating topology acquiring condition information 534 of the management apparatus 500 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a diagram for indicating request receiving ID information 1055 of a packet communication apparatus.
FIG. 7 shows information contained in a topology notification message which is transmitted by a terminal 121.
FIG. 8 indicates neighbor information of the packet communication apparatus 120.
FIG. 9 indicates neighbor information of the packet communication apparatus 100.
FIG. 10 shows topology information 535 of the management apparatus 500 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart for indicating a role defining process operation of the management apparatus 500 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a diagram for showing role definition information 536 of the management apparatus 500 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a diagram for showing role assign information 537 of the management apparatus 500 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart for indicating a filter setting process operation of the management information 500 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a diagram for showing filter definition information 538 of the management apparatus 500 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 16 is a diagram for showing filter definition information 539 of the management apparatus 500 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 17 is a structural diagram for showing a management apparatus 500 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 18 is a diagram for illustratively indicating a GUI of the management apparatus 500 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 19 is a diagram for indicating role list information 542 of the management apparatus 500 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
1. System Arrangement/Apparatus Structure
FIG. 1 is a network to which a network management system of the present invention has been applied, which is employed in descriptions of the below-mentioned embodiments.
The network is arranged by an internal network 1 managed by a manager, and an external network 2 which is connected to the internal network 1. The internal network 1 is arranged by packet communication apparatuses 100, 110, 130, and 140. While the packet communication apparatus 100 has a role of a core switch of the network 1, this packet communication apparatus 100 has been connected to other packet communication apparatuses 110, 120, and 130, but has not yet been connected to the packet apparatus 140 under initial condition. The packet communication apparatuses 120, 130, 140 correspond to floor switches installed on the respective floors, and have stored thereinto terminals 121 and 122, terminals 131 and 132, and also, terminals 141 and 142, respectively. The packet communication apparatus 110 has a role of a gateway which is connected to the external network 2. Furthermore, a management apparatus 500 according to a first embodiment of the present invention, which manages the internal network 1, has been connected to the packet communication apparatus 100.
Referring now to FIG. 2, the management apparatus 500 of the first embodiment will be described.
The management apparatus 500 contains a network interface 510, a processor 520, and a storage apparatus 530. The storage apparatus 530 stores thereinto a topology acquiring program 531, a role defining program 532, a filter setting program 533, a topology acquisition status information 534, topology information 535, role definition information 536, role allocation information 537, filter definition information 538, and filter setting information 539. The contents of the above-explained programs and information will be explained later.
Referring now to FIG. 3, the packet communication apparatus 100 will be explained. It should be noted that the packet communication apparatuses 110, 120, 130, and 140 have similar structures to the structure of the packet communication apparatus 100. The packet communication apparatus 100 is arranged by network interfaces 1010 and 1020, a switch 1030, a route retrieving module 1040, and a module control management module 1050.
The route retrieving module 1040 is arranged by a processor 1041 and a storage apparatus 1042. The storage apparatus 1042 stores thereinto a route table 1043 and a route retrieving program 1044. The processor 1041 acquires transfer destinations of packets received from the network interfaces 1010 and 1020 with reference to the route table 1043 in accordance with the route retrieving program 1044. In the case that the received packets are data packets, the processor 1041 transfers the data packets from a transfer destination network interface by employing the switch 1030. In the case that the received packets are control packets, the processor 1041 transfers the control packets to the control managing module 1050.
The control managing module 1050 is arranged by a processor 1051 and a storage apparatus 1052. The storage apparatus 1052 stores thereinto an neighbor information distributing program 1053, a filter setting program 1054, request reception ID information 1055, topology acquisition status information 1056, neighbor information 1057, and filter information 1058. The contents of the above-described information will be explained later.
2. Acquisition of Topology Information
Referring now to FIG. 4, a topology acquiring process operation of the network by the management apparatus 500 in the network of FIG. 1 will be explained. This topology acquiring process operation is executed by the processor 520 of the management apparatus 500 in accordance with the topology acquiring program 531.
First, the processor 520 refers to the topology acquisition status information 534 shown in FIG. 5. The topology acquisition status information 534 is constituted by (request message ID, port and reception status), and holds such an information as to whether or not a notification message is received with respect to a request message which is identified by a request message ID transmitted to a certain port. The processor 520 refers to a column of a request message ID of the topology acquisition condition information 534 so as to acquire a request message ID(=x) which is not utilized, and adds such an information as (x, p, Sent) to the topology acquisition status information 534 (S101). In this information, symbol “p” indicates a port connected to the network managed by the management apparatus 500.
Next, topology information request message is transmitted to a neighbor packet communication apparatus (S102). A transmission source address of this request message is a MAC address corresponding to an identifier of a network interface of a port to which the request message is transmit; a transmission destination address is a broadcast address; and a message content corresponds to an identifier and a request memory ID (=x) which indicate that this message is a topology information request message. After the transmission of the topology information request message has been accomplished, the management apparatus 500 is brought into a reception waiting status of a topology information notification message.
Next, description is made of operations of the packet communication apparatus 100 which has received the topology information request message from the management apparatus 500. This process operation is performed by the processor 1051 of the packet communication apparatus 100 in accordance with the neighbor information distributing program 1053.
Firstly, the processor 1051 refers to the request reception ID information 1055 shown in FIG. 6 by employing the request message ID (=x) of the received topology information request message (S103). In the request reception ID information 1055, (request message IDs, reception time instants, reception ports, counter MAC addresses) of all of topology information request messages received after the packet communication apparatus 100 has been initiated have been stored. A counter MAC address is equal to a transmission source MAC address of a topology information request message. When the request message ID of the received topology information request message has not already been contained in this counter MAC address, such an entry as (x, present time instant, reception port) is added to the request reception ID information 1055, and the topology information request message is transmitted from the respective ports “p” other than the reception port (S104). The transmission source address of this message corresponds to an MAC addresses of a port for transmitting the request message (S104), and the request message ID is “x.” In the network of FIG. 1, this message is transmitted to the packet communication apparatuses 110, 120, 130, and 150. Also, such information of (x, p, Sent) is added to the topology acquisition status information 1056 (S105). The format of the topology acquisition status information 1056 is identical to that of the topology acquisition status information 534 shown in FIG. 5. After the transmission of this message has been accomplished, the packet communication apparatus 100 is brought into a reception waiting status of the topology information notification message.
Next, description is made of operations of the packet communication apparatus 120 which has received the topology information request message from the packet communication apparatus 100. It should also be noted that although FIG. 4 indicates process operations as to only the packet communication apparatus 120, similar process operations are carried out in other packet communication apparatuses 110, 130, and 140. This process operation is executed by the processor 1051 of the packet communication apparatus 120 in accordance with the neighbor information distributing program 1053.
First, the processor 1051 refers to the request reception ID information 1055 by employing the request message ID (=x) of the received topology information request message (S106). When the request message ID of the received topology information request message has not been already contained in this request reception ID information 1055, such an entry (x, present time, and reception port) is added to the request reception ID information 1055, and a topology information message is transmitted from each of the ports “p” except for the received port (S107). A transmission source address of this message is a MAC address of a network interface to which this message is sent, and the request message ID is “x.” Also, such an information (x, p, Sent) is added to the topology acquisition condition information 1056 (S108). After the transmission of this message has been accomplished, the packet communication apparatus 100 is brought into a reception waiting status of the topology information notification message.
When the terminal 121 (similar to terminals 122, 131, 132, 141, and 142) receives the topology information request message, the terminal 121 transmits the topology information notification message (S109). While the topology information notification message employs the transmission source MAC address of the topology information request message as the transmission source address, this topology information notification message contains as message contents, an identifier indicative of the topology information notification message; a request message ID of the topology information request message; an identifier (“Port0” in this case) of such a port that the terminal 121 receives the topology information request message; and further, information shown in FIG. 7 (row number (#), an apparatus name (Name), an apparatus type (Type), neighbor node, filter setting , setting ID address). As the apparatus sort, the own apparatus type information (=Endnode) is set, and since the neighbor node is not present at any node except for the node which receives the topology information request message, the neighbor node is an empty column. Since the filter setting operation cannot be carried out in the column for filter setting operation, this column is an empty column. A sub-net address belonging to the own network is set to the column of the setting IP address.
When the packet communication apparatus 120 receives the topology information notification message from the terminal 121 and the terminal 122, the packet communication apparatus 120 refers to the topology acquisition status information 1056 from the request message ID and the reception port number of this message so as to acquire a reception status. In the case that the relevant record is not present, or the reception status is “Received”, the packet communication apparatus 120 discards the relevant message. When the reception status corresponds to “Sent”, the packet communication apparatus 120 changes is reception status into “Received” and forms neighbor information 1057 shown in FIG. 8 (S110).
The neighbor information 1057 is constituted by (node number (#), apparatus name (Name), apparatus type (Type), neighbor node, filter setting, and setting IP address). The own apparatus information has been already recorded in the node number “0.” In this case, such information as to whether or not which filter setting operation is available for the own apparatus is set to the filter setting column, and an IP address connected in order that an external node performs the own filter setting operation is set to the setting IP address. In an example shown in FIG. 8, filter setting operations can be carried out on both an input side (Inbound) and an output side (Outbound), and this example indicates that an IP address for a setting purpose is “192.168.120.1.”
Also, when the above-explained topology information notification message is received, the packet communication apparatus 120 conducts a neighbor relationship from an identifier of a port and contained in the received topology information notification message and also from the information of FIG. 7, and then, stores the conducted neighbor relationship into the neighbor information 1057. Concretely speaking, in the case that the packet communication apparatus 120 receives a topology information notification message from each of the terminals 121 and 122 connected to “Port 2” and “port 3”, the packet communication apparatus 120 updates the entire portions of the node members 1 and 2, and the neighbor node column of the node number 0 of FIG. 8.
Thereafter, the packet communication apparatus 120 checks as to whether or not reception statuses as to all of the records having the relevant request IDs(=x) among the topology acquisition status information 1056 are “Received” (S111). In the case that the reception statuses are “Received”, the packet communication apparatus 120 contains the neighbor information 1057 in the topology information notification message to transmit the resultant neighbor information 1057 (S112). The transmission destination address of the topology information notification message sets the counter MAC address of the record for extracting the request reception ID information 1055 of FIG. 6 by the request message ID (=x), and the request message ID sets “x.”
When the packet communication apparatus 100 receives the topology information notification messages from the packet communication apparatuses 110, 120, and 130, the packet communication apparatus 100 refers to the topology acquisition status information 1056 from the request message IDs and the reception port numbers of the messages so as to acquire a reception status. In the case that the relevant record is not present, or the reception status is “Received,” the packet communication apparatus 100 discards the relevant message. When the reception status corresponds to “Sent”, the packet communication apparatus 100 changes this reception status into “Received” and similarly forms neighbor information 1057 (S113). In the case that the packet communication apparatus 100 receives the topology information notification messages from the packet communication apparatus 110, 120, and 130, such neighbor information 1057 shown in FIG. 9 is obtained.
Furthermore, the packet communication apparatus 100 checks as to whether or not reception statuses as to all of the records having the relevant request IDs among the topology acquisition status information 1056 are “Received” (S114). In the case that the reception statuses are “Received”, the packet communication apparatus 100 contains the neighbor information 1057 shown in FIG. 9 in the topology information notification message to transmit the resultant neighbor information 1057 (S115). The transmission destination address of the topology information notification message and the request message ID are determined in a similar manner to those of the packet communication apparatus 120.
When the management apparatus 500 receives the topology information notification message from the packet communication apparatus 100, the management apparatus 500 refers to the topology acquisition status information 534 from the request message ID and the reception port number of this received message so as to acquire a reception status. In the case that the relevant record is not present, or the reception status is “Received”, the management apparatus 500 discards the relevant message. When the reception status corresponds to “Sent”, the management apparatus 500 changes this reception status into “Received” and forms such topology information 535 shown in FIG. 10 in a similar manner to the topology information 535 shown in FIG. 10 (S116).
As previously explained, since the management apparatus 500 executes a topology acquisition process operation, the management apparatus 500 can acquires the topology of the network. This topology acquisition process operation is carried out in a periodic manner, or when a change of a network is detected.
3. Role Definition
Referring now to a flowchart of FIG. 11, a description is made of a role definition process operation of a packet communication apparatus by the management apparatus 500. This process operation is carried out by the processor 520 of the management apparatus 500 in accordance with the role defining program 532.
The manager has previously applied such a role definition information 536 indicated in FIG. 12 to the management apparatus 500. While the role definition information 536 is arranged by (role and condition), one or more pieces of conditions can be set with respect to one role. As the condition, the following conditions can be designated: That is, it is possible to designate that whether or not either a name (Name) or a type (Type) is made coincident with respect to a certain node, or whether or not a designated node is contained in a neighbor node (Neighbor) of a certain node.
When the processor 520 commences a role definition (S201), the processor 520 firstly starts a loop as to each node “N” contained in the topology information 535 (S202). Furthermore, the processor 520 commences a loop as to each of roles “R” of the role definition information 536 shown in FIG. 12 (S203), and furthermore, starts a loop related to the respective conditions “C” of the role “R” (S204).
Next, the processor 520 judges as to whether or not the node N can satisfy the condition C (S205). When such a condition is found out that the node N cannot satisfy the condition C, the processor 520 performs a similar judging operation as to the next role (S206). In the case that the node N can satisfy all of conditions, the processor 520 assigns a role “R” to the node N (S207), and then, stores this content to the role assign information. In such a case that a role which can satisfy all of these conditions cannot be found out, the processor 520 assigns “no role” to the node N (S208), and then, stores the content thereof in the role assign information 537. The processor 520 executes the above-explained operations with respect to all of nodes (S209).
Since the role definition process operation is carried out by the processor 520 in accordance with the above-described manner, the role assign information 537 can be formed. Concretely speaking, the role assign information 537 can be obtained from the topology information 535 of FIG. 10 and the role definition information shown in FIG. 12.
This role definition process operation is carried out when the role assign information 537 is required to be updated, for example, the topology information 535 and the role definition information 536 are changed.
4. Filter Setting and Distributing Operations
Next, a filter setting process operation by the management apparatus 500 will now be explained with reference to a flowchart of FIG. 14. This process operation is carried out by the processor 520 of the management apparatus 500 in accordance with a filter setting program 533.
In the filter setting operation, filter definition information 538 shown in FIG. 15 is employed which is set by the manager. The filter definition information 538 is constructed of (From, To, Flow, Action). This filter definition information 538 defines a processing method (Action) related to a packet which is indicated by a condition of “Flow” flowing from “Flow” to “To”. If “Action” of a packet is “Accept”, then the processing method passes this packet through a network, whereas if “Action” of a packet is “Drop”, then the processing method discards this packet on the network. With respect to a packet which is coincident with conditions of a plurality of entries, a processing method of an entry described at the uppermost grade is applied. An entry in which all of “From”, “To”, “Flow” are indicated by symbol “*” represents a process operation (default process operation) with respect to a packet which is not applicable to other entries.
When the processor 502 commences a filter setting operation (S301), the processor 502 clears the filter setting information 539. In a general-purpose packet transfer apparatus, all of flows are transferred without being filtered under this condition that a filter is not set.
Next, a loop of each entry of the filter definition information 538 is commenced (S303). As to the respective entries (From, To, Flow, Action), all of paths are acquired (S304) through which packets probably pass when the packets are directed from a node group indicated by “From” to a node group indicated by “To.” Then, a loop as to each the acquired paths “P” is commenced (S305). In the loop as to each of the paths P, first of all, filter points (N, Q, D) are acquired (S306) which corresponds to such a place that a filter setting operation can be carried out on the path P by employing the topology information 535. In this case, symbol “N” shows a node, symbol “Q” indicates a port, and symbol “D” represents a direction indicative of one of inbound/outbound. For instance, in the topology information 535 shown in FIG. 10, filter points of paths through which packets directed from a node group “floor end” (namely, node 4 to node 7 in FIG. 13) to a node group “undefined” (namely, nodes 8 and 9 in FIG. 13) probably pass correspond to (node 2, port 2, inbound), (node 2, port 1, outbound), (node 1, port 2, inbound), (node 1, port 3, inbound), and (node 1, port 3, outbound). Although the node 3 is also involved in the paths, the filter setting operation cannot be carried out in this node 3 in accordance with the topology information 535 of FIG. 10. As a result, the node 3 does not constitute the filter point.
Next, the processor 520 checks as to whether or not one or more pieces of the above-acquired filter points are present. When one or more pieces of the acquired filter points are present, the processor 520 adds (N, Q, D, Flow, Action) to the filter setting information 539 with respect to all of the filter points (S307). To the contrary, when one or more pieces of the acquired filter points are not present, the processor 520 further checks as to whether or not “Action” is “Drop” (S309). If “Action” is “Drop”, then there are some possibilities that the network may cause a not-intended packet to flow. As a result, the processor 520 issues such a warning to the manager (S310).
When the above-described process step is ended, the filter setting operation is advanced to a next path (S311). When all of the paths are processed, the filter setting operation is advanced to next filter definition information (S312).
When the above-described filter setting process operation is accomplished, the filter setting information 539 is actually set to the respective nodes. Concretely speaking, such filter setting information 539 shown in FIG. 16 is formed from the topology information 535 shown in FIG. 10, the role assigning information 537 indicated in FIG. 13, and the filter definition information 538 shown in FIG. 15.
With employment of the above-explained arrangement, in the network management system containing the management apparatus 500 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the automatic setting operation of the filter can be realized.
5. Supplement of Filter Setting Operation
In a filter setting operation, a transmission source IP address of a packet which is transmitted in a terminal, it is easy to employ a transmission source IP address except for such a transmission source IP address supposed by the manager. Accordingly, there is a better case that the transmission source IP address of the terminal, which is supposed by the manager, is excluded from a condition of a filter, and a packet with respect to an arbitrary transmission source IP address is filtered. In the present invention, if the manager performs such a designation as to a management terminal, then a filter setting operation can be implemented without employing a transmission source IP address of a packet of a filter setting operation where “Action” is “Drop” as a condition.
6. Automatic Setting Operation Executed when Packet Communication Apparatus is Added
Next, description is made of automatic setting operations when an unconnected packet communication apparatus 140 is connected to the packet communication apparatus 100 after the above-described automatic setting operation has been carried out.
When the management apparatus 500 detects a connection of the packet communication apparatus 140, the management apparatus 500 again performs the above-explained topology acquiring process operation, role defining process operation, and filter setting process operation. The role of the packet communication apparatus 140 is automatically assigned by the role defining process operation, so that filter setting information which should be set to the packet communication apparatus 140 may be acquired by the filter setting process operation.
In this case, as a method of detecting the packet communication apparatus 140, the following methods may be conceived: a method in which the packet communication apparatus 100 monitors a port to which an appliance is not connected; a method in which when the packet communication apparatus 140 is connected, the packet communication apparatus 140 transmits a control packet to the packet communication apparatus 100; a method in which the manager clearly notifies the detection to the management apparatus 500, and so on.
With employment of the above-described operations, when the packet communication apparatus 140 is conducted, the filter setting operation can be automatically carried out with respect to the packet communication apparatus 140 while the manager does not perform the setting operation.
7. Role Definition by GUI
Next, description is made of a second embodiment in which the role defining process operation is carried out by GUI (Graphical User Interface). Since only a role defining process operation of the second embodiment is different from that of the first embodiment, only this different process operation is explained.
FIG. 17 indicates a management apparatus 500 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
The management apparatus 500 contains a network interface 510, a processor 520, and a storage apparatus 530. The storage apparatus 530 stores thereinto a topology acquiring program 531, a GUI role defining program 541, a filter setting program 533, topology acquisition status information 534, topology information 535, role list information 542, role assigning information 537, filter defining information 538, and filter setting information 539.
With reference to FIG. 18, a role defining process operation using the GUI by the manager will now be explained. This process operation is carried out by the processor 520 of the management apparatus 500 in accordance with the GUI role defining program 541.
The control apparatus 500 is equipped with a display apparatus 550 and input apparatus 502 and 503, which are shown in FIG. 17. The display apparatus 550 contains a topology information display module 551, and a role display module 552. In the management apparatus 500, contents of both the topology information 535 and the role assigning information 537 are displayed on the topology information display module 551, and information of role list information 542 is displayed on the role display module 552. The role list information 542 corresponds to such a list that roles represented in FIG. 18 are described.
When the manager selects either a packet communication apparatus or a terminal, to which a role is set among the topology information displayed on the topology information display module 551 and designates a role from the role display module 552 by employing the input apparatus 502 and 503, the management apparatus 500 writes a content of this designation into the role assigning information 537.
When the role assigning information 537 is updated by the manager, the processor 520 starts the above-explained filter setting process operation.
In accordance with the above-explained method, the automatic setting operation of the network communication apparatus by way of the setting operation by the manager with employment of the GUI can be carried out.
8. Supplement of Role Definition by GUI
Although the GUI is employed in the above-described second embodiment, the role may be alternatively set by employing another type of user interface such as CUI (Character User Interface).
Another method may be alternatively carried out. That is, as to a packet communication apparatus and a terminal to which roles are not defined by the GUI in the second embodiment, the role may be defined by executing the role definition process operation using the role definition information 537 explained in the first embodiment.
It should be further understood by those skilled in the art that although the foregoing description has been made on embodiments of the invention, the invention is not limited thereto and various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of the appended claims.
1. A network management apparatus connected to a plurality of network communication apparatuses, including:
a network interface connectable to a network; a storage apparatus for storing thereinto a program and data; and a processor for executing a process operation in accordance with said program, wherein said network management apparatus comprises: a module that acquires at least one information piece from among a connection relationship, appliance types, and appliance identifiers as to said plurality of network communication apparatuses, and holds the acquired information; a module that applies roles to said plurality of network communication apparatuses, respectively; a module that holds an operation policy in which an operating content is described with respect to a role; and a module that determines operating contents of the respective network communication apparatuses based upon the information pieces and the operation policies of said respective network communication apparatuses, and sets the determined operating contents to said network communication apparatuses.
2. The network management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said network management apparatus further comprises:
a module that holds a role assigning rule which describes at least one information piece from among said connection relationship, said appliance types, and said appliance identifiers as to said plurality of network communication apparatuses in a correspondence manner with roles applied to said respective network communication apparatuses; and said module that applies roles applies the roles based upon said roles assigning rule.
3. The network management apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said module that applies roles applies a role based upon at least one of an appliance identifier, an appliance type, and a role of a network communication apparatus located adjacent to the network communication apparatus to which the role is applied.
4. The network management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said network management apparatus further comprises:
a module that outputs at least one information piece of said connection relationship, said appliance type, and said appliance identifier of one network communication apparatus among said network communication apparatuses which acquired the information pieces; and a module that accepts a designation of a role which should be applied to the network communication apparatus corresponding to said outputted information piece, and wherein said network management apparatus determines an operating content of said network communication apparatus based upon an operation policy corresponding to an designated role.
5. The network management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operating contents described in said operation policy correspond to packet filtering which describes a permission/non-permission of a communication between roles which are applied to the respective network communication apparatuses, and operating contents set to said respective network communication apparatuses correspond to operations of packet filtering functions of said network communication apparatuses.
6. A network system including:
at least one network management apparatus connected to a plurality of network communication apparatuses, and equipped with: a network interface connectable to a network; a storage apparatus for storing thereinto a program and data; and a processor for executing a process operation in accordance with said program, wherein said network management apparatus comprises: a module that acquires at least one information piece from among a connection relationship, appliance types, and appliance identifiers as to each of said plurality of network communication apparatuses; and holds the acquired information pieces; a module that applies roles to said plurality of network communication apparatuses, respectively; a module that holds operation policies in which operating contents are described with respect to said roles; and a module that determines operating contents of the respective network communication apparatuses based upon the information pieces and operating policies of said respective network communication apparatuses, and sets the determined operating contents to said network communication apparatuses, and wherein said at least one network communication apparatus comprises: a network interface connectable to a network; a processor for processing a packet received by said network interface; and a storage apparatus for holding a route table required for said processing operation, a network communication apparatus comprises: a module that notifies said information related to the own network communication apparatus to said network management apparatus; and a module that operates in accordance with a setting from said network management apparatus.
7. The network system according to claim 6, wherein said network management apparatus further comprises:
a module that holds a role assigning rule which describes at least one information piece among said connection relationship, said appliance types, and said appliance identifiers as to said plurality of network communication apparatus in a correspondence manner with the roles applied to said respective network communication apparatuses, and wherein said module that applies roles applies a role based upon said role assigning rule.
8. The network system according to claim 7, wherein:
said role applying module of said network communication apparatus applies a role based upon at least one of an appliance identifier, an appliance type, and a role of a network communication apparatus located adjacent to the network communication apparatus to which the role is applied.
9. The network system according to claim 6, wherein said network management apparatus further comprises:
a module that outputs at least one information piece of said connection relationship, said appliance type, and said appliance identifier of a network communication apparatus among said network communication apparatuses, and a module that accepts a designation of a role which should be applied to the network communication apparatus corresponding to said outputted information piece, and wherein said network management apparatus determines operating content of the network communication apparatus to which a role should be applied based upon a operation policy corresponding to said designated role.
10. The network system according to claim 6, wherein:
the operating contents described in said operation policy correspond to packet filtering which describes a permission/non-permission of a communication between roles which are applied to the respective network communication apparatuses; and operating contents set to said respective network communication apparatuses correspond to operations of packet filtering functions of said network communication apparatuses.
| 2006-10-04 | en | 2007-04-05 |
US-43309409-A | Java virtual machine having integrated transaction management system
ABSTRACT
A computing system is configured to deploy a JAVA application for execution in a distributed manner. The computing system includes a plurality of computing nodes including a domain manager node, the plurality of computing nodes forming a computing domain configured as an administrative grouping of the nodes administered by the domain manager node. The domain manager node is configured to provide, to each of the computing nodes, a main portion of the JAVA application. The main portion defines, for each computing node, a portion of the behavior of the JAVA application to be accomplished by that computing node. Furthermore, each computing node is configured to receive at least one class file having classes appropriate for the portion of the behavior of the JAVA application defined, by the main portion, to be accomplished by that computing node.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims priority under 35 USC 119(e) to U.S. provisional patent application No. 61/049,630, filed May 1, 2008, entitled “KTVM ARCHITECTURE” (Attorney Docket KABIP004P) and to U.S. provisional patent application No. 61/101,967, filed Oct. 1, 2008, entitled “KTVM ARCHITECTURE” (Attorney Docket KABIP004P2), all of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
The desire for high-volume, real-time transaction processing environments is well-known, for organizations such, as, stock brokerages, credit card processing facilities and online reservation systems. For example, from an operational point of view, “transactions” may include sales orders, credit card transactions or accounting journal entries. From a software point of view, transactions may include, for example, database transactions of the sort that keep information in a consistent form.
High-performance transaction processing used to be a rare phenomenon, utilized only in extreme environments by the largest companies. But in recent years, the Internet has opened the door to the arrival of global customers in quantity through e-commerce sites, call centers, and other forms of direct interaction. Business-to-business relationships are intermediated by direct computer-to-computer interaction, frequently based on Web services. Content delivery and mediation for services must take place in real-time. This bulge in transaction traffic follows the same pattern that has transformed the telecommunications industry from a few providers of old-style, fixed local and long distance calling services into a competitive field of real-time enterprises offering wireless mobile plans for delivery of complex, combined data, voice and video content.
The requirements of global and real-time transaction processing are becoming the norm, driving enterprises to seek out IT systems whose architectures can handle skyrocketing transaction volumes at the lowest possible cost per transaction, in a manner that allows for flexibility and agility in service offerings. Flexibility, high performance and low cost constitute a new transaction-processing triangle that confounds solutions and architectures designed on proprietary systems as recently as a decade ago.
One approach (which, while described here in the “Background,” is not admitted to be prior art to the subject matter claimed herein) is a transaction processing development methodology employs a flexible transaction processing development framework to facilitate development of a desired transaction processing application. See, for example, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/959,333, filed on Dec. 18, 2007 (Atty Docket No. KABIP002) and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/959,345, filed on Dec. 18, 2007 (Atty Docket No. KABIP003). Both application Ser. No. 11/959,333 and application Ser. No. 11/959,345 are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.
In these patent applications, an example of a transaction processing development framework is described. In the described example, a plurality of service adaptors are provided. An infrastructure is provided via which a user-defined business logic of the desired transaction processing application may be provided to the transaction processing development framework. The business logic definition is processed to instantiate the transaction processing application, including, instantiating a subset of the service adaptors to implement services of the transaction processing application, and further including arranging the instantiated service adaptors to accomplish the business logic in conjunction with generic transaction processing logic. The arrangement of service adaptors is guaranteed, when executed, to accomplish the transaction processing application in a manner that is fully transactional.
SUMMARY
In accordance with an aspect, a computing system configured to deploy a JAVA application for execution in a distributed manner. The computing system includes a plurality of computing nodes including a domain manager node, the plurality of computing nodes forming a computing domain configured as an administrative grouping of the nodes administered by the domain manager node. The domain manager node is configured to provide, to each of the computing nodes, a main portion of the JAVA application. The main portion defines, for each computing node, a portion of the behavior of the JAVA application to be accomplished by that computing node. Furthermore, each computing node is configured to receive at least one class file having classes appropriate for the portion of the behavior of the JAVA application defined, by the main portion, to be accomplished by that computing node.
The computing system is configured such that transactions on objects of the JAVA application may be distributed across multiple ones of the computing nodes. For example, the transactions on objects of the JAVA application being distributed across multiple ones of the computing nodes includes maintaining, across the multiples ones of the computing nodes and in a distributed manner, objects that are indicative of a transactional state of the JAVA application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates a basic environment architecture in one example. Referring to FIG. 1, the “external world” 102 interacts with a JAVA-enabled transaction platform service 104.
FIG. 2 shows an Order class that has its implementation installed on two nodes.
FIG. 3 illustrates an example in which each of six defined partitions belong to one of two partition groups, and each partition group supports a range of partition numbers.
FIG. 4 illustrates an example in which synchronous updates cause object data to be copied to a backup, and any replicate, nodes in the same transaction in which it is modified.
FIG. 5 illustrates an example in which deferred updates cause object data to be copied to a backup, and replicate, nodes based on a configurable time interval.
FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a configuration life cycle through which configuration files can go.
FIG. 7 illustrates an example in which different class files are executed on each of a plurality of nodes.
FIG. 8 illustrates an example of an undetected deadlock between a JAVA monitor and a transaction lock.
FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating rules to avoid transaction and monitor deadlocks.
FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a Managed Object that is persisted in shared memory.
FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a string “name” being maintained on a primary partition, a backup partition and a replica.
FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a development environment to develop fully transactional applications using standard JAVA language constructs.
FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a service that includes a VM layer and a transaction processing layer.
FIG. 14 illustrates an example in which a development environment is integrated to transaction processing, in which users are able to use JAVA development tools without modification, and the transparent integration is a result, in part, of transaction bindings and enhancement of the JVM interpreter.
FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a slightly modified version of a JVM interpreter that may be active during transaction execution for subsequent transparent locking, deadlock detection, etc.
FIG. 16 illustrates functionality of an example of a transaction processing platform class loader.
FIG. 17 illustrates how an agent 1702 may manage server-side responsibilities of a remote development interface.
FIG. 18 illustrates a JAVA Bindings Adaptor (JBA) plugin to a design center, which enables transaction processing platform native components to be automatically accessible from JAVA programs.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The inventors have realized the desirability of allowing a user to specify the user-defined business logic of a desired transaction processing application using a platform-independent language such as JAVA, even though JAVA (and other platform-independent languages) typically does not support fully-transactional applications. In accordance with an aspect, a JAVA Virtual Machine is interfaced to a transaction processing platform. Thus, for example, a transaction processing platform may be configured to execute instantiated service adaptors arranged to accomplish the business logic, provided in JAVA, in conjunction with generic transaction processing logic. The transaction processing platform may utilize a type system, and the type system utilized by the transaction processing platform may be exposed to the JAVA code using JAVA bindings, such as using a simple programming model to specify a JAVA class as a managed object. As a result, when executed, the user-defined business logic specified in JAVA and executed by a JAVA Virtual Machine (which may be, for example, a fully-certified JAVA Virtual Machine), enjoys all of the transaction processing features of the underlying transaction processing platform.
Before proceeding, we first provide a dictionary of acronyms and abbreviations used in this patent application. The “Kabira object modeling language” refers to a proprietary object modeling language (as opposed to JAVA, which is an open-source platform-independent language) usable to define business logic of a transaction processing application.
Dictionary of Acronyms and Abbreviations
Term
Meaning
BPMN
Business Process Modeling Notation
CORBA
Common Object Request Broker Architecture
EJB
Enterprise JAVA Bean
IDL
Interface Definition Language
IDLos
Kabira object modeling language
J2EE
JAVA 2 Enterprise Edition
JAVA Object
An object that is implemented using JAVA.
JAR
JAVA Archive
JNI
JAVA Native Interface
JTA
JAVA Transaction API
JTS
JAVA Transactional Service
JVMTI
JAVA Virtual Machine Tool Interface
KCS
Kabira Configuration Service
KPM
Kabira Process Modeling
KSSL
Kabira Security Service Layer
KTP
Kabira Transaction Platform
KTP Object
An object that is implemented using IDLos.
KTVM
Kabira Transactional Virtual Machine
PHP
Web scripting language
RMI
Remote Method Invocation
TPP
Transaction Processing Platform
VM
Virtual Machine
Furthermore, reference is made to the following documents:
The JAVA Virtual Machine Specification, Sun Micro Systems, Second Edition, Tim Lindholm and Frank Yellin, 1999. JVM Tool Interface, Sun Microsystems, Inc., Version 1.0, 2004. JAVA Native Interface Specification, Sun Microsystems, Inc., Version 6.0, 2003.
In one example, a virtual machine is provided that is an enhancement to a standard transaction processing runtime environment (for example, a transaction processing runtime environment as described in the U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 11/959,333 and 11/959,345 referred to above and incorporated herein by reference above), to support native execution of JAVA code in a fully transactional manner. In one example, the virtual machine is implemented by a transactional processing platform (TPP) runtime being “embedded” into (or joined with) a standard (i.e., standards-compliant) JAVA VM. As a result, the enterprise-class robustness of the TPP is brought to JAVA applications. Basically, in the example, programmers may use a standard JAVA programming model to realize sophisticated transactional features, without the added complexity of having to code, embed frameworks, or integrate complex disparate technologies to realize the transactional features.
In other words, a solution is provided in which main-frame class services are tightly integrated into a JVM, which allows transactional, low-latency, highly available applications to be written with JAVA and resulting in what functions as a transactional JVM. This is accomplished, in one example, using a simple programming model to specify a JAVA class as a transactional system managed object. Such managed objects provide, for example, transactions, distribution, shared memory persistence, high availability and/or replication. These features are described in detail throughout this patent application, but briefly touched upon here.
With respect to transactions, all transactional system managed objects are fully transactional, supporting such features as, for example, transactional locking, deadlock detection, and isolation. More particularly, “fully transactional” means that the normal ACID properties of a transaction are preserved (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation and Durability). With regard to atomicity, it is guaranteed that all data and events are either committed or not. It is assured that an event is delivered once and only once, as well as atomic data modifications. With regard to consistency, data consistency within a transaction is guaranteed. For example, any constraint violation (e.g. deadlock) causes all data modifications to be rolled back and all events to be replayed. With regard to isolation, transaction isolation is provided for multiple concurrent transactions. Multiple serializable and “dirty read” isolation semantics may be supported. With regard to durability, once a transaction commits, the results are committed to memory.
In a high-availability configuration, the data may be committed to memory on two machines transactionally. In some examples, single writer, multi-reader locking is also supported, with transparent lock promotion. Deadlock detection and retry may be transparently handled by the transactional JVM. Transactional isolation ensures that object state modifications are not visible outside of a transaction, until a transaction commits. Transactions may optionally span multiple JVM's, typically on different nodes of cooperating computing devices. Distributed locking and deadlock detection may be provided. The transactional JVM, in one example, provides all transactional features natively, such that no external transaction manager or database is required.
Managed objects may be distributed, and a distributed managed object may support transparent remote method invocation and field access. A distributed managed object may employ a single master node on which all behavior is executed, and that also holds the master data for the object. Generally, the managed objects may be held persistently in a shared memory. In this way, the object can live (e.g., be accessible, executed, etc.) beyond the lifetime of the JVM. In addition, shared memory objects may support extents.
A managed object may be mirrored, such that a mirrored managed object may have its object state transactionally copied from a primary node to another node, such as a backup node, when the object is modified. The backup node may, for example, take up processing of the object when then primary node is offline. Support may be provided to restore the object's state from the backup node to the primary node during application execution, without any service interruption. As a result, the managed object may have high availability properties.
Mirrored managed objects may be contained in a partition, and one or more partitions may exist on a single node. Each partition may be associated with a primary node and a backup node. Partitions may be migrated to different primary and backup nodes, during application execution, without service interruption. This may include repartitioning the managed objects to distribute the application load across different nodes, without service interruption.
A timer service may be provided to support the objects transparently across failover and restore operations. Object modifications may be optionally written to a local file system on the primary or backup nodes, such as in a change log, to support both multi-node memory and file system redundancy.
A replicated managed object may have its object state transactionally copied to all configured nodes when the object is modified. A replicated managed object also has a primary and backup node, which ensures that there is a backup node available for replicated object modifications in the case of failure of the primary node.
The transactional JVM may be, in general, compliant with industry-accepted JAVA specifications, such as being certified to be JAVA SE 6 compliant.
Having provided an overall introduction, we now provide a conceptual introduction to technical concepts provided by examples of a transactional JVM. Later, we specify in greater detail how these technical concepts may be realized in an embodiment.
As mentioned above, native JVM transactions may be provided for JAVA objects by a transactional JVM, without requiring any databases or transaction monitors. An atomic transaction may guarantee that a series of modifications to one or more objects either all occur (commit), or all do not occur (rollback). The state of the objects modified in the transactions is guaranteed to be consistent once the transaction completes. Multiple transactions occurring on the same objects are isolated from each other through transactional locking. However, once a transaction completes, the changes are made durable to ensure that the transactions can survive a system failure. These transactions are characterized by the well-known ACID principle (Atomic, Consistency, Isolation, Durability).
As also noted above, managed objects may have functionality appropriate to supporting fully transactional applications (and which functionality, in general, is not provided by conventional JVM's). In some examples, such functionality may be specified through the use of annotations, inheritance and configuration. In some examples, no special API's are needed to convert a “Plain Old JAVA Object” (POJO) into a transactionally managed object. As such, developer productivity may be improved, since developers may pay more attention to business logic and less attention to how that business logic may be implemented in a fully transactional manner. For example, existing JAVA code may even be supported, greatly easing migration of such code to a fully transactional environment.
Regarding distributed computing, it is noted that, during development, such objects may be restricted to being on one computing node and then, during deployment, the objects may be allowed to be distributed among multiple computing nodes. Mirrored objects may be associated with a Partition ID when created, where the Partition ID uniquely identifies a Partition that defines primary and backup nodes for the mirrored object.
In some examples, mirrored objects can only be created, updated and deleted on the currently active node for the partition, and can be read on either the primary or backup node. The active node for a partition is the configured primary node if the primary node is active, or is the backup node if the primary node is not active.
A replicated managed object supports all of the behavior of a mirrored managed object, plus all the object state is copied to all nodes in a cluster, so the replicated object state can be read on any node in the cluster. Mirrored objects are copied to only the backup node in a cluster, whereas replicated objects are copied to more than one node (typically, all nodes) in a cluster
FIG. 1 illustrates a basic environment architecture in one example. Referring to FIG. 1, the “external world” 102 interacts with a JAVA-enabled transaction platform service 104. The service 104 is may be implemented by one or more servers operating in concert, specific examples of which are discussed in greater detail later. The JAVA-enabled transaction platform service 104 includes a JAVA application 106, native JAVA skins 108 and a JAVA virtual machine 110. A transaction processing platform 112 is interfaced to the JAVA virtual machine 110 via a TP/JVM integration layer 114. Native services and channels 116 of the transaction platform 112 are exposed to the JAVA virtual machine as well.
With regard to the FIG. 1, the transaction platform 112 operates to provide transactional processing, while the JAVA virtual machine 110 is bound to the transaction processing platform (and may be certified as meeting an applicable JAVA standard). Thus, for example, high-availability and other transactional functionality may be provided for applications written in the JAVA language, even existing JAVA code that has not been particularly written with transactional functionality in mind. For example, in-memory low latency transactional functionality may be automatically provided, as well as a high-availability (HA) audit log option 119 to batch HA updates to databases such as provided by MySQL or Oracle. Failover and rapid fail-back functionality may also be provided. Domain administration may be provided via a domain manager interface 118 which may be accessible, for example, via HTTP using a standard web browser 120.
In the FIG. 1 environment, JAVA code automatically becomes inherently transactional and thus, for example, all aspects of local and distributed HA transactions may be managed for what would otherwise be standard JAVA objects In one example, the following “extends” construct results in JAVA code being automatically transactional:
public classTransaction extends com.kabira.platform..Transaction { public Transaction.Result run( ** code here is automatically transactional)
In accordance with an aspect, annotations may characterize a class's transactional semantics. For example, in the following code sample, the class “Pojo” (which stands for plain old JAVA object) inherently has transactional properties. Isolation levels are granular to a per-field basis, and transactionality is automatically bypassed for static fields.
import com.kabira.platform.annotation.*;
@Transactional
public class Pojo
{
@Isolation (level = Isolation.Level.SERIALIZABLE)
public long serializableField=0;
@Isolation (level = Isolation.Level.TRANSIENT)
public long transientField =0;
public static long staticField = 0;
}
We now describe a particular deployment model. In so describing the particular deployment model, we treat a “machine” as a particular localized computing device, and a “node” as a particular transaction application administration or application server. A “cluster” is a logical grouping of nodes that communicate to support a distributed transactional application. A “domain” is an administrative grouping of nodes for management and development, and a “domain group” is a sub-set of nodes in a domain for management and development. One or more nodes can run on a single machine. A node can belong to one cluster, a node can belong to one or more domains, and a domain group can belong to one domain. A cluster can be managed by more than one domain, and a cluster can also span one or more domain groups.
Now, as described above, managed objects are backed by shared memory. The managed objects can also be mirrored and replicated to other nodes in the cluster. In one example, the managed objects are not garbage collected; they are only deleted when explicitly deleted by the application. Managed objects thus may exist even following a normal JVM or machine shutdown, as well as surviving node and machine failures if they are mirrored or replicated to another machine.
An extent is a collection of all instances of a managed object. Extents are maintained for all managed objects. An extent can be used to find all instances of a managed object type at any time without having to maintain the collection, such as by actively keeping track of all the managed objects.
We now describe transaction functionality in more detail. For example, transactions can be local or distributed. Local transactions are used on a single node, even if the transactions span multiple JVM's on the single node. Distributed transactions are used between nodes. When a transaction spans nodes, a global transaction is started on the node that initiates the distributed work. The initiating node may act as the transaction coordinator; there need not be a separate dedicated transaction coordinator. That is, each node may act as a transaction coordinator for distributed work that the node initiates.
In some examples, there is no programmatic difference between local and distributed transactions. An appropriate transaction type is initiated transparently depending on whether local or remote objects are in the transaction. There may be a difference in how deadlocks are detected with local and distributed transactions, details of which are discussed later.
Transaction locks are used to maintain data consistency. In some examples, transaction locks are only taken on objects. A transaction lock is taken on an object when a transactional field is accessed or modified. The transaction lock is released when the transaction commits or rolls back. Executing a method on an object does not take a transaction lock (unless a transactional field is accessed in the method). This implies that multiple threads can be executing the same method on the same object at the same time.
No transaction locks are taken on extents when objects are created or deleted. This allows better parallelism for object creation and deletion, but it does have implications to transactional isolation. Locking and isolation are described in greater detail later.
The transaction system may support multiple reader, single writer locks. For example, multiple concurrent transactions can read the same object fields, but only a single transaction can modify an object field.
A read lock can be promoted to a write lock if an object field is read, and then the field is set. A read lock would be taken on the initial field read and then promoted to a write lock when the field is written. If multiple transactions attempt to promote a read lock on the same object, all transactions but one will generate a “promotion deadlock.” A promotion deadlock causes the transaction to rollback, dropping its read locks. The transaction is then replayed causing the transaction to reacquire the object locks.
Distributed objects support the same locking paradigm as objects on the local node. However, data caching can affect the locking policy by accessing the object data locally instead of from the remote node. Cached object data does not cause a distributed lock to occur. This can cause “state conflicts” if the object data is modified.
We now discuss deadlock detection. Since transactions are running simultaneously, it is possible to have deadlocks in applications. Deadlocks may be automatically detected and handled, such as in the following manner. One transaction is chosen as the “winner” and allowed to complete, and the other deadlocked transactions are chosen as “victims,” which are rolled back to where they started and replayed.
Deadlock detection and resolution is transparent to the application programmer, but deadlocks are expensive in both responsiveness and machine resources, so it is desirable to avoid deadlocks. Local transactions detect deadlocks immediately in the execution path. There is no timeout value associated with local transactions.
Distributed transactions use a configurable time-out value to detect deadlocks. If a lock cannot be obtained on a remote node within the configured time-out period, the distributed transaction is rolled back, releasing all locks. The transaction is then restarted. Because distributed deadlock detection is based on a time-out, applications with distributed deadlocks may perform poorly because the configured time-out would generally be large enough to ensure that no false deadlocks are reported during normal application processing.
Regarding isolation, transactions may support various isolation levels for object fields. One level is “none,” for which modifications are visible outside of the current transaction before the transaction commits. The serializable level is such that modifications are only visible outside of the current transaction when it commits. The isolation level of distributed objects can be affected by the configured cache policy for the objects. With respect to extents, generally, one isolation level is supported. For example, a read-committed extent isolation level is such that extent iterations and cardinality will return inconsistent results in the same transaction if other transactions create or delete objects in an extent.
We now discuss transaction logging. To support rollback of a transaction, object modifications are logged. The logging mechanism takes place in memory by keeping a copy of the “before image” of any changes. Any object references that are no longer referenced in a transaction are protected from garbage collection so these references are still available if the current transaction rolls back.
If the current transaction commits, all logged data may be discarded and any reference locks to deleted objects may be released. If the current transaction rolls back, the original state of all objects is restored. Any objects created in the transaction are released to allow these objects to be garbage collected.
Regarding distributed computing, any managed object can be a distributed object. A distributed object transparently provides remote method invocation and access to object fields across nodes. The full transactional guarantees for non-distributed objects are also true for distributed objects.
Access to a distributed object is through a normal JAVA object reference. In an example, all managed object references include data to identify the node where the object was created. The same instance of an object generally cannot exist on multiple nodes. Copies of an object's state may be located on multiple nodes to improve performance or robustness, but the master copy is located on a single node—such as the node where the object was created.
An object's behavior executes on the node where the object was created. Any methods invoked on an object reference are sent to the master node and executed there. Objects of the same type can be created on multiple nodes. This is accomplished by installing the application class files, or implementation, on multiple nodes. This application architecture supports data partitioning and caching or service availability mechanisms.
FIG. 2 shows an Order class that has its implementation installed on two nodes—Node One and Node Two. Two instances of the Order class have been created, one on Node One and one on Node Two. When the Order.cancel( ) method is executed on Node One, using the order(Node Two) instance, the method is executed on Node Two. The opposite is true for the order(Node One) instance.
We now discuss location transparency. Location transparency is provided for objects. This means that when an application accesses an object, the location of the object is transparent—it may be local or on a remote node. Location transparency is accomplished through the use of distributed references. All created managed objects have a distributed reference that contains the location where the object was created. Operations invoked on an object are routed back to the location where the object was created and the operations executed on that node.
Fields are accessed on a local copy of the field data in memory. Every node has both a location code and a node name. Location codes and node names are unique across all nodes in a cluster. The default location information may be, for the location code, a hash of the node name. For the node name, the default value may be the local host name. Both of these defaults can be changed to allow multiple nodes to run on the same host or to support a multi-homed host.
A location code may be a numeric identifier that is encoded in every object reference associated with managed objects. The location code can be used to determine the actual network location of the object. The location code of the node where the object was created is stored in the object reference. A node name is a human-readable string associated with every node. The node name is used to configure directed creates and High-Availability partitions.
Location discovery services provide support for runtime discovery of location information. This discovery may be utilized to allow nodes to discover all other nodes along with their location information. The location discovery service provides runtime mapping between a location code or node name and an actual network address. This mapping may be done at runtime so network specific addresses do not need to be encoded in object references. The location discovery service may perform location discovery in two ways: static discovery using configuration information; and dynamic discovery using a UDP broadcast protocol.
The system administrator can optionally configure the mapping between a node name and a location code/network address. This may be typically used if UDP broadcast cannot be used for location discovery. An example of when this may be used is when the remote node is across sub-net boundaries where broadcasts are not allowed.
If configuration information is not provided for a location name, UDP broadcast may be used to perform dynamic location information discovery. This has an advantage that no configuration for remote nodes has to be done on the local node—it is all discovered at runtime.
Location discovery is performed in at least the following cases: A directed create to a remote node; and a method or field is set on a remote object. When an object type is defined to use directed create, the location on which the create should occur is specified using a node name. When a create of this type is done, a location discovery request is done by node name, to locate the network information associated with the node name if the network information is not already known on the local node.
When an operation is dispatched on a remote object, a location discovery request may be done by location code, to locate the network information associated with a location code, if the network information is not already known on the local node.
We now discuss examples of types and type conflicts. Type information for every class installed on the local node may be broadcast to all other nodes when the local node starts up. As new types are added to the local node, their type information is broadcast to all other nodes in the cluster.
When a node receives type information for a type that is not present on the node, the node adds that type. When a node receives type information that is already present on the node, the node determines if the received type information differs from the type information that is currently installed on the node. If the two types are the same, the node ignores the received type information. If the two types differ, information about the differences is stored in a type-mismatch table. Type mismatches can happen when different versions of the same type are installed on separate nodes.
Whenever data is marshaled for this type, either from the local node or when it is received from a remote node, the type mismatch table is checked to see if the type matches using a type identifier and the location code of the remote node. If the type identifier/location code combination is found in the type mismatch table, a type conflict exception will be raised and returned to the originator of the request.
We now discuss “directed creates.” As has been discussed earlier, the transaction platform supports creating distributed objects on specific nodes. This allows an object creation to be done on any node in a cluster and the create actually happens on a specific node that may not be in the cluster on which the create was done.
The remote node does not need to have an implementation of the object installed for directed create to operate properly. However, any attempt to execute behavior on the remote object may require the object implementation to be installed on the remote node.
In some examples, a Directed Create type cannot also be a Cache Group type. Cache groups provide support for pushing object state to a set of network nodes. This maintains a distributed extent for the type, providing a very simple mechanism to access distributed references on a remote node. More details of locating a remote object are discussed later.
Nodes may be added to one or more cache groups by examining all types on the local node and determining the cache groups for all of the installed types. This is the list of cache groups for which this node participates.
Cache groups may be automatically maintained. When a node is started, it finds any other nodes that are part of any of its cache groups and pulls all references for those types to the local node. Once the node is initialized the references are maintained by pushing updates to all nodes in the cache group as objects are created and deleted.
A node should have an implementation of the object installed to receive updates from other nodes. If a node does not have the implementation installed, the cache group update will not be performed and no references will be pushed to the node. A log message will be generated indicating that a cache group is defined for the node, but no implementation installed.
In some examples, a Cache Group type cannot also be a Directed Create type.
Two distinct types of object data caching may be provided; passive, or “pull” caching, and active, or “push” caching. Passive caching copies field data to a remote node only when an object instance is accessed on the remote node. Active caching automatically propagates all object creates, updates, and deletes to all remote nodes configured in a “cache group.”
Once data is cached on a remote node, the data is refreshed based on the cache policies described below. All field access is done using the local cached copy of data. This can avoid network I/O that may required by other distribution technologies to access object field data.
Modifications to an object's fields on a remote node are written back to the node on which the object was originally created. The update happens in the same or a different transaction based on whether asynchronous or synchronous transactionality is configured. Details of “asynchronous” vs. “synchronous” transactionality are discussed later.
Distributed types have a cache policy. The cache policy controls when cached data is considered stale and should be read from the node on which the object was created. In some examples, the following cache polices can be defined for a type. These cache policies affect the behavior of an object that is being accessed on a remote node. They do not affect the push caching done by a Cache Group. The master node for an object is the one on which it was originally created.
A “Never” cache policy means that the cached copy is always considered stale. Every access to this object will cause the cached data to be refreshed. An “Always” cache policy means that the cached copy is always considered valid. It is never refreshed. A “Once” cache policy means that the first time a reference is accessed, the cache is considered stale. After that the cached copy is always considered valid. It is never refreshed again. A “Timed” cache policy means that the cached copy is considered valid for a configured amount of time. The amount of time after which it is considered stale is controlled by a cache time. If the object is accessed after cache time has expired since it was originally read onto the node, it will be refreshed.
Types that are defined as part of a cache group should have a cache policy of Always. This is because any updates made to instances of this type will be pushed out to all nodes in the cache group keeping the data in sync automatically. If the cache policy is not Always, remote node caches may cause unnecessary updates when an object is accessed.
Regarding asynchronous vs. synchronous, creates, writes, and deletes can be configured to occur either asynchronously or synchronously with respect to the transaction in which the create, write or delete occurred. If these operations are configured to occur asynchronously, they will occur in a separate transaction on the remote node than they did on the local node. This implies that there may be data inconsistency between the two nodes for a period of time. There are no distributed locks taken on remote nodes.
If these operations are defined to occur synchronously, they will occur in the same transaction on the remote node as they did on the local node. This implies that there is always data consistency between two remote nodes. Distributed locks are taken on the remote node to ensure the data consistency.
Regarding distributed computing, asynchronous operations may improve the overall performance of a distributed system because no remote locks are held. They also avoid the overhead associated with a distributed transaction. A downside is that there can be data inconsistency in a distributed system at a given point in time. This inconsistency lasts until the asynchronous work is executed on the target node.
Asynchronous creates cause an object to be created in a separate transaction on a remote node. Because the create is done in a separate transaction on the remote node, the transaction system does not report a duplicate key error back to the node on which the object was created. If a duplicate key is detected on the remote node, the create is not performed and a warning message is logged.
Regarding reading and writing data, object field data is transparently read from and written to a remote node when field data is accessed on a local node based on the caching policy.
Read operations are dispatched to a remote node to read field data depending on whether the cached data on the local node is stale. If the local cache is stale, a read will be done when a field is accessed. The read operation will complete before the get of the field data returns to the caller. All reads are done on the remote node in the same transaction in which the field access occurs—in other words, the reads execute synchronously.
When a field associated with a remote object is modified on a local node, a write is dispatched to the remote node to update the field data on that node. This write can occur in the same, or a different transaction depending on whether writes are defined to execute asynchronously or synchronously for the type. If writes are defined to be performed asynchronously for a type, it is possible that the target object of the write on the remote node has been deleted. This error is detected and the write is discarded. A warning message is logged.
A state conflict is reported when a write operation from a remote node detects that the data on the local node has changed underneath it. This is possible in a distributed system because the object may be modified from multiple nodes in the system.
State conflicts may be handled differently depending on whether writes are configured to be executed asynchronously or synchronously. When writes are configured to execute asynchronously, the state conflict is not detected until the write is executed on the remote node. This is in a different transaction than the one that modified the object data. If a state conflict is detected, the data is discarded. A warning message is logged.
When writes are configured to execute synchronously, state conflicts are handled transparently. If a state conflict is detected on the remote node, an error is returned to the local node, where the cache is flushed. The transaction will be rolled back and replayed. The application is never aware that a state conflict occurred.
Extents have a cache policy of Always. When an extent is accessed, only object references on the local node are returned. References are in the local extent either because the object was created on the local node, or it was pushed to the local node because the node is part of a cache group and references are being pushed to the node.
We now discuss an overview of failure conditions (abandoned transaction handling). Transactions can only be committed or rolled back by the initiator of the transaction. This means that any global transaction executing on a remote node cannot commit or roll back until the node initiating the transaction explicitly indicates that this should happen.
In normal operation, this generally works well. However, in the case where a node that initiated a global transaction fails, the transaction will remain pending on all remote nodes until the initiating node is restarted. If the initiating node never restarts, then the transaction is abandoned. Abandoned transactions generally require operator interaction to determine the outcome and complete the transaction.
We now discuss high-availability (HA). An HA node is a node that is configured for the HA service. An HA node may be in one of four HA states. An “unknown” HA state means that the node is started but the HA configuration has not been loaded. An “inactive” HA state means that the HA configuration is loaded, but HA has not been enabled. An “active” HA state means that the HA state is enabled and active. Finally, a “down” HA state means that connectivity has been lost to the node. The down state will generally only be seen for remote nodes. A local node will not see itself in the down state. A node in an Active state can receive requests from a router (details of which are discussed later), create, modify and delete Mirrored and Replicated Managed Objects.
A node in an Unknown state functions as a non-HA node. An Unknown state implies that the node has not been configured for HA. The HA router will only route to the local node. Mirrored and Replicated Managed Objects can be created, modified or deleted, but the changes are not propagated to other nodes
A node in an Inactive state does not receive requests from an HA router but it can route to other nodes. This is normal operation when a node is recovering from a failure. An Inactive node does not create, modify, or delete Mirrored or Replicated Managed. The Mirrored and Replicated Managed Objects are hosted on a backup node if the backup node is Active.
When a node is restarted, it is in an Inactive state. A restore node command is used to restore the node to Active.
Regarding mirrored and replicated managed objects, mirrored managed objects have a copy of the object state transparently maintained on a backup node. Mirrored managed objects can be updated on the current active node—either the primary or the backup if the primary node is unavailable. Replicated managed objects have a copy of the object state transparently maintained on a backup node. They also have the object state copied to all nodes in the cluster. Replicated Managed Objects are only updated on the current active node—either the primary or the backup node if the primary node is unavailable.
Regarding partitions, to balance an application workload across multiple machines, application data may be organized into partitions. Each mirrored and replicated managed object is in a single partition. When an object is created, an application assigned partition identifier for an object defines what partition contains the object. A partition identifier includes a group name and a number.
A partition is identified by a name. Partition names are globally unique on all nodes in the cluster. A partition group is a set of partitions that all have the same group name. The range of partition numbers supported by a partition group is from zero to the maximum partition number defined for all partitions in the group.
Partition numbers should not overlap for partitions in the same partition group, and the range of partition numbers should cover the entire range of possible partition number values, from zero to the maximum partition number. A partition identifier uniquely identifies its associated partition by a partition group name and a partition number falling within the range of partition numbers for a specific partition.
In the example shown in FIG. 3, six defined partitions are named One through Six. There are two partition groups defined—A and B. Each partition group supports a range of partition numbers from zero to 30. A partition identifier that has a group of A and a number of 22 maps to partition Three. Partitions are defined using configuration tools. The same partition configuration is loaded on all nodes for correct operation.
A node can support one or more partitions. All partitions generally have a primary and a backup node defined. If the primary node fails, the backup node takes over maintaining the object state for the primary node. When the primary node is brought back online, it is restored from the backup node. Backup nodes can also be taken offline and restored from a primary node.
Partition States (Partitions can have a state as shown in the table below):
HostedOnPrimary
The partition is active on the primary node
HostedOnBackup
Partition is active on backup node.
Migrating
Partition is migrating to another node
RestoringPrimary
Partition is being restored on primary. State
only seen on backup node
RestoringBackup
Partition is being restored on backup. State
only seen on primary node
PrimaryBeingRestored
Partition is being restored on primary. State
only seen on primary node
BackupBeingRestored
Partition is being restored on backup. State
only seen on backup node.
Abandoned
Partition not active on any node. Both primary
and backup nodes for partition are unavailable.
Mirrored and Replicated Managed Objects can be copied to remote nodes either synchronously or deferred. As shown in FIG. 4, synchronous updates cause the object data to be copied to a backup, and any replicate, nodes in the same transaction in which it is modified. The object data is copied to the backup node when the current transaction commits. Multiple updates to the same object in the same transaction will result in only a single update to the remote nodes. Synchronous copies ensure that no data is lost during failures at the cost of network latency in the application transaction path.
As shown in FIG. 5, deferred updates cause the object data to be copied to a backup node and to any replicate nodes, based on a configurable time interval. Objects are copied to remote nodes in a different transaction than the one in which they were modified. Deferred updates expose the application to data loss during failures, but it removes the network latency in the application transaction path.
When a node in an HA cluster is to be brought back online following a failure or system maintenance, the node is restored. A node restore performs the actions of copying mirrored object data to the node for all partitions hosted on the node, and copying all replicated object data to the node. When all of the object data copies complete, all partitions that have this node as a primary are changed to active on this node. The node state is than changed to Active and normal HA processing starts.
Regarding migration of a partition, partitions support migration to different primary and backup nodes without requiring system downtime. Partition migration is initiated by updating the configuration on the current primary node for the partition.
When the updated configuration is loaded and activated on the primary, all object data in the partition is copied to the new primary and/or backup node. When the copy completes, the partition state is changed to indicate that the partition is now active on the new node(s). The object data is deleted on the node from which the partition moved.
The partition state changes from HostedOnPrimary to Migrating when the configuration is activated on the primary node. When the migration is complete, the partition state is HostedOnPrimary again. Once the partition migration completes, the updated HA configuration file should be loaded on all other nodes in the HA cluster.
Regarding routing, transparent routing of data across nodes is provided. Routing to a specific partition or node is supported. When routing to a partition, the data is sent to the currently active node for the partition. This may be the primary node, or the backup node if the primary node is offline. Routing may be used for a number of reasons, including ensuring that all Mirrored and Replicated Managed Object updates occur on the active node for the object. Routing may also be used to send data to a specific node that has connectivity to an external client or system. Routing may also be used for other application specific reasons. Any JAVA object that is serializable can be routed.
Regarding configuration, online versioning of configuration data is supported. This allows the configuration to change without impacting a running application.
In some examples, configuration files contain the following items:
Name—user define name. Version—version number of configuration file Type—type of configuration data
For example:
//
// This file defines version 1.0 of a distribution configuration named
myconfiguration
//
configuration “myconfiguration” version “1.0” type “distribution”
{
...
};
Configuration files can go through a configuration life cycle as shown in FIG. 6. For example, possible states are:
Loaded—configuration data has been loaded into a node. This is a transient state. The configuration data automatically transitions to the Inactive state once it has been successfully loaded. Inactive—configuration data is loaded into a node, but it is not the active version. Active—the configuration version is active. Removed—configuration data has been removed from the node. This is a transient state.
Only one active version is generally allowed for each configuration Name within a type. For example if there are two versions, version 1.0 and version 2.0, of a configuration file with a Name value of “myconfiguration” and a type of distribution, only one version is active at a time in a node.
An audit step occurs before any configuration data changes states to ensure that the configuration data does not cause runtime failures. If the audit fails, the configuration state change does not occur and the system is left in the previous known good state.
When one version of a Name is active, and a new version is activated, the old version is replaced. That is, the old version is deactivated and the new version is activated as a single transaction. For example, loading and activating version 2.0 to replace version 1.0 may take place as follows:
1. Configuration “myconfiguration” version 1.0 is active.
2. Configuration “myconfiguration” version 2.0 is loaded, passes audit, and is activated.
3. Configuration “myconfiguration” version 1.0 is now inactive, and configuration “myconfiguration” version 2.0 is active.
Because the configuration replacement is done in a single transaction, there is no disruption to a running application.
Deactivating a configuration version does not restore any previously active version. Another version is activated, or loaded and activated, as a separate step. (Until this is done, there is no active version.) Nor does deactivating a version unload it; it must be explicitly removed to achieve this. Until removed, a deactivated version remains available to be reactivated again without having to reload the configuration data.
Having described some basics of distributed JAVA transactional applications, we now describe a methodology to developing such distributed applications using the transaction platform. Distributed applications may be developed using standard JAVA development tools, and the deployment and execution of the thus-developed applications are transparently managed on multiple nodes.
For example, features provided to support distributed application development are:
deploying applications to one or more nodes in an application domain. partitioning applications using domain groups within an application domain. dynamically adding a node to an application domain. automatically restoring an application to a node that is restarted in an application domain. application output available in the development tool for all application nodes.
Distributed development of applications, in one example, utilizes a Domain Manager node to coordinate the deployment and execution of applications to multiple nodes. To support distributed development, a deployment tool may be configured to connect to a Domain Manager node. The Domain Manager node coordinates all communication to the application nodes.
When an application is executed, the main entry point for the application is loaded and executed on all target nodes for the application. The same application is loaded on all application nodes. If the application requires different behavior on different nodes, application logic should provide this alternative behavior. Once “main” is started on each application node, each node requests class files as needed based on application execution. This implies that different class files are executed on each node. The standard class resolution rules are used to locate class files, as described in detail later.
For example, in FIG. 7, Node A requests class X from the client, node B requests class Y, and node C requests class Z. The Domain Manager monitors the execution of the application on all nodes. The deployment tool runs until all application nodes exit. Individual nodes can exit, and new ones can join the distributed application while the program is being executed.
The application execution scope may be controlled using these Deployment Tool parameters:
domainname—execute the application main on all nodes in the domain. domaingroup—execute the application main on all nodes in a domain group. domainnode—execute the application main on a single node.
For example using FIG. 7, the parameters may be:
domainname=MyDomain—executes main on Node A, Node B, and Node C. domaingroup=MyGroup—executes main on Node A and Node B. domainnode=Node C—execute mains on node C only.
As an illustration, the example below is run twice—once with domainname=Fluency Development and once with domainnode=primary, and the results are shown.
Distributed Development
// DESCRIPTION
// snippet to show execution on multiple nodes
//
// TARGET NODES
//
// domainname = Fluency Development
// domainnode = primary
package programming.fluency.development;
public class A
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
System.out.println(“Welcome to Fluency”);
}
}
Here is the output using domainname=Fluency Development.
[replica] Listening for transport dt_socket at address: 33959
[backup] Listening for transport dt_socket at address: 42952
[primary] Listening for transport dt_socket at address: 62361
[replica] Welcome to Fluency
[backup] Welcome to Fluency
[primary] Welcome to Fluency
INFO: Application [programming.fluency.development.A1] running on node [replica]
exited with status [0]
INFO: Application [programming.fluency.development.A1] running on node [backup]
exited with status [0]
INFO: Application [programming.fluency.development.A1] running on node [primary]
exited with status [0]
INFO: Run of distributed application [programming.fluency.development.A1] complete.
Here is the output using domainnode = primary.
[primary] Welcome to Fluency
INFO: Application [programming.fluency.development.A2] running on node [primary]
exited
with status [0]
INFO: Run of distributed application [programming.fluency.development.A2] complete.
When a new node joins a domain that is currently executing an application, the application is deployed to the new node transparently. Any application data required for that node should be either replicated or mirrored managed objects, so that the data is available on the new node.
A node can remove itself from the distributed application by leaving the domain. A node can leave a domain because it is shutdown, it is in an error condition, or it is explicitly removed from a domain. The deployment tool is notified that a node left the distributed application; however, execution continues. A node that removed itself from a distributed application can rejoin the distributed application by joining the domain again. When the node is active in the domain again, it is treated the same as a new node being added to the domain.
Regarding debugging, a JAVA debugger can be remotely attached to any of the application nodes participating in a distributed application. The following Deployment Tool parameters are examples of parameters that can be used to control debugging of distributed applications:
remotedebug—enable remote debug port on all target application nodes. suspend—suspend all target application nodes before executing main.
When using suspend to control execution of main on target application nodes, the debugger should be connected to each application node to continue application execution. In an example, if the debugger is not connected to an application node, the application will never continue executing on that node.
The output below shows what may be displayed when an application is deployed to a node (annotation added):
INFO: fluency.jar version: [core_linux080924]
INFO: Kabira Domain Manager version: [core_linux080924]
INFO: node [replica] version: [core_linux080924]
#
# This is the requested debugger port on the replica node
#
INFO: node [replica] JVM remote debugger agent listening on port
[48072] ...
INFO: node [backup] version: [core_linux080924]
#
# This is the requested debugger port on the backup node
#
INFO: node [backup] JVM remote debugger agent listening on port
[2471] ...
INFO: node [primary] version: [core_linux080924]
#
# This is the requested debugger port on the primary node
#
INFO: node [primary] JVM remote debugger agent listening on port
[9738] ...
#
# These are the messages from the JVM confirming the debugger port
# on all nodes
#
[replica] Listening for transport dt_socket at address: 48072
[backup] Listening for transport dt_socket at address: 2471
[primary] Listening for transport dt_socket at address: 9738
We now describe details of a transaction processing JAVA Virtual Machine and its life cycle. Regarding starting and stopping, when a transaction processing JVM is first started, it executes the application's main entry point, passing in any specified application parameters. When the main method returns, the JVM exits. The following is a simplistic example of the entry and exit point in JVM source code.
package programming.fluency.jvmlifecycle;
public class A
{
public static void main(String[ ] args)
{
//
// Returning from main - causes the JVM to exit
//
System.out.println(“returning from main”);
}
}
In the example, when main exits, the JVM is shut down. The node waits for a configurable amount of time before forcing down the JVM. If the node has to force down the JVM, the node must be restarted to be used again. The usual reason that a JVM will not exit is that the application started threads that do not exit when the JVM is asked to shutdown.
A transactional JVM can also be shutdown by an operator command external to the application. The application can detect the operator command and exit from main when the command is detected. An example of such shutdown is provided in the following example.
package programming.fluency.vmlifecycle;
import com.kabira.platform.swbuiltin.*;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
public class E extends Transaction
{
private boolean m_exit = false;
public static void main (String [ ] args) throws InterruptedException
{
E e = new E( );
while (e.m_exit == false)
{
e.execute( );
System.out.println(“waiting for
operator to shutdown JVM...”);
Thread.sleep(4000);
}
System.out.println(“Operator shutdown JVM exiting”);
//
// Return from main shutting down the JVM
//
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
m_exit = EngineServices.isStopping( );
}
}
When the preceding example is run, it outputs the following (annotation added):
#
# Waiting for node to shutdown
#
waiting for operator to shutdown JVM...
waiting for operator to shutdown JVM...
waiting for operator to shutdown JVM...
waiting for operator to shutdown JVM...
waiting for operator to shutdown JVM...
waiting for operator to shutdown JVM...
waiting for operator to shutdown JVM...
waiting for operator to shutdown JVM...
#
# Node is shutdown. An error is seen since communication was
# lost to the node from the client when the node shuts down.
# This is the expected behavior.
#
# NOTE: The “Operator shutdown JVM exiting” message is not printed
# because the node shutdowns before the message is seen by the
# deployment tool.
#
Error: [39] : Node cannot perform administration commands.
Reason: switch not started
(switchadmin notifier not available).
FATAL: Command failed: null
We now describe managing threads. In particular, in order to cleanly shutdown the JVM, all user created threads should exit when main returns. The following approaches may be used to manage user threads to ensure a clean JVM shutdown:
1. Do not return from main until all user threads exit.
2. Use a JVM shutdown hook to determine when to exit user threads.
3. Mark all user threads as daemon threads.
The example below shows the use of Threadjoin( ) to block in main until the user thread exits.
package programming.fluency.vmlifecycle;
class T extends Thread
{
@Override
public void run( )
{
System.out.println(“hello from the thread”);
}
}
public class B
{
public static void main(String[ ] args)
{
//
// Create and start a new thread
//
T t = new T( );
t.run( );
//
// Wait for the thread to return before exiting main
//
try
{
t.join( );
}
catch (InterruptedException ex)
{
// handle interrupted exception
}
//
// Returning from main - causes the JVM to exit
//
System.out.println(“returning from main”);
}
}
The example below shows the use of a JVM shutdown hook to coordinate shutdown of user threads.
package programming.fluency.vmlifecycle;
//
// This is the user thread
//
class T extends Thread
{
volatile boolean done = false;
@Override
public void run( )
{
while (done == false)
{
try
{
System.out.println(“thread sleeping...”);
Thread.sleep(4000);
}
catch (InterruptedException ex)
{
// Handle exception
}
}
}
}
//
// This is the shutdown hook thread
//
class S extends Thread
{
S(T t)
{
m_t = t;
}
private T m_t;
@Override
public void run( )
{
System.out.println(“VM shutting down”);
m_t.done = true;
}
}
public class D
{
public static void main(String[ ] args)
{
//
// Create a thread
//
T t = new T( );
//
// Set up a shutdown hook
//
S s = new S(t);
Runtime.getRuntime( ).addShutdownHook(s);
//
// Start the user thread
//
t.start( );
//
// Return from main - causes the JVM to call the
// installed shutdown hook and to exit the JVM
//
System.out.println(“returning from main”);
}
}
The example below shows how a thread can be marked as a daemon thread. Daemon threads allow the JVM to exit even if they are running.
package programming.fluency.vmlifecycle;
class T extends Thread
{
@Override
public void run( )
{
try
{
System.out.println(“thread sleeping...”);
Thread.sleep(5000);
}
catch (InterruptedException ex)
{
// Handle exception
}
}
}
public class C
{
public static void main(String[ ] args)
{
//
// Create a new thread
//
T t = new T( );
//
// Mark the thread as a daemon thread
//
t.setDaemon(true);
//
// Start the thread
//
t.run( );
//
// Returning from main - causes the JVM to exit
//
System.out.println(“returning from main”);
}
}
Regarding unhandled exceptions, unhandled exceptions cause the current thread to exit. If the current thread is the thread in which main was executed, the JVM will exit with a non-zero exit code. The example below shows an unhandled exception in the main thread.
package programming.fluency.vmlifecycle;
class UnhandledException extends JAVA.lang.Error
{
}
public class A
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
//
// Throw an unhandled exception - non-zero
exit code returned from main
//
throw new UnhandledException( );
}
}
When the above example is run, the following output may be generated:
[primary] Listening for transport dt_socket at address: 50647
[primary] JAVA main class programming.fluency.vmlifecycle.A.main
exited with an exception.
[primary] JAVA exception occurred:
programming.fluency.vmlifecycle.UnhandledException
[primary] at programming.fluency.vmlifecycle.A.main(A.JAVA:30)
INFO: Application [programming.fluency.vmlifecycle.A2] running
on node [primary] exited with status [−1]
INFO: Run of distributed
application [programming.fluency.vmlifecycle.A2] complete.
Transactional behavior is optionally provided for any JAVA class. Transaction boundaries may be defined using, in an example implementation, the com.kabira.platform.Transaction class. Annotation is used to specify which classes are transactional.
An example of a transaction class is show below:
package com.kabira.platform;
public abstract class Transaction
{
/**
* Possible returns from the execute( ) method.
*/
public enum Result
{
/** Commit the transaction */
COMMIT,
/** Rollback the transaction */
ROLLBACK
}
/**
* Exception thrown if execute( ) is called with a transaction
* already active, or the transaction services are not
* available.
*/
public static class InvalidTransactionState extends JAVA.lang.Error
{
InvalidTransactionState(String message)
{
super(message);
}
}
/**
* Exception thrown in the run method to rollback the transaction
*/
public static class Rollback extends JAVA.lang.Exception
{
public Rollback( )
{
super(“no message”);
}
public Rollback(String message)
{
super(message);
}
}
public Transaction( ) { }
/**
* User defined method that is run in the context of a transaction.
*
* @exception com.kabira.platform.Transaction.Rollback
* Thrown if the transaction should be rolled back
* and all changes discarded.
*/
protected abstract void run( ) throws Transaction.Rollback;
/**
* Executes the user defined run( ) method within a transaction. Any
* deadlocks will be transparently retried.
*
* @throws InvalidTransactionState
* If a transaction already active, or the transaction services
* are not available.
*/
public final Result execute( ) throws InvalidTransactionState
{
...
}
}
An application may implement the abstract run method to execute application code in a transaction. A transaction is implicitly started when the execute method is called. The execute method calls the application-provided run method and executes the application code in a transaction. A transaction may be terminated in the following ways:
application code returns from the run method application throws a Transaction.Rollback exception from the run method a deadlock is detected (the transaction is transparently replayed) an unhandled exception
An application can explicitly control the outcome of a transaction by throwing the Transaction.Rollback exception in the run method. The Transaction.Rollback exception causes the current transaction to rollback. Returning normally from the run method causes the transaction to commit.
The following example is a simple counting program that demonstrates a field value being rolled back.
package programming.fluency.transactions;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
public class T extends Transaction
{
private boolean m_commit;
private int m_count = 0;
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
T t = new T( );
t.m_commit = true;
t.execute( );
System.out.println(t.m_count);
t.m_commit = true;
t.execute( );
System.out.println(t.m_count);
t.m_commit = false;
t.execute( );
System.out.println(t.m_count);
}
@Override
public void run( ) throws Transaction.Rollback
{
m_count += 1;
if (m_commit == true)
{
return;
}
throw new Transaction.Rollback( );
}
}
When the above example is executed, the output may be (annotation added):
#
# Initial call to execute that commits
#
1
#
# Second call to execute that commits
#
2
#
# Third call to execute that rolls back - field restored to value before call
#
2
In some examples, a JAVA class may be made transactional in the following ways:
it has an @Transactional annotation it extends a transactional class it is contained by a transactional class
All fields in a transactional class are transactional unless explicitly changed using the @Isolation annotation (described below). This explicitly includes:
primitive types object references array references
Field modifications using a reference in a transactional field are transactional, while modifications using a reference in a non-transactional field are non-transactional.
We now describe the “@Transactional” annotation in accordance with some examples of a transactional JAVA VM. The @Transactional annotation marks a JAVA class as transactional. When an instance of a JAVA class with the @Transactional annotation is created, read, modified, or deleted in a transaction, it has transactional behavior. The @Transactional annotation may be defined as shown below:
package com.kabira.platform.annotation;
import JAVA.lang.annotation.*;
/**
* Mark a class transactional
*/
@Documented
@Inherited
@Retention(RetentionPolicy.RUNTIME)
@Target(ElementType.TYPE)
public @interface Transactional
{
/**
* Define the transaction context for a class
*/
public static enum Context
{
/** a transaction is required to use type */
REQUIRED,
/** type can be used with or without a transaction */
OPTIONAL,
}
Context context( ) default Context.OPTIONAL;
/**
* Define whether inherited fields are excluded from
*/
public static enum InheritedFields
{
/**
* Inherited fields are not transactional
*/
EXCLUDE,
/**
* Inherited fields are transactional
*/
INCLUDE,
}
InheritedFields inheritedFields( ) default InheritedFields.INCLUDE;
}
The following table summarizes some @Transactional Annotation Properties
Property
Values
Comments
Context
REQUIRED - class instances
The Context property defines
can only be created, read,
whether a transaction is
modified, or deleted in a
required for instances of a
transaction. OPTIONAL -
class. All managed objects
class instances can optionally
have a REQUIRED
be in a transaction when
transaction context.
instances are created, read,
modified, or deleted.
Inherited
EXCLUDE - all inherited
The InheritedFields property
Fields
fields are not included in
controls whether inherited
transactional behavior.
fields are included or
INCLUDE - all inherited
excluded from transactional
fields are included in
behavior
transactional behavior.
Attempting to create, read, modify, or delete an instance of a Context.REQUIRED class outside of a transaction will cause a com.kabira.platform.NoTransactionError to be thrown by the JVM.
All object and array references are implicitly annotated with @Transactional(Context.OPTIONAL).
Transactionality is propagated to contained references in a transactional class. This applies to both object and array references.
The @Isolation annotation controls the transaction isolation of fields. When a field with the @Isolation annotation in an instance of a JAVA class is read or modified in a transaction, it uses the isolation level defined by the @Isolation annotation. The @Isolation annotation may be defined as shown in the following example:
package com.kabira.platform.annotation;
import JAVA.lang.annotation.*;
/**
* Define the transaction isolation of a field
*/
@Documented
@Retention(RetentionPolicy.RUNTIME)
@Target(ElementType.FIELD)
public @interface Isolation
{
/**
* Define isolation level
*/
public static enum Level
{
/** the field uses a serializable isolation level */
SERIALIZABLE,
/** field is non-transactional */
TRANSIENT
}
Level level( ) default Level.SERIALIZABLE;
}
An @Isolation Annotation property includes the “level” field taking the value “SERIALIZABLE,” which indicates a single write, multi-reader locking is used for the field; or taking the value “TRANSIENT,” which indicates no transactional locking or logging is used for the field.
We now discuss annotation audits. When a class is loaded into the transactional JVM, the Class Loader performs the following annotation audits:
The @Transactional Context property cannot be OPTIONAL if a class extends a superclass with an @Tranasactional Context of REQUIRED. It is illegal to relax transactional requirements in an inheritance hierarchy. The @Transactional InheritedFields property cannot be EXCLUDE if the class extends a super-class with an @Transactional annotation. The @Isolation annotation cannot be specified on a static field. The @Isolation Level property cannot be specified as TRANSIENT on a field in a Managed Object class (described later).
When an audit failure occurs, as illustrated in the following example, the class is not loaded and an audit failure message is reported.
package programming.fluency.transactions;
import com.kabira.platform.annotation.*;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject;
//
//
Cannot relax transactional requirements
//
@Transactional(context=Transactional.Context.OPTIONAL)
class C1 extends ManagedObject { };
public class C extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new C( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
//
// This class will fail annotation audit and fail to load
//
new C1( );
}
}
When this above example is executed, the following may be output:
[primary] Listening for transport dt_socket at address: 45314
[primary] Class programming.fluency.transactions.C1
failed audit; [Cannot define
Transactional context to be Optional if the superclass defines it Required.]
[primary] JAVA main class programming.fluency.transactions.C.main
exited with an exception.
[primary] JAVA exception occurred: JAVA.lang.NoClassDefFoundError:
programming/fluency/transactions/C1
[primary] at programming.fluency.transactions.C.run(C.JAVA:42)
[primary] at
com.kabira.platform.Transaction.execute(Transaction.JAVA:132)
[primary] at
programming.fluency.transactions.C.main(C.JAVA:33)
INFO: Application [programming.fluency.transactions.C0] running
on node [primary] exited with status [−1]
INFO: Run of distributed
application [programming.fluency.transactions.C0] complete.
The example below illustrates:
use of the @Transactional annotation use of the @Isolation annotation behavior of the Transactional.InheritedFields.EXCLUDE property value inheriting transactional behavior through extends
package programming.fluency.transactions;
import com.kabira.platform.annotation.*;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
class A1
{
String s;
}
//
// This class must execute in a transaction
//
@Transactional(
context=Transactional.Context.REQUIRED,
inheritedFields=Transactional.InheritedFields.EXCLUDE)
class A2 extends A1
{
String t;
@Isolation(level=Isolation.Level.TRANSIENT)
String u;
}
//
// This class is transactional because it extends A2
//
class A3 extends A2
{
String v;
}
public class A extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new A( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
A3 a3 = new A3( );
//
// This is not transactional since inheritedFields
// property is EXCLUDE
//
a3.s = “s value”;
//
// This is transactional
//
a3.t = “t value”;
//
// This is not transactional because of @Isolation annotation
//
a3.u = “u value”;
//
// This is transactional
//
a3.v = “v value”;
}
}
Regarding static fields, static fields are always non-transactional. The example below illustrates the T.m_count field in the “Transaction Boundaries” example, above, being a static field. The changed sample output (annotation added) is also illustrated:
public class T extends Transaction
{
private boolean m_commit;
//
// m_count field is now static
//
private static int m_count = 0;
...
}
The corresponding output (annotated) is:
#
# Initial call to execute that commits
#
1
#
# Second call to execute that commits
#
2
#
# Third call to execute that rolls back - field is not restored since
# it is non-transactional
#
3
We now discuss some transactional class examples. The example below shows:
Behavior of object references in fields Behavior of array references in fields Behavior of accessing references using a local variable
package programming.fluency.transactions;
import com.kabira.platform.annotation.*;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
//
// Class that can be executed inside or outside of a transaction
//
class V1
{
Long m_long;
public void setField(long value)
{
m_long = value;
}
};
//
// This class must have an active transaction context
//
@Transactional(context=Transactional.Context.REQUIRED)
class V2
{
private V1 m_v1;
private long m_longs[ ][ ];
@Isolation(level=Isolation.Level.TRANSIENT)
private V1 m_transientV1;
private static long m_longstatic;
V2( )
{
super( );
m_v1 = new V1( );
m_longs = new long[10][30];
}
public void update( )
{
//
// This is transactional - modifying
// contents of reference using a local variable
//
V1 v1 = m_v1;
v1.m_long = 5;
//
// This is transactional - reference replaced
// with a new reference
//
m_v1 = new V1( );
//
// This is transactional - assignment through
// a transactional field.
//
m_v1.m_long = 5;
//
// This is transactional - update using method
// in transaction scope
//
m_v1.setField(4);
//
// This is transactional - array update through
// a transactional field
//
m_longs[5][20] = 27;
//
// This is non-transactional - reference replaced
// with a new reference in a non-transactional field
//
m_transientV1 = new V1( );
//
// This is non-transactional - assignment to
// a non-transactional field.
//
m_transientV1.m_long = 8;
//
// This is non-transactional - assignment to
// a static field
//
m_longstatic = 10;
}
}
public class V extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new V( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
new V2( ).update( );
}
}
We now discuss transaction thread of control. Once a transaction is started, all methods called from the run method are in the transaction. An example is shown below:
package programming.fluency.transactions;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
public class TC extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new TC( ).execute( );
}
@Override
public void run( )
{
methodOne( );
}
private void methodOne( )
{
//
// This is executing in a transaction
//
methodTwo( );
}
private void methodTwo( )
{
//
// This is also executing in a transaction
//
// ...
}
}
The “thread of control” of this transaction can span JVMs and nodes if the methods being executed are on distributed objects. Transactions do not span threads in a non-distributed transaction. If a new thread is created in a transaction, the new thread is not executing in a transaction when it starts. The creation of a thread is also not transactional. Specifically if a thread is started in a transaction and the transaction rolls back, the thread is still running.
The example below shows thread creation.
package programming.fluency.transactions;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
class U1 extends Thread
{
@Override
public void run( )
{
System.out.println(“new thread not in a transaction”);
}
}
public class U extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new U( ).execute( );
}
@Override
public void run( )
{
//
// Create a new daemon thread
//
U1 u1 = new U1( );
u1.setDaemon(true);
//
// The thread is started even if the transaction rollsback.
// The thread run method is not in a transaction
//
u1.start( );
}
}
We now describe locking and deadlocks. In particular, transaction locks are taken in the following cases on a transactional class:
Managed Object creation—extent write-locked Managed object deletion—extent write-locked Fields accessed—write lock taken on set, read lock taken on get
Generally, non-managed objects do not take write locks on creation because there is no extent being maintained.
Read locks are promoted to write locks if object fields are first read and then modified. Transaction locks are held until the current transaction commits or aborts.
We now provide an example of object locking.
package programming.fluency.transactions;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject;
/*
* L1 Managed Object
*/
class L1 extends ManagedObject
{
private L1 ( ) { };
public L1 (String name)
{
this.name = name;
}
public String name;
public boolean lock;
}
/*
* Transaction to create an instance of L1
*/
class L2 extends Transaction
{
L1 m_a;
@Override
protected void run( )
{
m_a = new L1(“existing”);
}
}
/*
* Transaction to delete an instance of L1
*/
class L3 extends Transaction
{
L1 m_a;
@Override
protected void run( )
{
if (Transaction.hasWriteLock(m_a) == false)
{
System.out.println(m_a.name + “: does not have a
write lock”);
}
//
// Deleting an object takes a write lock
//
m_a.delete( );
if (Transaction.hasWriteLock(m_a) == true)
{
System.out.println(m_a.name + “: now has a write lock”);
}
}
}
/*
* Main transaction
*/
public class L extends Transaction
{
private L1 m_a;
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
L 1 = new L( );
L2 l2 = new L2( );
L3 l3 = new L3( );
l2.execute( );
l.m_a = l2.m_a;
l.execute( );
l3.m_a = l2.m_a;
l3.execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( )
{
L1 a = new L1(“created”);
if (Transaction.hasWriteLock(a) == true)
{
System.out.println(a.name + “: has a write lock”);
}
//
// This object does not have a write lock because it was created
// outside of this transaction. Reading the name field will
// take a read lock.
//
if (Transaction.hasWriteLock(m_a) == false)
{
System.out.println(m_a.name + “: does not have a
write lock”);
}
if (Transaction.hasReadLock(m_a) == true)
{
System.out.println(m_a.name + “: now has a read lock”);
}
//
// Take a write lock by setting the lock attribute. This
// promotes the read lock taken above when name was read.
//
m_a.lock = true;
if (Transaction.hasWriteLock(m_a) == true)
{
System.out.println(m_a.name + “: now has a write lock”);
}
}
}
When the above example executes, it generates the following output:
created: has a write lock existing: does not have a write lock existing: now has a read lock existing: now has a write lock existing: does not have a write lock existing: now has a write lock
Deadlocks are handled transparently such that deadlocks do not have to be explicitly handled by the application. When a deadlock occurs, the Transaction class detects the deadlock, rolls back the current transaction and restarts a new transaction by calling the run method again.
We now discuss explicit locking. That is, it is possible to explicitly transaction lock objects. Explicit transaction locking is useful to avoid lock promotions. A lock promotion happens when an object has a read lock and then the object is modified. This is usually caused by first reading a field value and then modifying the object.
These mechanisms are available to explicitly lock objects:
Transaction.readLockObject—explicitly read lock an object Transaction.writeLockObject—explicitly write lock an object Base.selectUsing . . . —explicitly lock an object when selecting it.
The Base.selectUsing . . . method is discussed in detail later.
The example below show how to avoid a lock promotion.
package programming.fluency.transactions;
import com.kabira.platform.annotation.*;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
@Transactional
class B1
{
String input;
String output;
}
public class B extends Transaction
{
enum Action
{
PROMOTE,
WRITELOCK
}
private B1 m_b1;
private Action m_action;
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
B b = new B( );
b.m_b1 = new B1( );
b.m_action = Action.PROMOTE;
b.execute( );
b.m_action = Action.WRITELOCK;
b.execute( );
}
void reportLock(String msg)
{
System.out.println(msg + “ B1: read lock = ”
+ Transaction.hasReadLock(m_b1) +
“, write lock = ”
+ Transaction.hasWriteLock(m_b1));
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
if (m_action == Action.PROMOTE)
{
reportLock(“promote: enter”);
//
// Accessing input takes a read lock
//
String i = m_b1.input;
reportLock(“promote: read”);
//
// Read lock is promoted to write lock. Note this
// also happens when the following is executed:
//
// m_b1.output = m_b1.input;
//
m_b1.output = i;
reportLock(“promote: write”);
}
else
{
assert ( m_action == Action.WRITELOCK );
reportLock(“writelock: enter”);
//
// Explicitly take write lock to avoid promotion
//
Transaction.writeLockObject(m_b1);
//
// Accessing input will already have write lock
//
String i = m_b1.input;
reportLock(“writelock: read”);
//
// No promotion of locks happen
//
m_b1.output = i;
reportLock(“writelock: write”);
}
}
}
The output of the preceding example (annotated) is as follows:
[primary] promote: enter B1: read lock = false, write lock = false
#
# Read lock is taken when field on B1 is read
#
[primary] promote: read B1: read lock = true, write lock = false
#
# Write lock is taken when field on B1 is set
#
[primary] promote: write B1: read lock = true, write lock = true
[primary] writelock: enter B1: read lock = false, write lock = false
#
# Explicitly write lock B1 causes both the read and write lock
# to be taken on B1
#
[primary] writelock: read B1: read lock = true, write lock = true
[primary] writelock: write B1: read lock = true, write lock = true
We now discuss integration of transactions with JAVA monitors. JAVA monitors are integrated with transactions to ensure that the JAVA monitor transactions do not deadlock with transaction locks. FIG. 8 shows an undetected deadlock between a JAVA monitor and a transaction lock. These undetected deadlocks may be avoided using the mechanisms described in this section.
Monitors can still deadlock with themselves inside or outside of a transaction. Standard monitor deadlock avoidance techniques may be used. To avoid transaction and monitor deadlocks, the following steps may be performed when acquiring transaction locks on any object:
1. Object monitor not held on the object, perform normal transaction locking.
2. Object monitor held on the object, attempt to get transaction lock.
3. If transaction lock uncontested (can acquire without waiting), take transaction lock.
4. If transaction lock contested (a wait would be required to acquire the lock), rollback the current transaction
These rules are illustrated by the sequence diagram in FIG. 9.
An implication of this monitor and transaction deadlock avoidance approach is that there may be false transaction rollbacks when monitors are used in transactions with contested transaction locks. In general, monitors may not be needed in a transactional system because transaction isolation provides the same data integrity guarantees with much better concurrency and ease of use.
When a failure occurs, compensation may be done to ensure that any work that was completed before the failure is restored to its initial state. Transactional resources are automatically restored to their initial state by rolling back any changes when a transaction aborts. Explicit control over the resolution of a transaction is supported with the Transaction.Rollback exception. This mechanism can be used to recover from failures when a transaction is running.
When non-transactional resources (e.g. a file or network connection) are modified during a transaction and an error is detected, or the transaction rolls back, application code may be provided to restore the non-transactional resource to their initial state.
Notification of transaction resolution may be supported using the kabira.platform.swbuiltin.transactionNotifier class. This class provides onRollback and onCommit methods that can be implemented as required to manage non-transactional resources. Multiple transaction notifiers can be created during the same transaction. The appropriate method is called for each notifier instance created when the transaction completes. The order in which multiple notifiers are called is typically undefined so there should be no order assumptions in the notifiers. A notifier that is created in a transaction can be deleted before the transaction completes. In this case, the notifier is not called when the transaction completes.
The following provides an example use of transaction notifiers:
package programming.fluency.transactions;
import com.kabira.platform.swbuiltin.*;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
class Compensation extends TransactionNotifier
{
String name;
@Override
public void onRollback( )
{
//
// Perform application specific rollback processing
//
System.out.println(name + “: onRollback called”);
//
// Do not need to call delete. The notifier instance
// deletes itself.
//
}
@Override
public void onCommit( )
{
//
// Perform application specific commit processing
//
System.out.println(name + “: onCommit called”);
//
// Do not need to call delete. The notifier instance
// deletes itself.
//
}
}
public class N extends Transaction
{
Transaction.Result result;
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
N n = new N( );
n.result = Result.COMMIT;
n.execute( );
n.result = Result.ROLLBACK;
n.execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Transaction.Rollback
{
op1( );
op2( );
op3( );
if (result == Result.ROLLBACK)
{
throw new Transaction.Rollback( );
}
}
void op1( )
{
Compensation compensation = new Compensation( );
compensation.name = “op1”;
}
void op2( )
{
Compensation compensation = new Compensation( );
compensation.name = “op2”;
}
void op3( )
{
//
// Create and delete a notifier in the same transaction.
// This notifier is not called when the transaction completes.
//
Compensation compensation = new Compensation( );
compensation.name = “op3”;
compensation.delete( );
}
}
The immediately preceding example may, when executed, result in the following output:
#
# commit compensation executed for op1
#
op1: onCommit called
#
# commit compensation executed for op2
#
op2: onCommit called
#
Compensation
# rollback compensation executed for op1
#
op1: onRollback called
#
# rollback compensation executed for op2
#
op2: onRollback called
We now discuss transaction notifier restrictions. The onCommit and onRollback methods in a transaction notifier cannot take any new transaction locks. All transaction locks should be taken before the onCommit or onRollback methods are called. This restriction also precludes any objects with extents from being created or deleted in these methods because an object create takes an implicit write lock.
We now discuss unhandled exception handling. Unhandled exceptions in a transaction may cause the current transaction to rollback and the current thread to exit. If the current thread is the thread in which main was executed, the JVM will exit. Any installed transaction notifiers are called before the thread exits (including the main thread). The example below illustrates an unhandled exception in the main thread.
package programming.fluency.transactions;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
import com.kabira.platform.swbuiltin.*;
class UnhandledException extends JAVA.lang.Error
{
}
class F extends TransactionNotifier
{
@Override
public void onRollback( )
{
//
// Perform application specific rollback processing
//
System.out.println(“onRollback called”);
}
}
public class E extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new E( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( )
{
//
// Create a transaction notifier
//
new F( );
//
// Throw an unhandled exception - transaction rolled back
//
throw new UnhandledException( );
}
}
When the preceding example runs, it outputs (annotation added):
#
# Application onRollback method called before JVM exits
#
onRollback called
JAVA main class programming.fluency.transactions.E.main exited with
an exception.
JAVA exception occurred:
programming.fluency.transactions.UnhandledException
at programming.fluency.transactions.E.run(E.JAVA:55)
at com.kabira.platform.Transaction.execute(Transaction.JAVA:117)
at programming.fluency.transactions.E.main(E.JAVA:41)
We now discuss a transaction required exception. In particular, attempting to use a class that has a @Transactional(context=Transactional.Context.REQUIRED) annotation outside of a transaction may cause the following exception to be thrown: JAVA.lang.IllegalAccessError. This exception is illustrated in the following example:
package programming.fluency.transactions;
import com.kabira.platform.annotation.*;
import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject;
@Transactional(context=Transactional.Context.REQUIRED)
class X1 extends ManagedObject
{
};
public class X
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
//
// Attempting to use a transactional required class
// outside of a transaction
//
new X1( );
}
}
If the preceding example is executed, it results in the following output (annotated):
#
# JAVA.lang.IllegalAccessError thrown because X1 requires a transaction
#
JAVA main class programming.fluency.transactions.X.main exited with
an exception.
JAVA exception occurred: JAVA.lang.IllegalAccessError: no active
transaction
at com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject.-
_createSMObject(Native Method)
at com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject.-
<init>(ManagedObject.JAVA:118)
at programming.fluency.transactions.X1.<init>(X.JAVA:7)
at programming.fluency.transactions.X.main(X.JAVA:19)
We now discuss JAVA Native Interface (JNI) transactional programming. In particular, the JAVA Native Interface becomes transactional. This means that all memory allocated, read, modified, or deleted using JNI APIs is transactional—it is logged and locked. In addition, transactional isolation is provided for field data.
All JNI code that accesses transactional resources should check for deadlock exceptions after each call and return to the caller. This is done the same way as all other exception handling in JNI.
Following is an example of Transactional JNI Programming.
static void JNICALL
JAVA_com_kabira_platform_someClass_someNative(JNIEnv *env,
jclass)
{
doSomeWork(env);
//
// Check for an exception - this could be a deadlock
//
if (env->ExceptionCheck( ))
{
// propagate exception to caller
return;
}
doMoreWork(env);
if (env->ExceptionCheck( ))
...
}
In some examples, native resources such as file descriptors, sockets, or heap memory are not transactional.
Transaction modifiers may be used to support transaction safe management of non-transactional resources. The onCommit or onRollback methods can be implemented as native methods to perform this management.
We now summarize some high-level guidelines for using transactional classes. These are not hard and fast rules, but guidelines that should be evaluated in a specific application context. First, the use of JAVA monitors in transactions should be avoided or at least minimized. Deadlocks should also be avoided. When locking multiple objects, the objects should be locked in the same order. Concurrently locking objects in different orders can result in deadlocks. The deadlocks will be detected and handled transparently, but it is less expensive to avoid them. Promotion deadlocks should be avoided. When an object is going to be modified (written) within a transaction, the write lock should be taken first, instead of the read lock. This avoids the possibility of promotion deadlock between multiple transactions. Again, these deadlocks are detected and handled transparently, but it is less expensive to avoid them. Resource contention should be avoided. Adding single points of contention to an application should be avoided. If the application executes multiple threads concurrently, it should be ensured that each thread uses separate resources. It should be attempted to minimize the duration of transaction locks to avoid lock contention. For example, blocking with transaction locks held waiting for data from an external source, or sleeping with transaction locks held is generally bad.
We now describe managed objects. In one example environment, there are three types of managed objects:
Parent Class
Behavior
com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject
Shared Memory Persistence,
Distribution
com.kabira.platform.ha.MirroredObject
Shared Memory Persistence,
High Availability
Mirroring
com.kabira.platform.ha.ReplicatedObject
Shared Memory Persistence,
High Availability
Mirroring, Replication
Managed Objects have an @Transactional(Context=REQUIRED) transaction annotation—they can only be manipulated in a transaction. Below is an example of a Managed Object that is persisted in shared memory, such as is illustrated in FIG. 10.
package programming.fluency.managedobjects;
import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject;
@managed
public class A
{
//
// Name is stored in shared memory
//
String name;
}
As shown in FIG. 10, the shared memory 1002 includes the class A, including the string “name.” Distribution may be added to the above object using annotation.
An example of a Mirrored Managed Object that is persisted in shared memory is now provided.
package programming.fluency.managedobjects;
import com.kabira.platform.ha.*;
public class B extends MirroredObject
{
public B( )
{
//
// Create mirrored object in fluency partition group using
partition
// number 0. A default identifier is used.
//
super (“fluency”, 0, null);
}
//
// Name is transactionally mirrored on backups and persisted
// in shared memory
//
String name;
}
An example is now provided of a Replicated Managed Object that is replicated to all nodes and persisted in shared memory.
package programming.fluency.managedobjects;
import com.kabira.platform.ha.*;
public class C extends ReplicatedObject
{
public C( )
{
//
// Create replicated object in fluency partition group using
partition
// number 0. A default identifier is used.
//
super (“fluency”, 0, null);
}
//
// Name is replicated to all configured nodes, mirrored to
// a backup node and persisted in shared memory
//
String name;
}
As shown in FIG. 11, the string “name” is maintained on a primary partition 1102, a backup partition 1104 and a replica 1106. Thus, the environment provides application-transparent mirrored and replica JAVA objects (synchronous and asynchronous), and HA timers, including transparent HA JAVA object/message routing 1108. In addition, data partitioning and partition migration capabilities are provided.
Prior to discussing how objects may be managed, we discuss some details of a development environment to develop fully transactional applications using standard JAVA language constructs. Referring to FIG. 12, a server cluster 1202 may be pre-configured and accessed using a standard JAVA development environment 1204 such as NetBeans, Eclipse and J-Builder. Objects may be edited, built, debugged and profiled using JAVA tools. A “Shared Memory” monitor tool 1206 may be used to load JAVA type descriptors into the transaction platform runtime environment. A cluster administration GUI 1208 may be used to administer the domains; the nodes being automatically registered to the domain manager 1210.
FIG. 13 illustrates, in greater detail, a service (such as the service 104 of the FIG. 1 environment), in accordance with an example. As shown in FIG. 13, the service 1300 may include a VM layer 1302 and a transaction processing layer 1304. The transaction processing layer 1304 may include various services, including infrastructure services 1306. Thus, for example, the service in FIG. 13 may appear as a standard JVM—shipped, integrated and certified as a JAVA Virtual Machine, such as certified by Sun Microsystems. JAVA code transparently executes with transaction processing semantics; all transaction processing facilities are available in JAVA. A class loader may make the standard JAVA syntax work transparently for transaction processing objects and dynamically fetches classes as needed during runtime.
In some examples, minimal opcode routines may be required to be rewritten to bind JVM to the transaction processing so that the JAVA will execute transparently with transaction processing semantics (e.g., transactions, POJO locks, etc.). JIT compatibility may be maintained and standard JNI tables used for linkage.
An agent 1308 and JAVA client 1310 may interoperate to transparently integrate development environments to the transaction processing (e.g., with respect to class negotiation, execution, etc.) In addition, in some examples, users are able to use JAVA SE development tools (such as debuggers) without modification.
The transparent integration is a result, in part, of transaction bindings and enhancement of the JVM interpreter. An example of this concept is shown in FIG. 14. In FIG. 14, a JAVA class 1402 is shown as being provided to an enhanced JVM interpreter 1404. JAVA Native Interface (JNI) methods 1406 are registered to the JNI so that a JNI runtime function binding 1408 binds the JAVA execution control to transaction processing platform runtime services in FIG. 14. Thus, for example, JAVA transaction context lifecycle may be managed via begin, commit and abort bindings.
A slightly modified version of the JVM interpreter may be active during transaction execution for subsequent transparent locking, deadlock detection, etc. FIG. 15 illustrates an example of such a slightly modified transaction processing enabled JVM 1502. In particular, when the JVM 1502 executes in a transactional context, certain transactional JVM functions (such as the putfield(—) function 1504 in FIG. 15) are replaced by a variant (i.e., in FIG. 15, the putfield( ) function 1506), and the JAVA code executes transparently, with transactional processing semantics. If not in a transactional mode, the modified JVM may run without any transaction processing overhead, with a separate byte code interpreter being utilized while in the transactional mode. The opcode rewrites may be specified in assembler language to optimize performance. The transactional processing environment maintains a table 1508 that maps the VM function to runtime services of the transaction processing service 1512. Using the FIG. 15 example, the class loader has previously loaded the JAVA “Customer” type descriptor in the transaction processing service, so that the “Customer” type as specified using JAVA maps to the “Customer” type in the transaction processing service 1512.
FIG. 16 illustrates functionality of an example of the transaction processing platform class loader. Basically, as just discussed with reference to FIG. 15, the class loader operates to extend the JVM version to populate JAVA class information into the transaction processing runtime system. Thus, for example, the JAVA code when executed can result in transparently creating persistent transaction processing objects via the standard JAVA “new” operator. As another example, the JAVA code can result in execution of operations on transaction processing objects via a standard JAVA method invocation. Transaction processing objects can be read and modified via standard JAVA member access (e.g., not special getters & setters). Virtual transaction processing methods may be transparently overridden, with events being transparently dispatched from the transaction processing service to the JVM. A JAVA class may be derived from a transaction processing interface.
Referring now to FIG. 16, when the JAVA client 1602 is handling an application that requires a class, the client 1602 first tries to locate the class in the server class path of the server file system 1604. FIG. 16 shows classes being loaded from the client and mapping to type descriptors in the transaction processing service.
The JAVA client permits for remote development on any JAVA-equipped platform, interfacing with the transaction processing servers to deploy, execute and debug transaction processing enabled JAVA applications. Thus, for example, the application may be executed from the command line or Commercial off-the-shelf integrated development environment. Upon execution, the client opens a connection the agent running on the target node and sends command, options and application data (e.g., JAVA class and JAR files) to the transaction processing server. The agent monitors execution of the application, including displaying console output of the application for that client. In addition, the agent can respond to request for additional JAVA classes needed by the node during runtime. In addition, a JAVA debugger can be attached at any time, and debugging and profiling can be carried out remotely via a JAVA IDE. Also, service names registered to MDNS (multicast domain name service) can be displayed and reference via the transaction processing node service.
Examples of client usage include:
JAVA -jar ktp.jar [options] <target> [application arguments]
JAVA -jar ktp.jar [options] help
JAVA -jar ktp.jar [options] display services
The following table illustrates examples of command options for the JAVA client:
Option
Description
adminport
The administration port of the Fluency node
that should be used to run the application.
autoconfigure
This option, when given a value of true,
requests that the Fluency node load and
activate node configuration files before the
application starts, and deactivate/remove those
configurations when the application terminates
(default: false).
Debug
A boolean flag indicating whether diagnostic
output is required (default: false)
detailed
A boolean flag indicating whether the ‘display
services’ command output should contain
detailed results (default: false)
displayversion
A boolean flag indicating whether the Fluency
version information should be
displayed (default: true).
domainname
The name of the domain that the application is
to run on. When this option is used, the
deployment tool must connect to a Kabira
Domain Manager node which is managing the
given domain. The application will execute on
all nodes in the domain.
domaingroup
The name of the domain group that the
application is to run on. When this option is
used, the deployment tool must connect to a
Kabira Domain Manager node which is
managing the given domain group. The
application will execute on all nodes in the
domain group.
domainnode
The name of the domain node that the
application is to run on. When this option is
used, the deployment tool must connect to a
Kabira Domain Manager node which is
managing the given domain node. The
application will execute on the specified node.
Hostname
The host name hosting the Fluency node that
should be used to run the application (default:
localhost).
password
The password to use when authenticating
username during the connection to the Fluency
node.
remotedebug
If true, require the JVM hosting the application
to enable remote debugging (default: false for
PRODUCTION nodes, true for
DEVELOPMENT nodes).
remotedebugport
The debugger agent port, to be used by the
JVM to listen for remote debugger clients
(default: randomly chosen by the JVM).
reset
This option, when given a value of true,
requests that all Java objects and type
definitions on the node be deleted before the
application begins execution (default: true).
Servicename
The service name of the Fluency node that is to
be used to run the application. This option may
be used instead of adminport and hostname.
This option only works if MDNS service
discovery is configured on the local machine.
suspend
If true, require the JVM to suspend execution
before main( ) is called during remote
debugging. This option only applies if
remotedebug = true is specified (default: false).
timeout
The number of seconds to wait while resolving
servicename with MDNS (default: 10).
username
The user name to use when connecting to a
Fluency node. The specified value must
identify a principal with administrative
privileges on the node.
x509credential
The X509 certificate keystore file to use for
authentication. If given, the password
parameter is required, and should be the
keystore password
x509credentialalias
The alias of the user's X509 certificate in the
keystore specified by the x509credential option
(default: mykey).
Particular examples of use of such options include:
JAVA -jar ktp.jar display services
JAVA -jar ktp.jar servicename=primary pojotransactiondemo.jar
JAVA -jar ktp.jar servicename=primary remotedebug=true
pojotransactiondemo.jar
FIG. 17 illustrates how an agent 1702 may manage server-side responsibilities of a remote development interface. More particularly, when a request is received from a JAVA client 1704, the agent 1702 authenticates the request using SSL-based authentication via the transaction processing service 1706 administrative framework. The agent 1702 requests and receives JAVA application classes from the client 1704 as needed during runtime, requesting and receiving additional classes from the client 1704 as needed during runtime. The agent 1702 places the classes in a node-specific location (JAVA class cache 1708) to be available for class loading and execution. The agent generates a deployment specification 1710 defining a JVM with the user's classes, virtual machine options and parameters.
An application's lifecycle includes, for example, a client 1704 commanding load, into the engine, of the deployment specification 1710 generated by the agent 1702. The client 1704 polls for stdout/stderr output from the engine and causes the output to be displayed on a console. When the engine exits, the engine exit code is returned as the command return code. If the client exits before the JAVA client 1704 request completes, the engine is stopped, the deployment specification 1710 is unloaded, and the state of the application is removed by the agent 1702.
We now describe an example of the life cycle of a managed object. All creates, reads, updates, and deletes of managed objects should be done in a transaction. Creating an object in a transaction that rolls back removes the object from shared memory. Deleting an object in a transaction that rolls back leaves the object in shared memory.
As mentioned above in the introduction to basic concepts, managed objects are not garbage collected by the JVM. Only the proxy JAVA object that references the managed object is garbage collected—the shared memory state of the object itself remains. Managed objects should be explicitly deleted by calling the delete method, an example of which follows:
package programming.fluency.managedobjects;
import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
class E extends ManagedObject { };
public class D extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new D( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( )
{
E e = new E( );
//
// Delete instance in shared memory
//
e.delete( );
}
}
After the delete method is called on a managed object, using the JAVA reference to invoke methods or access a field will cause the JAVA.lang.NullPointerException exception to be thrown. The ManagedObject.isEmpty( ) method can be used to test whether the shared memory backing a JAVA reference has been deleted.
Managed objects may automatically maintain an extent. The extent makes it possible to find all instances of a managed object at any time. Applications should not rely on any ordering of objects in an extent. The following is an example of managed object extents:
package programming.fluency.managedobjects;
import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObjectSet;
class I extends ManagedObject
{
I (int number)
{
super( );
this.number = number;
}
int number;
}
public class H extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new H( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( )
{
int j;
//
// Create objects in shared memory
//
for (j = 0; j < 10; j++)
{
new I(j);
}
//
// Iterate the extent deleting all of the created objects
//
ManagedObjectSet<I> iExtent = ManagedObject.extent(I.class);
for (I i : iExtent)
{
System.out.println(i.number);
i.delete( );
}
}
}
We now describe locking and isolation. Extents support a transaction isolation of READ COMMITTED. This means that a write lock is not taken on an extent when an object is created or destroyed. This does imply that two extent iterations of the same extent in a transaction may return different results if other transactions have committed between the two iterations.
A specific extent isolation that may be supported is:
creates are always visible in the transaction in which they occur; deletes are visible in the transaction in which they occur on objects that were created in the same transaction; and deletes are visible after the transaction commits on objects that were created in a separate transaction
The example immediately following demonstrates there rules:
package programming.fluency.managedobjects;
import com.kabira.platform.*;
class J1 extends ManagedObject { }
public class J extends Transaction
{
enum Action
{
CREATE,
BOTH,
DELETE
}
private Action m_action;
private String m_message;
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
J j = new J( );
j.m_action = Action.BOTH;
j.m_message = “Same Transaction”;
j.execute( );
j.m_action = Action.CREATE;
j.m_message = “Separate Transactions”;
j.execute( );
j.m_action = Action.DELETE;
j.m_message = “Separate Transactions”;
j.execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
int i;
if ((m_action == Action.BOTH) || (m_action ==
Action.CREATE))
{
for (i = 0; i < 10; i++)
{
new J1( );
}
}
ManagedObjectSet<J1> extent =
ManagedObject.extent(J1.class);
if ((m_action == Action.BOTH) || (m_action ==
Action.CREATE))
{
System.out.println(m_message);
System.out.println(extent.size( ) + “ objects in extent
after create”);
}
if (m_action == Action.BOTH || m_action ==
Action.DELETE)
{
for (J1 j1 : extent)
{
j1.delete( );
}
System.out.println(extent.size( ) + “ objects in extent
after delete”);
}
}
}
When the preceding example is executed, the following output results (annotation added):
#
# Both creates and deletes are reflected because both are done
# in the same transaction
#
Same Transaction
10 objects in extent after create
0 objects in extent after delete
#
# Deletes are not reflected until the transaction commits because
# creates occurred in a separate transaction
#
Separate Transactions
10 objects in extent after create
10 objects in extent after delete
Objects accessed through extent iteration do not have a transaction lock when they are returned. A transaction lock is not taken on the object until a field is accessed or the object is explicitly locked. As discussed above, there is no lock taken on an extent when objects are created or deleted. The combination of no extent locking, and a lock not being taken on objects returned from extent iteration, may cause deleted object references being returned from an extent. The following is an example of extent object locking:
package programming.fluency.managedobjects;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject;
import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObjectSet;
import JAVA.util.logging.Level;
import JAVA.util.logging.Logger;
class K1 extends ManagedObject { };
//
// This thread creates and deletes Managed Objects in shared memory.
// Sleep to introduce some variability
//
class K2 extends Thread
{
private static final int NUMBERITERATIONS = 10;
@Override
public void run( )
{
int i;
for (i = 0; i < NUMBERITERATIONS; i++)
{
try
{
new K3(K3.Action.CREATE).execute( );
Thread.sleep(1000);
new K3(K3.Action.DELETE).execute( );
}
catch (InterruptedException ex)
{
Logger.getLogger(K2.class.getName( )).log(Level.SEVERE, null,
ex);
}
}
}
}
//
// Transaction to create and delete Managed Objects
//
class K3 extends Transaction
{
private static final int COUNT = 100;
enum Action
{
CREATE,
DELETE
}
K3 (Action action)
{
m_action = action;
}
private Action m_action;
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
//
// Create managed Managed Objects
//
if (m_action == Action.CREATE)
{
int i;
for (i = 0; i < COUNT; i++)
{
new K1( );
}
}
else
{
assert ( m_action == Action.DELETE );
ManagedObjectSet<K1> extent = ManagedObject.extent(K1.class);
//
// Iterate extent - test for deleted objects, delete
// ones that are not already deleted by another thread
//
for (K1 k : extent)
{
if (k.isEmpty( ) == false)
{
k.delete( );
}
}
}
}
}
public class K
{
private static final int NUMBERTHREADS = 15;
public static void main (String [ ] args) throws InterruptedException
{
int i;
K2 threads[ ] = new K2[NUMBERTHREADS];
for (i = 0; i < NUMBERTHREADS; i++)
{
threads[i] = new K2( );
threads[i].start( );
}
//
// Wait for all of the threads to exit
//
for (i = 0; i < NUMBERTHREADS; i++)
{
threads[i].join( );
}
}
}
We now discuss array copy-in/copy-out. When a field in a managed object is accessed, transactional locking and logging occur. This is true for primitive types, arrays, and objects.
Arrays can also be copied into a local array variable to avoid transactional locking or logging. This copy occurs implicitly if an array is passed into a method for execution. Shared memory backing an array is only modified when elements in the array are modified using the object reference containing the array. These cases are shown in the example below.
Array copies are a useful performance optimization when a large number of elements in an array are being modified in a single transaction.
The following provides an example of array copy-in/copy-out.
package programming.fluency.managedobjects;
import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
class F2 extends ManagedObject
{
int value;
}
class F1 extends ManagedObject
{
F1( )
{
sharedMemoryArray = new int[10];
int i;
for (i = 0; i < 10; i++)
{
sharedMemoryArray[i] = i;
}
objectArray = new F2[2];
for (i = 0; i < 2; i++)
{
F2 f2 = new F2( );
f2.value = i;
objectArray[i] = f2;
}
}
int [ ] sharedMemoryArray;
F2 [ ] objectArray;
}
public class F extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new F( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( )
{
F1 f = new F1( );
//
// Read lock f and make of copy of sharedMemoryArray in
localArray
//
int localArray[ ] = f.sharedMemoryArray;
//
// This does not modify shared memory
//
localArray[2] = 6;
System.out.println(“localArray: ” + localArray[2] +
“ sharedMemoryArray: ” + f.sharedMemoryArray[2]);
//
// This modifies shared memory and takes a write lock on f
//
f.sharedMemoryArray[2] = 7;
System.out.println(“localArray: ” + localArray[2] +
“ sharedMemoryArray: ” + f.sharedMemoryArray[2]);
//
// This does not modify shared memory
//
modifyIntArray(localArray);
System.out.println(“localArray: ” + localArray[0] +
“ sharedMemoryArray: ” + f.sharedMemoryArray[0]);
//
// This does not modify shared memory.
// It takes a read lock on f.
//
modifyIntArray(f.sharedMemoryArray);
System.out.println(“localArray: ” + localArray[0] +
“ sharedMemoryArray: ” + f.sharedMemoryArray[0]);
//
// This copies the value of localArray into shared memory
// and takes a write lock on f.
//
f.sharedMemoryArray = localArray;
System.out.println(“localArray: ” + localArray[0] +
“ sharedMemoryArray: ” + f.sharedMemoryArray[0]);
//
// This copies only the object references in objectArray to a
// local array - i.e. it does not perform a deep copy.
//
F2 localF2Array[ ] = f.objectArray;
//
// This updates shared memory through the object reference
// copied into the local array
//
localF2Array[0].value = 8;
System.out.println(“f2.value: ” + f.objectArray[0].value);
}
void modifyIntArray(int [ ] arg)
{
arg[0] = 5;
}
}
When the preceding example is run, it results in the following output:
#
# Modify local array with a value of 6
#
localArray: 6 sharedMemoryArray: 2
#
# Modify shared memory with a value of 7
#
localArray: 6 sharedMemoryArray: 7
#
# Modify local array with a value of 5
#
localArray: 5 sharedMemoryArray: 0
#
# Modify shared memory array passed to a method with a value of 5
#
localArray: 5 sharedMemoryArray: 0
#
# Copy local array into shared memory array
#
localArray: 5 sharedMemoryArray: 5
#
# Modify shared memory using an object reference in a local array
#
f2.value: 8
When the preceding example is executed, it outputs (annotation added):
#
# Original value of 5th element of intArray
#
intArray[5] == 5
#
# 5th element still contains a value of 5 even after being set to 0 by
Reflection API
#
intArray[5] == 5
We now discuss the use of distributed computing features in a transactional application. In general, in accordance with an example, any managed object can be a distributed object using configuration data. Supported configuration values are described below.
Distribution configuration may be done using configuration files, an example syntax of which is discussed later. Distribution configuration defines a nested configuration block named Distribution. It also defines the following configuration interfaces:
DistributedObject—distributed object configuration DirectedCreateObject—directed create distributed object configuration CacheGroupObject—cache group distributed object configuration
The example below shows how the distribution configuration block and interfaces may be used.
package com.kabira.platform.annotation;
import java.lang.annotation.*;
/** Mark a class as Distributed, and provide initial configuration
* values for distribution type config.
*/
@Documented
@Inherited
@Retention(RetentionPolicy.RUNTIME)
@Target(ElementType.TYPE)
public @interface Distributed
{
/** Defines the legal cache policies for distributed objects.
*/
public static enum CacheType
{
/** The cached copy is never considered valid. Every
* access to this object will cause the cached data
* to be refreshed.
*/
NEVER,
/** The cached copy is always considered valid. It is
* never refreshed.
*/
ALWAYS,
/** The first time an object is accessed, the cache
* is considered stale. After that the cached copy is
* always considered valid. It is never refreshed again.
*/
ONCE,
/** The cached copy is considered valid for a configured
* amount of time (the cache timeout). If the object is
* accessed after the cache timeout has elapsed since the
* last time it was read onto the node, it will be refreshed.
*/
TIMED
};
/** The cache policy controls when cached data is considered
* stale and should be read from the node on which the object
* was created. Default value is CacheType.ALWAYS.
*/
CacheType cacheType( ) default CacheType.ALWAYS;
/** Refresh time in seconds; only valid if cacheType is
CacheType.TIMED.
*/
long cacheTimeSeconds( ) default 0L;
/** A value of true enables asynchronous writes. Default false.
*/
boolean asyncWrite( ) default false;
/** A value of true enables asynchronous destroys. Default false.
*/
boolean asyncDestroy( ) default false;
/** Cache groups provide support for pushing cache data
* to a configured cache group by mapping the cache group to a
* set of network nodes. By default, the cache group is disabled.
*/
CacheGroup cacheGroup( ) default @CacheGroup(
enabled = false,
groupName = “”,
asyncCreate = false);
/** Directed create causes all object creates to be directed
* to the node indicated by nodeName. By default,
* directed create is disabled.
*/
DirectedCreate directedCreate( ) default @DirectedCreate(
enabled = false,
nodeName = “”);
The configuration attributes supported by the distribution configuration interfaces, in an example, are summarized below.
Name
Type
Description
typeName
Unbounded String
Class name, including the
package prefix of the
distributed object
cacheType
Enumeration -
Control cache policy of
CacheNever,
distributed object.
CacheAlways,
CacheOnce, or
CacheTimed
cacheTimeSeconds
Unsigned long
Refresh time in seconds. Only
valid if cache-Type is Cache
Timed.
asyncWrite
Boolean
True or false. A value of true
enables asynchronous writes.
asyncDestroy
Boolean
True or false. A value of true
enables asynchronous
destroys.
The cache group configuration may have the following additional configuration values in addition to the DistributedObject configuration values.
Name
Type
Description
groupName
Unbounded String
Cache group name in which
this object participates.
asyncCreate
Boolean
True or false. A value of true
enables asynchronous creates.
The directed create configuration has the following additional configuration values in addition to the DistributedObject configuration values.
Name
Type
Description
modeName
Unbounded String
A string value containing the
node name used for all object
creates.
We now describe an example of a distributed object life cycle. Distributed objects have the same life cycle as any managed object. However, if an object maintains a reference to a distributed object, that object can be deleted on a remote node and the local object now has a stale reference. This stale reference is generally not detected until a field or a method on the reference is invoked. In this case the following exception is thrown.
//
// Invalid distributed reference detected
//
JAVA.lang.NullPointerException
The example below illustrates how to configure and create a Directed Create type. There is no difference between creating a Directed Create type and a non-directed create type—both use new to create a new instance.
//
// NAME
// $RCSfile: DirectedCreate.java,v $
//
// COPYRIGHT
// Confidential Property of Kabira Technologies, Inc.
// Copyright 2008, 2009 by Kabira Technologies, Inc.
// All rights reserved.
//
// HISTORY
// $Revision: 1.9 $
//
package com.kabira.snippets.distributedcomputing;
import com.kabira.platform.*;
import com.kabira.platform.annotation.*;
import com.kabira.platform.swbuiltin.EngineServices;
/**
* Directed Create distributed objects.
* <p>
* <h2> Target Nodes</h2>
* <ul>
* <li> <b>domainname</b> = Fluency Development
* </ul>
*/
public class DirectedCreate extends Transaction
{
private Action m_action;
private boolean m_done;
DirectedCreate( )
{
m_done = false;
}
/**
* Control program execution
*/
enum Action
{
/**
* Create objects
*/
CREATE,
/**
* Wait on replica node for all creates to complete
*/
WAIT
}
/**
* Directed create object
*/
@Distributed(
directedCreate=
@com.kabira.platform.annotation.DirectedCreate(nodeName=
“replica”))
public static class DirectedCreateObject
{
/**
* Create a new object
*/
public DirectedCreateObject( )
{
super( );
createdOn = EngineServices.getNodeName( );
}
/**
* Node on which object was created
*/
public String createdOn;
}
/**
* Main entry point
*
* @param args Not used
*/
public static void main(String [ ] args) throws InterruptedException
{
DirectedCreate directedCreate = new DirectedCreate( );
directedCreate.m_action = Action.CREATE;
directedCreate.execute( );
while (directedCreate.m_done == false)
{
directedCreate.m_action = Action.WAIT;
directedCreate.execute( );
Thread.sleep(1000);
}
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
String nodeName = EngineServices.getNodeName( );
if (m_action == Action.CREATE)
{
System.out.println(“Executing on: ” + nodeName);
DirectedCreateObject a = new DirectedCreateObject( );
System.out.println(“Object was created on: ” + a.createdOn);
}
else
{
assert ( m_action == Action.WAIT );
//
// Only wait on replica node
//
if (nodeName.equals(“replica”) == false)
{
m_done = true;
return;
}
//
// Wait until an object is created from each node:
//
int cardinality = 0;
for (DirectedCreateObject dc : ManagedObject.extent(
DirectedCreateObject.class,
LockMode.READLOCK))
{
cardinality++;
}
m_done = (cardinality >= 3);
}
}
}
When the preceding example is run, it creates instances of A on the replica node. The output follows:
[replica] Executing on: replica
[replica] Object was created on: replica
[backup] Executing on: backup
[backup] Object was created on: backup
[primary] Executing on: primary
[primary] Object was created on: primary
We now discuss an example of using cache groups. The example below illustrates how to configure and create an object in a Cache Group. There is no difference between creating a type in a Cache Group and a type not in a cache group—both use new to create a new instance.
//
// Configuration of type in a cache group
//
configuration “cacheGroup” version “1.0” type “distribution”
{
configure switchadmin
{
configure Distribution
{
//
// Add class B to a cache group named fluency
//
CacheGroupObject
{
typeName =
“programming.fluency.distributedcomputing.B”;
groupName = “fluency”;
asyncCreate = false;
asyncDestroy = false;
asyncWrite = false;
};
};
};
};
package programming.fluency.distributedcomputing;
import com.kabira.platform.*;
import com.kabira.platform.swbuiltin.EngineServices;
class B extends ManagedObject
{
String createdOn;
}
public class CacheGroup extends Transaction
{
enum Action
{
CREATE,
WAIT,
DISPLAY
}
private Action m_action;
private boolean m_done = false;
public static void main (String [ ] args) throws InterruptedException
{
CacheGroup cacheGroup = new CacheGroup( );
cacheGroup.m_action = Action.CREATE;
cacheGroup.execute( );
cacheGroup.m_action = Action.WAIT;
System.out.print(“Waiting”);
while (cacheGroup.m_done == false)
{
cacheGroup.execute( );
System.out.print(“.”);
Thread.sleep(1000);
}
System.out.println(“done”);
CacheGroup.m_action = Action.DISPLAY;
cacheGroup.execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
String nodeName = EngineServices.getNodeName( );
//
// Create object on local node
//
if (m_action == Action.CREATE)
{
new B( ).createdOn = nodeName;
System.out.println(“Created object on: ” + nodeName);
}
else if (m_action == Action.WAIT)
{
if (ManagedObject.extent(B.class).size( ) < 3)
{
return;
}
m_done = true;
}
else
{
assert ( m_action == Action.DISPLAY );
ManagedObjectSet<B> extent =
ManagedObject.extent(B.class);
//
// Display all references in extent. The extent contains
// references from remote objects that were pushed to
the local node
//
for (B b : extent)
{
System.out.println(
“Found on ” + nodeName + “: ” + b.createdOn);
}
}
}
}
When the example executes, it outputs the following (annotation added and status messages deleted). The actual order of the messages may differ depending on execution timing.
#
# A cache group distributed object was created on replica node
#
[replica] Created object on: replica
[replica] Waiting..
#
# A cache group distributed object was created on backup
#
[backup] Created object on: backup
[backup] Waiting..
#
# A cache group distributed object was created on primary
#
[primary] Created object on: primary
#
# The backup node saw all three distributed objects
#
[backup] .done
[backup] Found on backup: replica
[backup] Found on backup: primary
[backup] Found on backup: backup
#
# The primary node saw all three distributed objects
#
[primary] Waiting.done
[primary] Found on primary: primary
[primary] Found on primary: replica
[primary] Found on primary: backup
#
# The replica node saw all three distributed objects
#
[replica] done
[replica] Found on replica: replica
[replica] Found on replica: primary
[replica] Found on replica: backup
We now discuss “unavailable node” exceptions. In particular, attempting to access a distributed object from a remote node when the node is down will cause this exception to be thrown:
JAVA.lang.VirtualMachineError
A remote node is detected to not be down when the following action is attempted on a distributed reference:
method invocation object deletion field modification field access when the local cache is stale
The following example illustrates the behavior using a directed create type that is configured for an invalid node name.
//
// Configuration of a directed create type with an invalid node name
//
configuration “nodeDown” version “1.0” type “distribution”
{
configure switchadmin
{
configure Distribution
{
//
// Create all instances of class C on invalid node
//
DirectedCreateObject
{
typeName =
“programming.fluency.distributedcomputing.C”;
nodeName = “invalid”;
asyncDestroy = false;
asyncWrite = false;
};
};
};
}
package programming.fluency.distributedcomputing;
import com.kabira.platform.*;
class C extends ManagedObject { }
public class NodeDown extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new NodeDown( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
//
// Create an object on a node that is unavailable
// This will cause a JAVA.lang.VirtualMachineError
//
new C( );
}
}
When the preceding example is executed, it outputs the following:
JAVA main class programming.fluency.distributedcomputing.NodeDown.main exited with an
exception.
JAVA exception occurred: JAVA.lang.VirtualMachineError: Rethrowing system exception
returned from dispatched operation.
at com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject._createSMObject(Native Method)
at com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject.<init>(ManagedObject.JAVA:118)
at programming.fluency.distributedcomputing.C.<init>(NodeDown.JAVA:17)
at programming.fluency.distributedcomputing.NodeDown.run(NodeDown.JAVA:32)
at com.kabira.platform.Transaction.execute(Transaction.JAVA:117)
at programming.fluency.distributedcomputing.NodeDown.main(NodeDown.JAVA:23)
We now discuss locating a remote object. To initiate distributed computing, a reference to a remote object should be obtained. The following mechanisms are provided to access remote object references:
Directed create Cache Groups Remote method invocation
An external directory can also be used to store object references but, in some examples, this requires third-party software and additional configuration complexity.
Directed create can be used to create a factory object on a remote node. This factory object can provide a method that returns a distributed object instance from a remote node. This object instance can then be used on the local node as required to access remote services.
Cache groups can also be used to allow each node in a cluster to publish an object that is pushed to all other nodes. These pushed object references can then be found on all nodes. The following examples shows how a cache group can be used to provide remote access to all nodes in a cluster.
//
// NAME
// $RCSfile: InitialReferences.java,v $
//
// COPYRIGHT
// Confidential Property of Kabira Technologies, Inc.
// Copyright 2008, 2009 by Kabira Technologies, Inc.
// All rights reserved.
//
// HISTORY
// $Revision: 1.11 $
//
package com.kabira.snippets.distributedcomputing;
import com.kabira.platform.*;
import com.kabira.platform.annotation.*;
import com.kabira.platform.swbuiltin.EngineServices;
/**
* Accessing an initial reference from a remote node.
* <p>
* <h2> Target Nodes</h2>
* <ul>
* <li> <b>domainname</b> = Fluency Development
* </ul>
*/
public class InitialReferences extends Transaction
{
/**
* Distributed object that accesses node name
*/
@Managed
public static class Reference
{
/**
* Return node name on which object was created.
* @return Node name of node
*/
public String getNodeName( )
{
return EngineServices.getNodeName( );
}
}
/**
* Node
*/
@Distributed(
cacheGroup=
@com.kabira.platform.annotation.CacheGroup(groupName=“fluency”))
public static class Node
{
/**
* Return an object created on the local node
* @return Object reference
*/
public Reference getReference( )
{
InitialReferences.m_count++;
return new Reference( );
}
}
/**
* Control program execution
*/
public enum Action
{
/**
* Create object
*/
CREATE,
/**
* Wait for all nodes to create objects
*/
WAITCREATE,
/**
* Query node name
*/
QUERY,
/**
* Wait for all nodes to complete
*/
WAITDONE
}
private Action m_action;
private boolean m_done = false;
private static int m_count = 0;
/**
* Main entry point
*
* @param args Not used
* @throws InterruptedException Interrupted sleep
*/
public static void main (String [ ] args) throws InterruptedException
{
InitialReferences ir = new InitialReferences( );
ir.m_action = Action.CREATE;
ir.execute( );
System.out.println(“Waiting for creates”);
ir.m_action = Action.WAITCREATE;
while (ir.m_done == false)
{
ir.execute( );
Thread.sleep(1000);
}
System.out.println(“Creates done”);
ir.m_done = false;
ir.m_action = Action.QUERY;
ir.execute( );
System.out.println(“Waiting for nodes to complete”);
ir.m_action = Action.WAITDONE;
while (ir.m_done == false)
{
ir.execute( );
Thread.sleep(1000);
}
System.out.println(“Nodes done”);
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
if (m_action == Action.CREATE)
{
new Node( );
}
else if (m_action == Action.WAITCREATE)
{
int cardinality = 0;
for (Node n : ManagedObject.extent(Node.class, LockMode.READLOCK))
{
cardinality++;
}
m_done = (cardinality >= 3);
}
else if (m_action == Action.WAITDONE)
{
if (InitialReferences.m_count < 3)
{
return;
}
m_done = true;
}
else
{
assert ( m_action == Action.QUERY );
for (Node node : ManagedObject.extent(Node.class))
{
//
// Get the node name on which the Reference object
// was created.
//
System.out.println(“Node: ” + node.getReference( ).getNodeName( ));
}
}
}
}
When the preceding example is executed, it outputs the following (annotation added):
[replica] Waiting for creates
[replica] Creates done
[replica] Node: replica
[replica] Node: backup
[replica] Node: primary
[replica] Waiting for nodes to complete
[backup] Creates done
[backup] Node: replica
[backup] Node: backup
[backup] Node: primary
[backup] Waiting for nodes to complete
[primary] Node: replica
[primary] Node: backup
[primary] Node: primary
[primary] Waiting for nodes to complete
[replica] Nodes done
[backup] Nodes done
[primary] Nodes done
We now describe state conflicts. A state conflict is reported when a write operation from a remote node detects that the data on the local node has changed underneath it. This is possible in a distributed system because an object may be modified from multiple nodes in the system. This exception is thrown when a state conflict is detected:
com.kabira.platform.StateConflictError
This exception should never be caught by the application. It is used by the system to manage state conflicts as described below.
State conflicts are handled differently depending on whether writes are configured to be executed asynchronously or synchronously. When distributed writes are configured to execute asynchronously, the state conflict is not detected until the write is executed on the remote node. This is in a different transaction than the one that modified the object data. If a state conflict is detected, the update is discarded on the remote node with a log message.
When writes are configured to execute synchronously state conflicts are handled transparently by the system. If a state conflict is detected on a remote node, an error is returned to the local node, where the cache is invalidated so that the next field access will cause the object data to be refreshed. The transaction is then rolled back and replayed. The application is never aware that a state conflict occurred.
We now discuss extents. Global extents are maintained if an object type is configured in a cache group. As object instances are pushed out to all nodes in a cache group, the extent on the node is updated to contain references to all instances in the distributed system.
If an object type is not configured as part of a cache group, the extent on a node only contains the instances that have been created on that node, or pulled to the node in some other way (directed create, remote operation invocation, name service, factory, etc.).
Some internal guidelines for distributed programming include:
All modifications to a distributed object should be done on one node. This reduces the chance of state conflicts, which cause performance degradation. The best way to enforce this is to use methods to perform field updates. The method will execute on the master node transparently. Eliminate distributed deadlocks from an application. Distributed deadlock detection may use a timeout to detect a deadlock. This implies that a distributed transaction will wait the entire value of the timeout value before a deadlock is reported. During this period of time, the transaction is stalled. Factories or directed create should be used to create an object instance on a specific node. Cache Groups should be used to discover remote references for nodes in a cluster. Evaluate which nodes application classes must be installed on. Types configured for cache groups require that the application class be installed on all nodes that participate in the cache group. Applications that use directed creates and factories do not require the application component to be installed on all nodes in the distributed network, just the nodes on which the object will be created.
We now discuss high-availability, including a discussion of how to add mirrored and replicated managed objects to a transactional application. We also describe how high availability services may be configured. In particular, to integrate mirrored and replicated objects into an application, the following steps should be taken:
Configure the cluster and partitions Define the mirrored and replicated application objects Optionally integrate a router into the application
Regarding configuration, high availability configuration information may include the following:
Cluster definition Partition definition Change log definition
High-availability configuration may be carried out using configuration files. High-availability configuration defines a nested configuration block named “ha” and also defines the following configuration interfaces:
NodeConfiguration—defines a node in the cluster. Multiple NodeConfiguration interfaces are supported. PartitionConfiguration—defines a data partition. Multiple PartitionConfiguration interfaces are supported.
Supported configuration values are described below
The example below illustrates how the high-availability configuration block and interfaces may be used:
//
// Define a high-availability configuration named sampleHA
// This is version 1.0 of this configuration
//
configuration “sampleHA” version “1.0” type “ha”
{
//
// HA configuration block
//
configure ha
{
//
// Define the cluster with one or more NodeConfiguration
interfaces
//
NodeConfiguration
{
...
};
NodeConfiguration
{
...
};
//
// Define the application data partitions with one or more
// PartitionConfiguration interfaces
//
PartitionConfiguration
{
...
};
PartitionConfiguration
{
...
};
};
};
Configuration attributes supported by the HA configuration interfaces are summarized in the tables below. For example, the node configuration values are summarized in the following table:
Name
Type
Description
Name
Unbounded string
Node name
The following table summarizes the partition configuration values specific to a partition.
Name
Type
Description
Name
Unbounded string
A unique partition name. This
name must be unique for all
configured partitions.
Group
Unbound string
Partition group name.
minimumNumber
Unsigned long
Minimum range identifier.
maximumNumber
Unsigned long
Maximum range identifier.
primaryNodeName
Unbounded string
Primary node name.
backupNodeName
Unbounded string
Backup node name.
backupType
Enumeration -
Controls whether updates to
Synchronous
the backup node are made in
or Deferred.
the caller's transaction or in a
different transaction. Default
value is Synchronous.
backupMilliseconds
Unsigned long
Backup time interval in
milliseconds if backupType is
Deferred. Ignored if
backupType is Synchronous.
Default value is 100
milliseconds.
sendObjectChunkSize
Unsigned long
Object chunk size to use when
restoring or migrating objects
between nodes. This value
controls how many objects are
copied in a single transaction
during node restores and
migrations. Do not change the
default value. Default value is
1000.
Optional change log configuration values in the PartitionConfiguration interface are summarized in the table below:
Name
Type
Description
changeLog-Scope
Enumeration -
Scope of change logging. LogDisabled disables the
Log-
change log. LogPrimary logs on primary node only,
Disabled,
LogBackup logs on backup node only, Log Both
LogPrimary,
logs on both the primary and backup nodes, or
Log-Backup,
LogAlways logs on currently active node for
LogBoth,
partition. Default value is LogDisabled.
LogAlways.
formatterName
Unbounded
Change log formatter name. Default value is X1VIL
string
formatter.
fileNameTem-plate
Unbounded
The full path of the file to be used for the change
string
log. This may be an absolute path or a path relative
to the node directory. The file and any missing
directories will be created as needed. Variable
tokens of the form %<token> may be used to
generate file names. All of the POSIX defined
tokens for strftime are supported (e.g. %Y-%m-%d
%T%H:%M). There is also support for
%nodeName, the name of the Fluency node and
%count, the number of times the change log has
rolled over. Default value is changelog.xml.
renameOnClose
Enumeration -
If Enabled, causes the change log file to be renamed
Enabled or
when it is closed. Events that trigger renaming are
Disabled
rollover, configuration deactivation, stopping an
application, and node restart. Renaming is not
supported across devices. During the rollover, if the
fileOpenMode is set to Append and the destination
file exists, the logger will append_0 to the
destination name and try again, and if destination
with_0 also exists, it will try destination with_1,
and so on, till it finds the nonexisting destination_x.
This prevents the system from accidentally
overwriting an existing file. If the fileOpenMode is
set to Truncate and the destination file exists, the
destination file will be overwritten during rollover.
Default value is Disabled.
renameTem-plate
Unbounded
The name to which the active log file will be
string
renamed when it is closed, including the full path.
Only valid if renameOnClose is set to Enabled. The
rename template supports all of the variable tokens
supported by fileNameTemplate, as well as a
special token which matches the file name portion
of the original file name - %original Name - the file
name portion of the original log file name. This
token can be used to move the closed log file into a
different directory while keeping the same name.
Default value is an empty string.
loggingMode
Enumeration -
Select synchronous or asynchronous logging. A
Synchronous or
value of Synchronous means that log entries will be
Asynchronous
written to the log file synchronously from the
calling transaction. Asynchronous means that the
entry will be written to the log file outside of the
context of the calling transaction. Default value is
Synchronous.
transactional-Logger
Enumeration -
When set to Enabled, causes the log entry to be
Enabled or
written only upon commit of the calling transaction.
Disabled
If the calling transaction is rolled back, the log entry
is dropped. When set to Disabled, the log entry is
always written no matter the result of the
transaction. Default value is Enabled.
asyncBuffering
Enumeration -
Enable buffering for asynchronous logging. If
Enabled or
buffering is enabled, log entries will be aggregated,
Disabled
and written together every
asyncBufferingFlushlntervalSeconds seconds. Note
that this option is only valid if loggingMode is
Asynchronous. Default value is Disabled.
asyncBuffering-Flushlnter-
Unsigned long
Buffer flush interval, in seconds. When
valSeconds
asyncBuffering is enabled, accumulated log records
will be written to the file system at the specified
interval (in seconds). This option is mandatory if
asyncBuffering is Enabled, and not valid otherwise.
Default value is 0.
rolloverBySize
Enumeration -
When set to Enabled, log files are rolled over
Enabled or
whenever their size exceeds rolloverSizeBytes
Disabled
bytes. Default value is Disabled.
rolloverSize-Bytes
Unsigned long
The file size, in bytes, which triggers change log
file rollover. The actual number of bytes in the log
file will normally exceed this size, as only whole
records are written to the log file. Default value is 0.
rolloverByNum-Records
Enumeration -
When set to Enabled, log files are rolled over when
Enabled or
the number of log records written to the file reaches
Disabled
rolloverNumRecords. Default value is Disabled.
rolloverNumRecords
Unsigned long
The number of records which triggers log file
rollover. Default value is 0.
rolloverBylnterval
Enumeration -
When set to Enabled, log files are rolled over every
Enabled or
rolloverlntervalSeconds seconds. Default value is
Disabled
Disabled.
rolloverlnter-valSeconds
Unsigned long
Log files are rolled over every
rolloverlntervalSeconds seconds. Default value is 0.
fileCreateMode
Unbounded
The permissions to be used when creating log files.
string
The format is an octal string of the form Oxxx, as
defined by the P051K chmod 0 command. Note that
the actual permissions on the file will be modified
by the process's umask. Default value is 0644.
directoryCreate-Mode
Unbound string
The permissions to be used when creating
directories. The format is an octal string of the form
Oxxx, as defined by the P051K chmod 0 command.
Note that the actual permissions on the directories
will be modified by the process's umask. Default
value is 0755.
fileSyncMode
Enumeration -
The synchronization level to set when opening log
Un-synchronized,
files. The values Synchronized and
Synchronized, or
SynchronizedDataOnly correspond to the P051K
Synchronized
open 0 system call flags 0_SYNC and O_DSYNC,
DataOnly
respectively. Default value is Synchronized.
fileOpenMode
Enumeration -
The action to be taken when opening a log file
Truncate or
which already exists. If the value is Append, the
Append
contents of the file will be preserved, and new log
records written to the end of the file. If the value is
Truncate, the contents of the file will be
overwritten. Default value is Append.
allowEmptyLog-Files
Enumeration -
When set to Enabled, empty log files are created
Enabled or
upon close or rollover if there are no records in the
Disabled
log file. Otherwise, no file is created under those
conditions. Default value is Enabled.
emptyLogFile-Content
Enumeration -
When set to Header Footer, empty log files include
Empty or
the header(s) and footer(s). If the value is Empty the
Header-
empty log files do not include a header or a footer.
Footer
An example of a highly available configuration file follows:
configuration “ha” version “1.0” type “ha”
{
configure ha
{
//
// Configure a primary, backup, and replica node
//
NodeConfiguration { name = “primary”; };
NodeConfiguration { name = “backup”; };
NodeConfiguration { name = “replica”; };
//
// Define a single partition
//
PartitionConfiguration
{
name = “fluency”;
group = “fluency”;
primaryNodeName = “primary”;
backupNodeName = “backup”;
minimumNumber = 0;
maximumNumber = 100;
sendObjectChunkSize = 5;
//
// Change Log Configuration
//
changeLogScope = LogBoth;
fileNameTemplate =
“../../logs/changelogs/%nodeName/
%m%d_%count.xml”;
fileOpenMode = Append;
directoryCreateMode = “0755”;
fileCreateMode = “0666”;
rolloverBySize = Disabled;
rolloverSizeBytes = 0;
rolloverByInterval = Disabled;
rolloverIntervalSeconds = 0;
rolloverByNumRecords = Enabled;
rolloverNumRecords = 1000;
renameOnClose = Enabled;
renameTemplate =
“../../logs/changelogs/%nodeName/complete/
%m%d_%count.xml”;
loggingMode = Synchronous;
transactionalLogger = Enabled;
fileSyncMode = Unsynchronized;
};
};
};
We now discuss defining mirrored and replicated managed objects. Mirrored and replicated managed objects are defined by extending from the appropriate parent type. The following example shows how a mirrored managed object and a replicated managed object may be defined and created.
package programming.fluency.highavailability;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
import com.kabira.platform.ha.*;
//
// This is a Mirrored Managed Object that will be created in
// Partition group “fluency” with a partition number of 0. The
// application identifier is set to a null to use the default value.
//
class B1 extends MirroredObject
{
B1( )
{
super (“fluency”, 0, null);
}
}
//
// This is a Replicated Managed Object that will be created in
// Partition group “fluency” with a partition number of 0. The
// application identifier is set to a null to use the default value.
//
class B2 extends ReplicatedObject
{
B2( )
{
super (“fluency”, 0, null);
}
}
public class B extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new B( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
//
// Create a mirrored managed object
//
new B1( );
//
// Create a replicated managed object
//
new B2( );
}
}
It is noted that mirrored and replicated managed objects have the same life cycle as any managed object.
We now discuss application identifiers. Replicated and mirrored managed objects have an optional application defined identifier that can be specified when an object is created. A unique index is maintained for this identifier on all nodes in the HA cluster. This index is maintained during failover, restore, and migrations. The application identifier is unique across all mirrored and replicated object instances.
Specifying a non-unique identifier value when creating an object will cause the create to fail with the following exception:
#
# An attempt to create an object with a non-unique application identifier
throws
# this exception
#
com.kabira.platform.ObjectNotUniqueError
The following example demonstrates the behavior of duplicate identifiers.
package programming.fluency.highavailability;
import com.kabira.platform.ha.MirroredObject;
import com.kabira.platform.*;
class E1 extends MirroredObject
{
E1 (String identifier)
{
super (“fluency”, 0, identifier);
}
}
class E2 extends Thread
{
int numberLoops = 10;
@Override
public void run( )
{
int i;
E3 e3 = new E3( );
for (i = 0; i < numberLoops; i++)
{
e3.identifier = “” + i;
e3.execute( );
}
}
}
class E3 extends Transaction
{
String identifier;
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
try
{
new E1(identifier);
}
catch (ObjectNotUniqueError ex)
{
System.out.println(
“Thread: ” + Thread.currentThread( ).getName( ) +
“ ” + ex.getMessage( ));
}
}
}
public class E extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args) throws InterruptedException
{
//
// Start two threads - both threads are attempting to create
// objects using the same identifier - first one doing the
// create wins. The other thread receives a ObjectNotUniqueError
// exception.
//
E2 one = new E2( );
E2 two = new E2( );
one.start( );
two.start( );
//
// Wait for the threads to exit
//
one.join( );
two.join( );
//
// Display data in shared memory
//
new E( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
ManagedObjectSet<E1> extent =
ManagedObject.extent(E1.class);
for (E1 e1 : extent)
{
System.out.println(e1.identifier);
}
}
}
When the preceding example runs, it outputs as follows (annotation added). The exact thread number will vary.
Thread: Thread-2 Duplicate found for key ‘ha::BaseImpl::ByIdentifier’ in
programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:1.
Duplicate is programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:2. Key data:
[
identifier = “0”
]
Thread: Thread-2 Duplicate found for key ‘ha::BaseImpl::ByIdentifier’ in
programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:5.
Duplicate is programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:3. Key data:
[
identifier = “1”
]
Thread: Thread-2 Duplicate found for key ‘ha::BaseImpl::ByIdentifier’ in
programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:9.
Duplicate is programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:4. Key data:
[
identifier = “2”
]
Thread: Thread-2 Duplicate found for key ‘ha::BaseImpl::ByIdentifier’ in
programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:14.
Duplicate is programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:6. Key data:
[
identifier = “3”
]
87
Application Identifier
Thread: Thread-2 Duplicate found for key ‘ha::BaseImpl::ByIdentifier’ in
programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:15.
Duplicate is programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:7. Key data:
[
identifier = “4”
]
Thread: Thread-2 Duplicate found for key ‘ha::BaseImpl::ByIdentifier’ in
programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:16.
Duplicate is programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:8. Key data:
[
identifier = “5”
]
Thread: Thread-2 Duplicate found for key ‘ha::BaseImpl::ByIdentifier’ in
programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:17.
Duplicate is programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:10. Key data:
[
identifier = “6”
]
Thread: Thread-2 Duplicate found for key ‘ha::BaseImpl::ByIdentifier’ in
programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:18.
Duplicate is programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:11. Key data:
[
identifier = “7”
]
Thread: Thread-2 Duplicate found for key ‘ha::BaseImpl::ByIdentifier’ in
programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:19.
Duplicate is programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:12. Key data:
[
identifier = “8”
]
Thread: Thread-2 Duplicate found for key ‘ha::BaseImpl::ByIdentifier’ in
programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:20.
Duplicate is programming/fluency/highavailability/E1, instance
1372378:250624:14560768793792062867:13. Key data:
[
identifier = “9”
]
#
# 10 unique objects were created in shared memory
#
5
0
6
1
7
2
8
9
3
4
If the application does not require a unique identifier, a value of null can be specified for the identifier in the constructor. This will cause the system to chose a globally unique identifier for the object.
Both replicated and mirrored managed objects support a selectUsingByIdentifier method that is used to find the specified object. This method has the following signature:
public static Base selectUsingByIdentifier(JAVA.lang.String identifier, LockMode lockMode)
The parameters to this method are set forth in the following table:
Name
Description
identifier
Application specified identifier.
lockMode
Specify the transaction lock to be taken on the object. Valid
values are LockMode.NoLock, LockMode.ReadLock, and
LockMode.WriteLock.
The return value from the selectUsingByIdentifier method is a valid object instance if an object with the specified identifier is found. The return value is a null object handle if an object with the specified identifier is not found.
We now describe an example of using the application identifier.
package programming.fluency.highavailability;
import com.kabira.platform.ha.*;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
import com.kabira.platform.LockMode;
import com.kabira.platform.ObjectNotUniqueError;
class F1 extends MirroredObject
{
F1 (String identifier)
{
super (“fluency”, 0, identifier);
}
}
public class F extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new F( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
//
// Create an instance of F1 with an identifier value of “one”
// This can throw ObjectNotUnique if an object with this identifier
// is already created
//
new F1(“one”);
//
// Find the instance of F1 just created
//
F1 one = (F1)F1.selectUsingByIdentifier(“one”,
LockMode.ReadLock);
System.out.println(“Selected: ” + one.identifier);
//
// Create an instance of F1 using the default identifier
//
new F1(null);
//
// The create and select are done in a while loop to
// handle the case where a delete was done in a different
// thread after the new throws an exception, but before
// the select is executed.
//
F1 two = null;
while (two == null)
{
try
{
two = new F1(“two”);
}
catch (ObjectNotUniqueError ex)
{
two = (F1)F1.selectUsingByIdentifier(“two”,
LockMode.ReadLock);
}
}
System.out.println(“Selected: ” + two.identifier);
}
}
Executing the preceding example results in the following output
Selected: one
Selected: two
We now discuss routing. Updates to mirrored or replicated managed objects occur on the current active master node for the object. The Route and DeliveryNotifier classes provide the mechanism to transparently route data between nodes to ensure that object updates are done on the current active master for a mirrored or replicated managed object. The routing functionality can also be used by applications for application specific reasons that do not involve modification of mirrored or replicated managed objects.
The Route class delivers application specified data to a DeliveryNotifier by name. The name of the DeliveryNotifier is unique on a node. However, the name does not have to be unique across all nodes in the cluster. The named DeliveryNotifier that is the target of a route request can exist on the local or any remote node. The location of the DeliveryNotifier is transparent to the application using the Route class. During application initialization delivery, notifiers should be created on all nodes that will be the target of route requests.
The Route class supports:
routing to the current active master node for a partition routing to a specific node
These routing services allow an application to easily return a response to a node that initiated a request, by sending some data to an application.
The below example shows the use of the Route class and a DeliveryNotifier to send some application specific data between two nodes. The initial routing is done by a partition identifier and the response is returned using the source node name.
The following example illustrates routing:
// // NAME // $RCSfile: Routing.java,v $ // // COPYRIGHT // Confidential Property of Kabira Technologies, Inc. // Copyright 2008 by Kabira Technologies, Inc. // All rights reserved. // // HISTORY // $Revision: 1.5 $ // package com.kabira.snippets.highavailability; import java.util.logging.Level; import java.util.logging.Logger; import com.kabira.platform.ha.*; import com.kabira.platform.Transaction; import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObject; import com.kabira.platform.swbuiltin.EngineServices; /** * Routing application data to active node for a partition * <p> * <h2> Target Nodes</h2> * <ul> * <li> <b>domainname</b> = Fluency Development * </ul> */ public class Routing extends Transaction { /** * Routing notifier */ public static class Notifier extends DeliveryNotifier { Notifier(String name) { super (name); } @Override public void deliverToPartition( String sourceNodeName, PartitionId targetPartition, Object data) throws RoutingError { String request = “ Request: ” + (String) data; String nodes = “Source Node: ” + sourceNodeName + “ Target Node: ” + EngineServices.getNodeName( ); System.out.println(nodes + request); // // Return a response to the source node // Route.toNode(Routing.notifierName, sourceNodeName, “How are you?”); // // Let main know we are done // Routing.done = true; } @Override public void deliverToNode( String sourceNodeName, Object data) throws RoutingError { String response = “ Response: ” + (String) data; String nodes = “Source Node: ” + sourceNodeName + “ Target Node: ” + EngineServices.getNodeName( ); System.out.println(nodes + response); // // Let main know we are done // Routing.done = true; } } /** * Control program exceution */ public enum Action { /** * Create routing notifier */ CREATENOTIFIER, /** * Send routing request */ SENDREQUEST, /** * Delete routing notifier */ DELETENOTIFIER } static final String notifierName = “mynotifier”; static volatile boolean done = false; private String m_engineName; private Action m_action; private Notifier m_notifier; /** * Main entry point * @param args Not used * @throws com.kabira.platform.ha.RoutingError * @throws java.lang.InterruptedException */ public static void main(String [ ] args) throws RoutingError, InterruptedException { Routing routing = new Routing( ); routing.m_action = Action.CREATENOTIFIER; routing.execute( ); routing.m_action = Action.SENDREQUEST; routing.execute( ); // // Wait here until done - we retry the send request // on the replica node. this handles the case where // the primary node hadn't created a notifier yet // while (done == false) { Thread.sleep(2000); if (routing.m_engineName.equals(“replica”) == true) { routing.execute( ); } } routing.m_action = Action.DELETENOTIFIER; routing.execute( ); System.out.println(routing.m_engineName + “ exiting”); } @Override protected void run( ) throws Rollback { m_engineName = EngineServices.getNodeName( ); if (m_action == Action.CREATENOTIFIER) { m_notifier = new Notifier(notifierName); return; } if (m_action == Action.DELETENOTIFIER) { ManagedObject.delete(m_notifier); m_notifier = null; return; } assert ( m_action == Action.SENDREQUEST ); // // If backup node we can exit immediately // if (m_engineName.equals(“backup”) == true) { Routing.done = true; return; } // // Route a message only from the replica node // if (m_engineName.equals(“replica”) == false) { return; } System.out.println(“Routing request”); // // Route a request to the pre-configured partition // PartitionId partitionId = new PartitionId( ); partitionId.group = “fluency”; partitionId.number = 0; String request = “Hello?”; try { Route.toPartition(notifierName, partitionId, request); } catch (RoutingError ex) { Logger.getLogger( Routing.class.getName( )).log(Level.SEVERE, ex.getMessage( ), ex); } }
When the preceding example is run, the following output is generated (annotation added and informational messages removed). The actual output may vary based on execution timing differences.
#
# Request sent from replica to primary node
#
[replica] Routing request
#
# Backup main is exiting. The code executing on the backup node does
# not participate in the routing example
#
[backup] backup exiting
#
# This is the replica node receiving the response from the primary. It is
# output before the primary message because of the way output is received
# from remote nodes
[replica] Source Node: primary Target Node: replica Response:
How are you?
#
# The replica is exiting after receiving the response from the primary node
#
[replica] replica exiting
#
# This is the primary node receiving the request from the replica
#
[primary] Source Node: replica Target Node: primary Request: Hello?
#
# The primary node is exiting after sending a response to the replica node
#
[primary] primary exiting
We now discuss partitioning of application data. Application data can be partitioned into one or more partitions by specifying the partition group and number when a mirrored or replicated managed object is created. The com.kabira.ha.Base class, which is the base class for both Mirrored and Replicated Managed Objects, defines this public constructor:
public Base(
JAVA.lang.String partitionGroup, // Partition group in which to create
object long partitionNumber, // Partition number to use for object
JAVA.lang.String identifier) // Application specific identifier for object
The Partition specified when an object is created is to be configured on the local node. The decision on which partition should be associated with a Mirrored or Replicated Managed object may be based on an application specific criteria. For example all customers on the west coast may be in a partition named WEST, while all customers on the east coast may be in a partition named EAST.
The example below illustrates partitioning application data:
//
// HA configuration data to define two partitions - EAST and WEST
//
configuration “ha” version “2.0” type “ha”
{
configure ha
{
//
// Configure a primary, backup, and replica node
//
NodeConfiguration { name = “primary”; };
NodeConfiguration { name = “backup”; };
NodeConfiguration { name = “replica”; };
//
// Define EAST partition
//
PartitionConfiguration
{
name = “eastcoast”;
group = “EAST”;
primaryNodeName = “primary”;
backupNodeName = “backup”;
minimumNumber = 0;
maximumNumber = 100;
sendObjectChunkSize = 5;
//
// Change Log Configuration
//
changeLogScope = LogBoth;
fileNameTemplate = “../../logs/changelogs/%nodeName/
%m%d_%count.xml”;
fileOpenMode = Append;
directoryCreateMode = “0755”;
fileCreateMode = “0666”;
rolloverByNumRecords = Enabled;
rolloverNumRecords = 1000;
renameOnClose = Enabled;
renameTemplate =
“../../logs/changelogs/%nodeName/complete/
%m%d_%count.xml”;
loggingMode = Synchronous;
transactionalLogger = Enabled;
fileSyncMode = Unsynchronized;
};
//
// Define WEST partition
//
PartitionConfiguration
{
name = “westcoast”;
group = “WEST”;
primaryNodeName = “primary”;
backupNodeName = “backup”;
minimumNumber = 0;
maximumNumber = 100;
sendObjectChunkSize = 5;
//
// Change Log Configuration
//
changeLogScope = LogBoth;
fileNameTemplate =
“../../logs/changelogs/%nodeName/%m%d_%count.xml”;
fileOpenMode = Append;
directoryCreateMode = “0755”;
fileCreateMode = “0666”;
rolloverByNumRecords = Enabled;
rolloverNumRecords = 1000;
renameOnClose = Enabled;
renameTemplate =
“../../logs/changelogs/%nodeName/complete/
%m%d_%count.xml”;
loggingMode = Synchronous;
transactionalLogger = Enabled;
fileSyncMode = Unsynchronized;
};
};
};
//
// Application data partitioning example
//
package programming.fluency.highavailability;
import com.kabira.platform.LockMode;
import com.kabira.platform.ha.MirroredObject;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
class Customer extends MirroredObject
{
Customer (String partitionGroup, String identifier)
{
super (partitionGroup, 0, identifier);
System.out.println(
“Assigning customer ” + identifier + “ to group: ” + partitionGroup);
}
}
public class D extends Transaction
{
public static void main (String [ ] args)
{
new D( ).execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
//
// Create Fred in the west partition group
//
Customer fred = new Customer(“WEST”, “Fred”);
//
// Create Barney in the east partition group
//
Customer barney = new Customer(“EAST”, “Barney”);
//
// Find Fred and Barney
//
fred = (Customer)Customer.selectUsingByIdentifier(
“Fred”, LockMode.ReadLock);
barney = (Customer)Customer.selectUsingByIdentifier(
“Barney”, LockMode.ReadLock);
System.out.println(fred.identifier + “ is in ” + fred.partitionGroup);
System.out.println(barney.identifier + “ is in ” +
barney.partitionGroup);
}
}
When the preceding example is run, it creates the following output:
Assigning customer Fred to group: WEST Assigning customer Barney to group: EAST Fred is in WEST Barney is in EAST
We now describe partition state change notifiers. In some cases, an application should be notified when a partition state changes. This is supported using:
public abstract class com.kabira.platform.ha.PartitionStateNotifier
{
abstract void stateTransition(
Partition partition,
PartitionState oldState,
PartitionState newState);
}
An application can create an instance of a PartitionStateNotifier on each node where it is interested in notifications of Partition state changes. The stateTransition method will be called for each state change for all partitions to which it is registered.
The following example shows a simple implementation that monitors Partition state changes.
package programming.fluency.highavailability;
import com.kabira.platform.LockMode;
import com.kabira.platform.ha.*;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
class G1 extends PartitionStateNotifier
{
@Override
public void stateTransition(
Partition partition,
PartitionState oldState,
PartitionState newState)
{
String message = “Partition: ” + partition.name + “ transitioning ” +
“from ” + oldState + “ to ” + newState + “ now hosted on ” +
partition.primaryNodeName;
System.out.println(message);
}
}
public class G extends Transaction
{
enum Action
{
CREATE,
WAIT,
DELETE
}
private Action m_action;
private boolean m_onLocalNode = true;
private Partition m_partition;
private G1 m_g1;
public static void main (String [ ] args) throws InterruptedException
{
G g = new G( );
g.m_action = Action.CREATE;
g.execute( );
//
// Wait here for Partition to failover to remote node
//
g.m_action = Action.WAIT;
while (g.m_onLocalNode == true)
{
g.execute( );
System.out.println(“Waiting for partition to failover”);
Thread.sleep(10000);
}
//
// Wait here for Partition to be restored from remote node
//
g.m_action = Action.WAIT;
while (g.m_onLocalNode == false)
{
g.execute( );
System.out.println(“Waiting for partition to be restored”);
Thread.sleep(10000);
}
g.m_action = Action.DELETE;
g.execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
if (m_action == Action.CREATE)
{
m_g1 = new G1( );
//
// Get the partition we are interested in
//
m_partition = Partition.selectUsingByName(“fluency”,
LockMode.ReadLock);
//
// Register our notifier
//
m_partition.setStateNotifier(m_g1);
}
else if (m_action == Action.WAIT)
{
//
// See if the partition is still hosted on the local node
//
m_onLocalNode = m_partition.isHostedOnLocalNode( );
}
else
{
assert ( m_action == Action.DELETE );
//
// Clear our notifier
//
m_partition.clearStateNotifier(m_g1);
m_g1.delete( );
}
}
}
When the preceding example is run, it outputs the following (annotation added):
Waiting for partition to failover
#
# fluency partition was failed over to the backup node
#
Partition: fluency transitioning from Migrating to HostedOnPrimary
now hosted on backup
Waiting for partition to failover
#
# fluency partition was restored to the primary node
#
Partition: fluency transitioning from Migrating to HostedOnPrimary
now hosted on primary
Waiting for partition to be restored
We now describe the use of timers for high availability. A highly available timer provides transparent fail-over to a backup node if the primary node fails. It also provides transparent timer services during node restoration and migration. The timer services are implemented as a notifier. An application inherits from the timer notifier interface and provides an implementation of the timerNotifier operation to use the timer service.
HA timers are transactional. If a timer is executing on a primary node but it does not commit before a primary node failure, the timer will be executed on the backup node following fail-over. HA timers are provided by the kabira.platform.ha.TimerNotifier class. The TimerNotifier is a mirrored object. It has a primary and a backup node and is associated with a partition. The timer can be controlled only on the current active node for the partition associated with the timer. The timer notifier will also only trigger on the currently active node. The object parameter to the timerNotifier operation must also be a Mirrored Managed object in the same partition as the timer notifier. This is so that this object is available on both the primary and backup nodes for the timer.
The ha::TimerId is a unique identifier for the timer on both the primary and backup nodes. The application can rely on this identifier being the same on both nodes. Timers may be started using the number of seconds from the current time, i.e. a relative, not an absolute time. The timer fires when this time expires. The relative time is transmitted to the backup node for a timer and the current time on the backup node is used to calculate when the timer should fire. This minimizes the impact of clock drift between the primary and backup nodes. However, it is strongly recommended that clocks be synchronized between the primary and backup nodes.
When a primary node fails, any pending timers are automatically restarted on the backup node. One-shot timers will only be executed on the backup node if they have not executed on the primary node before the failure. They will be executed at the initially scheduled time. A recurring timer will execute on the backup node at the next scheduled time. It will then continue to execute on the backup node until the primary node is restored. If a recurring timer was missed due to a delay between the primary failure and the backup node taking on the work, these scheduled timer executions will be dropped—there are no “makeup” executions for recurring timers.
When a primary node is restored, any active timers on the backup node will be cancelled on the backup node and restarted on the primary node. The same notifier execution rules as described for fail-over above apply. Migrating a partition that contains active timers will cause the timer to be canceled on the old primary node and restarted on the new primary node. The same is true if the backup node was migrated. The same notifier execution rules as described for fail-over above apply.
The following example illustrates how a highly available timer is created and terminated.
package programming.fluency.highavailability;
import com.kabira.platform.Transaction;
import com.kabira.platform.ManagedObjectSet;
import com.kabira.platform.ha.*;
//
// Mirrored object passed to timer notifier
//
class C1 extends MirroredObject
{
C1( )
{
super (“fluency”, 0, null);
}
int count;
}
//
// Timer notifier
//
class Notifier extends TimerNotifier
{
//
// Timer notifier must be in same partition as the
// object passed to the notifier
//
Notifier( )
{
super (“fluency”, 0, null);
}
@Override
public void timerNotify(String timerId, MirroredObject object)
{
C1 c1 = (C1) object;
c1.count += 1;
System.out.println(“Timer Id:” + timerId + “ Value: ” + c1.count);
}
}
public class C extends Transaction
{
enum Action
{
START,
TERMINATE
}
private Action m_action;
public static void main (String [ ] args) throws InterruptedException
{
C c = new C( );
c.m_action = Action.START;
c.execute( );
//
// Wait for timer to fire a few times
//
Thread.sleep(10000);
c.m_action = Action.TERMINATE;
c.execute( );
}
@Override
protected void run( ) throws Rollback
{
if (m_action == Action.START)
{
Notifier notifier = new Notifier( );
C1 c1 = new C1( );
System.out.println(“Starting one second recurring timer”);
notifier.startRecurring(1, c1);
}
else
{
//
// Stop timer - just delete the notifier
//
ManagedObjectSet<Notifier> extent = Notifier.extent(Notifier.class);
for (Notifier notifier : extent)
{
System.out.println(“Stopping one second recurring timer”);
notifier.delete( );
}
}
}
}
When the preceding example is run, it results in the following output (annotations added).
#
# Timer started
#
Starting one second recurring timer
#
# Timer notifier called
#
Timer Id:primary:442381631492 Value: 1
Timer Id:primary:442381631492 Value: 2
Timer Id:primary:442381631492 Value: 3
Timer Id:primary:442381631492 Value: 4
Timer Id:primary:442381631492 Value: 5
Timer Id:primary:442381631492 Value: 6
Timer Id:primary:442381631492 Value: 7
Timer Id:primary:442381631492 Value: 8
Timer Id:primary:442381631492 Value: 9
#
# Timer terminated
#
Stopping one second recurring timer
We now describe failure exposure, including possible data loss under different backup policies and the keep-alive feature for detecting remote node outages. For example, with regard to synchronous updates, synchronous updates will only lose any non-committed Mirrored or Replicated object updates. No committed work is lost.
Inbound communications buffers that have not been processed are also lost. Some network buffers are configurable. A smaller network buffer size implies lower exposure to data loss. Even this small risk of data loss can be avoided if the client of the application has a protocol acknowledgement and includes retry logic if no acknowledgement is received. If the client application resends the request, nothing is lost. However, care should be taken to handle duplicates.
Deferred updates will lose data queued for update. The amount of data that is queued is controlled by the time interval of the backup. Smaller intervals minimize the possible data loss. This lost data was committed by the application on the primary node.
Keep-alive is supported between all nodes in a cluster. Keep-alive requests and responses are used to actively determine whether a remote node is still reachable. If a keep-alive response is not received from a remote node within a configurable amount of time the node is considered down. This will cause all routing to that node to be redirected to the backup node for that unavailable node.
We now describe monitoring applications, particularly during development. In one example, a management console—Kabira Manager—is used to control and monitor nodes. The following steps may be taken to start monitoring the Fluency development server environment.
1. Connect to the URL on the VMWare image start-up screen with a Web Browser. 2. Log into the management console using a username of guest and a password of fluency. 3. Log into the Fluency Development domain using a username of guest and a password of fluency.
These steps are described in more detail below.
An Object Monitor provides viewing of Managed Objects in shared memory. The object monitor may be accessed, for example, for each application node from the VMWare Welcome Page: Monitor Access on Welcome Screen Events
Nodes generate events for exceptional conditions. These events are available in:
Node log files. Domain Manager event cache Domain Manager event monitor
No matter where events are viewed, they have the same content:
Time Stamp—time event occurred Event Topic—topic on which event was published Event Identifier—unique event identifier Event Originator—a unique identifier for the event originator Message—a textual message
In addition, events displayed from the Domain Manager event cache or monitor also contain the node name that generated the event. Here is a example event displayed in the Domain Manager event monitor:
Node Name = primary Date Time = 2008-09-10 12:57:38 Event Topic = kabira.kts.security Event Identifier = switchadmin::EventIdentifiers::OperatorActionSucceeded Event Originator = switchadmin::PluginServiceImpl:1 (344579:8358104:7100:1 offset 67017096)
Message=Administrator command [display] on target [security] executed by principal [guest] succeeded.
The Domain Manager event cache provides a historical cache of all events raised by nodes being managed by a domain manager. The event cache supports the following filters:
Node Name—only show events for a specific node. Event Topic—only show events for a specific event topic. Event Identifier—only show events with a specific event identifier. Event Originator—only show events from a specific originator Contains—only show events that contain a specific phrase. Start Time to End Time Range—only show events between specific start and end times.
The end time can be omitted to show all events from a specific start time.
The Domain Manager Event Monitor displays events real time as they occur.
We now describe an example of a deployment tool may be used during development to deploy applications to nodes. The deployment tool can be used from the command line or via a JAVA IDE. In one example, the deployment tool is named fluency jar.
The general syntax for using the deployment tool is:
JAVA -jar fluency.jar [options] <target> [application parameters]
JAVA -jar fluency.jar [options] help
JAVA -jar fluency.jar [options] display services
fluency.jar is specified as the first −jar option. This ensures that the deployment tool gets control during the execution of the application and manages execution and debugging of the application on a node. Attempting to execute an application that uses “fluency” classes without specifying the fluency.jar file as the first −jar option will cause a JAVA stack dump (such as shown in the following example) because the classes cannot execute outside of the transaction processing JVM:
EXAMPLE
Exception in thread “main” JAVA.lang.SecurityException: Prohibited package name:
JAVA.lang
at JAVA.lang.ClassLoader.preDefineClass(ClassLoader.JAVA:479)
at JAVA.lang.ClassLoader.defineClass(ClassLoader.JAVA:614)
at JAVA.security.SecureClassLoader.defineClass(SecureClassLoader.JAVA:124)
at JAVA.net.URLClassLoader.defineClass(URLClassLoader.JAVA:260)
at JAVA.net.URLClassLoader.access$100(URLClassLoader.JAVA:56)
at JAVA.net.URLClassLoader$1.run(URLClassLoader.JAVA:195)
at JAVA.security.AccessController.doPrivileged(Native Method)
at JAVA.net.URLClassLoader.findClass(URLClassLoader.JAVA:188)
at JAVA.lang.ClassLoader.loadClass(ClassLoader.JAVA:306)
at sun.misc.Launcher.loadClass(Launcher.JAVA:268)
at JAVA.lang.ClassLoader.loadClass(ClassLoader.JAVA:251)
at JAVA.lang.ClassLoader.loadClassInternal(ClassLoader.JAVA:319)
at pojopersistent.Main.main(Main.JAVA:23)
[options] may be any combination of JVM options or Fluency options. The Fluency JVM supports the same options as the Sun JAVA SE 6 JVM. See, for example, http://JAVA.sun.com/JAVAse/6/docs/technotes/tools/windows/JAVA.html. JVM options are prefixed with a “−”, while Fluency options are of the form name=value. <target> is the application jar file or class that will be executed on the Fluency node. [application parameters] are application specific parameters that are passed to the application program's main.
The help command displays the usage message. The display services command is used to query MDNS service discovery for Fluency services on the network. The display services command only works if MDNS service discovery is configured on the local machine.
The following table summarizes supported deployment tool options:
Option
Description
adminport
The [adminport] of the Fluency node that should be used to run the application.
autoconfigure
This option, when given a value of true, requests that the Fluency node load and
activate node configuration files before the application starts, and deactivate/
remove those configurations when the application terminates (default:
false).
debug
A boolean flag indicating whether diagnostic output is required (default: false).
detailed
A boolean flag indicating whether the display service& command output should
contain detailed results (default: false).
displayversion
A boolean flag indicating whether the Fluency version information should be
displayed (default: true).
domainname
The name of the domain that the application is to run on. When this option is
used, the deployment tool must connect to a Kabira Domain Manager node
which is managing the given domain. The application will execute on all nodes
in the domain.
domaingroup
The name of the domain group that the application is to run on. When this
option is used, the deployment tool must connect to a Kabira Domain Manager
node which is managing the given domain group. The application will execute
on all nodes in the domain group.
domainnode
The name of the domain node that the application is to run on. When this option
is used, the deployment tool must connect to a Kabira Domain Manager node
which is managing the given domain node. The application will execute on the
specified node.
hostname
The [hostname] hosting the Fluency node that should be used to run the application
(default: localhost).
password
The [password] to use when authenticating [username] during the connection to
the Fluency node.
remotedebug
If <value> is true~, require the JVIVI hosting the application to enable remote
debugging (default: false for PRODUCTION nodes, true for DEVELOPMENT
nodes).
remotedebugport
The debugger agent port, to be used by the JYIVI to listen for remote debugger
clients (default: randomly chosen by the JVIVI).
reset
This option, when given a value of tru&, requests that all Java objects on the
node be deleted before the application begins execution (default: true).
servicename
The [servicename] of the Fluency node that is to be used to run the application.
This option may be used instead of [adminport] and [hostname]. This option
only works if MDNS service discovery is configured on the local machine.
suspend
If <value> is true~, require the JVIVI to suspend execution before main 0 is
called during remote debugging. This option only applies if remotedebug = true
is specified (default: false).
timeout
The number of seconds to wait while resolving [servicename] with MDNS
(default: 10).
username
The [username] to use when connecting to the Fluency node. The specified
value must identify a principal with administrative privileges on the given node.
x5O9credential
The X509 certificate keystore file to use for authentication. If given, the
[password] parameter is required, and should be the keystore password.
x5O9credentialalias
The alias of the users X509 certificate in the keystore specified by the
[x5O9credential] option (default: mykey).
The reset option provides development support for changing the shape of Managed Objects in shared memory. It has no affect to non-managed Java objects. The reset option only affects the node on which it was executed. To reset types in a distributed or highly available environment, the same reset option value must be executed on all nodes.
Examples of changing the shape of a Managed Objects are:
adding a field to a class removing a field from a class changing the type of a field in a class changing the inheritance hierarchy
Fluency detects when the shape of a Managed Object changes and fails the load of the changed class definition if reset=false. For example, the following example may be run twice—once with m_string not commented out, and then again with m_string commented out:
115
[prmary] Java main class
prograinin ng . fluency. reference. Shape .main exited with an exception. [primary] Java exception
occurred: Audit of class
[programming.fluency. reference.ShapeChange] failed:
Type did not match. New type name programming.fluency.reference.ShapeChange -
existing type name programming.fluency.reference.ShapeChange. Changed values
:numberSlots:objectSze:
the class will not be loaded.
[primary] at com.kabira.platform.classloader.ClassLoader.createKTPTypeDescrptor (Native Method)
[primary] at com.kabira.platform.classloader.ClassLoader.deflneManagedClass (ClassLoader . java: 642)
[primary] at com.kabira.platform.classloader.ClassLoader.flndClass(ClassLoader.java:302)
[primary] at com.kabira.platform.classloader.ClassLoader.loadClass(ClassLoader.java:228)
[primary] at java.lang.ClassLoader.loadClass(ClassLoader.java: 251)
[primary] at java.lang.ClassLoader.loadClassInternal(ClassLoader.java:319)
[primary] at programming.fluency.reference.Shape.run(Shape.java:37)
[primary] at com.kabira.platform.Transaction.execute(Transacton.java:132)
[primary] at programming.fluency.reference.Shape.maTh(Shape.java:31)
INFO: application [programming.fluency.reference.Shape6] running on node [primary] exited with status
[−1]
INFO: Run of distributed application [programming.fluency.reference.Shape6] complete.
Setting reset=true (the default value) will avoid this exception. When an application is executed with reset=true the following happens:
1. All Managed Objects in shared memory are deleted 2. The type definition of the Managed Objects is removed. 3. The type definition of the Managed Objects is recreated using the new class definition.
When Replicated, Mirrored, or Distributed Managed Objects are used in an application, the type definition for these classes are pushed to all nodes in a cluster. To ensure that the type definitions stay consistent on all nodes, the same value for the reset option must be sent to all nodes. This may be accomplished using the Distributed Development features described above.
When the Fluency deployment tool is executed it looks for the following file:
<user home directory>/.fluency/options
If this file exists, any deployment tool command line options in the options file are used. Command line options specified in the options file have the same affect as the same command line option specified on the command line. Options on the command line override the same option in the options file. For example if the command line contains −jar fluency.jar debug=true and the options file contains debug=false, a debug value of true is used for the application execution.
The options file follows the format below.
# # Any line starting with ‘#’ is ignored # # Each option is specified on a separate line, as follows: # <fluency option name> = <fluency option value>[newline]
For example, the following options file would set up the default username and password for use with the Fluency development nodes:
#
# Username and password for Fluency development nodes
#
username = guest
password = fluency
The example below shows how to execute a simple Java program on Fluency:
public class HelloWorld
{
public static void main(String args[ ])
{
System.out.println(“Hello World”);
}
}
#
# Compile the program using the native javac on the host machine
#
javac HelloWorld.java
#
# Execute the program on a Fluency node - assumes fluency.jar
is in local directory
#
java -jar fluency.jar hostname=192.168.71.128 adminport=7100 \
username=guest password=fluency HelloWorld
#
# The output from the Fluency node and the application
#
INFO: JVM remote debugger agent running on [192.168.71.128:50276] ...
Listening for transport dt_socket at address: 50276
Hello World
The Fluency SDK may ship with a VMWare image that contains a complete Fluency server development environment. The server development appliance may have the following nodes installed and configured:
primary—Fluency application node backup—Fluency application node replica—Fluency application node domain manager—Distributed domain management manager—Manager web interface
When the VMWare image is started all of these nodes are automatically started and configured. To restart the server development appliance, the VMWare image should be powered off and back on. This will restore all nodes to their default configuration. The server development appliance is reset to its default state when the VMWare image is restarted. Any modifications made to the server are discarded.
All user visible directories for the server development appliance are available in this path. They are also remotely mountable using SMB.
/opt/kabira/run/fluency-dev
Under this path are the following directories:
configuration—default and auto-load configuration files deploy—user deployment directory for JAR and class files html—generated HTML files for VMWare web pages logs—event, console, and change log files nodes—node directories
The configuration directory contains the following configuration files:
default node configuration files auto-load configuration files for Fluency application nodes
The structure of the configuration directory is:
configuration/<node name>
The Fluency application nodes—primary, backup, and replica have a subdirectory named autoconfigure. This directory is used for automatic configuration file loading.
To automatically load configuration files the following needs to happen. Configuration files to auto-load are copied into the application node autoconfigure directory, and the deployment tool autoconfigure parameter is set to true. When an application is loaded into a node for execution with the autoconfigure parameter set to true, any configuration files in the autoconfigure directory are loaded into the node and activated. When the application exits, the configuration files are deactivated and removed from the node.
Configuration files in the autoconfigure directory are loaded and activated in ascending sort order based on the numeric value of the characters in the file name using the current character set. They are deactivated and removed in the opposite order.
The deploy directory provides a location for installing JAR or class files on the server. When a JVM is started on an application node, any JAR or class files in this directory are automatically added to the JVM's class path. The JAR files are sorted in ascending ASCII order by name before being added to the JVM's class path. This provides a simple mechanism for installing software on the server that is visible to the application nodes configured in the server development appliance.
The logs directory contains the following log files:
node specific event logs console log changelogs
The node specific event logs use the following naming convention:
# # nodename - node name generating log file # mmdd - month/day stamp # count - number of files created on same date # <nodename>_<mmdd>_<count>.log
The console log is named console.log. It contains all the output captured during node startup. Change logs are located in the change log s directory in the logs directory. They use the following naming convention:
#
# In Progress Files
#
# nodename - node name generating change log file
# mmdd - month/day stamp
# count - number of files created on same date
changelogs/<nodename>/<mmdd>_<count>.xml
#
# Completed Files
#
# nodename - node name generating change log file
# originalname - original name of file
# count - number of files created on same date
changelogs/<nodename>/complete/<originalname>.xml_<count>
The nodes directory contains the runtime files associated with active nodes. Each active node is in a separate sub-directory. This directory contains the shared memory files associated with a node and low-level log files that may be useful for debugging problems.
We now describe default configuration information loaded into the Development Appliance.
configuration “ha” version “1.0” type “ha”
{
configure ha
{
//
// Configure a primary, backup, and replica node
//
NodeConfiguration { name = “primary”; };
NodeConfiguration { name = “backup”; };
NodeConfiguration { name = “replica”; };
//
// Define a single partition
//
PartitionConfiguration
{
name = “fluency”;
group = “fluency”;
primaryNodeName = “primary”;
backupNodeName = “backup”;
minimumNumber = 0;
maximumNumber = 100;
changeLogScope = LogBoth;
fileNameTemplate = “../../logs/changelogs/%nodeName/
%m%d_%count.xml”;
fileOpenMode = Append;
directoryCreateMode = “0755”;
fileCreateMode = “0666”;
rolloverBySize = Disabled;
rolloverSizeBytes = 0;
rolloverByInterval = Disabled;
rolloverIntervalSeconds = 0;
rolloverByNumRecords = Enabled;
rolloverNumRecords = 1000;
renameOnClose = Enabled;
renameTemplate =
“../../logs/changelogs/%nodeName/complete/%m%d_%count.xml”;
loggingMode = Synchronous;
transactionalLogger = Enabled;
fileSyncMode = Unsynchronized;
};
};
};
This is the default security configuration.
configuration “users” version “1.0” type “security”
{
configure security
{
configure Principals
{
Principal
{
name = “guest”;
textCredential = “fluency”;
roles =
{
“switchadmin”,
“nodeAdmin”
};
};
};
};
}
This is the default domain configuration.
configuration “kdm” version “2.0” type “kdm”
{
configure kdm
{
DomainConfig
{
//
// Domain name
//
domainName = “Fluency Development”;
//
// The number of seconds between retrying
// queued configuration commands following a
// failure.
//
retryIntervalSeconds = 5;
//
// Optional manually configured managed nodes
//
nodeConfiguration = { };
//
// Optional configuration for managed nodes
//
defaultNodeConfiguration = { };
//
// Configure the cluster group
//
groupConfiguration =
{
{
name = “Application Cluster”;
properties = “”;
defaultNodeConfiguration = { };
}
};
};
};
};
This is the default node configuration.
configuration “nodeconfig” version “1.0” type “nodeconfig”
{
configure switchadmin
{
configure Node
{
//
// Default description for application node
//
Description
{
defaultDescription = “Fluency Development”;
properties = { };
};
//
// This application node will automatically
// join the Application Cluster in the
// Fluency Development domain
//
Domain
{
name = “Fluency Development”;
group = “Application Cluster”;
};
};
};
};
The Java Debug Wire Protocol (JDWP) is used to integrate debugging tools. JDWP was updated to support transactions. The transaction support makes assumptions on how a debugger client manipulates threads. These assumptions may not be true for all clients. In this case, the wrong transaction, or worse a committed transaction, may be used by the JDWP in the Fluency JYIVI. This will cause unpredictable results when debugging an application. A property was added to enable and disable JDWP transaction support.
−Djava.jdwp.transaction˜[trueIfa1se]
The default value of the java.jdwp.transaction property is true. Debugger clients who experience problems with JDWP when debugging transactional threads should change the value of this property to false.
vmOptions=−Djavajdwp transaction=false
Once disabled, transactional access to Managed Object fields from a debugger client will only report the contents of the Java proxy instance, not the backing shared memory.
The Fluency Class Loader uses multiple mechanisms to resolve a class reference. These mechanisms are searched in the following order:
1. Fluency defined system CLASS PATH 2. JAR or Class files in deploy directory 3. Client side CLASS PATH definition
Once a class is resolved the search is terminated. Fluency defines a system CLASS PATH that cannot be changed. The contents of the deploy directory are then searched to resolve class resolutions as described above. Finally, the CLASS PATH specified to the deployment tool is searched.
We have described a system and method in which a user can specify user-defined business logic of a desired transaction processing application using a platform-independent language such as JAVA, even though JAVA (and other platform-independent languages) typically does not support fully-transactional applications. For example, a JAVA Virtual Machine may be interfaced to a transaction processing platform. Thus, for example, a transaction processing platform may be configured to execute instantiated service adaptors arranged to accomplish the business logic, provided in JAVA, in conjunction with generic transaction processing logic. The transaction processing platform may utilize a type system, and the type system utilized by the transaction processing platform may be exposed to the JAVA code using JAVA bindings, such as using a simple programming model to specify a JAVA class as a managed object. As a result, when executed, the user-defined business logic specified in JAVA and executed by a JAVA Virtual Machine (which may be, for example, a fully-certified JAVA Virtual Machine), enjoys all of the transaction processing features of the underlying transaction processing platform.
The methods described herein may be carried out by computing devices, such as the computing nodes described herein, executing computer program instructions from one or more memories and/or other tangible computer-readable medium (and the one or more memories and/or other tangible computer-readable medium may comprise a computer program product.
1. A computing system configured to deploy a JAVA application for execution in a distributed manner, the computing system comprising:
a plurality of computing nodes including a domain manager node, the plurality of computing nodes forming a computing domain configured as an administrative grouping of the nodes administered by the domain manager node; wherein the domain manager node is configured to provide, to each of the computing nodes, a main portion of the JAVA application; the main portion defines, for each computing node, a portion of the behavior of the JAVA application to be accomplished by that computing node; and each computing node is configured to receive at least one class file having classes appropriate for the portion of the behavior of the JAVA application defined, by the main portion, to be accomplished by that computing node.
2. The computing system of claim 1, wherein:
the computing system is configured such that transactions on objects of the JAVA application may be distributed across multiple ones of the computing nodes.
3. The computing system of claim 2, wherein:
the transactions on objects of the JAVA application being distributed across multiple ones of the computing nodes includes maintaining, across the multiples ones of the computing nodes and in a distributed manner, objects that are indicative of a transactional state of the JAVA application.
4. The computing system of claim 2, wherein:
the objects are distributed across multiple ones of the computing nodes so as to maintain a state of the objects in a fault-tolerant manner.
5. The computing system of claim 4, wherein:
distributing the objects across multiple ones of the computing nodes includes replicating each of at least some of the objects from a primary computing node for that object to at least one secondary computing node for that object.
6. The computing system of claim 5, wherein:
the system is configured such that, when one of the computing nodes becomes inoperable, at least one other computing node has access to a state of the objects for which that inoperable computing node was primary, in order to continue to accomplish the behavior of the JAVA application in a fault tolerant manner, without the inoperable computing node.
7. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the computing system is further configured to: execute a deployment tool, the deployment tool configured to define, to the domain manager, which computing nodes form the computing domain.
8. The computing system of claim 7, wherein:
the deployment tool is configured to dynamically change the domain definition to add a new computing node to the computing domain while the computing nodes of the domain are currently executing the JAVA application; and data required by a portion of the behavior of the JAVA application defined, by the main portion, to be accomplished by the new computing node is accessible via at least one object managed by computing nodes of the domain other than the new computing node.
9. A method of deploying a JAVA application for execution in a distributed manner, comprising:
providing a plurality of computing nodes including a domain manager node, the plurality of computing nodes forming a computing domain configured as an administrative grouping of the nodes administered by the domain manager node; providing, by the domain manager node, to each of the computing nodes, a main portion of the JAVA application, wherein the main portion defines, for each computing node, a portion of the behavior of the JAVA application to be accomplished by that computing node; and receiving by each computing node at least one class file having classes appropriate for the portion of the behavior of the JAVA application defined, by the main portion, to be accomplished by that computing node.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein:
the computing system is configured such that transactions on objects of the JAVA application may be distributed across multiple ones of the computing nodes.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein:
maintaining, across the multiples ones of the computing nodes and in a distributed manner, objects that are indicative of a transactional state of the JAVA application, to distribute the transactions on objects of the JAVA application across multiple ones of the computing nodes.
12. The method system of claim 9, wherein:
the objects are distributed across multiple ones of the computing nodes so as to maintain a state of the objects in a fault-tolerant manner.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein:
distributing the objects across multiple ones of the computing nodes includes replicating each of at least some of the objects from a primary computing node for that object to at least one secondary computing node for that object.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein:
the computing system is configured such that, when one of the computing nodes becomes inoperable, at least one other computing node has access to a state of the objects for which that inoperable computing node was primary, in order to continue to accomplish the behavior of the JAVA application in a fault tolerant manner, without the inoperable computing node.
15. The method of claim 9, wherein the computing system is further comprising:
executing a deployment tool to define, to the domain manager, which computing nodes form the computing domain.
16. The method of claim 15, further comprising:
configuring the deployment tool to dynamically change the domain definition to add a new computing node to the computing domain while the computing nodes of the domain are currently executing the JAVA application; and wherein data required by a portion of the behavior of the JAVA application defined, by the main portion, to be accomplished by the new computing node is accessible via at least one object managed by computing nodes of the domain other than the new computing node.
| 2009-04-30 | en | 2009-11-05 |
US-98785204-A | Wireless communication system, wireless base station accommodating apparatus, and data packet transfer method
ABSTRACT
A wireless communication system has a packet switch, a position management table, and a position detector. Based on the fact that a position registration packet including the MAC address of a mobile terminal is received from a certain port, the position detector recognizes that the mobile terminal is present in the service area of a wireless base station connected to the port. Then, the position detector registers the MAC address of the mobile terminal and the port number of the port in the position management table 12. When the packet switch receives a data packet, the packet switch extracts the MAC address of a destination from the data packet, and searches the position management table based on the extracted MAC address. If a port number is hit in the searching of the position management table, then the packet switch recognizes the hit port number as an output destination, and transfers the data packet to the port represented by the port number.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system, a wireless base station accommodating apparatus, and a data packet transfer method, and more particularly to a high-speed wireless data communication system, a wireless base station accommodating apparatus, and a data packet transfer method for license-free high-speed wireless data communications, typically represented by a wireless LAN (Local Area Network).
2. Description of the Related Art
In recent years, license-free high-speed wireless data communication apparatus, typically represented by a wireless LAN, are in widespread use in homes and small offices. A wireless LAN system allows a plurality of wireless base stations to perform data communications with mobile terminals that are located in their respective communication areas through wireless circuits (see, for example, Japanese laid-open patent publication No. 2000-224645).
Various standards for wireless LANs depending on the frequencies and modulation processes used for wireless communications are established by IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers). For example, these standards include IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, etc.
The wireless LANs are finding a growing range of applications including conventional LAN applications, fixed wireless access (FWA) services provided by telecommunications carriers, and nomadic wireless access (NWA) services for mobile users.
With regard to conventional high-speed wireless data communication systems, it has been considered to provide services in a wider range. For providing services in a wider range, it is important to keep low the facility cost and the management cost for a larger number of mobile terminals and wireless base stations.
The conventional high-speed wireless data communication systems have various functions including a function to detect the movement of a mobile terminal, a function to identify the position of a mobile terminal, and a function to manage the position of a mobile terminal. These functions are provided in each of the mobile terminals or the wireless base stations. If wireless communication services are to be developed in a wide area, then since those functions need to be provided in each of the mobile terminals or the wireless base stations, a problem arises in that the facility cost and the management cost of the entire network tend to become high.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide a wireless communication system, a wireless base station accommodating apparatus, and a data packet transfer method, which make it possible to employ a simple system arrangement and reduce facility and management costs.
To achieve the above object, there is provided in accordance with the present invention a wireless communication system comprising a plurality of wireless base stations for performing wireless data communications with mobile terminals which are accommodated respectively thereby, and a wireless base station accommodating apparatus for accommodating the wireless base stations, the wireless base station accommodating apparatus having detecting means for detecting positions of the mobile terminals, and a position management table for registering therein identification information of the mobile terminals detected by the detecting means and identification information of the wireless base stations which accommodate the mobile terminals.
To achieve the above object, there is also provided in accordance with the present invention a method of transferring data packets to mobile terminals in a wireless communication system including a plurality of wireless base stations for performing wireless data communications with mobile terminals which are accommodated respectively thereby, and a wireless base station accommodating apparatus for accommodating the wireless base stations, comprising the steps, performed by the wireless base station accommodating apparatus, of detecting positions of the mobile terminals, and registering therein identification information of the mobile terminals which are detected and identification information of the wireless base stations which accommodate the mobile terminals.
The present invention resides in that a communication network based on a wireless communication process, typically represented by a wireless LAN, detects the positions of mobile terminals and transfers data packets with a simple arrangement.
According to the present invention, the wireless base station accommodating apparatus which accommodates the wireless base stations has the detecting means for detecting positions of the mobile terminals, and the position management table for registering therein identification information of the mobile terminals detected by the detecting means and identification information (e.g., the port numbers of ports to which the wireless base stations are connected, IDs inherent in the wireless base stations, or the like) of the wireless base stations which accommodate the mobile terminals. With this arrangement, since the mobile terminals and the wireless base stations do not need to have a position management function therein, the system arrangement is simple, and facility and management costs are reduced.
The above and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate examples of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a sequence chart showing operation of the wireless communication system according to the embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a wireless communication system according to another embodiment of the present invention; and
FIG. 4 is a sequence chart showing operation of the wireless communication system according to the other embodiment of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 shows in block form a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the wireless communication system comprises wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1, a plurality of wireless base stations 2-i (i=1, 2, 3, 4, . . . ), and a plurality of mobile terminals 3.
Mobile terminals 3 are communication terminals such as PCs (Personal Computers), PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), or the like, and have one or more wireless interfaces based on standards typically represented by IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.11.
Wireless base stations 2-i are base stations having a wireless interface based on standards typically represented by IEEE 802.11. Wireless base stations 2-i are accommodated by wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 through ports #i. Wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 has packet switch 11 for transferring data packets addressed to mobile terminal 3 to appropriate wireless base station 2-i, and position management table 12 and position detector 13 for managing the positions of mobile terminals 3.
FIG. 2 is a sequence chart showing operation of the wireless communication system according to the embodiment of the present invention. A specific operation of the wireless communication system at the time mobile terminal 3 moves from wireless base station 2-1 to wireless base station 2-2 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.
When mobile terminal 3 moves from the service area of wireless base station 2-1 to the service area of wireless base station 2-2, mobile terminal 3 establishes a wireless link to wireless base station 2-2 (a1 in FIG. 2). When the wireless link is established between mobile terminal 3 and wireless base station 2-2, mobile terminal 3 sends a position registration packet to wireless base station 2-2 (a2 in FIG. 2).
The position registration packet includes the MAC (Media Access Control) address of mobile terminal 3. The position registration packet has a header with information written therein indicating that the position registration packet is a control packet for positional registration. For example, the position registration packet uses the field of the Ethernet(R) frame type to indicate that the position registration packet is a control packet.
When wireless base station 2-2 receives the position registration packet from mobile terminal 3, wireless base station 2-2 transfers the received position registration packet to wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 (a3 in FIG. 2). Wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 receives the position registration packet transferred from wireless base station 2-2 through port #2 to which wireless base station 2-2 is connected.
Wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 checks the field of the Ethernet(R) frame type of the received position registration packet to recognize that the received packet is a position registration packet. If the received packet is a position registration packet, then wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 sends information indicating that the received packet is a position registration packet, together with the reception port number, to position detector 13. Since wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 has received the position registration packet transferred from wireless base station 2-2 through port #2, the reception port number is “port #2”.
Based on the fact that the position registration packet including the MAC address of mobile terminal 3 is received from port #2, position detector 13 recognizes that mobile terminal 3 is present in the service area of wireless base station 2-2 under port #2 (a4 in FIG. 2). Then, position detector 13 registers the MAC address of mobile terminal 3 and the reception port number “port #2” in position management table 12 (a5 in FIG. 2). Position management table 12 stores the MAC addresses of mobile terminals and reception port numbers in association with each other. By referring to position management table 12, therefore, it is possible to acquire a port number to which there is connected a wireless base station with a mobile terminal positioned in its service area, from the MAC address of the mobile terminal.
When packet switch 11 receives a data packet, packet switch 11 extracts the MAC address of a destination from the received data packet (a6 in FIG. 2), and searches position management table 12 based on the extracted MAC address (a7 in FIG. 2). If there is a MAC address in agreement with the extracted MAC address in position management table 12, then packet switch 11 recognizes that the port number registered in position management table 12 in association with the MAC address is a destination, and transfers the data packet to a port represented by the destination port number (a8 in FIG. 2).
In the wireless communication system according to the present embodiment, as described above, wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 that accommodates wireless base stations 2-i through ports #i has packet switch 11 for transferring data packets addressed to mobile terminal 3 to appropriate wireless base station 2-i, and position management table 12 and position detector 13 for managing the positions of mobile terminals 3. With this arrangement, mobile terminals 3 and wireless base stations 2-i are not required to have a function to manage the positions of the mobile terminals. Therefore, the wireless communication system may be of a simple system arrangement and is able to reduce facility and management costs.
In the wireless communication system according to the present embodiment, if mobile terminals 3 have two or more wireless interfaces and destinations to which mobile terminals 3 will be moved can be predicted, then wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 may be arranged to transfer a data packet to a port to which there is connected a wireless base station corresponding to the present position of mobile terminal 3 and also simultaneously to a port to which there is connected a wireless base station corresponding to a predictable destination to which mobile terminal 3 will be moved. For example, if wireless base stations 2-i are positioned along a straight road, a railway track, or the like, then it is possible to predict wireless base station 2-i as a destination to which a mobile terminal will be moved next. With this arrangement, packets are prevented from being lost even when mobile terminals 3 move at a high speed.
A specific operation of the wireless communication system for simultaneously transferring a data packet to a wireless base station corresponding to the present position of a mobile terminal and a wireless base station corresponding to a predictable destination to which mobile terminal will be moved, will be described below.
If mobile terminal 3 can be predicted to move from wireless base station 2-1 to wireless base station 2-2 shown in FIG. 1, then position detector 13 registers two transfer destinations (port #1 and port #2) when updating position management table 12. Position management table 12 stores the MAC address of mobile terminal 3 and “port #1” in association with each other and also stores the MAC address of mobile terminal 3 and “port #2” in association with each other.
When packet switch 11 receives a data packet, packet switch 11 extracts the MAC address of a destination from the received data packet, and searches position management table 12 based on the extracted MAC address. If a plurality of entries are hit in the searching of position management table 12, then packet switch 11 makes as many copies of the data packet as the number of the entries, and simultaneously transfers the copied data packets to ports corresponding to the entries. For example, if the MAC address of a destination is the MAC address of mobile terminal 3, then two entries with respect to “port #1” and “port #2” are hit in the searching of position management table 12, and the copied data packets are simultaneously transferred to “port #1” and “port #2”.
In the wireless communication system according to the present embodiment, authentication information may be included in the position registration packet. In this case, wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 may have an authenticating means (not shown), and the position of a mobile terminal may be registered using only a position registration packet which has been confirmed as being proper by the authenticating means, and a data packet may be transferred. With this arrangement, it is possible to prevent unauthorized access from a third party using an improper position registration packet.
FIG. 3 shows in block form a wireless communication system according to another embodiment of the present invention. The wireless communication system shown in FIG. 3 is similar to the wireless communication system shown in FIG. 1 except that wireless base stations 2-i are connected in cascade. Those parts of the wireless communication system shown in FIG. 3 which are identical to those of the wireless communication system shown in FIG. 1 are denoted by identical reference characters.
As shown in FIG. 3, since wireless base stations 2-i are connected in cascade, the wireless communication system according to the present embodiment efficiently utilizes transmission paths and reduces the cost required to lay down transmission paths. Wireless base stations 2-i are given respective ID (identification information). For example, ID “1” is assigned to wireless base station 2-1, ID “2” to wireless base station 2-2, ID “3” to wireless base station 2-3, and ID “4” to wireless base station 2-4.
FIG. 4 is a sequence chart showing operation of the wireless communication system according to the other embodiment of the present invention. A specific operation of the wireless communication system at the time mobile terminal 3 moves from wireless base station 2-1 to wireless base station 2-2 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.
When mobile terminal 3 moves from the service area of wireless base station 2-1 to the service area of wireless base station 2-2, mobile terminal 3 establishes a wireless link to wireless base station 2-2 (b1 in FIG. 4). When the wireless link is established between mobile terminal 3 and wireless base station 2-2, mobile terminal 3 sends a position registration packet to wireless base station 2-2 (b2 in FIG. 4).
The position registration packet includes the MAC address of mobile terminal 3. The position registration packet has a header with information recorded therein indicating that the position registration packet is a control packet for positional registration. For example, the position registration packet uses the field of the Ethernet(R) frame type to indicate that the position registration packet is a control packet.
When wireless base station 2-2 receives the position registration packet from mobile terminal 3, wireless base station 2-2 transfers the received position registration packet to wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 through wireless base station 2-1 cascaded to wireless base station 2-2 (b3, b4 in FIG. 4). When wireless base station 2-2 transfers the position registration packet, it writes the ID “2” indicating itself in the header of the position registration packet, indicating that the position registration packet has been transferred via wireless base station 2-2.
When wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 receives the position registration packet, wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 checks the field of the Ethernet(R) frame type of the received position registration packet and also the wireless base station ID written in the header. By checking the field of the Ethernet(R) frame type, wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 can recognize that the received packet is a position registration packet. By checking the wireless base station ID, wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 can recognize the location of mobile terminal 3. If the received packet is a position registration packet, then wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 indicates that the received packet is a position registration packet, and sends the wireless base station ID written in the header, to position detector 13. Since wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 has received the position registration packet transferred from wireless base station 2-2, the wireless base station ID written in the header is “2”.
Position detector 13 detects that the position registration packet including the MAC address of mobile terminal 3 is received from wireless base station 2-2, from the fact that the received packet is a position registration packet and the wireless base station ID is “2” (b5 in FIG. 4), and hence recognizes that mobile terminal 3 is present in the service area of wireless base station 2-2. Position detector 13 registers the MAC address of mobile terminal 3 and the ID “2” of wireless base station 2-2 in position management table 12 (b6 in FIG. 4). Position management table 12 stores the MAC addresses of mobile terminals and reception port numbers in association with each other. By referring to position management table 12, therefore, it is possible to acquire the ID of a wireless base station with a mobile terminal positioned in its service area, from the MAC address of the mobile terminal.
When packet switch 11 receives a data packet, packet switch 11 extracts the MAC address of a destination from the received data packet, and searches position management table 12 based on the extracted MAC address (b7 in FIG. 4). If there is a MAC address in agreement with the extracted MAC address in position management table 12 in the searching of position management table 12, then packet switch 11 writes the ID of the wireless base station that is registered in position management table 12 in association with the MAC address, in the header of the data packet, and thereafter transfers the data packet to cascaded wireless base station 2-1 (b8, b9 in FIG. 4).
When each wireless base station 2-i receives the data packet, it checks if the wireless base station ID written in the header of the received data packet is in agreement with the ID of its own or not. If the wireless base station ID written in the header of the received data packet is in agreement with the ID of its own, then wireless base station 2-i recognizes that the data packet is addressed thereto, and sends the data packet to the mobile terminal through the wireless links (b10 through b12 in FIG. 4). If the wireless base station ID written in the header of the received data packet is not in agreement with the ID of its own, then wireless base station 2-i transfers the data packet to a wireless base station located downstream thereof.
In the wireless communication system according to the present embodiment, as described above, wireless base station accommodating apparatus 1 that accommodates a plurality of wireless base stations 2-i connected in cascade has packet switch 11 for transferring data packets addressed to mobile terminal 3 to appropriate wireless base station 2-i, and position management table 12 and position detector 13 for managing the positions of mobile terminals 3. With this arrangement, mobile terminals 3 and wireless base stations 2-i are not required to have a function to manage the positions of the mobile terminals. Therefore, the wireless communication system may be of a simple system arrangement and is able to reduce facility and management costs.
While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described using specific terms, such description is for illustrative purposes only, and it is to be understood that changes and variations may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the following claims.
1. A wireless communication system comprising:
a plurality of wireless base stations for performing wireless data communications with mobile terminals which are accommodated respectively thereby; and a wireless base station accommodating apparatus for accommodating said wireless base stations; said wireless base station accommodating apparatus having detecting means for detecting positions of said mobile terminals, and a position management table for registering therein identification information of said mobile terminals detected by said detecting means and identification information of said wireless base stations which accommodate said mobile terminals.
2. A wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein said detecting means detects positions of said mobile terminals from position registration packets sent from the mobile terminals.
3. A wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein the identification information of said wireless base stations comprises numbers of ports through which said wireless base stations are connected to said wireless base station accommodating apparatus.
4. A wireless communication system according to claim 2, wherein said wireless base stations are connected in cascade, and the identification information of said wireless base stations comprises inherent identification information of the wireless base stations which are connected in cascade, and wherein said identification information of said wireless base stations is written in respective headers of said position registration packets and sent to said wireless base station accommodating apparatus.
5. A wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein said wireless base station accommodating apparatus has transfer means for transferring data packets addressed to said mobile terminals to wireless base stations which are identified from contents registered in said position registration table.
6. A wireless base station accommodating apparatus for accommodating a plurality of wireless base stations for performing wireless data communications with mobile terminals which are accommodated respectively thereby, comprising:
detecting means for detecting positions of said mobile terminals; and a position management table for registering therein identification information of said mobile terminals detected by said detecting means and identification information of said wireless base stations which accommodate said mobile terminals.
7. A wireless base station accommodating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said detecting means detects positions of said mobile terminals from position registration packets sent from the mobile terminals.
8. A wireless base station accommodating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the identification information of said wireless base stations comprises the numbers of ports through which said wireless base stations are connected to said wireless base station accommodating apparatus.
9. A wireless base station accommodating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the identification information of said wireless base stations comprises inherent identification information of the wireless base stations which are connected in cascade, and wherein said identification information of said wireless base stations is written in respective headers of said position registration packets and sent to said wireless base station accommodating apparatus.
10. A wireless base station accommodating apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising:
transfer means for transferring data packets addressed to said mobile terminals to wireless base stations which are identified from contents registered in said position registration table.
11. A method of transferring data packets to mobile terminals in a wireless communication system including a plurality of wireless base stations for performing wireless data communications with mobile terminals which are accommodated respectively thereby, and a wireless base station accommodating apparatus for accommodating said wireless base stations, comprising the steps, performed by said wireless base station accommodating apparatus, of;
detecting positions of said mobile terminals; and registering therein identification information of said mobile terminals which are detected and identification information of said wireless base stations which accommodate said mobile terminals.
12. A method according to claim 11, wherein said detecting step comprises the step of detecting positions of said mobile terminals from position registration packets sent from the mobile terminals.
13. A method according to claim 11, wherein the identification information of said wireless base stations comprises numbers of ports through which said wireless base stations are connected to said wireless base station accommodating apparatus.
14. A method according to claim 12, wherein the identification information of said wireless base stations comprises inherent identification information of the wireless base stations which are connected in cascade, and wherein said identification information of said wireless base stations is written in respective headers of said position registration packets and sent to said wireless base station accommodating apparatus.
15. A method according to claim 11, further comprises the step, performed by said wireless base station accommodating apparatus, of;
transferring data packets addressed to said mobile terminals to wireless base stations which are identified from contents registered in said position registration table.
| 2004-11-12 | en | 2005-06-02 |
US-43592106-A | System and method of an efficient snapshot for shared large storage
ABSTRACT
The present invention relates to an efficient snapshot technique based on a mapping for a large logical volume shared in multiple hosts. According to the present invention, problems of time delays in a conventional snapshot technique is solved by employing a FAB and an SSB, which are bits representing whether a COW operation is carried out to a mapping entry. In other words, the present invention solves the problems of delaying a write operation of corresponding volume, which is simultaneously executed when a snapshot is created, until the snapshot creation is completed. Further, in the write operation carried out after the snapshot creation, an operation of determining whether the COW operation is carried out is achieved by reading only an original mapping block by using the FAB and the SSB, without reading out the snapshot mapping block. Therefore, an additional disk access operation is decreased when carrying out a write operation to the volume in which the snapshot exists, thereby improving the performance of operation. Furthermore, in a snapshot destruction operation, the operation of determining whether the COW operation is carried out or not can be achieved without access to the snapshot mapping block, thereby preventing the degradation of performance. In case there is at least one snapshot, the determination operation can be achieved by an access to the original mapping block. Consequently, constant performance is always provided without the number of the snapshots.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application is a divisional of U.S. Ser. No. 10/612,000, filed on Jul. 3, 2003. This application, in its entirety, is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a snapshot technique for a shared storage supporting large capacity, and more particularly, to a snapshot technique which supports an on-line backup for a large logical volume based on a storage area network (SAN).
2. Discussion of the Related Art
In recent years, as technical developments of Internet-based application such as an electronic commerce and the like are made and users of Internet are rapidly spreading, a quantity of data in service increases exponentially. For this reason, there are demands for large network storage which can effectively share a large quantity of information and provide service at high speed.
As an example of technologies for implementing the large network storage, a network attached storage (NAS) and a storage area network (SAN) have been proposed. The SAN is a data file-oriented computer system environment which can directly access to a storage connected to a network, not via a server.
In the meantime, enterprise systems that must support 24×7×365 environment require data availability and reliability as well as high-speed processing of large-sized data. Among several methods of ensuring the reliability and availability, one method that can meet the requirements of these systems is an on-line backup whose importance has been stressed. A backup execution time increases exponentially in order for a backup of a large-sized data. Therefore, it is essential to provide an on-line snapshot based on a mapping table, since a system which stops its operation in order to execute the backup and then resumes its service is not useful. Here, the snapshot is a technique for storing and retaining data state at specific time when a user wants. The snapshot is a useful technique for the on-line backup and the like.
The snapshot technique copies only data image, not entire data, and retains data obtained at the moment the snapshot is created. If data block is modified after the snapshot is created, a new block is allocated, and then, the data at the moment of the snapshot is copied. Thereafter, mapping entry values are changed so as to map a data block which is newly allocated. In other words, a copy-on-write (COW) operation is performed in order to retain the data obtained at the time of the snapshot creation.
However, when the snapshot creation request is carried out in the on-line snapshot based on a conventional mapping table, a service cannot be processed because all hosts' access to an original volume is disconnected while copying the snapshot mapping table. As a size of the volume becomes larger, the mapping table increases. As a result, I/O access protection time also increases proportionally.
In addition, the write operation of data block occurring after the COW operation requires many disk I/O operations, thereby degrading I/O performance of the volume. At a snapshot destruction operation, in order for the deallocation of the data block allocated by the COW operation, it is checked whether the data block of the original volume and the data block of snapshot volume are updated or not, and the newly allocated data block should be deallocated, thus increasing the snapshot destruction execution time.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a snapshot technique for shared storage that substantially obviates one or more problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art.
An object of the present invention is to provide an improved snapshot method which supports an on-line backup for large logical volume based on a storage area network (SAN) providing a shared storage supporting large capacity.
According to the present invention, performance of the write operation is improved by omitting a read operation to a snapshot mapping block which is required for a determination of COW in case of a write operation and a snapshot destruction operation by adding information such as FAB and SSB into a mapping entry.
Additional advantages, objects, and features of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows and in part will become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following or may be learned from practice of the invention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention may be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof as well as the appended drawings.
To achieve these objects and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, there is provided a method of creating a snapshot for on-line backup in a network storage based on a storage area network (SAN), which comprises the steps of: changing an volume operation mode of all nodes, in which a mapping server exists, into a snapshot create mode; locking a mapping block by increasing a value of the mapping block by one; if the mapping block is not locked, increasing a value of a copy-completed block by one; unlocking the mapping block; and if the copy of all the mapping blocks is completed, generating a volume configuration information for the snapshot at an original volume.
According to another aspect of the present invention, it provides a method of destroying a snapshot for a shared storage supporting large capacity based on a storage area network (SAN), which comprises the steps of: changing an volume operation mode of all nodes, in which a mapping server exists, into a snapshot destroy mode; locking a mapping block by increasing a value of the mapping block by one; determine whether or not a copy-on-write (COW) operation is carried out to a data block, which is indicated by a mapping entry, by using a first allocation bit (FAB) and a snapshot status bit (SSB); if the COW operation is carried out, initializing the FAB and the SSB, and writing the modified mapping block onto a disk; unlocking the mapping block; and if an initialization to all the mapping blocks is completed, destroying a snapshot volume.
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of the present invention are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The appending drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application, illustrate embodiment(s) of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principle of the invention. In the drawings:
FIG. 1 illustrates sequential operations of copy-on-write (COW) in a general snapshot technique;
FIG. 2 is a view of a computer system configuration according to the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a view of a hierarchical structure of logical volume configuring a shared storage according to the present invention;
FIG. 4 illustrates a structure of mapping table and mapping entry according to the present invention;
FIG. 5 is an operational flowchart illustrating a method of creating a snapshot for a shared large storage according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 6 is an operational flowchart illustrating a method of destroying a snapshot for a shared large storage according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
FIG. 7 is an operational flowchart illustrating a write operation for a shared large storage according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the appending drawings.
FIG. 1 illustrates sequential operations of copy-on-write (COW) in a general snapshot technique.
Referring to FIG. 1, a reference numeral “110” represents a file system having the latest data, and a reference numeral “120” represents a snapshot area storing data which is necessary to retain the modified data block after the snapshot is created. A file A 111 and a file B 112 are stored in the file system 110. The file A 111 consists of blocks A1 and A2, and the file B 112 consists of blocks B1 to B3.
In such a structure, if a request for reading the first block of the file A 111 is sent from a application before the snapshot is created (151), the file A 111 is read out from the disk 110 to thereby provide a service.
If a request for writing the first block of the file B 112 is occurred after the snapshot is created (154), the process proceeds to a step (140) of checking whether it is a first update or not. If the write operation to the first block of the file B 112 is the first update, the first block B1 of the file B 112 stored in the file system 110 is copied (B1′:112) to the snapshot area 120 and its information is recorded on the changed block map 121. Then, contents to be actually updated are recorded on the first block B1 of the file B 112 stored in the file system 110. If the write operation is not the first update, the contents are directly written on the first block B1.
In a read operation to the snapshot, it is necessary to perform a step (130) of checking whether the block is changed or not. As the check result, if not changed, data of file system 110 is directly read out. Meanwhile, if changed, a physical position 122 of the changed block is searched by carrying out an examination of the changed block map 121 of the snapshot area 120, thus reading out data. In other words, if it is a reading (153) of the first block Al of the file A, it is the unchanged block. Therefore, “A1” of the file system 110 is read out. If it is a reading (152) of the first block B1 of file B, it is the changed block, so that “B1′” of the snapshot area is read out.
FIG. 2 is a view of a system configuration showing a physical environment for a logical volume manager (LVM) according to the present invention.
The LVM is a shared storage cluster system providing a storage sharing via the SAN under a multi-host environment. As shown in FIG. 2, the SAN environment 200 which is the basis of the LVM is generally provided with three parts.
Referring to FIG. 2, the SAN environment 200 includes a network storage pool 202 for storing and retaining data, a plurality of hosts 203 for sharing and accessing to the storage devices in order to provide service to users, and a plurality of switches 201 which is a storage area network for connecting the storage devices and the hosts 203 via a fibre channel (FC). Each of the hosts 203 uses a host bus adaptor (HBA) for connection with the switches 201. Also, the hosts 203 and the switches 201 are connected through the fibre channel (FC). Each of the hosts is connected through a local access network (LAN) 204 in order to process control/management information. If such a physical environment is prepared, an environment capable of utilizing the LVM is provided.
FIG. 3 is a view of a hierarchical structure of the mapping table based logical volume provided by the large logical volume manager, which is used in the computer system according to the present invention. The logical volume is generated from a storage pool 300 which is provided to the hosts shared via the SAN. The Logical Volume 320 according to the present invention is abstracted into three parts.
A first abstraction is a disk partition or a physical partition 310. The disk partition is generated by a tool which is generally provided from an operating system, and it is a minimum configuration unit.
In other words, more than one disk partition 310 is gathered to form one logical volume. A size of the logical volume is changed based on the disk partition unit. The disk partition 310 of the volume is generally provided with a volume header area 311 and a data area 312 storing actual data. In addition, the volume header area 311 is constituted with a volume configuration information area 313, an allocation bitmap table 314, and a mapping table 315.
A second abstraction is a physical volume 320. The physical volume 320 is named after a group of extendable disk partitions 310 and forms a continuous address space. A size of the physical volume 320 is changeable in a system operation, and it is a group of the disk partition 310 having the same volume configuration information 313. A type of the volume configuration information described by the user is generated at the physical partition 310 configuring the physical volume 320. The physical volume 320 includes a volume identification (ID) which is a single identifier for distinguishing it from others within the storage pool 300 shared by all the hosts.
A last abstraction is an extent 316. The extent 316 is a group of physically continuous blocks having the same size. In addition, the extent 316 is a minimum unit of the disk space which is allocable in order to store information.
A size of the extent 316 is equal with respect to one logical volume and determined when creating the logical volume. Different logical volumes can have different extents 316 in size and their sizes should be an exponential series of 2 and a multiple of the size of hard sector, i.e., the minimum unit of the physical disk 310.
After the disk partition 310 is generated by a tool provided in the operating system, the logical volume is defined with respect to several disk partitions. At this time, information necessary for the volume configuration is also provided. The information includes disk specific information such as capacity, # of extent, mapping table size, etc and volume information such as volume name, RAID information, and the like.
The LVM creates and writes the meta data of the volume configuration onto the corresponding physical disk partition header 311 according to the user definition of the volume to be generated as above. If the recording of the configuration information in the volume header area 311 of all the disk partitions is completed, the physical volume 320 is generated and the generated physical volume 320 is registered and used in all the shared hosts.
FIG. 4 illustrates a structure of a mapping entry 401 of the mapping table 315 supporting the configuration and the mapping table scheme of the physical disk for the snapshot according to the present invention.
The mapping performs a process of converting a logical address of the upper module into an actual physical address of the lower disk. In addition, an effective allocation and deallocation, and independence between the logical address 402 and the physical address 403 in the data block can be provided through the free space manager. A structure of each mapping entry 401 configuring the mapping table 315 is generally composed of three parts.
Each of the mapping entry 401 includes a first allocation bit (FAB) 407, a snapshot status bit (SSB) 408, and a physical address 403 of the physical disk block. The physical address 403 consists of an address (Disk_ID) 404 of the disk partition and an address (Physical_Extent_ID) 405 of the physical block.
When the data block is allocated actually by the free space manager, the physical address 403 of the mapping entry is changed to map the actual disk block. In the snapshot technique according to the present invention, the FAB 407 and the SSB 408 added to the mapping entry 401 is distinguished from a previous structure of the mapping entry.
The FAB 407 is allocated to a first bit of all the mapping entries 401 and then used. The FAB 407 is a bit for distinguishing the data blocks which is first allocated and used after the snapshot is created. After the snapshot is created, if the data block is allocated by the free space manager and used, a value of the FAB is changed to “1” and the mapping entry 401 is recorded on the disk.
The SSB 408 is a bit representing a status of the snapshot. If the SSB 408 is “1”, it means that the COW operation is already carried out after the snapshot is created. If the SSB 408 is “0”, it means an initial value or that the COW is not yet carried out. Since the SSB 408 is maintained at each mapping entry and allocated at each snapshot by one bit, bits are allocated as many as the maximum number of the snapshot. Both the FAB 407 and the SSB 408 are initialized to “0” during a mapping table initialization process among the process of generating the physical volume on the disk of the shared storage.
In general, in the conventional snapshot technique, both the original mapping entry and the snapshot mapping entry are read out and compared with the physical address in order to determine whether or not the data change operation should carry out the COW operation to the block which is used for the first time after the snapshot is created.
In other words, the disk I/O operation is carried out two times. In addition, the process of deallocating the COW execution block, which will be carried out when destroying the snapshot, a deallocation procedure of the data block should not be carried out to the block which is first allocated after the snapshot is created. By the determination, the general snapshot technique should carry out two times the disk I/O operation to the original mapping entry and the snapshot mapping entry.
However, once the process of reading the original mapping entry is carried out, the snapshot technique according to the present invention through the FAB on the original mapping entry can determine whether or not the COW operation is executed. The FAB 407 of the mapping entry is set to “1” with respect to the data block which is first allocated and used after the snapshot, and an operation of reflecting the mapping entry in the disk is carried out.
If the FAB is “1” in the process of determining whether or not the COW operation is carried out, the contents of the corresponding data block are changed and reflected to the change on the disk. If the FAB is “0” among the already allocated block, the determination operation is achieved using the SSB.
In the snapshot exists, the data block is classified into three cases according to their statuses.
The first case is a data block which is first allocated/used after the snapshot is created. The second case is a data block which is used before the snapshot and not changed after the snapshot. In other words, the second case is a data block to which the COW operation has not been carried out. The third case is a data block which is changed after the snapshot, i.e., a data block to which the COW has been carried out. A status of the data block which is changed after the creation of the snapshot is one of the three cases, and the COW is performed to only the second case if the change occurs.
Like the first case, among the data blocks of the volume, there may be data blocks which are not used before the snapshot creation and first allocated after the snapshot creation. If a write operation to these data blocks occurs, a new data block is allocated and a write operation on the disk is carried out.
However, the COW is not carried out since the blocks are not used before the snapshot. In other words, since the COW is not carried out, the SSB maintains an initial value “0” as it is. On the contrary, since the data block is in use from the second change and the SSB is “0”, there is a problem of carrying out the COW operation.
In other words, since the snapshot technique according to the present invention does not perform additionally the disk access operation in order to read the snapshot mapping entry, it is impossible to distinguish the block which is first used after the snapshot creation from the block which is allocated before the snapshot creation and to which the COW is not carried out.
Accordingly, in addition to the SSB, an additional one bit (FAB) is provided to mark the data block which is first allocated/use after the snapshot is created. Further, the FAB is used to distinguish the block which is first used after the snapshot creation and the block which is allocated before the snapshot creation and to which the COW is not performed.
In other words, in the case of the block which is not used before the snapshot creation and first allocated after the snapshot creation (i.e., in the case of FAB=“1”), the COW operation is not performed even when the SSB is “0”.
1. Creation of Snapshot
In order to perform the process of creating the snapshot, first, I/O and access to the original volume which is the object of the creation of the snapshot should be blocked. The original volume has to be frozen until the creation of the snapshot is completed. This freezing ensures that the data on the disk is in a consistent state.
In the table-based mapping method, a mapping table for corresponding volume should exist in order to perform I/O operation to the volume. In other words, in order to perform the I/O operation to the snapshot volume, the mapping table for the snapshot volume should be created, and the mapping table creation operation to the snapshot volume is first carried out.
The size of the mapping table increases in proportion to that of the volume. If the size of the mapping table becomes larger, a time required to generate the mapping table for the snapshot volume is also increased. In the shared storage based on SAN environment, the volume requires several TB to several thousands or more TB in size, and it takes several tens seconds to several minutes to generate the snapshot for such a volume.
In other words, the hosts sharing and using all the volumes during that period stop their processing execution. However, the stopping of the execution for several tens seconds is not tolerable and thus the general snapshot creation method is not suitable for the shared storage based on SAN environment.
The present invention employs an operation mode concept of the volume in order to minimize a delay of I/O operation to the volume when creating the snapshot. The operation mode of the volume is divided into three modes, i.e., a “normal” mode, a “snapshot create” mode and a “snapshot destroy” mode. Like the conventional snapshot technique, the snapshot creation method according to the present invention copies the original mapping table, and creates the snapshot mapping table.
However, when copying the mapping table, this process is carried out simultaneously without blocking of the I/O operation to the original volume. At this time, the delay of the I/O operation occurs only while the operation mode of the volume registered in the host changes from the normal mode to the snapshot creation mode. This delay is only a very short time compared with a time taken to copy the mapping table. The time is so negligible that the general user cannot recognize it.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the method of creating the snapshot according to the present invention. The method of creating the snapshot according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to FIG. 5.
First, a change of the configuration information on the original volume changed due to the creation of the snapshot is carried out (501). The information change in the number of the snapshot and the like is reflected in the registered volume. If the change of the configuration information is completed, the operation mode of the volume in a mapping server host changes from the normal mode to the snapshot creation mode until the snapshot creation is completed (502). In the snapshot creation mode, the access and I/O operation to the volume, which are performed by the general different processors, are carried out simultaneously while copying the mapping table.
Then, in order to copy all the blocks of the original mapping table to the snapshot mapping table, a lock of an exclusive mode for the initial mapping block with respect to all blocks is acquired (503), and a copy operation of the mapping block is carried out (504). If the lock is not acquired, it is examined whether or not the copy operation to all the mapping blocks is completed (506). The case of not acquiring the lock is that other processor performing the write operation to the same block already acquires and carries out the locking operation.
In this case, the copy operation to the corresponding mapping block is carried out by examining the operation mode of the volume in a write operation and carrying out the COW operation. If the lock is acquired, the original mapping block is copied to the snapshot mapping block (504) and the lock is released. (505).
Thereafter, it is examined whether or not the copy operation to all the mapping blocks of the original volume is completed (506). If not completed, the process returns to the step 503. If completed, a volume for the snapshot is allocated, the original volume configuration information is copied to the allocated volume, and information such as the snapshot name and snapshot sequence is reflected in the snapshot volume (507). If the creation of the snapshot volume is completed, the operation mode of the mapping server host is changed to the normal mode (508). By using the above manner, the creation of the snapshot is normally carried out without I/O interrupt of the application program accessing to the original volume.
2. Snapshot Destruction
Meanwhile, in the conventional snapshot technique, one factor causing degradation is an overhead accessing to the snapshot mapping block in order to determine the execution of the COW operation during the snapshot destruction operation. In the snapshot destruction operation, portion causing the overhead is a deallocation operation to the data block allocated by the COW operation.
In other words, in the conventional snapshot technique, in order to determine whether or not the COW operation is carried out, both the mapping entry and the snapshot mapping entry are read out and it is examined whether or not block addresses indicated by the two entries are identical to each other. If the addresses of the two physical blocks are identical to each other, the COW operation is not carried out to the corresponding data block and thus only the address of the mapping entry is initialized.
If not identical, the deallocation operation is carried out to the data block indicated by the snapshot mapping entry, and then the initialization of the mapping entry is carried out. If the number of the snapshot is more than one, mapping entries of other snapshots are also compared. In other words, an additional disk I/O operation should be carried out at least two times.
For solving the problem of the conventional snapshot destruction operation, which is caused due to the access to the snapshot mapping block when determining whether or not the deallocation of the block is carried out, the present invention proposes a method of introducing the SSB 408 and the FAB 407 into the original mapping entry. The value of the SSB 408 is initialized to “0” when the mapping block is initialized in an operation of generating the physical volume, and it is changed into “1” when the COW operation is carried out.
The snapshot technique according to the present invention can determine whether or not the COW operation is carried out only by reading out the mapping entry of the original volume without using the method of reading out the snapshot mapping entry and comparing it with the original mapping entry. In other words, as an examination result of the FAB 407, if the FAB 407 is “1”, it is checked whether the snapshot to be destroyed is a first one or not. In case the FAB is “1” and the first snapshot, the deallocation is not carried out since the corresponding data block is a block which is first allocated and used after the snapshot is created. Except this case, the SSB value is examined.
If the SSB 408 of the position of the destroying snapshot is “0”, it represents the case that the COW operation is not carried out. If the SSB 408 is “1”, it represents the case that the COW operation is carried out. If the SSB 408 is “0”, a next block is processed. If the SSB 408 is “1”, it is checked whether the next snapshot exists or not. If the next snapshot exists, the SSB value of the next snapshot is examined.
If the next snapshot does not exist, or if the COW operation is carried out even though the next snapshot exists, the current data block is deallocated. In this case, when the next snapshot exists, the COW operation is determined using the SSB value, and whether to deallocate the current snapshot is determined. In other words, the snapshot technique according to the present invention can execute the snapshot destruction operation through the original mapping entry without reading out the value of the snapshot mapping entry.
In case there are several snapshots, the conventional snapshot technique should carry out the I/O operation of reading out the mapping entry as many as the snapshots. This operation is carried out by comparing the mapping entry of the next snapshot, except the current snapshot entry. However, the snapshot technique according to the present invention can execute all the processes by reading out only the original mapping entry without regard to the number of the snapshots. Consequently, as the number of the snapshots are larger, the performance of the destruction operation is enhanced much more.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the method of destroying the snapshot according to the present invention. Hereinafter, the method of destroying the snapshot according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG. 6.
In the snapshot destruction operation, the data block allocated by the COW operation should be deallocated. Then, the snapshot volume is destroyed after destroying the mapping table for the snapshot.
If the snapshot destruction is requested, the volume operation mode of the mapping server is changed into the snapshot destroy mode (601). The change of the operation mode into the snapshot destroy mode is for the purpose of preventing the execution of the COW operation to the corresponding snapshot of the data block generated before the snapshot destruction operation is completed. The FAB 407 and the SSB 408 of the original mapping table entry are examined. In order to determine whether to deallocate the data block. Accordingly, the position of the disk block storing the original volume mapping entry is obtained (602) in order to read out the mapping entry for the access to the data block. The mapping entry is obtained by reading the mapping block from the disk block into the memory (603). The operation of examining the execution of the COW is carried out to all the entries of the mapping block in order.
Then, it is determined whether the COW operation is carried out using the FAB and SSB values of the mapping entry (604). If the COW for the data block which mapped by the mapping entry is not carried out, a procedure of examining the next mapping entry is carried out (609). If the COW for the data block has been carried out, a procedure of determining whether to deallocate the data block is carried out (606). The case of deallocating the data block of which the COW has been carried out is two. One is the case that the next snapshot does not exist, and the other is the case that the COW operation is carried out to the same data block after creating the snapshot when the next snapshot exists. In the above two cases, the data block should be deallocated (607), and the SSB value corresponding to the state bit value of the current snapshot of the mapping entry is initialized to “0” (608). In case that the data block is not deallocated, only the SSB value is initialized to “0”. By doing so, the execution to one mapping entry is completed.
It is examined whether the executions to all the entries existing in the mapping block are completed (609). If not completed, the process repeats the steps 605 to 608 with respect to the next mapping entry. If completed, the operation of reflecting the mapping block in the disk is carried out when more than one COW operation occurs (610).
If the write operation to the mapping block is completed, the mapping block is unlocked (611). And then, it is examined whether the executions to all the mapping blocks are completed (612). If the mapping block to be executed exists, the process repeats the steps 602 to 611.
If the executions to all the mapping blocks are completed, an operation of destroying the snapshot volume from the host is carried out (613). If the snapshot volume is destroyed, an actual snapshot destruction execution is completed and an operation of reflecting the configuration information of the original volume to be changed due to the snapshot destruction operation is carried out (614). Finally, if the operation mode of the volume existing in the mapping server is changed into the normal mode (615), the snapshot destruction operation is completed.
3. Data Write Operation
The performance of the snapshot can be determined by evaluating how efficiently the write operation for the data block is performed when the data block is updated after the snapshot creation. The read operation of the snapshot mode is carried out in the same manner as that of the normal mode. In other words, the physical data block equal to the logical block is obtained through the mapping, and data is read out from the obtained physical data block.
When the snapshot exists, the operation causing the degradation of the performance is a write operation of reflecting the change of the data block. In the snapshot technique based on the mapping table, the write operation is carried out in two cases.
A first case is a data block which is not allocated/used before the creation of the snapshot and newly allocated/used after the creation of the snapshot. Since the snapshot volume maintains only the volume data image at the moment when the snapshot is created, it has no concern with the data used after the snapshot creation.
Without additional processes in the same manner as the write operation of the normal mode, the data used after the snapshot creation is allocated from the free space manager, the physical address of the data block is reflected in the mapping entry of the original volume, and the write operation of writing the change of the contents to the disk block is carried out.
A second case is a data block used before the snapshot creation and changed after the snapshot creation. The snapshot should maintain the volume data corresponding to the moment of the creation as it is. Therefore, the contents of the data used before the creation of the snapshot should be maintained even when the contents are updated. The above operation carried out in order to maintain the contents of the data block allocated before the snapshot is the copy-on-write (COW) operation.
The COW operation is an operation that should be carried out in the same manner in the snapshot technique based on the mapping table. A problem is the write operation for the data block allocated after the COW operation. The conventional snapshot technique determines whether the COW operation is carried out or not by reading out both the original mapping entry and the snapshot mapping entry and checking whether the addresses of the physical block mapped by the two entries are equal to each other.
In other words, the I/O operation to the snapshot mapping block is additionally necessary. If the number of the snapshots increases, the number of disk I/O operation also increases in proportion to the number of the snapshots. For example, if the number of the snapshots is two, the I/O operation is carried out two times, and if three, the I/O operation is carried out three times. By doing so, the performance of the write operation is degraded in proportional to the number of the existing snapshots.
The present invention solves the problem of the conventional write operation by using a following method. If the volume mode is the snapshot mode and the contents of the data block allocated/used before the snapshot is first changed after the snapshot creation, the value of the SSB is changed into “1”.
In other words, the value of the SSB corresponding to the snapshot of the mapping entry of which the COW operation is carried out is changed into “1”. If the write request for the same data block which COW is already performed is occurred, the determination of the COW operation is processed using the SSB of the mapping entry of the original volume. The snapshot technique according to the present invention can achieve the operation through the original volume mapping entry without accessing the snapshot mapping entry on the disk and comparing it with the original mapping entry.
As the number of the snapshots increases, the performance increases much more. The write operation carried out when the data block generated after the COW operation is changed has the same performance as the write operation of the normal mode.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the process of the I/O request according to the present invention, when the snapshot exists. If the I/O request to the volume occurs, the physical disk and the address of the mapping block storing the mapping information on the data block are obtained (701).
An exclusive lock mode for the mapping block is acquired (702). Then, the mapping block is read out from the disk into the buffer of the memory, and the mapping entry corresponding to the logical address is obtained (703). The operation mode of the volume is examined (704). In other words, it is examined whether or not the current I/O is generated during the creation or destruction of the snapshot.
If the operation mode of the volume is the normal mode NORMAL, it is examined whether the snapshot exists in the volume (705). If the snapshot does not exist in the volume, the data block is recorded in the disk like the general write operation (716). The lock for the mapping block is released (717). If the snapshot of the volume exists, it is examined whether or not the data block is used before the creation of the snapshot (707). The COW operation is not carried out to the data block allocated and used after the creation of the snapshot.
The updated contents are written on the disk of the data block (716), and the lock for the mapping block is released (717). If the data block is allocated before the snapshot creation, it is examined whether or not the COW operation is already carried out after the snapshot creation (708).
If the COW operation is already carried out, the data block is written on the disk (716), and the lock for the mapping block is released (717). If the COW operation is not yet carried out, the COW operation should be carried out. The snapshot mapping block corresponding to the same logical address as the original mapping block is read out into the buffer to thereby obtain the snapshot mapping entry (709), and a new physical data block is allocated in order to carry out the COW operation (710). Then, the contents of the data block are copied to the newly allocated data block, and the copied data block is written on the volume disk (711).
The physical address mapped by the snapshot mapping entry is modified with the address of the newly allocated data block (712), and the value of the SSB with respect to the current snapshot of the original mapping entry is changed into “1” (713). The snapshot mapping block is recorded in the disk (714). Then, the original mapping block is recorded in the disk (715). After the steps 709 to 715 of carrying out the COW operation, the contents of the data block are recorded in the disk (716), and the lock for the mapping block is released, thereby ending the operation (717).
If the operation mode of the volume is not the normal mode but the snapshot creation mode at the step 704, it is examined whether or not the copy operation is carried out to the mapping data block including the mapping entry (706). If the copy operation is completed, the value of the SSB is checked in order to determine whether the COW operation is carried out. If the value of the SSB is “1”, it means that the COW operation is already carried out, so that the data block is recorded in the disk (716). Then, the process proceeds to the step 717.
If the value of the SSB is “0”, the COW operation is carried out. After the steps 709 to 715 of carrying out the COW operation, the data block is recorded in the disk (716), and the locking of the mapping block is unlocked, thereby ending the operation (717). If the copy operation is not completed, the COW operation should be carried out. The operation is ended after carrying out the steps 709 to 717. If the COW operation is carried out, the copy operation is automatically carried out to the snapshot mapping block.
As described above, according to the efficient snapshot method for the shared large storage has advantages in that the application programs can be simultaneously executed during the operation of creating the snapshot in the shard storage supporting large capacity based on SAN environment. Further, the performance of the write operation occurring after the snapshot creation is enhanced, so that data availability and reliability are secured and the on-line backup is supported without the degradation of performance in an enterprise system requiring the high availability of 24×7×365, such as web server or electronic commerce.
The above descriptions are for a kind of embodiment to implement a data transfer protocol control system and method with a host bus interface according to the present invention. The present invention is not bounded to the embodiment. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
1-3. (canceled)
4. A method of creating a snapshot for on-line backup in a network storage based on a storage area network (SAN), the method comprising the steps of:
changing an volume operation mode of all nodes, in which a mapping server exists, into a snapshot create mode; locking a mapping block by increasing a value of the mapping block by one; if the mapping block is not locked, increasing a value of a copy-completed block by one; unlocking the mapping block; and if the copy of all the mapping blocks is completed, generating a volume configuration information for the snapshot at an original volume.
5. A method of destroying a snapshot for on-line backup in a network storage based on a storage area network (SAN), the method comprising the steps of:
changing an volume operation mode of all nodes, in which a mapping server exists, into a snapshot destroy mode; locking a mapping block by increasing a value of the mapping block by one; determine whether or not a copy-on-write (COW) operation is carried out to a data block, which is indicated by a mapping entry, by using a first allocation bit (FAB) and a snapshot status bit (SSB); if the COW operation is carried out, initializing the FAB and the SSB, and reflecting a changing of the mapping block in a disk; unlocking the mapping block; and if an initialization to all the mapping blocks is completed, destroying a snapshot volume.
6. A method of performing a write operation to a data block of a volume in a network storage based on a storage area network (SAN), the method comprising the steps of:
determining whether a snapshot exists or not and performing a mapping operation; searching a position of a mapping block, in which a mapping entry of a logical data block being an object of a current write operation exists, and a position of the mapping entry; reading out the mapping block from a disk and obtaining a value of the desired mapping entry; checking a value of a first allocation bit (FAB) of the mapping entry to determine whether a data block is first allocated and used after creating the snapshot; if the value of the FAB is zero and a value of the mapping entry is an initial value, allocating a new block, recording data contents in a copy disk, changing the value of the FAB into one, and reflecting an original mapping block in a disk; if the data block is allocated before the snapshot, determining whether the COW operation is carried out by using a value of a snapshot status bit (SSB); and if the COW operation whose value of the SSB is zero is not carried out, performing the COW operation, changing the value of the SSB of the current snapshot into one, and recording the original mapping block in the disk.
| 2006-05-18 | en | 2006-09-14 |
US-61678906-A | Synchronous reluctance machines
ABSTRACT
The present invention provides an electro-mechanical energy exchange system with a variable speed synchronous reluctance motor-generator having an all-metal rotor. A bi-directional AC-to-DC electric power converter interconnects the motor-generator with a DC bus. First and second hybrid controllers provide current regulation for the motor-generator and voltage regulation for the DC bus. Use of both feedback and feedforward control elements provides a controller particularly suited for operating high speed devices.
This application claims the benefit of patent application Ser. No. 11/290,354 filed Nov. 30, 2005 which claimed the benefit of Provisional Pat. App. No. 60/484,674 filed Jul. 7, 2003.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to the electro-mechanical arts and energy storage systems. In particular, the present invention pertains to mechanical energy exchange systems coupled with electrical energy exchange systems.
2. Description of Related Art
Electro-mechanical energy exchange systems have provided mechanical and electrical power solutions for over one hundred years. These solutions have typically involved a prime mover driving an AC generator at a fixed speed multiple of the synchronous frequency. These power solutions have not required electronic processing of the generator output since the generator is a constant speed machine able to generate a sinusoidal electric output at the desired fixed frequency.
Advanced mechanical energy storage devices like high speed flywheels pose new challenges to traditional electro-mechanical energy exchange solutions. No longer able to rely on fixed speed operation and the attendant fixed frequency of a connected AC generator, these new systems require that each watt of electric power produced in a variable speed generator be processed through power electronics using semiconductor switches to synthesize a fixed frequency AC output.
With the need to process variable frequency AC power using power electronics comes the need for high speed semiconductor switching devices. At high shaft speeds and hence high electrical frequencies, the resolution of command voltages used to switch the semiconductors on and off decreases due to a fixed semiconductor switching frequency. This creates difficulties with feedback control techniques typically used to control these systems since the assumptions of continuous-time control theory typically used to develop feedback controllers become less appropriate.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Now, in accordance with the invention, there has been found a synchronous reluctance machine and control system including a bi-directional AC-to-DC electric power converter interconnecting and exchanging electric power between a synchronous reluctance motor-generator and a DC bus wherein said power exchange is controlled by a plurality of controllers operably coupled to said converter and wherein at least one of the controllers is a feedforward controller.
Further, there has been found an energy conversion system comprising a bi-directional AC-to-DC electric power converter interconnecting and exchanging electric power between a synchronous reluctance motor-generator having an all-metal rotor rotatably coupled to a mechanical energy exchange device like a flywheel and a DC bus. The power exchange is controlled by a plurality of current controllers operably coupled to said converter wherein a first controller is a feedforward controller and a second controller is a feedback controller.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention is described with reference to the accompanying drawings that illustrate the present invention and, together with the description, explain the principles of the invention enabling a person skilled in the relevant art to make and use the invention.
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing modules included in the feedforward controller for synchronous reluctance machines constructed in accordance with the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing elements of a second hybrid controller of the feedforward controller for synchronous reluctance machines of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing feedback control elements of a first hybrid controller of the feedforward controller for synchronous reluctance machines of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing feedforward elements of a first hybrid controller of the feedforward controller for synchronous reluctance machines of FIG. 1.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing elements of the bi-directional AC-to-DC electric power converter of the feedforward controller for synchronous reluctance machines of FIG. 1.
FIG. 6 is a chart showing operating modes of the second hybrid controller of the feedforward controller for synchronous reluctance machines of FIG. 1.
FIG. 7 is a chart showing operating modes of the first hybrid controller of the feedforward controller for synchronous reluctance machines of FIG. 1.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
FIG. 1 shows the feedforward controller for a synchronous reluctance machine 100 of the present invention. The feedforward controller for a synchronous reluctance machine includes synchronous reluctance machine module 184, bi-directional AC-to-DC electric power converter 136, first hybrid controller 180, and second hybrid controller 182.
The machine module 184 includes a synchronous reluctance motor-generator 102. The motor-generator includes a rotor 107 having a plurality of rotor lobes 114 and an electrical stator 118 spaced apart from the rotor by an air gap 174. The rotor 107 may be an all-metal rotor formed entirely from electrically conductive materials. The rotor is integral with a first shaft portion 112. The first shaft portion has a shaft coupling 110 that is connected to a mechanical energy exchange device 104 and rotates at an angular velocity wre. A shaft speed transducer 116 is proximate to the first shaft portion. A rotor position signal conductor 120 interconnects the transducer and a third controller 124. The third controller outputs include the shaft angular position output 126 and the shaft angular speed wre signal output 128. The speed sensor is selected from devices employing a known technology including magnetic and or optical sensing technologies.
As a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize, the mechanical energy exchange device 104 may be a single device or multiple interconnected devices. Mechanical energy exchange devices include flywheels, prime movers, electric motors, non-electric motors, and other devices having a rotatable mechanical connection. Optional flywheel mass 106 is shown coupled to the first shaft portion 112 by a second shaft portion 108.
The converter 136 interconnects motor-generator 102 with a DC bus 146. The converter includes a driver module 121. The electrical phases a, b, c of the motor-generator are connected to respective converter AC inputs 140, 142, 144. First and second converter DC outputs 146, 147 are connected to respective first and second DC bus conductors 188, 190. Phase current signals ia and ib are provided at the respective outputs 168, 172 of the respective first and second phase current sensors 166, 170.
The DC bus interconnects the converter 136 with an electrical network 138 via first and second DC bus conductors 188, 190. A capacitor 186 is connected in parallel with the DC bus. The capacitor may be a single device or multiple interconnected devices and it may be a film, electrolytic, or super capacitor type or another known electrical device having electrical energy storage capabilities. Bus voltage signal Vbus is provided at the output 149 of parallel connected DC bus voltage sensor 153. The bus current signal Ibus is provided at the output 151 of the series connected DC bus current sensor 150.
The first hybrid controller 180 interconnects the converter 136 and the second hybrid controller 182. The first hybrid controller includes first hybrid controller signal input block 103 and first hybrid controller module 105. Control voltage bus 178 interconnects first hybrid controller output 176 with converter input 123. The signal input block 103 is interconnected with ia, ib, position, and Vbus signals via respective signal conductors.
The second hybrid controller 182 includes second hybrid controller signal input block 113 and second hybrid controller module 115. A peak current signal conductor 184 interconnects a peak current output 111 of the second hybrid controller 182 with input block 103 of the first hybrid controller 180. The second hybrid controller signal input block 113 is interconnected with wre, Vreg, Icharge, Zcharge, Vcharge, Vbus, and Ibus signals via respective signal conductors.
FIG. 2 shows details of second hybrid controller 182. The second hybrid controller includes a first controller 202 that is a feedback bus voltage regulator. The second hybrid controller also includes a second controller 204 that is a charge current regulator. Respective first and second controller outputs Ipeakb and Ipeakc are inputs to switch S5. Switch S5 provides for the selection of either Ipeakb or Ipeakc as its output Ipeak.
The first controller 202 provides a current command output Ipeakb calculated to reduce the error between bus voltage Vbus and a regulation voltage Vreg. The first controller's output Ipeakb is ((Vbus*Isum)/wr) as implemented in the mathblock1 210. Isum is (Ibus+Irestore) as implemented in the mathblock2 212 where Irestore is the output of first proportional integral (PI) controller 208. The error signal error1 input to controller 208 is the difference between inputs (Vreg−Vbus) as implemented in the mathblock3 206. The rotor velocity wr is (wre/(2/P) as implemented in the mathblock4 214. P is the number of poles of the synchronous reluctance motor-generator 102.
The second controller 204 provides a current command output Ipeakc calculated to reduce the error between bus current Ibus and a regulation current Ireg. The second controller's output Ipeakc is the output of a second proportional integral (PI) controller 216. The error signal error3 input to the controller 216 is the lesser of the difference (Ibus-Ireg), as implemented in the mathblock5 218, and Ichargemax as implemented in the limiter 224. Ibus and Ichargemax are controller inputs. Ireg is the product (zcharge×error2) as implemented in the mathblock6 220. zcharge is a controller input. Error signal error2 is (Vbus−Vcharge) as implemented in the mathblock7 222.
FIGS. 3 and 4 show elements of the first hybrid controller 180. FIG. 3 shows a third controller 300 that is a feedback controller element and FIG. 4 shows a fourth controller 400 that is a feedforward controller element. The vq, vd control voltage bus 178 is connected to either the output of the third controller or the output of the fourth controller via switches S3 and S4 respectively.
FIG. 3 shows third controller 300 that operates to reduce error terms (Idr−idr) and (Idq−idq). Idr and Iqr are control currents derived from the Ipeak signal output of the second hybrid controller 182. Currents idr and idq are feedback signals derived from currents measured in phases a and b of the motor-generator.
Idr=Ipeak(Kd)
Iqr=Ipeak(Kq)
Kd=f(wre)
Kq=sqrt(1−(Kd̂2))
The third controller 300 includes a third proportional integral (PI) synchronous controller 302, a rotor frame transformation block 304, an inverse rotor frame transformation block 306, input switch S2, output switches S3, mathblock8 308, mathblock9 310, and mathblock10 312.
The output vd, vq of third controller 300 is provided by the output of switch S3 via control voltage bus 178 to the driver module 121 when switch S3 is closed. The output of the inverse rotor frame transform block 306 provides the vd, vq inputs to switch S3. The third PI controller 302 outputs provide the rotor reference frame direct and quadrature voltages vdr, vqr to the inputs of the inverse transform block 306. The Idr input to controller 302 is (Ipeak×Kd) as implemented in the mathblock8 308 where Kd is a function of wre. The Iqr input to controller 302 is (Ipeak×Kq) as implemented in the mathblock9 310 where Kq is a function of wre. The rotor frame transform block 304 provides measured current signals in the rotor reference frame idr, idq as inputs to controller 302. Inputs to the rotor frame transform block 304 include measured current signals id, iq. The id input is equal to ia. The iq signal is a function of ia, ib as implemented in the mathblock10 312 (iq=ia(q/sqrt(3))+ib(2/sqrt(3))).
An additional input to the rotor frame and inverse rotor frame transform blocks 304, 306 is a position signal provided by the output of switch S4. Inputs to switch S4 include Start-Up Angle, Zero, and Position.
FIG. 4 shows fourth controller 400. This controller provides direct and quadrature voltage output commands vd, vq based on a predictive model of synchronous reluctance motor-generator 102. The direct and quadrature control voltages each depend upon resistive voltage drop, inductive back emf, and air gap flux back emf terms.
The control voltage output vd, vq of the controller 400 is provided by the output of switch S4 via control voltage bus 178 to the driver module 121 when switch S4 is closed. The vd, vq inputs to switch S4 are the outputs of inverse transform block 402. the vdr input to the inverse transform block is (R(idr)−Llq(wre)iqr−wre(λqr)) as implemented in the mathblock11 406. Mathblock12 410 implements R(idr), the direct value of resistive voltage drop in the stator 118. Mathblock13 412 implements Llq(wre)iqr, the direct inductive back electromotive force in the stator. Mathblock14 414 implements wre(λqr), the direct air gap flux back electromotive force resulting from the airgap 174 between the stator 118 and the rotor lobes 114. The direct air gap flux is evaluated as follows:
The vqr input to inverse transform block 402 is (R(iqr)+Lld(wre)idr+wre(kdr)) as implemented in the mathblock15 408. Mathblock16 416 implements R(iqr), the quadrature value of resistive voltage drop in the stator 118. Mathblock17 418 implements Lld(wre)idr, the quadrature inductive back electromotive force in the stator. Mathblock18 420 implements wre(λdr), the quadrature air gap flux back electromotive force resulting from the airgap 174 between the stator and the rotor. The quadrature air gap flux term is evaluated as follows:
FIG. 5 shows the bi-directional AC-to-DC electric power converter 500 comprising converter 136. The converter includes a driver module 121 that receives control voltages vd, vq from the first hybrid converter 180 via control voltage bus 178. The driver module provides three pairs of outputs Da1/Da2, Db1/Db2, and Dc1/Dc2. The driver output pairs are connected to the respective gates of semiconductor switches a1/a2, b1/b2, and c1/c2. Driver operation turns the switches on and off. The emitters of semiconductors a1, b1, c1 are interconnected with the collectors of semiconductors a2, b2, c2 and phases a,b,c at phase junctions t1,t2,t3. The collectors of a1, b1, c1 are connected to positive DC link 190; the emitters of a2, b2, c2 are connected to a negative DC link 188. Appendix 1 provides additional details relating to the feedforward controls for synchronous reluctance machines.
In operation, the feedforward controller for a synchronous reluctance machine 100 controls the bi-directional exchange of mechanical power between a mechanical energy exchange device 104 (like a flywheel) and the synchronous reluctance motor-generator 102. The motor-generator may be operated in generating modes and in charging modes. In the generating mode, mechanical energy is transferred to the motor-generator when the motor-generator exerts a resisting torque T2 tending to slow the rotational speed wre of the shaft 112.
During the generating mode, electric power is generated at a variable frequency depending upon the speed of the shaft wre and the number of poles on the motor-generator rotor 114. The bi-directional AC-to-DC electric power converter 136 receives electric power from the motor-generator via phase conductors a,b,c and provides a DC output on DC bus 146, Capacitor 186 provides both ripple control/smoothing of the output and electric energy storage. Electrical network 138 and the capacitor are electrical loads when the motor-generator is generating electric power.
During the charging mode, mechanical energy is transferred to the mechanical energy exchange device 104 when the motor-generator exerts an advancing torque T1 tending to increase the rotational speed wre of the shaft 112. The bi-directional AC-to-DC electric power converter 136 receives DC power from the electric network 138 via the DC bus 146, converts the DC power to AC power and transfers AC power to the motor-generator via phase conductors a,b,c.
The bi-directional AC-to-DC electric power converter 136 is controlled by first and second hybrid controllers 180, 182. The second hybrid converter provides a current setpoint Ipeak to the first hybrid converter: Ipeak is a function of DC bus current Ibus and voltage Vbus. The second hybrid controller provides control voltage outputs vd, vq; the control voltage outputs vd, vq are functions of Ipeak. Driver module 121 synthesizes pulse width modulated (PWM) gate driver outputs 502 that are a function of inputs vd, vq from the control voltage bus 178. Converter 136 exchanges electric power between the AC bus 134 and the DC bus 146 as semiconductor switches within the converter are modulated by the driver module's PWM outputs 502.
The second hybrid converter's Ipeak output is the output of a SPDT switch S5. The switch selects either an output of first controller 202 or an output of the second controller 204. With reference to FIG. 6, the second hybrid converter can be operated in a charging mode or a discharging mode. In charging mode, Vbus is greater than Vcharge and S5 is at setting 2; the second controller's output Ipeakc is selected. In charging mode, the lesser of a current error (Ireg-Ibus) or a maximum charge rate Ichargemax is input to second PI controller 216 whose output is Ipeakc (See FIG. 2). The Ireg value is derived from the product of an amps/volt ratio zcharge and a voltage error (Vbus−Vcharge). As long as (Ireg−Ibus) remains below Ichargemax, the charge current will be controlled by the amps/volt ratio zcharge. Otherwise, the maximum charge current will be limited by Ichargemax. This charging profile may be adapted to duplicate that of an electric storage battery or another electric energy storage device.
With continued reference to FIG. 6, the first controller 202 functions as a feedback controller. In the first controller a constant operating point of the machine is used to determine the direct and quadrature currents in the rotor reference frame for a peak current command Ipeak. A positive Ipeak command causes the motor-generator 102 to act as a generator in generating mode while a negative Ipeak command causes the motor-generator to act as a motor in charging mode. When Vbus is less than or equal to Vcharge, the second hybrid controller 182 is in discharging mode and switch S5 is at setting 1; the first controller's output Ipeakb is selected. The error between the bus voltage and a regulation voltage (Vreg-Vbus) is input to first PI controller 208. The output of the controller Irestore is combined with the load current Ibus to determine a total DC bus current command Isum. DC bus current Isum is in turn converted into a peak current command Ipeakb by mathblock1 210. This control regime maintains a minimum DC bus voltage of Vreg. This discharging profile may be adapted to duplicate that of an electric storage battery or another electric energy storage device.
The first hybrid controller 180 includes third controller 300, a feedback controller and a fourth controller 400, a feedforward controller. Referring now to FIG. 7, the controller selected depends upon the shaft speed wre. During acceleration of the shaft 112, the third controller (feedback control) is used for acceleration phases A1 and A2 having respective low speed (0 to wre1) and medium speed (>wre1 to wre2) ranges. Acceleration A3 in the high speed range (>wre2 to wre3) is under the control of the fourth controller (feedforward control). Similarly, during full speed operation and initial deceleration of the shaft, the fourth controller (feedforward control) is used for full speed operation FS (wre3) and for deceleration speed range D1 (wre3 to wre2). Deceleration phases D2 and D3 through respective medium (<wre2 to wre 1) and low (<wre 1 to de-minimus) speed ranges are under the control of the third controller (feedback control).
Third controller 300 includes a third PI controller 302 that operates to minimize current errors (Idr−idr) and (Iqr−iqr). Stator currents ia and ib are converted to direct and quadrature values id and iq before being transformed into rotor reference frame values idr, iqr by transform block 304. Setpoint currents Idr and Idq are derived from Ipeak. The PI controller outputs vdr and vqr in the rotor reference frame are transformed by inverse transform block 306 into command voltages vd, vq. When closed, DPST switch S3 interconnects the third controller outputs vd, vq to the command voltage bus 178.
Third controller 300 has operating modes depending upon rotor velocity wre. Switch S2 selects from Start-up angle, Zero, and Position inputs to provide position signals to transform block 304 and inverse transform block 306. When accelerating shaft 112 in the low speed range, Start-up is selected to provide a start-up rotor angle and fixed rotor velocity wre; this is an inductive start-up mode for the synchronous reluctance motor-generator while charging. Upon reaching wre2, position is selected and the actual rotor position is input. While decelerating and upon reaching wre1, Zero is selected to provide a “0” rotor position. This generates DC currents in the machine causing the rotor 107 to brake slowing shaft 112 through a combination of induction and reluctance torque.
First hybrid controller third controller 400 implements a model of the synchronous reluctance motor-generator 102 to predict the control voltage commands vd, vq present on the control voltage bus 178, Direct resistive, inductive, and air gap flux terms provide respective direct voltage terms 410, 412, 414 that are summed to predict the rotor reference frame direct control voltage vdr. Quadrature resistive, inductive, and air gap flux terms provide respective quadrature voltage terms 416, 418, 420 that are summed to predict the rotor reference frame quadrature control voltage vqr. Inverse transform block 402 converts vdr to vd and inverse transform block 408 converts vqr to vq. Switch S4 interconnects control voltages vd, vq with control voltage bus 178 when the S4 is closed. Table 1 below relates selected operating modes and first hybrid controller switch settings.
TABLE 1 Modes and First Hybrid Controller Switch Settings Switch Switch Switch Mode S2 S3 S4 Controller Low Speed Range Start Up Angle Closed Open Feedback Accelerating Medium Speed Position Closed Open Feedback Range High Speed Range Position Open Closed Feedforward Low Speed Range Zero Closed Open Feedback Decelerating
Control voltage output commands vd, vq from the first hybrid controller connect with driver module 121 via control voltage bus 178. Driver module 121 provides pulse width modulated signals to sequentially operate the semiconductor gates/switches of converter 136. Semiconductor switching provides for the exchange of three phase electric power a,b,c between the AC bus 134 and the DC bus 146. Pulse width modulation of the semiconductor switches modulates the voltage of the AC and DC bus interconnections and the quantity of electric power exchanged. Appendix 1 provides additional details relating to the operation of the feedforward controls for synchronous reluctance machines.
While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.
1. An energy conversion system comprising:
a bi-directional AC-to-DC electric power converter; the converter electrically interconnecting and bi-directionally exchanging electric power between a variable speed synchronous reluctance motor-generator and a DC bus; the motor-generator bi-directionally exchanging mechanical power with a flywheel; the power exchange being controlled by a plurality of current controllers; the current controllers operably coupled to the converter; the current controllers including a feedforward controller and a feedback controller
| 2006-12-27 | en | 2008-07-03 |
US-201314107540-A | Smart Subfield Method For E-Beam Lithographny
ABSTRACT
The present disclosure provides a method of improving a layer to layer overlay error by an electron beam lithography system. The method includes generating a smart boundary of two subfields at the first pattern layer and obeying the smart boundary at all consecutive pattern layers. The same subfield is exposed by the same electron beam writer at all pattern layers. The overlay error caused by the different electron beam at different layer is improved.
PRIORITY DATA
The present application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/484,434, filed May 31, 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
The semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) industry has experienced exponential growth. Technological advances in IC materials and design have produced generations of ICs where each generation has smaller and more complex circuits than the previous generation. In the course of IC evolution, functional density (i.e., the number of interconnected devices per chip area) has generally increased while geometry size (i.e., the smallest component (or line) that can be created using a fabrication process) has decreased. This scaling down process generally provides benefits by increasing production efficiency and lowering associated costs. Such scaling down has also increased the complexity of processing and manufacturing ICs and, for these advances to be realized, similar developments in IC processing and manufacturing are needed.
For example, light diffraction in an optical lithography system becomes an obstacle for further scaling down the feature size. Comment techniques used to decrease the light diffraction impact includes an optical proximity correction (OPC), a phase shift mask (PSM), and an immersion optical lithography system. An electron beam lithography system is another alternative to scale down the feature size. However, a large overlay error at a boundary area of two subfields may occur by using a different electron beam at a different pattern layer.
Accordingly, what is needed is a method to reduce the overlay error caused by the different electron beams used at the different pattern layers during the electron beam lithography patterning process.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read with accompanying figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale and are used for illustration purpose only. In fact, the dimension of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.
FIG. 1 represents a schematic diagram of an electron beam writer system for implementing one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 2-5 are cross-sectional side views illustrating forming a resist pattern according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 6 is a flow chart of an integrated circuit (IC) design data flow in an electron beam writer system for implementing one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7 is an example of a butting error at a boundary of two subfields in an electron beam writer system for implementing one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 8 is a flow chart of a first stripping method generating a smart boundary for an electron beam writer system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9 is an example of using a smart boundary dividing a device pattern for an electron beam writer system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 10 illustrates a view of two pattern layers during a smart boundary process for an electron beam writer system for implementing one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 11 is a flow chart of a second stripping method for all pattern layers for an electron beam writer system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 12 illustrates a view of two pattern layers using a smart boundary for all pattern layers for an electron beam writer system for implementing one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of the invention. Specific examples of components and arrangements are described below to simplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. For example, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed between the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed.
Referring to FIG. 1, an electron beam lithography system 100 is an example of a system that can benefit from one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The electron beam writer system 100 includes an electron source 102, an electron optical column 104, an electron beam 106, a chamber 108, a pump unit 110, a stage 112, a substrate 114, and a resist film 116 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. However, other configurations and inclusion or omission of devices may be possible. In the present disclosure, the electron beam lithography system is also referred to as an electron beam writer or an e-beam writer. The electron resource 102 provides a plurality of electrons emitted from a conducting material by heating the conducting material to a very high temperature, where the electrons have sufficient energy to overcome a work function barrier and escape from the conducting material (thermionic sources), or by applying an electric field sufficiently strong that the electrons tunnel through the work function barrier (field emission sources). The electron optical column 104 is comprised of a plurality of electromagnetic apertures, electrostatic lenses, electromagnetic lenses, shaping deflectors and cell selection deflectors; and provides the electron beam 106, such as a plurality of Gaussian spot electron beams, a plurality of variable shaped electron beams and a plurality of cell projection electron beams. The chamber 108 is comprised of a wafer loading and unloading unit, and provides the wafer transportation without interrupting an operation of the electron beam lithography system 100 when loading the wafer into the system and unloading the wafer out of the system. The pump unit 110 is comprised of a plurality of pumps and filters, and provides a high vacuum environment for the electron beam lithography system 100. The stage 112 is comprised of a plurality of motors, roller guides, and tables; secures the substrate 114 on the stage 112 by vacuum; and provides the accurate position and movement of the substrate 114 in X, Y and Z directions during focus, leveling and exposure operation of the substrate 114 in the electron writer system 100.
Continuing with the present embodiments, the substrate 114 deposited with the resist film 116 is loaded on the stage 112 for the electron beam 106 exposure. In the present disclosure, the resist is also referred to as a photo resist, an electron beam resist, a resist film and a photo resist film. The substrate 114 includes a wafer substrate or a blank mask substrate. The wafer substrate includes a silicon wafer. Alternatively or additionally, the wafer may includes another elementary semiconductor, such as germanium; a compound semiconductor including silicon carbide, gallium arsenic, gallium phosphide, indium phosphide, indium arsenide, and/or indium antimonide; an alloy semiconductor including SiGe, GaAsP, AlInAs, AlGaAs, GaInAs, GaInP, and/or GaInAsP. In yet another alternative, the wafer is a semiconductor on insulator (SOI). A plurality of conductive and non-conductive thin films may be deposited on the wafer. For example, the conductive thin films may include a metal such as aluminum (Al), Copper (Cu), tungsten (W), nickel (Ni), titanium (Ti), gold (Au), and platinum (Pt) and, thereof an alloy of the metals. The insulator film may include silicon oxide and silicon nitride. The blank mask substrate may include a low thermal expansion material such as quarts, silicon, silicon carbide, and silicon oxide-titanium oxide compound.
Referring now to FIGS. 2-5, a process 200 can be used with the system 100 to implement one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 2, the resist film 116 is deposited on the substrate 114 by a spin-on coating process followed by a soft bake (SB) process. The resist film 116 may include a positive tone resist or a negative tone resist. The resist film 116 may include a single resist film or a multiple layers resist film. Referring to FIG. 3, the resist film 116 is exposed by the plurality of electron beam 106 in the electron beam writer system 100 as shown in FIG. 1 to form a latent image pattern inside the resist film 116. After the exposure, a developer is applied to the surface of the resist film for developing a resist pattern. The develop process may include a post exposure process (PEB) or a post develop bake (PDB). The final resist pattern is resist tone dependent. For example, if the positive tone photo resist is applied to the substrate 114, a portion of the resist film 116 in exposed area is dissolved during the developing process; and another portion of the photo resist film 116 in the unexposed area remains and forms a patterned photo resist film 116 a; and the final resist pattern is formed as shown in FIG. 4. In another example, if the negative tone photo resist is applied to the substrate 114, a portion of the photo resist film 116 in the unexposed area is dissolved during the developing process; and another portion of the photo resist film 114 in the exposed area has crosslink chemical reaction during the exposing, remains after the developing process and forms a patterned photo resist film 116 b; and the final resist pattern is formed as shown in FIG. 5.
Referring now to FIG. 6, a method 300 includes using the electron beam writer system 100 to expose the resist film deposited on the substrate according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. First, the method 300 begins at step 302 by receiving an integrated circuit (IC) layout data from a designer. The designer can be a separate design house or can be part of a semiconductor fabrication facility (fab) for making IC productions according to the IC design layout data. In the present disclosure, an IC design layout data is also referred to as an IC design layout pattern. The IC design layout pattern includes a plurality of pattern layers. A typical IC design layout data is presented in a GDS file format. The method 300 proceeds to step 304 for electron proximity correction (EPC). The EPC is a compensation process for critical dimension due to an electron scattering from the substrate. The EPC process may include size bias correction, shape correction, dose correction and background dose equalization (GHOST) correction. After the EPC at step 304, the method 300 proceeds to step 306 for data processing. The step 306 includes flattening the IC design layout data into a plurality of primitive patterns such as rectangular and triangular patterns and eliminating an overlap of the primitive patterns. The method 300 continually proceeds to step 308 for a stripping process. In the stripping process, the EPC modified design layout data is divided into a plurality of strips, and each strip is divided into a plurality of subfields. The subfield may further divide into a plurality of sub-sub-field. In the present disclosure, the subfield may be also referred to as the sub-sub-field for simplicity. After the stripping process at step 308, the method 300 proceeds to step 310 for an other data processing, where an error check is performed and then the modified IC design layout data is converted to an electron beam writer format data. The step 310 also including a dithering process to convert the IC design layout pattern from a design grid to an electron beam writer grid for increasing the throughput of the electron beam lithography system 100. Eventually, the method 300 processes to step 312 for writing the IC design layout pattern on the substrate by the electron beam writer. In the present disclosure, writing the pattern on the substrate is also referred to as exposing the substrate or scanning the substrate with the patterned electron beam. Addition steps can be provided before, during, and after the method 300, and some of the steps described can be replaced, eliminated or moved around for addition embodiments of the method.
In the step 308 of the method 300 as shown in FIG. 6, the substrate is divided into the plurality of strips, and each strip is further divided into a plurality of subfields. One subfield is assigned with one patterned electron beam. Therefore, one strip contains the plurality of patterned electron beams. The IC design layout pattern is directly written on the resist film deposited on the substrate by scanning the substrate strip by strip with the plurality of patterned electron beams in the electron beam writer system. The scanning continues until the entire substrate is patterned. Because some patterns extend across the strip boundary or the subfield boundary, the butting error may occur at the subfield boundary.
Referring now to FIG. 7, an example of a resist pattern error 400 at one strip boundary or at one subfield boundary is presented according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. A pattern 402 is an intended pattern. The pattern 402 crosses two subfields. A boundary line 404 is divided the two subfields. The pattern 402 is formed by two electron beams scanning in two adjacent subfields. A pattern 406 is the actual final pattern produced by two electron beams scans. As shown in the figure, it is noted that the pattern 406 may include CD and overlay issues.
Referring now to FIG. 8, a flow chart of a method 500 of stripping the EPC modified IC design layout pattern data is presented according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 500 deals with the patterns crossing the strip boundary or the subfield boundary. The method 500 begins at block 502 by receiving the EPC modified IC design layout pattern data. The method 500 proceeds to block 504 for examining if a polygon pattern crosses an original boundary in a stitching area. The stitching area is located at the connection or interface between two subfields. At the block 504, if the polygon does not cross the original boundary in the stitching area, the method 500 proceeds to block 506 for dividing at the original boundary, and then proceeds to block 508 for finishing the stripping process. If the polygon crosses the original boundary in the stitching area, the method 500 proceeds to block 510. At block 510, the polygon is examined in more detail. If an edge of the polygon does not exist in the stitching area, the method proceeds to block 512 for dividing at the original boundary, and then proceeds to block 508 for finishing the stripping process. If the edge of the polygon exists in the stitching area, the method 500 proceeds to block 514. At block 514, the dividing boundary line is moved away from the original boundary to maintain a complete polygon crossing the original boundary, so that a butting error is avoided. At block 514, a determination is made to keep the complete polygon in the subfield in which the polygon is mostly located. After the block 514, the method proceeds to block 508 for finishing the data stripping process. A smart boundary is thereby formed by the method 500 to divide the IC design layout data into the plurality of subfields.
Referring now to FIG. 9, an example of dividing two subfields of a device 600 by the method 500 is presented according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In the device 600, a subfield 622 and a subfield 624 are two adjacent subfields and are divided by an original boundary line 626. A ditching area 628 is located at a connecting area shared by the subfield 622 and the subfield 624. A dividing line 630 divides the subfield 622 and the subfield 624. A plurality of polygons 632 a-632 d are positioned around the stitching area 628, do not cross the original boundary line 626, and belong to either the subfield 622 or the subfield 624. A long polygon 634 crosses the original boundary line 626 and the stitching area 628. A second plurality of polygons 636 a-636 d cross the original boundary line 626 and an edge of the polygons 636 a-536 d fall into the stitching area 628.
As shown in FIG. 9, the example of dividing the subfield 622 and the subfield 624 of the device 600 by the method 500 is illustrated according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The polygons 632 a-632 d do not cross the original boundary line 626 and therefore, the subfield 622 and the subfield 624 are divided by the original boundary line 626. The polygon 634 not only crosses the original boundary line 626 but also crosses the stitching area 628, and either edge of the polygon 634 exists in the stitching area 628. Therefore, the polygon 634 is divided at the original boundary line 626. The polygons 636 a-636 e cross the original boundary line 626 and one edge of the polygons 636 a-c falls into the stitching area 628. Therefore, the dividing line 630 moves away from the original boundary line 626 to keep the polygons 636 a-636 e complete. Because the polygons 636 a-636 c reside more in the subfield 622 than in the subfield 624, the dividing line 630 moves into the subfield 624 and keeps the full polygons 636 a-636 c within the subfield 622. The polygons 636 d-636 e reside more in the subfield 624 than in the subfield 622, therefore the dividing line 630 moves into the subfield 622 and keep the full polygons 636 d-636 e within the subfield 624. Thus, the smart boundary 630 is formed by the method 500 for dividing the IC design layout pattern data into the plurality of subfields to reduce and eliminate the butting errors.
It is understood that an IC device is fabricated layer by layer by a plurality of processes. Therefore, the IC design layout pattern data for the IC device includes a plurality of layers pattern data. During the fabrication of the IC device, the method 500 can be used for some or all of the layers. The boundaries may change for different layers, as appropriate.
Referring now to FIG. 10, an example of dividing two subfields of a device 700 in a first two layers by the method 500 is presented according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In the device 700, a subfield 702 and a subfield 704 are two adjacent subfields. A plurality of patterns 712 a-712 f are fabricated in the first layer process. A boundary 706 divides the subfield 702 and the subfield 704 by the stripping method 500 at the first layer process. A plurality of patterns 722 a-722 g are fabricated in the second layer process. A boundary 726 divides the subfield 702 and the subfield 704 by the stripping method 500 at the second layer process. The boundary 706 for the first layer pattern is not the same as the boundary 726 for the second layer pattern. Thus, at an area of the IC device near the subfield boundary, the first layer pattern is written by one beam path and the second layer pattern is written by a different beam path. For example, the pattern 712 d at the first layer is assigned to the subfield 704 by the method 500 and therefore the pattern 712 d is written by the electron beam in the path assigned to the field 704. The second layer patterns 722 g-722 j are built on top of the first pattern 712 d. By the method 500, the pattern 722 g and 722 h are assigned to the subfield 702 at the second layer process and therefore are written by the electron beam in the path assigned to the subfield 702; and the pattern 722 i and 722 j are assigned to the subfield 704 at the second layer process and therefore are written by the electron beam in the path assigned to the subfield 704. In another example, the pattern 712 f at the first layer is assigned to the subfield 702 by the method 500 and therefore is written by the electron beam in the path assigned to the subfield 702. The second layer patterns 722 o-722 q are build on top of the first pattern 712 f. By the method 500, the pattern 722 o is assigned to the subfield 702 at the second layer process and therefore is written by the electron beam in the path assigned to the subfield 702; and the pattern 722 p and 722 q are assigned to the subfield 704 at the second layer process and therefore are written by the electron beam in the path assigned to the subfield 704.
It is further noted that there are often deviations between different electron beams such as current, focus, position error, magnification, and rotation. If the same stack is exposed by different beams at the different layers, a layer to layer overlay error may be worse than that exposed by the same beam. In the device 700 as shown in FIG. 10, the overlay of the pattern 722 g and 722 h to the pattern 712 d may be worse than the overlay of the pattern 722 i and 722 j to the pattern 712 d; and the overlay of the pattern 722 p and 722 q to the pattern 712 f may be worse than the overlay of the pattern 722 o to the pattern 712 f.
Referring now to FIG. 11, a flow chart of a method 800 of stripping the EPC modified IC design layout patterns is presented according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 800 begins at block 802 by receiving the EPC modified IC design layout pattern data. Then, the method 800 proceeds to block 804 for stripping the first layer pattern. At the block 804, the first layer pattern of the IC design layout is divided into a plurality of subfields by the smart boundary method 500 as shown in FIG. 8. After the block 804, the method 800 proceeds to block 806. At the block 806, a plurality of consecutive pattern layers obeys the smart boundary set at the first layer pattern. Thus, all the subfields are written by the same electron beams at the different layers to improve the lay to lay overlay error caused by the different electron beam properties.
Referring now to FIG. 12, an example of dividing two subfields of a device 900 in the first two layers by the method 800 is presented according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In the device 900, a subfield 902 and a subfield 904 are two adjacent subfields. A plurality of patterns 912 a-912 f are fabricated in a first layer process. A boundary 906 divides the subfield 902 and the subfield 904 by the stripping method 800 at the first layer process. A plurality of patterns 922 a-922 g are fabricated in a second layer process. A boundary for the second layer pattern obeys the boundary 906 set at the first layer. Thus, the patterns of the different layers at the same stack crossing the subfields boundary are written by the same electron beams at the different level, and any layer-to-layer overlay errors caused by different electron beams are improved. For example, the overlay error of the pattern 922 g and the pattern 922 h to the pattern 912 d as shown in FIG. 12 may be reduced by fifty percent (50%) compared with the overlay error of the pattern 722 g and the pattern 722 h to the pattern 712 d as shown in FIG. 10. In another example, the overlay error of the pattern 922 p and the pattern 922 q to the pattern 912 f as shown in FIG. 12 may also be reduced by fifty percent (50%) compared with the overlay error of the pattern 722 p and the pattern 722 q to the pattern 712 f as shown in FIG. 10.
Thus, the present disclosure describes a method of exposing the resist film deposited on the substrate in the electron beam writer to improve the overlay error. A smart boundary dividing a plurality of subfields is set at the first pattern layer and the consecutive pattern layers obey the smart boundary set at the first pattern layer. Because the subfield is exposed by the same electron beam at the different layers, the overly error caused by the different electron beam is improved.
The present disclosure also describes a method of generating the smart boundary during exposing the resist film by the electron beam writer. The smart boundary is set by examining if a polygon edge is in or out of a stitching area shared by the two adjacent subfields to keep a complete polygon in the subfield at the first pattern layer. Then the consecutive pattern layers obey the smart boundary set at the first pattern layer. The overlay error caused by the electron beam difference is reduced.
In another embodiment, a method of forming a photo resist pattern on the electron beam writer. The photo resist is deposited on the substrate by a spin-on process to form a photo resist film. The photo resist film deposited on the wafer substrate is exposed on the electron beam writer by using the smart boundary for the subfields set at the first pattern layer. The same subfield is exposed at the consecutive layers by the same electron beam and therefore the layer to layer overlay is improved.
The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so that those skilled in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions, and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
What is claimed is:
1. A method of patterning a substrate, comprising:
receiving an integrated circuit (IC) design layout data comprising at least one main feature; modifying the at least one main feature using an electron proximity correction (EPC) technique; stripping the at least one EPC modified main feature into a plurality of subfields; converting the at least one EPC modified main feature to a plurality of electron beam writer formatted features; and writing the plurality of electron beam writer formatted features onto the substrate by an electron beam writer.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the subfields is assigned with one of the corresponding electron beam writer formatted features.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
flattening the IC design layout data, wherein flattening the IC design layout data includes at least one of decomposing the IC design layout data into primitive patterns and eliminating an overlap of the primitive patterns.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the EPC technique includes at least one of a dose correction, a pattern size bias correction, a pattern shape correction, and a background dose equalization correction.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the stripping further comprising examining if there is a polygon crossing an original boundary in a stitching area shared by two adjacent subfields, redefining a new boundary such that the whole polygon is within one of the two adjacent subfields.
6. The method of claim 5, wherein the polygon is in a first layer and the method further comprising:
modifying the original boundary for consecutive layers by conforming to the redefined new boundary at the first layer.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the stripping further comprising examining if there is a polygon crossing an original boundary out of a stitching area shared by two adjacent subfields, redefining at least one new boundary by dividing the original boundary.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the polygon is in a first layer and the method further comprising:
modifying the original boundary for consecutive layers by conforming to the redefined at least one new boundary at the first layer.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
dithering the plurality of the EPC modified main features.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein dithering includes converting a plurality of the EPC modified layout pattern from a design grid to an electron beam writer grid.
11. The method of claim 9, wherein converting includes converting the dithering modified IC design layout data to the plurality of electron beam writer formatted features.
12. The method of claim 1, wherein writing includes scanning the substrate coated with a photo resist film by using the plurality of electron beam writer formatted features assigned to the subfields, so that the scanning exposes the photo resist film.
13. A method of exposing a substrate, comprising:
receiving an integrated circuit (IC) design layout data comprising at least one main feature; performing an electron proximity correction (EPC) to the at least one main feature; stripping the at least one EPC modified main feature into a plurality of subfields; converting the at least one EPC modified main feature to a plurality of electron beam writer format data; and writing the electron beam writer format data on a substrate by an electron beam writer;
14. The method of claim 13, wherein each of the subfields is assigned with one of the corresponding electron beam writer format data.
15. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
flattening the IC design layout data.
16. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
examining if there is a polygon crossing an original boundary in a stitching area shared by two adjacent subfields at the first layer; if the original boundary exists in the stitching area, redefining a new boundary such that the full polygon is within one of the two adjacent subfields; and if the original boundary being out of the stitching area, redefining a new boundary by dividing the original boundary.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the polygon is in a first layer and the method further comprising:
modifying the original boundary for consecutive layers by conforming to the redefined new boundary at the first layer.
18. The method of claim 13, wherein writing includes scanning the substrate coated with a photo resist film by the electron beam writer using the plurality of patterned electron beam writer format data, so that the scanning exposes the photo resist film.
19. A method of patterning a substrate, comprising:
depositing a resist film on a substrate; receiving a pattern including a plurality of polygons; receiving a beam path mapping for an electron beam writer; modifying at least one edge of one of the plurality of polygons so that the polygon fits into one beam path to form a modified pattern, wherein the plurality of polygons further includes a plurality of subfields; converting the modified pattern to a plurality of electron beam formats prior to exposing, wherein each of the subfields is assigned with one of the electron beam formats; exposing the resist film deposited on the substrate by the electron beam writer using the modified pattern; and developing the exposed resist film to form a resist pattern on the substrate.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the pattern is an integrated circuit (IC) design layout and wherein modifying includes applying an electron proximity correction (EPC) to form an EPC modified design layout and stripping the EPC modified IC design layout into a plurality of subfields.
| 2013-12-16 | en | 2014-04-10 |
US-201514874519-A | Generalized proxy architecture to provide remote access to an application framework
ABSTRACT
Systems and method for providing remote access to service applications created within an application framework. For each of the controls in the application framework, a wrapper is provided to enable remote-access to the control. An integration component includes proxies that communicate to each the rapper, a proxy manager that communicates to the service application, and a state manager that registers views and event handlers to communicate application state information. A remote access server application receives a connection from a client remote access application executing on the client device, and state information is communicated between the service application and the client remote access application to provide a view of the service application at the client device.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/109,738, filed Jan. 30, 2015, entitled “Generalized Proxy Architecture to Provide Remote Access to an Application Framework,” which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
Application frameworks, such as Qt, .Net, the Microsoft Foundation Class (MFC), provide a software development framework that is used to create applications that implement a standard structure. The application frameworks also provide for cross-platform deployment on different operating systems. Some application frameworks, such as Qt, may be used to create graphical user interfaces (GUIs) through the use of widgets. The GUI may be used to define the underlying code structure of the application. Typically, object-oriented programming techniques (e.g., C++) are used to implement the application frameworks such that parts of an application can inherit from pre-existing classes in the framework.
BACKGROUND
Application frameworks, such as Qt, .Net, the Microsoft Foundation Class (MFC), provide a software development framework that is used to create applications that implement a standard structure. The application frameworks also provide for cross-platform deployment on different operating systems. Some application frameworks, such as Qt, may be used to create graphical user interfaces (GUIs) through the use of widgets. The GUI may be used to define the underlying code structure of the application. Typically, object-oriented programming techniques (e.g., C++) are used to implement the application frameworks such that parts of an application can inherit from pre-existing classes in the framework.
However, while application frameworks have greatly enhanced application development, the application frameworks are not designed to provide remote access to the applications developed thereon. As such, a user cannot remotely access an application built on an application framework, nor can multiple users collaboratively interact with an application built on an application framework.
SUMMARY
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for providing remote access to a service application within in an application framework executing on a server. An example method may include providing wrappers that each correspond to a control of the application framework, each wrapper modifying an interface of a respective control to enable remote-access to the respective control; providing an integration component that includes proxies that communicate to the wrappers, a proxy manager that communicates to the service application, and a state manager that registers views and event handlers to communicate application state information; starting a remote access server application on a remote access server in accordance with an identifier provided by the proxy manager to enable remote access to the service application; receiving a connection from a client remote access application executing on a client device; and communicating state information between the service application and the client remote access application to provide a view of the service application at the client device
Other systems, methods, features and/or advantages will be or may become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and/or advantages be included within this description and be protected by the accompanying claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to each other. Like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.
FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram illustrating a system for providing remote access to an application at a remote device via a computer network;
FIG. 2 illustrates a service application and its original interaction with an application framework;
FIG. 3 illustrates a high-level overview of the service application of FIG. 2 when remote-access enabled in accordance with present disclosure;
FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate examples of a service-side architecture for implementing a remote-access architecture within an application framework;
FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary operational flow of receiving requests from remote-access-enabled objects;
FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary operational flow diagram of a proxy creation process;
FIG. 7 is a simplified block diagram illustrating an environment in which the present disclosure may be implemented;
FIG. 8 is a state model in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIG. 9 illustrates aspects of the distributed system as applied to the system of FIG. 7;
FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary operational flow diagram to of remote-access enabling an application developed within an application framework; and
FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary computing device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure. While implementations will be described for remotely accessing applications, it will become evident to those skilled in the art that the implementations are not limited thereto, but are applicable for remotely accessing any type of data or service via a remote device.
Introduction
The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods to quickly adapt desktop applications built on application frameworks, such as Qt (available from Digia), .Net, the Microsoft Foundation Class (MFC) (each available from Microsoft Corporation), and wxWidgets, for use on the World Wide Web (the Web) and on mobile platforms. As will be described below, example implementations using Qt will be described; however, the implementations herein may be extended to other application frameworks. The present disclosure provides a set of Remote-access/Qt widgets and associated proxies that pre-integrate existing Qt APIs with a remote access server application, such as PUREWEB available from Calgary Scientific Inc., Alberta, Canada. These widgets provide an easy methodology to provide remote access capabilities an application. For example, a developer may simply substitute the prefix of the Remote-access/Qt widget for the original widget into the software code. The complexity of the system is abstracted by the Remote-access/Qt widgets such that the application developers only need a limited knowledge of PUREWEB. Thus, the Remote-access/Qt widgets provide a rapid transformation methodology for desktop applications using the Qt Framework to migrate to Web and Mobile services and clients.
Basic Architecture
FIG. 1 illustrates a high level overview of a remote access architecture 100. As illustrated, the remote access architecture 100 of the present disclosure may comprise three tiers—a client remote access application 121 executing on a client computer 112, a remote access server application 111 executing on a server 102B and a service application 107 executing on a server 102A (or alternatively on the server 102B). The service application 107 contains application logic and uses a Service API 108 to “plug-in” to the remote access server application 111, maintain application state, and generate rendered views.
The remote access server application 111 is responsible for starting and stopping services and mediating communication between client remote access applications 121 and service applications 107.
As will be described below, the client remote access application 121 allows users to interact with services (e.g., service applications 107) through web browsers and/or mobile devices. In the context of the present disclosure, to remote-access enable an existing application means to transform a desktop/workstation version of an application into a service application 107 by creating objects and calling methods from the Service API 108. Specifically, as will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the application service 107 will create a singleton instance of StateManager and pass it to a singleton instance of StateManagerServer associated with the remote access server application 111. The StateManagerServer handles communication with the remote access server application 111 over standard input and output streams.
Messages arriving from the client remote access application 121 at the service application 107 are passed via the remote access server application 111, and as communicated as, e.g., XML text in a state model (see, FIGS. 8 and 9). The content of XML text is converted to lists of command objects that are executed by the StateManager. For example, these include commands to change the application state, commands that represent user input events, and custom commands understood by the service application 107.
In executing the commands the service application 107 will generate response objects including changes to the application state and new rendered images. The StateManagerServer converts the response objects to XML text messages that are passed back to the client remote access application 121 via the remote access server application 111.
In some implementations, the remote access server application 111 may be implemented as an Apache Tomcat web server and a set of libraries for developing services and clients. Integrating remote access libraries into a desktop application transforms it into a Web service that plugs into the remote access server. In other implementations, for desktop applications written using Qt, the applications can be transformed into a service that works with the remote access server application using just a few lines of code. Client libraries are provided for Web and Mobile platforms, such as: iOS, Android, Java Swing, Microsoft Silverlight, Adobe Flash, and HTML5. As will be described, remote clients receive user inputs and manage state (using the state model) with the service application that may be running on a remote access server or an application server in communication with the remote access server. Thus, the present disclosure provides for an architecture where logic and data do not reside on the client, rather data resides, and processing is performed, on the remote access server and/or the application server. As such, remotely accessible high performance and secure computing is provided.
As will be described below, remote-access integration is achieved by transparently replacing Qt widgets with corresponding ‘remote-access-enabled’ Qt widgets. These remote-access-enabled Qt widgets look and behave just like their standard Qt counterparts, but with the additional capability to transfer state/views and intercept/inject events via the remote access server application 111.
Application Frameworks and Remote Access Integration
Implementations of an architecture that provides remote access to an application via its underlying application framework will now be described. In accordance with the present disclosure, remote access and collaboration may be provided to a, e.g., an application framework by replacing low-level widgets and layouts (e.g., UI elements) with corresponding remote-access-enabled widgets and layouts. The remote-access-enabled widgets and layouts support the interface and all standard behaviors of their conventional counterparts, but also extend them with a ‘tap’ functionality (described below) that allows monitoring and/or injection of state information and events. The taps allow a widget or layout to be programmatically monitored and controlled, making it ‘remote-access-ready’.
As used herein, a fully-implemented framework supporting this architecture includes taps for most, if not all, of the standard application framework widgets, is collectively termed “an integration component” (reference numeral 506 in the FIGS). An intermediate layer of dynamically-constructed integration proxies is then used to mediate communications between the taps and the remote access server application 111, decoupling the application from remote access server application 111.
Application frameworks may support a hierarchically-structured UI paradigm supporting the concept of navigable parent/child relationships between widgets (controls and views), along with development tools which support automation and dependable systematic structure for UI creation. Specifically, some application frameworks support a rich object model including runtime type and metadata introspection and runtime object interconnection/communications (signals and slots). Any class derived from a base class of objects automatically gains access to all these mechanisms and many more (standard container types, image and I/O handling, etc.).
For remote access integration, in some application frameworks, the signals/slots communications mechanism enables runtime integration of remote access capabilities without requiring compile-time linkage and source dependencies. UI widgets use signals and slots as their underlying interconnection mechanism, allowing events (signals) generated by controls to be bound to recipients (slots) at runtime. This same mechanism may be used to signal events across component boundaries at runtime without requiring explicit linking of the components. This provides the opportunity for the remote access integration mechanism of the present disclosure to subscribe to events generated by the UI elements, and gain access to UI inputs without requiring explicit linkage. Likewise, events may be ‘injected’ into control hierarchies without explicit linkage.
FIG. 2 illustrates an architecture 400 including a service application and its conventional interaction with an application and user interface framework. As illustrated, the service application 107 calls directly to a framework 402 to create UI elements from, e.g., widgets, controls, and layouts. For example, the framework 402 may include libraries of low level controls that provide user interface functionalities, such as menus, text boxes, progress bars, slider controls, etc.
FIG. 3 illustrates an architecture 400′ including the service application of FIG. 2 when “remote-access-enabled” in accordance with present disclosure. As illustrated, the service application 107 communicates with an integration shim (wrapper component) 406, which includes “taps,” which are wrappers around a respective object in the service application 107, typically a UI control. The taps are capable of injecting and intercepting events and state to/from the object (e.g., the UI control). Each tap in turn communicates with the remote access server application 111 via an associated proxy object which conveys all the event/state information relevant to the tap. The events and state information may be used by the client remote access application 121 to interact with and display representations of the app-side UI controls. The tap is capable of injecting events on the object (e.g., activate a ‘click’ method on a button object) or intercept/monitor events generated by the object (e.g., recognize when the ‘clicked’ event/method occurs on a button object, and perform some action as a consequence).
Wrapping is typically achieved by inheritance, e.g., a new Tap_Button wrapper class is derived from the Button class, and the event methods are overloaded to allow injected or intercepted events to be communicated from or to another object (e.g., the Proxy). The application is then modified to use a Tap_Button in all the places it formerly used a Button. It is noted that other wrapping mechanisms may be used, such as, wrapping via containment where a Tap_Button class could contain a Button instance, and forward all calls to or from that object. While this allows complete control over the Button's environment and perception of the ‘the outside world’, it may involve dozens or even hundreds of trivial forwarding methods in the wrapping class, significantly increasing code size and maintenance overhead.
An integration component 506 includes a collection of dynamically-created integration proxies 404 which connect application-side objects to the remote access server application 111. The Integration component 506 communicates with integration proxy objects 404, that in turn, communications with the remote access server application 111. In some implementations, the integration component 506 may be integrated into the remote access server application 111. Each proxy object is a conduit which conveys events and state between an associated tap object and the client remote access application 121 (via remote access server application 111). The proxy may perform such functions as obtaining StateManager and CommandManager references, binding client-issued commands to event notification calls destined for the tap, and manipulating the application state to reflect any state information shared between the client remote access application 121 and the tap using application state paths structured according to knowledge of the tap's identity (e.g., a position in the ‘visual tree’ relative to other controls).
In accordance with some aspects, there may be more tap types than proxy types, as a single proxy type may be able to communicate all the event/state information needed by a number of tap types (e.g., a single abstract ‘Button Proxy’ can convey all the click, label, visibility, and other state information needed by a wide range of button types in a UI framework). As such, a tap knows what type of proxy it can communicate through, and the proxy need not know about tap types (other than that the tap supports the event injection and state update methods the proxy may call).
When a tap object is created, it creates a corresponding proxy object of the required type, and when the tap object is destroyed the proxy is destroyed. Thus, given that the tap objects are typically (derived) instances of app-side UI controls, this gives a clean lifetime control mechanism for proxies and reduces the likelihood of memory leaks or leftover instances. In order to instantiate a proxy of a specific required type (i.e., the tap class), a factory mechanism may be used. For example, this could be a runtime mechanism such as a map of type strings to factory objects where a factory can create an instance of the specified proxy type, or a compile-time mechanism utilizing a templated/generic factory class to create instances of proxies whose type is provided by a typedef known to the tap. The former mechanism may be useful in cases where the implementation technologies for taps and proxies are very different, whereas the latter template mechanism provides for error checking at compile time rather than at runtime.
Using a tap/proxy mechanism such as described above, the present disclosure provides for a mechanism to remote-access enable an application very quickly by replacing occurrences of native UI control types in the application code with corresponding tap types. The taps will behave like the original native UI control types, but convey information about events and control state to/from proxies, and thus remote clients. A generalized version of the tap/proxy framework in the architecture 400′ thus provides for low impact on the original service application (i.e., only minimal source code changes are need to remote access enable the service application); componentization (i.e., it is possible to update a shared component or library such that it is remote access enabled, but still functions normally in the absence of the remote access server application 111); ease of maintenance; reusability; UI Framework adaptability (i.e., the architecture 400′ may be used in a wide range of application frameworks; and UI abstraction/client adaptability (i.e., the ability to utilize clients which do not have exactly the same UI controls as a service application, or to remote only portions of a service application's UI.
Detailed Example Implementation
FIG. 4A illustrates a detailed overview of a service-side architecture 400″ for implementing a remote-access architecture within an application framework. Specifically, the service-side architecture 400″ describes an implementation where Qt is the application framework 402. The Qt-based framework 402 includes libraries of low level controls, such as QButtons 504A, QSliders 504B, QWidgets 504C, etc. The wrapper component 406 accounts for the remote access-rebasing wrapper classes which will inherit the Qt low level controls, e.g., a RAButton 508A, a RASlider 508B, a RAWidget 508C, etc. The wrapper component 406 is a thin wrapper layer of derived classes for relevant low-level Qt controls/widgets.
The wrappers (508A, 508B, 508C) are lightweight derived classes which modify or augment the interfaces of standard Qt or other application framework controls to make them remote-access-ready. As noted above, the wrapper acts as a “tap” to enable a control to be activated by runtime signals as though it was being activated by UI interaction, and to signal state changes and relevant events so those signals can be received by an external slot (e.g., on an integration proxy). Some controls already expose a suitable interface, reducing the wrapper to nothing but a virtual destructor which disconnects the wrapper from any proxy that might be connected. For most common Qt controls an instance of a derived wrapper type can be created such that the rest of the application may reference that instance as though it were an instance of the standard control (i.e., use it as a polymorphic type).
The integration component 506 includes the remote access libraries, shown in the diagram as the StateManager 308. There is also the collection of dynamically constructed proxy classes 404 (ProxyButton 514A, ProxySlider 514B, ProxyWidget 514C, and so on). These proxies 404 are shown to communicate with the wrapper classes 508A, 508B and 508C via signals and slots. Given that signals and slots require no direct method calls and thus do not necessitate the inclusion of headers, this communication is dependency-less. The Integration component 406 consists of a collection of dynamically-created integration proxies which connect app-side objects to the remote access server application 111, a ProxyManager 518, which selects and instantiates proxies, and a remote-access API itself (i.e., the StateManager 308 and associated classes).
A ProxyManager 518 is a creator and instantiator of the proxy instances 514A, 514B and 514C as well as the remote access server application 111 and StateManager 308. The ProxyManager 518 services connection requests from remote-access specific logic 501 in the service application 107, and selects and creates an integration proxy (514A, 514B and 514C) of the appropriate type through, e.g., a templated factory for each request, and adds the integration proxy to the proxy collection 404. Each integration proxy 514A, 514B and 514C establishes the connection between a remote-access-aware control in the service application 107 and the StateManager 308, thus connecting signals/slots and registering views and command/event/appstate handlers as required.
In the above, a unique tap type for the wrappers (508A, 508B, 508C) may be used for each UI control type in every UI/Application framework. As the primary interface point with the remote access server application code, the proxies (514A, 514B, 514C) include remote access headers and link to remote access libraries. As such, the service application code cannot directly include or statically link to any proxy code (static linkage is transitive). This implies a pluggability boundary, i.e., the proxy code may expose a runtime-linkable interface which utilizes only generic data types, so application-side code may communicate with the proxies without incurring any direct dependencies on the remote access server application code. The runtime-linkable interface also implies that the application-side code may elect not to link to the proxies at runtime (e.g., if the Proxy library is absent or not licensed, for instance).
In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, proxies do not utilize any UI/Application framework-specific data types (i.e., the proxies are shared among all deployments), a large percentage of the framework logic may reside within those shared proxies in order to maximize code reuse. Ideally the proxies should leverage inheritance so that common proxy functionality (e.g., connecting to the state and command managers, managing startup and shutdown of the proxy's connection with the remote access server application 111, etc.) may be inherited by all proxies.
In accordance with other aspects the present disclosure, taps do not inherit from each other, but many taps could benefit from inheritance because they share a great deal of underlying functionality. In addition, this functionality often deals directly with UI framework-specific data types and so it may not be readily encapsulated within the proxy hierarchy. As such, the integration component 506 acts as an intermediate relay layer where complex inherited functionality may be structured efficiently, and UI framework-specific data types may be used freely. For example, all visible UI controls in the Qt framework inherit from QWidget, which contains a ‘paintEvent’ method. A Tap for any control which inherits from QWidget may override the paintEvent method and use it to render a bitmap image of the control to be used as a view for the remote access server application 111. However, this logic is not inherited from other Taps. To solve this, a line override for paintEvent in any given tap may be implemented, and that override can delegate the call out to the paintEvent handler in the tap's associated relay. That relay contains paintEvent-handling functionality by virtue of inheritance from a RelayView class somewhere in its parent hierarchy. In this way, a functionality like paintEvent may be implemented just once and used for any relevant taps despite their inheritance constraints.
The pluggable runtime-linkable interface between the relays and proxies will now be described. This interface is two-way, supporting calls originating at a tap intended to be executed on the associated proxy, and calls from a proxy intended to be executed on the associated tap. In addition, the interface provides a type-safe way for the proxy library to publish its supported proxy factories such that they can be invoked by the relays. This may be accomplished by publishing (exporting) a proxy interface for each supported type in the proxy library, and exporting a relay interface for each supported type in the tap/relay library. The proxy interface may include a factory for each proxy type to instantiate proxy instances. This approach, while being relatively straightforward, is prone to omissions and type matching errors at runtime rather than compile time.
As a solution, a more symmetrical and type-safe approach may be used by defining a single bridge interface for each associated relay/proxy pair. This interface includes both proxy-destined methods and tap-destined methods, and is implemented by both the relay and the proxy. In the proxy library, a method destined to be executed by a tap is simply implemented as a forwarding method (i.e., calls directly through to the relay, which then invokes the required functionality on its associated Tap). Similarly, in the tap/relay library, a method destined to be executed by a proxy is implemented as a forwarding method which calls directly over to the proxy. By collecting both tap-bound and proxy-bound methods onto a single ‘shared’ interface, compile-time guarantees are gained as the interface supports the methods that expected, as well as the programmer-oriented benefit of collecting all related interface methods into a single location (i.e., making asymmetries and errors easier to spot). There is also a central location for holding factory interface pointers, which will be null if the proxy library is absent and did not connect to the bridge (i.e. in a deployment scenario without a remote access server application 111). Finally, the bridge component should provide a natural marshalling point allowing managed frameworks like .NET or the Java VM to communicate with the common proxy library implemented in cross-platform unmanaged C++ code. The layered architecture arising from the above is thus very flexible and capable of supporting a wide variety of deployment scenarios.
The service application 107 represents an application as it was before any remote-access functionality was introduced in accordance with the present disclosure. Within the service application 107, there is remote-access-specific code 501, which is added to the service application code. For example, the following may be added:
ProxyManager pmgr(0, a.arguments( ).contains(“RemoteAccessServer”));
The above instantiates the instance of the ProxyManager class 518, which will be used throughout the lifespan of the service application 107. For example, if the main application receives a string argument of “Remote Access Server” (or other argument), the ProxyManager 518 will start the remote access server application 111. If this argument is not present, the remote access server application 111 is not started and the service application 107 will run as it did before being remote-access-enabled.
In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, to associate the service-side controls with the controls provided in the client UI, a naming convention may be used that uniquely identifies each service app UI element so it may be associated with a likewise uniquely-identified client UI element. Some application frameworks, such as Qt, lend themselves well to the establishment of such a convention, as outlined below. Standardized Qt UI builders (QtCreator, QtDesigner) construct a navigable ‘visual tree’ when they create a UI page (or sub-page, or even nested controls). The elements of that tree are named uniquely at each level of the tree to differentiate siblings, and the names are accessible via the runtime introspection facilities of Qt. This provides for an approach in which a unique identifier for a visual element may be constructed as an hierarchical ‘path’ consisting of the set of names from the top level parent down to the ultimately contained visual element (concatenated with ‘/’ delimiters). The process of unique ID construction can be automated due to the navigable parent/child links in the hierarchy. This works for both statically constructed visual trees (i.e. as built by QtCreator) and dynamically constructed visual trees built programmatically at runtime. As long as the individual visual elements in the tree are named, and each tree ‘root’ is uniquely named, the resulting hierarchical paths will uniquely identify controls defined either at UI design time or at run time, and the paths may be used as unique ID's for the controls.
Given that the service UI controls have deterministic structured ID's, it is possible to assign the same ID's to the corresponding controls on the client side UI. This can be done manually or automatically by using a tree-walking approach similar to that used in a Qt visual tree. For example, a Silverlight client has navigable visual trees which may be walked in the same way as a Qt visual tree. If the structure of the client UI corresponds 1:1 to the structure of the service UI (or is a simple subset of the same controls), unique control ID's constructed by walking a Silverlight visual tree will correspond exactly to the ID's constructed by walking the corresponding Qt tree.
Using hierarchically structured control ID's has a benefit in that the ‘path’ representing the control ID may be used directly as an application state (appstate) path in the state model 200 (FIG. 8), defining a unique location in appstate where we may keep any state related to that control. The nature of the unique ID's guarantees that the state location will not collide with other controls. In addition, the control ID may be used as a ‘base name’ for any commands a client may issue related to that control. This allows the service to register command handlers for any control automatically, without any special effort on the part of the developer.
FIG. 4B illustrates a detailed overview of another service-side architecture 400′″ for implementing a remote-access architecture within an application framework, such as Qt. The architecture 400′″ is similar to the architecture 400″; however, it includes a Hub singleton object 520 that is provided as a connection broker object that facilitates communication between remote-access specific logic 501 in the service application 107 and the Integration component 406. The service application 107 makes direct calls to the Hub singleton 520 to ask for connection of its controls to the remote access server application 111, and the ProxyManager class 518 connects a signal/slot connection between itself and Hub 520 in order to have these proxy connection requests relayed to it. The Hub 520 is available throughout the service application (i.e., it is visible to all components).
Another addition in the environment 400″', which is part of the remote-access-specific code 501 is for example:
HUB→raConnectUIToRemoteAccessServer(this, “ ”);
scribbleArea→raConnect(“RAVScribbleArea”);
The first line above is a call to Hub 520 which will find and connect all of the remote-access aware components to proxy handlers in the collection of proxy classes 404. The second line is a connection of the RAWidget scribbleArea to a ProxyWidget handler 514C.
In accordance with the present disclosure, a registration process is provided that assigns RAPushButtons to ProxyPushButtons, RALabels to ProxyLabels, and so on between the Wrapper component 506 and the Integration component 506. The process is implemented by the Hub 520, which has methods that are called to walk the service application's visual tree, find all of the low level controls, and queue a connection request on their behalf to the remote access server application 111. Hub 520 acts as a globally available object that provides methods for finding and queuing connection requests for the remote access controls. The ProxyManager 518, upon its instantiation, starts the remote access server application 111 and connects to the Hub 520 via a signal and slot connection.
With reference to FIG. 5, there is illustrated an example operational flow 600 of receiving requests from remote-access-enabled objects. During startup, the ProxyManager singleton 518 is instantiated when the integration component 406 is loaded at 602. When the ProxyManager singleton 518 is instantiated, it immediately announces itself to the service application 107 (at 604).
At 606, remote-access-enabled objects in the service application 107 will request connections to the remote access server application 111. At 608, it is determined if a connection request is received. A connection request identifies the object initiating the request (i.e., it passes a QObject pointer to itself), and also supplies ‘context’ for the request. The context is a structured string which contains the unique identifier for the object/control instance (as described above) and supplies any other information relevant to the connection. At 610, received request are passed to the ProxyManager object 518 in the integration component 406. Based on the connection request, at 612, the ProxyManager 815 instantiates an appropriate integration proxy instance (e.g., one of 514A, 514B, 514C). The proxy instance is initialized based on the connection request (i.e., it receives a pointer to the service-side object to be connected, along with the context information for the connection).
When an integration proxy 514A, 514B, 514C is constructed and initialized, it connects to the application-side object and the remote access server application 111 via the StateManager 308. As such, initialization of an integration proxy 514A, 514B, 514C may also result in connecting command or application state change handlers, creating or modifying application state contents (in the state model 200), and/or registering a view (and corresponding mouse/keyboard event handlers). The lifetime of the integration proxy 514A, 514B, 514C mirrors the lifetime of the corresponding object in the service application 107, making shutdown more robust because even abrupt termination of other components in the service application 107 does not preclude orderly shutdown of integration proxies 514A, 514B, 514C in the integration component 406. In some implementations, the ProxyManager 518 tracks the instantiated proxies 514A, 514B, 514C and can cleanly shut down any stragglers. By providing the interaction logic in the proxy 514A, 514B, 514C, an abstraction layer is created for adapting to any differences in the client-side and server-side controls. An example would be abstracting ‘zoom’ operations so that they can be initiated via pinch-zoom actions on the client side as opposed to mouse actions operating on a zoom control.
FIG. 6 illustrates an example operational flow 700 of a proxy creation process. At 702, an interface class (IBridge interface class) is created which defines methods to facilitate their communication. The IBridge interface class defines the messages that relays and taps may send to each other. An IBridge template may be used to fill out the header file's contents and to add the specific types of calls to the proxy and taps.
At 704, a Proxy Class is created. The proxy class inherits from the IBridge interface. If a control is of a type that will have to send messages to the service application 107 (e.g., a button needing to send click notifications, a combobox needing to send selected index messages, or a slider sending value messages), this is considered to be a “Two-Way” proxy. Otherwise, if a control can be handled entirely by having the service application 107 sending all information to the remote access server application 111 (e.g., such as a text label, where the only real task of the proxy would be to have a text field set by the service and not require any input from the client), then it is considered it a “One-Way” proxy. Choose your type of proxy and copy-paste the contents of its corresponding proxy header template (One-Way template or Two-Way template). The following steps will assume you have chosen a Two-Way proxy as it will include all method types that a One-Way proxy would have.
At 706, a relay class is created. The relay class is defined in a tap project. For example, a relay is added to a TapsQt project. Here, the methods in the IBridge class are implemented. Also, tap methods are defined to manipulate the tap control as desired. At 308, a tap class is created. New tap classes can be created by adding a new header file. The setter methods are overloaded for each attribute for which the remote access server application 111 maintains awareness.
Thus, the architectures 400′, 400″ and 400′″ remote-access-enable applications built on application frameworks by abstracting all of the communications and messaging away from the application logic. As such, the developers/maintainers of the application do not need specialized knowledge. The architectures provide a very efficient, low-latency pipeline and an abstraction layer for the capture and modelling of input events from mouse and keyboard devices on multiple client platforms and converting them for use with the original application. In addition, the architectures provide a very robust and easy to use mechanism for modelling the state of an application that is independent of platform, communications, and messaging.
Environment Overview
Referring to FIG. 7, an example architecture 100 for providing remote access to an application, data or other service via a computer network. The system comprises a client computer 112A or 112B, such as a wireless handheld device such as, for example, an IPHONE, ANDROID, WINDOWS PHONE, or a BLACKBERRY device connected via a computer network 110 such as, for example, the Internet, to a server 102B. Similarly, the client computing devices may also include a desktop/notebook personal computer 112C or a tablet device 112N that are connected by the communication network 110 to the server 102B. It is noted that the connections to the communication network 110 may be any type of connection, for example, Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11x), WiMax (IEEE 802.16), Ethernet, 3G, 4G, LTE, etc.
The server 102B is connected, for example, via the computer network 110 to a Local Area Network (LAN) 109 or may be directly connected to the computer network 110. For example, the LAN 109 is an internal computer network of an institution such as a hospital, a bank, a large business, or a government department. Optionally, a database 108 may be connected to the LAN 109. Numerous service applications 107 may be stored in memory 106A of the computing device 102A and executed on a processor 104A. Similarly, numerous service applications 107 may be stored in memory 106B of the server 102B and executed on a processor 104B. The service applications 107 may be applications created using Remote-access/Qt widgets, as described below, in order to provide remote access to the service applications 107. The computing device 102A, the server 102B and the client computing devices 112A, 112B, 112C or 112N may be implemented using hardware such as that shown in the general purpose computing device of FIG. 11.
The client remote access application 121A, 121B, 121C, 121N may be designed for providing user interaction for displaying data and/or imagery in a human comprehensible fashion and for determining user input data in dependence upon received user instructions for interacting with the service application using, for example, a graphical display with touch-screen 114A or a graphical display 114B/114N and a keyboard 116B/116C of the client computing devices 112A, 112B, 112C, 112N, respectively. For example, the client remote access application is performed by executing executable commands on processor 118A, 118B, 118C, 118N with the commands being stored in memory 120A, 120B, 120C, 120N of the client computer 112A, 112B, 112C, 112N, respectively.
Alternatively or additionally, a user interface program is executed on the server 102B that is then accessed via an URL by a generic client application such as, for example, a web browser executed on the client computer 112A, 112B. The user interface is implemented using, for example, Hyper Text Markup Language HTML 5.
The operation of the remote access server application 111 with the client remote access application (any of 121A, 121B, 121C, 121N, or one of service applications 107) is performed in cooperation with a state model 200, as illustrated in FIG. 8. When executed, the client remote access application updates the state model 200 in accordance with user input data received from a user interface program. The remote access application may generate control data in accordance with the updated state model 200, and provide the same to the remote access server application 111 running on the server 102B.
Upon receipt of application data from the service application 107, the remote access server application 111 updates the state model 200 in accordance with the screen or application data, generates presentation data in accordance with the updated state model 200, and provides the same to the client remote access application 121A, 121B, 121C, 121N on the client computing device. The state model 200 is determined such that each of the logical elements of the service application 107 is associated with a widget and/or user interactions. For example, the logical elements of the service application are determined such that the logical elements comprise transition elements with each transition element relating a change of the state model 200 to one of control data and application representation data associated therewith.
The state model 200 may be represented in, e.g., an Extensible Markup Language (XML) document. Other representations of the state model are possible. The state model 200 may define the service application 107 according to their containment structures. For example, consider the case in which the service application 107 has a main page with several nested (but nameable) windows and tab controls. Any element in the service application 107 can have the root path of “/MainPage”, followed by either a particular controls name, or each nested containment view necessary to uniquely identify that control. For example, consider a main page that contains a window that has three selected tabs and a named “OpenButton” that is contained within the second tab, labeled “Buttons”. In this example, the application state path for that particular button control would be “/MainPage/ButtonsTab/OpenButton”. As many intermediary views as necessary may be added to uniquely identify a particular control.
If the service application 107 does not contain a main page but instead contains several workflows from which to operate, the root application state path may be set to the name of the workflows. For example, consider a login page which, after logging in, moves to a “home” page. Also, from the home page, a user can choose to move to several other pages, all of which cannot be said to be contained within a “root” page. In this case, the application state path can be constructed with its root as the current page: “/LoginPage/LoginButton” for a login button, “/HomePage/IntroductionText” for an introductory written text message on the home page, “/AboutMePage/ContactMeButton” for a contact button on an “About Me” page, and so forth. In this fashion every control is uniquely identifiable.
After a particular low-level control (e.g. a button) has been identified, descriptive traits may be appended to the end of that button's state path to identify its current state. For instance, a “/Text” entry may be appended which contains the button's text contents, a “/isEnabled” entry which contains a Boolean as to whether or not the button is currently enabled, an “/isVisible” entry for defining the button's visibility status. Any number of descriptive traits may be provided. The same traits may be added to every instance of a particular control type entered into the application state in the state model 200 in order to precisely describe the service application's state to connected client applications. Methods of how to perform the above are described with reference to FIGS. 5-8.
In some implementations, two or more of the client computing devices 112A, 112B, 112C . . . 112N and/or the server 102B may collaboratively interact with the service application 107. As such, by communicating state information between each of the client computing devices 112A, 112B, 112C . . . 112N and/or the server 102B and/or the computing device 102A participating in a collaborative session, each of the participating client computing devices 112A, 112B, 112C . . . 112N may present a synchronized view of the display of the service application 107.
FIG. 9 illustrates aspects of a distributed system within the environment of FIGS. 7 and 8. The system may have a tiered infrastructure where a client tier 320 and a server tier 330 communicate information, data, messages, etc., between each other. The server tier 330, in turn, communicates the information, data, messages, etc., with an application tier 340. Thus, the server tier 330 may serve as a proxy between the client tier 320 and the application tier 340 during a session between a client (in the client tier 320) and the service application (e.g., 107 in the application tier 340). In FIG. 9, the service application 107 may be an “unmanaged” service meaning that the life-cycle of the service application 107 is not controlled by remote access server application 111 in the server tier 330.
The client remote access application 121A, 121B, 121C, 121N may sit on top of client libraries 304 in a client tier 320. The client libraries 304 may be specific or independent of the platform of the client computing device. The client tier 320 communicates to the remote access server application 111 in a server tier 330. The server tier 330 communicates to a state manager 308 sitting on top of the service applications 107 and remote access logic 312 in an application tier 340. The state model 200 is communicated among the tiers and may be modified in any of the tiers by the client remote access applications 121A . . . 121N, the remote access server application 111, and the service applications 107 to update create session information contained therein.
In some implementations, the application tier and server tier may be implemented within a cloud computing environment to provide remote access to the service applications 107. Cloud computing is a model for enabling network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be provisioned and released with minimal interaction. The cloud computing model promotes high availability, on-demand self-services, broad network access, resource pooling and rapid elasticity. In such an environment, the service applications 107 may be accessed by the client computing devices 112A, 112B, 112C or 112N through a client interface, such as a client remote access application 121A, 121B, 121C, 121N, as described below.
In yet other implementations, the architecture 100 may be implemented using micro-services such that functionalities of, e.g., the remote access server application 111, the state manager 308, and remote access logic 312 are independently deployable services on one or more servers. Such an implementation may provide for fault tolerance and scalability. For example, proxying of requests/responses, service management, scheduling, service discovery and configuration, and API management may be deployed as separate micro-services within such an architecture.
FIG. 10 illustrates an example operational flow 800 of remote-access enabling a Qt application. After an understanding of how the Qt application works is developed, at 802, the application is tapped. At 804, the remote access server application 111 is started to connect the service application 107 with a client remote access application 121A . . . 121N. For example, in main.cpp, the QApplication object is declared and replace with Tap_QApplication. The remote access server application 111 is started by Tap_QApplication's proxy. At 806, a client application is created. The client application is used to connect to the service application as it has been named above.
At 808, the low-level controls are tapped. For example, instances of QControl with are replaced with a corresponding Tap_QControl class. At 810, the views are tapped. For example, in a Qt application, every control which is visible in the application eventually inherits from “QWidget.” Thus, to remote-access enable QWidget as a view, “QWidget” may be replaced with “Tap_QWidgetView.” A view is given an object name (via the control.setObjectName(“Name”)) call in order to actually register the view with the remote access server application 111.
Thus, as described above, the present disclosure details an architecture that enables a Qt or other application framework-based application to be remote-access enabled.
FIG. 11 shows an exemplary computing environment in which example embodiments and aspects may be implemented. The computing system environment is only one example of a suitable computing environment and is not intended to suggest any limitation as to the scope of use or functionality.
Numerous other general purpose or special purpose computing system environments or configurations may be used. Examples of well known computing systems, environments, and/or configurations that may be suitable for use include, but are not limited to, personal computers, server computers, handheld or laptop devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based systems, network personal computers (PCs), minicomputers, mainframe computers, embedded systems, distributed computing environments that include any of the above systems or devices, and the like.
Computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by a computer may be used. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Distributed computing environments may be used where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network or other data transmission medium. In a distributed computing environment, program modules and other data may be located in both local and remote computer storage media including memory storage devices.
With reference to FIG. 11, an exemplary system for implementing aspects described herein includes a computing device, such as computing device 1100. In its most basic configuration, computing device 1100 typically includes at least one processing unit 1102 and memory 1104. Depending on the exact configuration and type of computing device, memory 1104 may be volatile (such as random access memory (RAM)), non-volatile (such as read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, etc.), or some combination of the two. This most basic configuration is illustrated in FIG. 11 by dashed line 1106.
Computing device 1100 may have additional features/functionality. For example, computing device 1100 may include additional storage (removable and/or non-removable) including, but not limited to, magnetic or optical disks or tape. Such additional storage is illustrated in FIG. 11 by removable storage 1108 and non-removable storage 1110.
Computing device 1100 typically includes a variety of tangible computer readable media. Computer readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by device 1100 and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media.
Computer storage media include tangible volatile and non-volatile, and removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Memory 1104, removable storage 1108, and non-removable storage 1110 are all examples of computer storage media. Computer storage media include, but are not limited to tangible media such as RAM, ROM, electrically erasable program read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by computing device 1100. Any such computer storage media may be part of computing device 1100.
Computing device 1100 may contain communications connection(s) 1112 that allow the device to communicate with other devices. Computing device 1100 may also have input device(s) 1114 such as a keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, touch input device, etc. Output device(s) 1116 such as a display, speakers, printer, etc. may also be included. All these devices are well known in the art and need not be discussed at length here.
It should be understood that the various techniques described herein may be implemented in connection with hardware or software or, where appropriate, with a combination of both. Thus, the methods and apparatus of the presently disclosed subject matter, or certain aspects or portions thereof, may take the form of program code (i.e., instructions) embodied in tangible media, such as floppy diskettes, CD-ROMs, hard drives, or any other machine-readable storage medium wherein, when the program code is loaded into and executed by a machine, such as a computer, the machine becomes an apparatus for practicing the presently disclosed subject matter. In the case of program code execution on programmable computers, the computing device generally includes a processor, a storage medium readable by the processor (including volatile and non-volatile memory and/or storage elements), at least one input device, and at least one output device.
One or more programs may implement or utilize the processes described in connection with the presently disclosed subject matter, e.g., through the use of an application programming interface (API), reusable controls, or the like. Such programs may be implemented in a high level procedural or object-oriented programming language to communicate with a computer system. However, the program(s) can be implemented in assembly or machine language, if desired. In any case, the language may be a compiled or interpreted language and it may be combined with hardware implementations.
Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.
What is claimed:
1. A method of providing remote access to a service application within in an application framework executing on a server, comprising:
providing wrappers that each correspond to a control of the application framework, each wrapper modifying an interface of a respective control to enable remote-access to the respective control; providing an integration component that includes proxies that communicate to the wrappers, a proxy manager that communicates to the service application, and a state manager that registers views and event handlers to communicate application state information; starting a remote access server application on a remote access server in accordance with an identifier provided by the proxy manager to enable remote access to the service application; receiving a connection from a client remote access application executing on a client device; and communicating state information between the service application and the client remote access application to provide a view of the service application at the client device.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein each wrapper comprises a derived classes that inherit properties from its respective low level control.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing a pluggable boundary between the proxies and the service application, such that the service application does not link to the proxies.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising announcing to the service application that the proxy manager has been instantiated and ready to receive requests from objects associated with the service application.
5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
receiving a request, at the proxy manager, from an object; and instantiating a proxy instance associated with the object to service the request.
6. The method of claim 5 where the requests are directed to the remote access server application.
7. The method of claim 5, wherein a lifetime of the proxy instance is the same as the object.
| 2015-10-05 | en | 2016-08-04 |
US-201313776778-A | Modular Networked Light Bulb
ABSTRACT
A modular light emitting apparatus includes a light emitting device, a connector to couple to an AC power source, circuitry on a first electronics module to drive the light emitting device, and a support structure arranged to position and hold a second electronics module that conforms to a predetermined form factor.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/195,655, entitled
“MODULAR NETWORKED LIGHT BULB” filed on Aug. 1, 2011, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/795,395, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,013,545, entitled “MODULAR NETWORKED LIGHT BULB” filed on Jun. 7, 2010, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 61/254,709 entitled “HYBRID LIGHT” filed on Oct. 25, 2009. The entire contents of all the aforementioned applications are hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND
1. Technical Field
The present subject matter relates to LED lighting. It further relates to a method of design and manufacture of networked LED light bulbs.
2. Description of Related Art
Providing home automation functionality using networking means is well known in the art. Control of lighting and appliances can be accomplished using systems from many different companies such as X10, Insteon® and Echelon.
In U.S. Pat. No. 6,528,954, inventors Lys and Mueller describe a smart light bulb which may include a housing, an illumination source, disposed in the housing, and a processor, disposed in the housing, for controlling the illumination source. The housing may be configured to fit a conventional light fixture. The illumination source may be an LED system or other illumination source. The processor may control the intensity or the color of the illumination source. The housing may also house a transmitter and/or receiver. The smart light bulb may respond to a signal from another device or send a signal to another device. The other device may be another smart light bulb or another device. They go on to describe a modular LED unit which may be designed to be either a “smart” or “dumb” unit. A smart unit, in one embodiment, includes a microprocessor incorporated therein for controlling, for example, a desired illumination effect produced by the LEDs. The smart units may communicate with one another and/or with a master controller by way of a network formed through the mechanism for electrical connection described above. It should be appreciated that a smart unit can operate in a stand-alone mode, and, if necessary, one smart unit may act as a master controller for other modular LED units. A dumb unit, on the other hand, does not include a microprocessor and cannot communicate with other LED units. As a result, a dumb unit cannot operate in a stand-alone mode and requires a separate master controller. The smart light bulb may be associated with a wide variety of illumination applications and environments.
Ducharme et al., in U.S. Pat. No. 7,014,336, describe systems and methods for generating and/or modulating illumination conditions to generate high-quality light of a desired and controllable color, for creating lighting fixtures for producing light in desirable and reproducible colors, and for modifying the color temperature or color shade of light within a prespecified range after a lighting fixture is constructed. In one embodiment, LED lighting units capable of generating light of a range of colors are used to provide light or supplement ambient light to afford lighting conditions suitable for a wide range of applications. They go on to describe a networked lighting system. U.S. Pat. No. 7,651,245 invented by Thomas, et a., shows an LED light fixture with internal power supply. They describe some embodiments where a radio frequency control unit can receive commands from a centralized controller, such as that provided by a local network, or from another control module positioned in a fixture in close proximity. Thus, the range of the lighting network could be extended via the relaying and/or repeating of control commands between control units.
Neither Lys and Mueller, Ducharme et al. nor Thomas, et al. discuss the way that the networking function is included in the light. They also do not address how a single design might be able to address a plurality of network environments. A variety of different networks are being used for home automation. So a need exists to easily be able to address different networking requirements with a single overall networked light bulb design.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of the specification, illustrate various embodiments of the invention. Together with the general description, the drawings serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:
FIG. 1 shows a stylized view of a home with a plurality of networked home automation devices;
FIG. 2 a block diagram view of a network of home automation devices;
FIG. 3A and 3B show a modular networked light bulb;
FIG. 3C and 3D show a non-networked light bulb utilizing portions of the modular networked light bulb;
FIG. 3E shows a cross-section of a partially assembled networked light bulb;
FIG. 3F shows a top view of a partially assembled networked light bulb;
FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the electronics utilized in one embodiment of the modular networked light bulb;
FIG. 5 shows mechanical designs for two printed circuit boards of one embodiment of a modular networked light bulb;
FIG. 6A-B shows a schematic for an LED driver board for a modular networked light bulb;
FIG. 7 a schematic for an LED board for a modular networked light bulb;
FIG. 8A-B and 8C-D show schematics for two different embodiments of a networked controller board for a modular networked light bulb;
FIG. 9 shows a flow chart diagram for a manufacturing process for a modular networked light bulb.
FIG. 10 shows a block diagram for an alternative embodiment of a modular networked light bulb; and
FIG. 11 shows a ventilation scheme for a modular networked light bulb.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of examples in order to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings. However, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present teachings may be practiced without such details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures and components have been described at a relatively high-level, without detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present concepts. A number of descriptive terms and phrases are used in describing the various embodiments of this disclosure. These descriptive terms and phrases are used to convey a generally agreed upon meaning to those skilled in the art unless a different definition is given in this specification. Some descriptive terms and phrases are presented in the following paragraphs for clarity.
The term “LED” refers to a diode that emits light, whether visible, ultraviolet, or infrared, and whether coherent or incoherent. The term as used herein includes incoherent polymer-encased semiconductor devices marketed as “LEDs”, whether of the conventional or super-radiant variety. The term as used herein also includes organic LEDs (OLED), semiconductor laser diodes and diodes that are not polymer-encased. It also includes LEDs that include a phosphor or nanocrystals to change their spectral output.
The term “network” refers to a bidirectional communication medium and protocol to allow a plurality of devices to communicate with each other.
The term “networked device” refers to any device that can communicate over a network.
The terms “networked light fixture”, “networked lighting apparatus” and “networked light bulb” all refer to a networked device capable of emitting light. While there are subtle differences in the generally agreed upon embodiments for these terms, they may be used interchangeably in this disclosure unless additional detail is provided to indicate that a specific embodiment is being discussed.
Reference now is made in detail to the examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings and discussed below.
FIG. 1 shows a stylized view of a home 100 with a plurality of home networked devices 111-127. In the embodiment shown, the networked devices communicate over a wireless mesh network such as Z-wave or Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4). Other wireless networks such as Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) might be used in a different embodiment. In other embodiments, a power line network such as X10 or HomePlug. In additional embodiments, a wired network could be used such as Ethernet (IEEE 802.3). In other embodiments, an optical network might be employed and some embodiments may utilize a heterogeneous network with multiple types of networks. This exemplary home has five rooms. The kitchen 101 has a networked light fixture 111, a networked coffee maker 121 and an networked refrigerator 123. The bedroom 102 has a networked light fixture 112, and a networked clock radio 122. The hallway 130 has a networked light bulb 113. The home office 104 has a networked light fixture 114, a network controller 120, and a home computer 140 connected to a network gateway 124. The living room 105 has two networked light fixtures 115, 116 and a networked television 125. External to the home is a networked floodlight 117 and a networked electric meter 126. Homeowner 106 is returning to her home with a networked remote control 127 and decides to turn on a networked floodlight 117 to light her way.
FIG. 2 shows a block diagram view of the automated home 100 showing only those devices involved with this particular instance of turning on the networked floodlight 117. The network 130 in this embodiment is a wireless mesh network meaning that individual devices can communicate with each other and that messages may be passed between intermediate devices to be able to reach its intended destination. In some cases, a message may be passed to a central network controller for processing but in other cases, a message may pass from an initiating device directly to a target device without involving the network controller. In the particular instance where the homeowner 106 presses a button 127 u on the remote control 127, a controller 127 c within the remote control 127 interprets the button press and creates a network message describing the task being requested. In this embodiment, the network message needs to be routed through the network controller 120 so the message created by the remote control controller 127 c sets that up as the target of the message and passes the message to the network adapter 127 n of the remote control 127. The network adapter 127 n is unable to send the message directly to the network controller 120 so it sends a radio frequency network message 131 to the nearest networked device that is within range, is currently powered on, and has the capability to route the message 131 to another networked device to get it to the network controller 120. In this case, the coffee maker 121 happens to be off and the refrigerator 123 does not happen to have routing capability, so the radio frequency message 131 is accepted by the network adapter 111 n of networked light fixture 111. The controller 116 n in the networked light fixture 111 determines that the message 131 is not intended to turn on its LEDs 116 b and it needs to be routed to the network controller 120 but the networked light fixture 111 and the network controller 120 are not able to directly communicate due to distance or interference so the controller 111 c uses network adapter 111 n to pass the message 131 to networked light bulb 113 as radio frequency message 132. The network adapter 113 n and controller 113 c determine that the message is not meant to turn on the LEDs 113 b in the networked light bulb 113, and it is able to directly communicate with the network controller 120, so the controller 113 c uses the network adapter 113 n to send a radio frequency message 133 to the network controller 120.
The network adapter 102 n of the network controller 120 accepts the message 133 and passes it to the controller 120 c. It then interprets the command which may have multiple functions to perform such as adjusting the temperature of the home, disarming an alarm or other functions that are not specified here. But one function that is required is to turn on floodlight 117. So the controller 120 c creates a message telling the floodlight 117 to turn on and has the network adapter 120 n sends it to the light fixture 116 because the floodlight 117 is out of range of the network controller 120. So the message is passed to the light fixture 116 using its network adapter 116 n and controller 116 c and without turning on its light 116 b. The light fixture 116 is within communication range of the floodlight 117 so it send the message to the floodlight 117. The network adapter 117 n receives the message and passes it to the controller 117 c which interprets the message and turns on the light 117 b so that the homeowner 106 can find her way to the door.
FIG. 3A shows a front view (with inner structure not shown) and FIG. 3B shows a side view (with selected inner structure shown in broken lines) of a modular networked light bulb 300. In this embodiment a networked light bulb 300 is shown but other embodiments of the present subject matter could be a permanently installed light fixture with a socket for a standard light bulb, or a light fixture with embedded LEDs or any other sort of light emitting apparatus. The light bulb 300 is AC powered but other embodiments could be battery powered or solar powered. The networked light bulb 300 of this embodiment has a base with a power contact 301 and a neutral contact 302, a middle housing 303 and an outer bulb 304. Each section 301, 302, 303, 304 can be made of a single piece of material or be assembled from multiple component pieces. In some embodiments, the power contact 301 and the neutral contact 302 are situated on an Edison screw fitting base as shown in FIG. 3 to allow the light bulb to be screwed into a standard light socket. The outer bulb 304 is at least partially transparent and may have ventilation openings in some embodiments, but the other sections 301, 302, 303 can be any color or transparency and be made from any suitable material. The middle housing 303 has an indentation 305 with a slot 306 and an aperture 307. A color wheel 221 is attached to the shaft of rotary switch 206 which is mounted on a networked controller circuit board 207. The networked controller circuit board 207 with the color wheel 221 is mounted horizontally so that the edge 202 of the color wheel protrudes through the slot 306 of the middle housing 303. This allows the user to apply a rotational force to the color wheel 221. As the color wheel 221 rotates, different sections of the colored area of the color wheel 221 are visible through an aperture 307. In FIG. 3, the current position of the color wheel 221 is such the color section with color 4 is visible through the aperture 307, indicating that the user has selected color 4 at this time. The color selection mechanism 428 may be designed to provide a detent at each section of the colored area to make it clear what color is currently selected.
In this embodiment, a LED driver circuit board 310 is mounted vertically in the base of the networked light bulb 300. A board-to-board connection 311 is provided to connect selected electrical signals between the two circuit boards 207, 310. A LED board 314 has a plurality of LEDs 313 mounted on it and is backed by a heat sink 315 to cool the plurality of LEDs 313. In some embodiments the LED board 314 with a plurality of LEDs 313 may be replaced by a single multi-die LED package or a single high output LED. In some embodiments the heat sink 315 may not be needed or could be a completely different configuration than what is shown. A cable 312 connects the networked controller circuit board 207 with the LED board 314. The cable 312 carries the power for the plurality of LEDs 313. In some embodiments it may be connect the LED driver circuit board 310 directly to the LED board 314 instead of passing the signals through the networked controller circuit board 207.
FIG. 3C shows a front view (with inner structure not shown) and 3D shows a side view (with selected inner structure shown in broken lines) of a non-networked light bulb 320 utilizing portions of the modular networked light bulb 300. The light bulb 320 is AC powered but other embodiments could be battery powered or solar powered. The networked light bulb 320 of this embodiment has a base with a power contact 301 and a neutral contact 302, a middle housing 303 and an outer bulb 304 in common with the networked light bulb 300. The indentation 305 with a slot 306 and an aperture 307 may still be in place even though they are not used by the non-networked light bulb 320. A plug or a sticker to cover the slot 306 and aperture 307 may be put in place to keep foreign material from entering the light bulb 320. In another embodiment, the non-networked light bulb 320 may utilize a different tool to make a different version of the middle housing, without any slot or aperture. The networked controller circuit board 207 and its associated components are not included in the non-networked light bulb 320.
In this embodiment, the LED driver circuit board 310 is mounted vertically in the base of the non-networked light bulb 320. In the same manner as it is mounted in the networked light bulb 300. The LED board 314 has a plurality of LEDs 313 mounted on it and is backed by a heat sink 315 to cool the plurality of LEDs 313. In some embodiments the LED board 314 with a plurality of LEDs 313 may be replaced by a single multi-die LED package or a single high output LED. In some embodiments the heat sink 315 may not be needed or could be a completely different configuration than what is shown. The LED driver circuit board 310 and the LED board 314 may be identical to those used in the networked light bulb 300. A cable 312 connects the LED driver circuit board 310 with the LED board 314. The cable 312 carries the power for the plurality of LEDs 313.
FIG. 3E shows a cross-section of a partially assembled network light bulb 350 to show how one embodiment includes a support structure to position and hold an electronics module, in this case the networked controller circuit board 207. The partial assembly may include an Edison screw fitting base 308 with the power contact 301, isolated from the neutral contact 302 by an insulator 353. The middle housing 303 is attached to Edison screw fitting base 308. In this embodiment, screw threads 354 on middle housing 303 and Edison screw fitting base 308 are used to attach the two pieces together. The LED driver circuit board 310 (shown without components mounted), is attached to the power contact 301 using a power wire 351 and to the neutral contact 302 using a neutral wire 352. The LED driver circuit board 310 may be held in place in different ways in different embodiments such as board guides, potting compound, or adhesive. It is assembled into the middle housing 303 so that the board-to-board connection 311 is in the proper place to allow the networked controller circuit board 207 to make contact with the board-to-board connection 311 when it is mounted in the subassembly. In this embodiment, the middle housing 303 has a ledge 355 having an inner diameter smaller than the networked controller circuit board 207 so that the networked controller circuit board 207 can sit on the ledge 355 and not slide further into the middle housing 303. The ledge 355 may have screw holes at locations that line up with notches in the networked controller circuit board 207 so that screws 356 may be used to hold the networked controller circuit board 207 in place. The networked controller circuit board 207 may have a plurality of components mounted on it including, but not limited to, the color wheel 221. The color wheel 221 in this embodiment slides into the slot and aperture in the indentation 305 of the middle housing 303.
FIG. 3F shows a top view 360 of the network controller circuit board 207 (with all components remove)d mounted into the middle housing 303. In this embodiment, the networked controller circuit board 207 is substantially round in shape and, from the top, the middle housing 303 is also round with the exception of the indentation 305 on one side which intrudes somewhat into the interior. The networked controller circuit board 207 sits on the ledge 355 in the middle housing 303 and is held in place in this embodiment with three screws 356 at attachment points, the screw holes in the ledge 355. Other embodiments may use other attachment means including, but not limited to clips, glue, snap-in detents or tabs.
FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the control electronics 400 used in the networked light bulb 300. While the following discussion directed primarily at the embodiment of a networked light bulb 300 the same principles and concepts can be applied by one skilled in the art to any other networked device. The block diagram is divided into three sections 410, 420, 430 corresponding to the three printed circuit boards of FIG. 3. Other embodiments may partition the system differently and have more or fewer printed circuit boards or circuit elements. The three sections are the LED Driver section 410 corresponding to the LED driver circuit board 310, the networked controller section 420 corresponding to the networked controller circuit board 207, and the LED section 430 corresponding to the LED board 314, The base with contacts 301, 302 provides AC power to the AC to DC rectifier 411 to power the LED driver 412. The LED driver may be an integrated circuit such as the NXP SSL2101 or similar parts from Texas Instruments or others. Several signals are shared in common between the LED driver section 410 and the networked controller section 420 through a board-to-board connection 311. The board-to-board connection 311 may be a pin and socket connector system, an edge finger connector system, soldered right angle pins, a cable, or any other method of connecting two boards. The shared signals comprise a ground connection, the LED power signal 441, a regulated power voltage 442, a control signal 443 and a serial communication signal 444. In some embodiments, the regulated power voltage 442 may be sufficient to power all the electronics in the networked controller section 420. In other embodiments, where more power is needed, a DC to DC converter may be included in the networked controller section 420 running off the LED power signal 441. The ground signal and the LED power signal 441 are then sent from the networked controller section 420 to the LED section 430 over cable 312. The LED section 430 may have a plurality of LEDs 313 powered by the LED power signal 441. The LED driver section 410 and LED section 430 could correspond to other sections that transform and consume electrical power or perform operations of a different embodiment of a networked device 300, such as the heating element of a networked coffee maker, under the control of the networked controller section 420.
The networked controller section 420 may have a wireless network adapter 422 that receives radio frequency signals through antenna 425 and is connected to controller 421 by a digital bus 423. In some embodiments, the wireless network adapter 422 may connect to a Z-wave, Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4) or Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) wireless network. Other embodiments may use a wired or power line network adapter instead of a wireless network adapter. In some embodiments, the controller 421 is implemented as a microcontroller and in some embodiments, the controller 421, wireless network adapter 422, and digital bus 423 may be integrated onto a single chip 424 such as the Zensys ZM3102. In some embodiments a timer or clock function is included in the networked controller 420. A user interface, such as a color selection mechanism 428, is also connected to the controller 421 providing rotational position information through an electrical connection 426. In other embodiments a user interface may be provided using other means such as a graphical user interface on a display or a keypad or buttons or any other device or combination of devices that allows the user to make a selection and provide information on the selection to the controller 421. A non-volatile memory 426 also may be included in the networked controller section 420. The non-volatile memory 426 can be a flash memory, an EPROM, a battery-backed up RAM, a hard drive, or any other sort of memory device that retains its contents through a power cycle. The non-volatile memory 426 can be implemented as a single integrated circuit, a set of integrated circuits, a block of memory cells integrated with another function such as the controller 421 or the wireless network adapter 422 or any other implementation. The non-volatile memory 426 is connected to the controller through a digital connection 427. The digital connection could be an I2C bus, an SPI bus, a parallel connection, an internal bus within an integrated circuit, or any other electrical connections means, using a standard or proprietary protocol.
In some embodiments, the controller 421 controls the brightness of the plurality of LEDs 313 by driving the control signal 443 back to the LED driver 412. In one embodiment the controller 421 may simply drive the control signal 443 low to turn the plurality of LEDs 313 on and drive the control signal 443 high to turn the plurality of LEDs 313 off. In other embodiments, the controller 421 may drive the control signal 443 with a pulse-width modulated signal to control the brightness of the plurality of LEDS 313. In some embodiments, the LED driver section 410 is designed to accept power that has been controlled by a standard thyristor-based light dimmer which varies the phase where the AC power is active. This can interact with the dimming control taking place over the network. To determine the current dimming level of the LEDs 313, the networked controller section 420 may, in some embodiments, include circuitry to monitor the LED power signal 441 to determine the amount of dimming taking place. In other embodiments, the controller 421 may communicate with the LED driver 412 over the serial communications signal 444 to query and perhaps override the current dimming level. The serial communication signal 444 may also be used to communicate the current operating condition of the networked light bulb 300, actual measured power used if the additional circuitry to measure power is included in the networked light bulb 300, color temperature control, device temperature information or any other status or control information that might need to be communicated between the controller 421 and the LED driver 412 in a particular embodiment. The serial communication signal 444 may be implemented with a unidirectional or a bidirectional communication protocol such as RS-232, I2C, USB, SPI or any other standard or proprietary protocol. In some embodiments, it may be a multi-pin communication link utilizing serial or parallel communication protocols.
FIG. 5 shows the mechanical drawings 500, 510 of printed circuit boards for a particular embodiment of the networked light bulb 300. Mechanical drawing 510 is for an embodiment of the LED driver circuit board 310 used for the LED driver section 410. The exact shape and dimensions may vary in different embodiments but the dimensions for one embodiment are given here. The width 511 is 26 mm. The overall height 514 is 47 mm with the distance 516 from the bottom to the notches at 19 mm and the distance 515 from the notches to the top at 28 mm. The width 512 at the bottom is 18 mm with a notch width 513 on both sides of 4 mm. The LED driver circuit board 310 has two connection points, TP28 517 and TP29 518 that are used to connect to the power contact 301 and neutral contact 302 of the base 301. At the opposite end of the LED driver circuit board 310 is the connection J24 519 for the board-to-board connection 311. In this embodiment, 5 contacts are provided and a right angle 2.54 mm spacing header is used. The LED driver circuit board 310 consistent with mechanical drawing 510 can be installed into a partially assembled light bulb with the base and middle housing 303. Some embodiments might include contacts for the cable 314 to the LED board 314 but in this embodiment, the cable 312 can be directly soldered to connection points 4 and 5 of J24 519 if no networked controller circuit board 207 will be used.
Mechanical drawing 500 is for an embodiment of the networked controller circuit board 207. It is substantially round in shape to fit best within the shape of a conventional light bulb. The exact dimensions may vary between embodiments, but for one embodiment the diameter 501 is 34 mm. The outline of the board 500 has three semicircular cutouts 502 located at 120 degree spacing around the board 500, each semi-circular cutout having a diameter of about 3.5 mm. One possible placement of key components is shown. Connections 503 to an external antenna and connections 505 for the cable 312 to the LED board 314 could move to different locations in different embodiments. Some embodiments may use printed circuit antenna directly on the networked controller circuit board 207 and may not need an external antenna connection 503. The location for the rotary switch 206 is determined by the exact dimensions of the color wheel 221 so that the edge 202 can properly protrude through the slot 306 and a section of the colored area can be seen through the aperture 307. Some embodiments may incorporate different user interface means and not need a rotary switch 206 at all but this embodiment locates it at the SW1 location 504. The location 509 for the J25 board-to-board connection 311 on the networked controller circuit board 207 is shown. Its exact location is determined by the board-to-board connection 311 means chosen for a particular embodiment to allow the common signals 441-442 make the connection between the LED driver circuit board 310 and the networked controller circuit board 207.
FIGS. 6A and 6B together constitute a schematic for one particular embodiment of a LED driver circuit board. FIG. 6A is split across two pages which are labeled FIG. 6A 1 and FIG. 6A 2 but should be viewed together as if they are attached at the dash-dot line. The first schematic section 600 and the second schematic section 601 have 6 connections in common. Two connections are explicitly shown with connectors A 602 and B 603. The other connections are implicitly shown using signal names VCC, GND, LED_CNTRL and PWM_Limt. The schematic 600, 601 uses industry standard symbols and component designations which are used in the following high level discussion of the schematic 600, 601. Low level details are not discussed so as to not obfuscate the overall functionality as they should be easily understood by one skilled in the art. AC power comes in at TP28 and TP29 and is then rectified using a full-wave rectifier D1. The rectified power is fed into U1, a switched mode power supply controller IC that operates in combination with a phase cut dimmer directly from rectified mains. It is designed to drive LED devices. The device includes a high-voltage power switch and a circuit to allow start-up directly from the rectified mains voltage. Furthermore the device includes high-voltage circuitry to supply the phase cut dimmer. The device used in this embodiment is an integrated circuit from NXP called the SSL2101. The data sheet of the NXP SSL2101, revision 04, released Aug. 28, 2009 © NXP B.V. 2009, is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Application note AN10754, revision 03, released Oct. 16, 2009 © NXP B.V 2009 gives application information on the use of the NXP SSL2101 and is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. U1 utilizes a flyback circuit with T3 as the flyback transformer to isolate the LED drive signals LED+ and LED− from the AC mains. U1 uses its Drain pin to control the flyback circuit and thereby the brightness of the LEDs 313. U1 directly generates a VCC voltage at pin 3. The VCC voltage can vary depending on the current brightness level of the LED drive signals but will be less than 40V. The SSL 2101 has two control inputs: a BRIGHTNESS input that controls the output frequency and a PWMLIMIT pin the controls the on-time of the switch. The BRIGHTNESS input is driven from LED_CTRL which is the control signal 443 from the networked controller board 207. If LED_CTRL is high, transistor Q5 is turned on the BRIGHTNESS input is pulled to ground putting the output frequency down to fmin. Q5 also pulls PWMLIMIT low through a 10 kΩ resistor. Those two conditions drive the LED drive to its minimum level effectively turning the LEDs 313 off. The additional circuitry on the second page of the schematics 601 monitors the duty cycle of the LED drive signal and drives and optically isolated PWM_Limt signal back into the PWMLIMIT pin of the SSL2101. This allows the SSL2101 to dim the LEDs in response to a thyrister based dimmer on the incoming AC line. The board-to-board connection 311 is accomplished by soldering a right angle header into connector J24 with the VCC, Ground, LED_CTRL, LED+ and LED− signals to connect to the networked controller board 310 in this embodiment.
FIG. 7 shows a schematic for the LED board 314. In this embodiment, the LED board 314 has five high power white LEDs connected in series between the LED+ and LED− signals.
FIG. 8A-B and FIG. 8C-D show two different embodiments of a networked controller board 207. FIG. 8A-B shows an embodiment of a Z-wave networked controller board 207 and FIG. 8C-D shows an embodiment of a Zigbee networked controller board 207. Both boards have a debugging port J23 for use during development and test that has signals specific to each embodiment. Both boards also have a BCD encoded rotary switch SW1 for user entered configuration information. Each of the four outputs is a switch that is either open circuit or is connected to the common pins. In this embodiment, the common pins are tied to 3.3V and each output has a separate resistor to ground. The four outputs are named DIP_NO1, DIP_NO2, DIP_NO4 and DIP_NO8. Both boards also have the same connection to the shared signals 441-444 through connector J25. Since the VCC signal from the shared pins can vary widely, both boards have a DC-DC converter U3 that uses a resistor R36 with the value of 332 kΩ to cause the U3 to generate a 3.3V regulated DC signal. The Zigbee board 801 also requires 1.8V so a second DV-DC converter U4 is included in this design using a resistor R38 with the value of 182 kΩ to create a 1.8V regulated DC signal.
The Z-wave design 800 uses a Zensys ZM3102N module U2 based on the Zensys ZW0301 integrated circuit. The data sheet for the ZW0301 Z-Wave™ Single Chip Low Power Z-Wave™ Transceiver with Microcontroller, Revision 1 and the ZM3102N Datasheet, Integrated Z-Wave RF Module, Oct. 1, 2007, are both herein incorporated by reference in their entirety. It gets 3.3V power and uses an RC network using R20 and C25 to generate a reset signal. The four signals from the BCD rotary switch are routed to GPIO pins P1.7, P1.5, P1.1 and P0.0 to allow the microcontroller inside U2, functioning as the controller 421, to read their state. P1.6/PWM is routed to ZM_LED_ON_OFF to allow for control the brightness of the LED by the controller 421. Instructions written for the microcontroller in U2 allow it to implement the Z-wave network protocol as well as any other functionality required for the specific embodiment of the networked light bulb 300.
The Zigbee design 801 uses a SN250 from STMicroelectronics U2. The data sheet for the SN250 Single-chip ZigBee® 802.15.4 solution, revision 3, © 2007 STMicroelectronics Oct. 12, 2007 is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. It gets both 1.8V and 3.3V power and uses an RC network using R4 and C9 to generate a reset signal. The four signals from the BCD rotary switch are routed to GPIO pins GPIO12, GPIO11, GPIO10, and GPIO9 to allow the microcontroller inside U2, functioning as the controller 421, to read their state. GPIO0 is routed to ZM_LED_ON_OFF to allow for control the brightness of the LED by the controller 421. Instructions written for the microcontroller in U2 allow it to implement the Zigbee network protocol as well as any other functionality required for the specific embodiment of the networked light bulb 300.
FIG. 9 shows a flow chart for a manufacturing process to build two different versions of the networked light bulb. At the start 901 of the manufacturing process, all the various parts required to build the networked light bulb 300 are gathered and staged for manufacturing. A subassembly is created by partially assembling 902 some of the components. In one embodiment, the subassembly comprises the base with contacts 301 and 302, the middle housing 303 and the LED driver circuit board 310 with the contacts TP28 and TP29 electrically connected to the contact 301 and 302 respectively. This leaves the contacts 519 for J24, the board-to-board interconnect 311 at the end of the subassembly away from the base of the networked light bulb 300. A decision 903 then has to be made as to what kind of light bulb will be built. In this example, the light bulb could be built with a Z-wave networked controller 800, a Zigbee networked controller 801 or no networked controller to build a non-networked light bulb 320. In some cases, multiple different versions of a networked controller circuit board for the same network protocol may be available for selection to allow for second sourcing of that component. If a networked controller is chosen 904, 905, it is then mounted 906 in the top of the partially assembled light bulb. The semi-circular cutouts 502 fitting around positioning pins in the middle housing 303. The contacts 509 are then connected to the contacts 519 on the LED driver circuit board 310 fitting right angle header into holes in contacts 509 and soldering the two board together. Other board-to-board connection means, such as a pin and socket connector, may be used for other embodiments. Once the networked controller circuit board 207 has been mounted, or if a non-networked light bulb is being built, with no networked controller circuit board, the assembly 907 of the light bulb is completed. This can included soldering cable 312 to the networked controller circuit board 207 and the LED board 314 and installing the heat sink 315 and the pieces of the outer bulb 304. Once assembly is completed, in some manufacturing processes, the light bulb is tested. This might include tests targeted at the specific networking controller circuit board 207 selected. The bulb is then marked 908 to indicate the type of bulb, including the protocol supported by the networking controller circuit board 207 that has been mounted in the networked light bulb 300 or the fact that it is a non-networked light bulb 310. The marking may take the form of a specific part number encoded with information about the networking protocol selected or it may label the bulb with the networking protocol in words from a human readable language such as English. It may use trademarked terms for the network such as Zigbee® or may use a technical specification designation such as IEEE 802.15.4. Once the manufacturing process has been completed 909, the light bulb may be shipped to a customer, held in inventory, or incorporated into a larger assembly before shipping.
FIG. 10 shows a part of an embodiment of a networked light bulb 1000. The power connection is not shown for clarity. The networked controller 420, in this embodiment uses the shared serial communication link 444 to communicate with the LED driver 1010 which then powers a plurality of LEDs 1011-1015.
Here, LED's having different spectral maxima are combined in a single hybrid light to increase the Color Rendering Index. In various embodiments, multiple LED chips are used and LED wafers are mixed in a single package. In an embodiment, all wafers are equivalent to a typical 2700K incandescent light bulb with a Color Rendering Index of about 85%.
In some embodiments, the LED Driver 1010 provides for separately driven LED's (as shown) in order to vary the proportions of light originating from the LED's. And, in some embodiments, varying the warm 1011 and cold 1012 color temperature LED's using independent pulse width modulation power supplies enables a user to control color temperature. Similar use of separate PWM power supplies for red 1013, green 1014 and blue 1015 LED's enable a user to vary color hues.
In an embodiment, five different LED's contribute to the light output of the hybrid light such that 60% of the of the light is emitted by a 2500K (Warm White) equivalent wafer plus phosphor LED1011, 30% of the light is emitted by a 3500K (Cold White) equivalent wafer plus phosphor LED 1012, 3.3% of the light is emitted by a red (630 nm) LED 1013, 3.3% of the light is emitted by a green (520 nm) LED 1014 and 3.3% of the light is emitted by a blue (470 nm) LED 1015. Here, the Color Rendering Index is in a range of about 75 to 85 percent. As will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art, the above color temperatures, wavelengths, and mixing percentages can be varied in concert to achieve similarly high rendering indexes.
Some embodiments of the networked light bulb 1000 include a fluorescent lamp 1051 such as a compact fluorescent lamp. Here, a fluorescent lamp power block 1050 is interconnected 1001 with networked controller 420 and on command, adds its light to that of the LED's. The result of mixing the fluorescent and LED light is an improved Color Rendering Index approaching 100.
In operation, the networked light bulb 111-117, 300, 1000 can operate as a simple replacement for an incandescent bulb or it can be set to operate as a member of a network such as a home automation network. Where the networked light bulb 111-117, 300, 000 is operating in a network, its networked controller 420 provides for exchanging information with the network 130. Commands received from the network enable one or more of the networked light bulb's 111-117, 300, 1000 light sources 313, 1011-1015, 1051 to be operated at one or more levels of light output to enable control of light intensity, color rendering index and color hue among other things. Information available to the hybrid light may include energy consumption, estimated lifetime, color wheel identification and data inherent to the device that it may make available to other devices on the network. In an embodiment, another connected device such as a gateway device 124 relays a request from a personal computer 140 to the networked light bulb 111-117, 300, 1000 for energy consumption data. In some embodiments, the hybrid light transmits predetermined data items to another connected device such as a personal computer 140 on a regular basis.
FIG. 14 shows a ventilation scheme for a light bulb 1100. Light bulbs utilizing LEDs have to keep the LED die cool to maximize lifetime and stabilize their light output. The heat sing 315 is one part of a cooling solution but in order for the heat sink 315 to work, a flow of air must be provided to carry heat away from the heat sink 315 by convection. One embodiment of the light bulb 1100 has a base with contacts 301, 302, a middle housing 303 and an outer bulb 304. The outer bulb 304 of this embodiment is made up of two parts, the lower section 1101 and the upper section 1102. The lower section 1101 may be made of a transparent, partially transparent, or an opaque material and has ventilation holes 1111 around its outer surface to allow air to flow through. The upper section 1102 is made of a transparent or partially transparent material and it also has ventilation holes 1112 around its outer surface to allow are to flow through. The area 1103 of the upper section most distant from the base is kept free from ventilation holes 1102. This is done because most of the light is transmitted through this area of the outer bulb 304 and ventilation holes 1112 could cause shadows or other uneven lighting. The ventilation holes 1111, 1112 allow air to flow through the outer bulb 304, over the heat sink 315, allow convection to cool the LEDs.
If the light bulb is designed in the modular fashion discussed above, different versions of the light bulb can be assembled from a common set of parts. Such versions may include (a) a non-networked light bulb, (b) a networked light bulb with a first design of a first networked controller circuit board 207 containing a networked control section 420 supporting a first networking protocol, (c) a networked light bulb with a second, unique, design of a first networked controller circuit board 207 containing a networked control section 420 supporting the first networking protocol, (d) a networked light bulb with a first networked controller circuit board 207 containing a networked control section 420 supporting a second networking protocol, (e) a light bulb (networked or non-networked) with a different LED board 314 containing a different set of LEDs 313 that may be made up with a different selection of warm white 1011, cold white 1012, red 1013, green 1014 and blue 1015 LEDs, (f) a light bulb (networked or non-networked) with a different LED driver section 1010 and different LED board 314 containing a different selection of warm white 1011, cold white 1012, red 1013, green 1014 and blue 1015 LEDs, or many other versions utilizing common components.
Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of elements, optical characteristic properties, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the preceding specification and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by those skilled in the art utilizing the teachings of the present invention. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviations found in their respective testing measurements.
The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers subsumed within that range (e.g. 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5).
As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to an element described as “an LED” may refer to a single LED, two LEDs or any other number of LEDs. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
As used herein, the term “coupled” includes direct and indirect connections. Moreover, where first and second devices are coupled, intervening devices including active devices may be located there between.
Any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “means for” performing a specified function, or “step for” performing a specified function, is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step” clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. §112, ¶ 6. In particular the use of “step of” in the claims is not intended to invoke the provision of 35 U.S.C. §112, ¶ 6.
The description of the various embodiments provided above is illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses. Thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the embodiments of the present invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the intended scope of the present invention.
What is claimed is:
1. A modular light emitting apparatus comprising:
a light emitting device; a connector to couple to an AC power source; circuitry, on a first electronics module coupled between the connector and the light emitting device, to drive the light emitting device; and a support structure arranged to hold a second electronics module that conforms to a predetermined form factor.
2. The modular light emitting apparatus of claim 1, wherein said circuitry comprises an AC to DC converter; and
the light emitting device comprises at least one LED.
3. The modular light emitting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the light emitting device comprises a compact fluorescent lamp.
4. The modular light emitting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the modular light emitting apparatus has a size and shape that substantially the same as a typical incandescent light bulb and the connector comprises an Edison screw fitting base.
5. The modular light emitting apparatus of claim 1, wherein no second electronics module is included, and the modular light emitting apparatus is marked to indicate that no network connectivity is supported.
6. The modular light emitting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
the second electronics module comprising a networked controller, the second electronics module held by the support structure; wherein the networked controller is configured to communicate over a network and to control an aspect of operation of said circuitry; and the modular light emitting apparatus is marked to indicate a network protocol for the network.
7. The modular light emitting apparatus of claim 6, wherein the networked controller is configured to support a network protocol utilizing radio frequency communication.
8. The modular light emitting apparatus of claim 6, wherein the aspect of operation of said circuitry controlled by the networked controller is a brightness level of the light emitting device.
9. A lighting kit comprising at least a first light emitting apparatus and a second light emitting apparatus, the first and the second light emitting apparatus each respectively comprising:
a light emitting device; a connector to couple to an AC power source; circuitry, on a first electronics module coupled between the connector and the light emitting device, to drive the light emitting device; and a support structure arranged to hold a second electronics module that conforms to a predetermined form factor.
10. The lighting kit of claim 9, wherein said circuitry of the first light emitting apparatus comprises an AC to DC converter; and
the light emitting device of the first light emitting apparatus comprises at least one LED.
11. The lighting kit of claim 9, wherein the light emitting device of the first light emitting apparatus comprises a compact fluorescent lamp.
12. The lighting kit of claim 9, wherein the first light emitting apparatus does not include the second electronics module conforming with the predetermined form factor and is externally marked to identify that no network connectivity is supported.
13. The lighting kit of claim 9, wherein the first light emitting apparatus includes the second electronics module, the second electronics module comprising a networked controller;
wherein the networked controller is configured to communicate over a network and to control an aspect of operation of said circuitry of the first light emitting apparatus; and the first light emitting apparatus is marked to indicate a network protocol for the network.
14. The lighting kit of claim 13, wherein the wherein the networked controller is configured to support a network protocol utilizing radio frequency communication.
15. The lighting kit of claim 13, further comprising a network controller.
16. The lighting kit of claim 13, further comprising a remote control device configured to send a message to the networked controller of the first light emitting apparatus;
wherein the networked controller of the first light emitting apparatus is configured to control the aspect of the operation of said circuitry of the first light emitting apparatus in response to receipt of the message.
17. The lighting kit of claim 16, wherein the aspect of the operation of said circuitry of the first light emitting apparatus controlled by the network controller is an on-off state of the light emitting device of the first light emitting apparatus.
18. The lighting kit of claim 16, wherein the aspect of the operation of said circuitry of the first light emitting apparatus controlled by the network controller is a brightness of the light emitting device of the first light emitting apparatus.
19. The lighting kit of claim 13, wherein the networked controller of the first light emitting apparatus is configured to send a message to the second light emitting apparatus to control an aspect of operation of the second light emitting apparatus.
20. The lighting kit of claim 19, wherein the message sent by the networked controller of the first light emitting apparatus includes information related to a current state of the light emitting device of the first light emitting apparatus; and
the second light emitting apparatus is configured to use the information to control a state of the light emitting device of the second light emitting apparatus to be similar to the current state of the light emitting device of the first light emitting apparatus; wherein the state of the light emitting device of the second light emitting apparatus is the aspect of the operation of the second light emitting apparatus.
| 2013-02-26 | en | 2013-06-27 |
US-202017789525-A | Control apparatus, control method, and computer-readable storage medium storing a control program
ABSTRACT
A control apparatus causes a robot device to move a suction head to a predetermined position at which a workpiece is fed and attempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head at the predetermined position. Upon determining that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, the control apparatus causes the robot device to rotationally move the suction head spirally in a horizontal direction while causing the suction head to perform a suction operation for the workpiece, and estimates a direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined direction based on a change in compressed air pressure during the rotational movement of the suction head.
FIELD
The present invention relates to a control apparatus, a control method, and a control program.
BACKGROUND
Production lines and other product manufacturing processes may use robot devices that pick up a workpiece with a suction head and transfer the workpiece to an indented position. For such robot devices, an application is designed to allow a suction head to pick up a workpiece placed at a position slightly deviating from the position at which the workpiece is to be fed. However, any workpiece placed at a feeding position deviating beyond the allowable range cannot be picked up with the suction head. In this case, the robot device cannot hold the workpiece nor transfer the workpiece to an intended position.
Patent Literature 1 describes one method responding to this issue. More specifically, Patent Literature 1 describes a component transfer device including a suction head that picks up and holds a component with compressed air, a moving unit that moves the suction head, and an air pressure sensor that detects the pressure of the compressed air. The component transfer device moves the suction head to the position at which a component is fed, and then determines whether the suction head has picked up the component based on whether the output signal from the air pressure sensor has risen. Upon determining that the suction head has yet to pick up the component, the component transfer device reciprocates the suction head in two orthogonal horizontal directions (X-direction and Y-direction) from the feeding position to attempt to pick up the component with the suction head. This method allows the component transfer device to pick up and hold any component deviating from the feeding position in either of the two intersecting horizontal directions.
CITATION LIST
Patent Literature
Patent Literature 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2011-218484
SUMMARY
Technical Problem
The inventors have noticed issues described below associated with the known method described in, for example, Patent Literature 1. A workpiece may deviate from the feeding position in a direction other than the two intersecting horizontal directions. Any workpiece deviating in directions other than the two directions may not allow identification of the position at which the workpiece can be picked up. Once identifying a position at which the workpiece can be picked up, the known method stops searching for another position at which the workpiece can be picked up. The identified position is merely a local solution of a position for picking up the workpiece. The suction head may not stably pick up the workpiece at this position. For a relatively small suction head, in particular, any positional deviation of the workpiece can greatly affect the relative positional relationship between the suction head and the workpiece. Thus, these issues often result from any positional deviation.
Further, the known method uses a total of four search points in two horizontal intersecting directions from the feeding position to search for a position for picking up the workpiece. The suction head is first moved to one search point to determine whether the workpiece can be picked up at the search point. When the workpiece cannot be picked up, the suction head is returned to the feeding position and then moved to another search point. The suction head moves via the feeding position for every movement to another search point, taking more time and effort in the search for the position for picking up the workpiece.
Thus, the known method may not allow easy and appropriate estimation of the position at which the suction head can stably pick up any workpiece deviating from a predetermined position.
One or more aspects of the present invention are directed to a technique for easily and appropriately estimating the position at which the suction head can stably pick up a workpiece deviating from a predetermined position.
Solution to Problem
In response to the above issue, the technique according to one or more aspects of the present invention has the structures described below.
A control apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention is an apparatus for controlling a motion of a robot device. The robot device includes a suction head to pick up a workpiece using compressed air and a pressure sensor to detect pressure of the compressed air. The control apparatus includes a movement controller that causes the robot device to move the suction head to a predetermined position at which the workpiece is fed, a suction controller that causes the robot device to attempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head at the predetermined position, a determiner that determines whether the suction head has picked up the workpiece in the attempt based on a detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor, a searcher that causes, in response to determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, the robot device to rotationally move the suction head spirally in a horizontal direction while causing the suction head to perform a suction operation for the workpiece using the compressed air, and an estimator that estimates a direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position based on a change in the pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the rotational movement of the suction head. In response to the determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, the movement controller causes the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction. After the suction head is further moved in the estimated direction, the suction controller causes the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head.
The control apparatus with the structure causes the robot device to move the suction head to the predetermined position at which the workpiece is fed and attempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head at the predetermined position. In response to the suction head failing to pick up the workpiece in the attempt, the control apparatus with the structure causes the robot device to rotationally move the suction head spirally in the horizontal direction while causing the suction head to perform a suction operation for the workpiece to search for the true position of the workpiece. The rotational movement may be started from the predetermined position or from a position shifted from the predetermined position in any direction by any distance. The control apparatus with the structure then estimates the direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position based on a change in the compressed air pressure detected during the rotational movement of the suction head. The control apparatus with the structure then causes the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction and reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head at the position resulting from the movement. The distance by which the suction head is moved may be constant or determined based on the detection value of the pressure.
When the suction head picks up the workpiece, the compressed air pressure reaches the maximum. Thus, during the search, the suction head nearer the workpiece causes higher compressed air pressure, and the suction head farther from the workpiece causes lower compressed air pressure. The above estimation process thus allows appropriate estimation of the position of the workpiece. The suction head also turns once or more than once. The spiral rotational movement of the suction head thus allows searching for the workpiece in all directions of 360 degrees from the predetermined position. In other words, the control apparatus with the structure reduces (or possibly eliminates) the likelihood of any direction being unsearched for the workpiece unlike the method to perform searching in the two directions described above. The search for the workpiece is performed by controlling the relatively simple motion of the spiral rotational movement of the suction head. The control apparatus with the structure thus allows appropriate and easy estimation of the position at which the suction head can stably pick up any workpiece deviating from the predetermined position.
The spiral rotational movement reduces inefficient motions for the workpiece search, such as returning to a fixed position to search in a different direction. This allows relatively rapid identification of the position at which the workpiece can be picked up. The estimation result is used to move the suction head before the suction head reattempts to pick up the workpiece. This allows the suction head to stably hold the workpiece and the robot device to appropriately perform an intended task (process). This increases the productivity of the robot device.
The workpiece may be of any type that can be held by sucking and may be selected as appropriate in each embodiment. More specifically, the workpiece may be, for example, a screw or a washer. The robot device may be of any type that includes the suction head and the pressure sensor and may be selected as appropriate in each embodiment. More specifically, the robot device may be an industrial robot, such as a vertically articulated robot, a selective compliance assembly robot arm (SCARA) robot, a parallel link robot, a Cartesian coordinate robot, or a cooperative robot.
The suction head may be of any type that can pick up the workpiece with compressed air and may be selected as appropriate in each embodiment. The suction head may be, for example, elliptical, circular, or a multi-bellows head. The suction head may include a Coanda gripper. The suction head may be referred to as, for example, a suction pad or a vacuum pad. The pressure sensor may be of any type that can detect compressed air pressure and may be selected as appropriate in each embodiment. For example, the pressure sensor may include a known digital pressure sensor.
The spiral is a curve extending from the start position (central axis) of the search along an arc while increasing the diameter, or in other words, a curve extending away from the center (start position) as the curve turns. The start point may be at the predetermined position or at a position shifted from the predetermined position by any distance in any direction. Rotationally moving the suction head spirally in the horizontal direction includes moving the suction head to describe a trajectory along a spiral on a horizontal plane as viewed in the vertical direction. During this rotational movement, the suction head may be maintained at a constant height, or moved vertically upward and downward, or more specifically, moved between various heights.
In the control apparatus according to the above aspect, the estimator may further estimate a distance between the predetermined position and a position of the workpiece based on a change in the pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the rotational movement of the suction head. In response to the determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, the movement controller may cause the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction by the estimated distance. After the suction head is further moved in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, the suction controller may cause the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head. This structure allows more appropriate estimation of the position at which the suction head can stably pick up any workpiece deviating from the predetermined position.
In the control apparatus according to the above aspect, estimating the direction in which the workpiece is located may include dividing a trajectory of the rotational movement into a plurality of sections about an axis of the rotational movement, identifying, of the plurality of sections, a section with a highest pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor, and using a direction in which the identified section is located with respect to the predetermined position as the direction in which the workpiece is located. This structure allows easier estimation of the position at which the suction head can stably pick up any workpiece deviating from the predetermined position.
In the control apparatus according to the above aspect, identifying the section with the highest pressure of the compressed air may include identifying a section including a detection point with a highest pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor or include calculating an average of pressure values of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor for each of the plurality of sections and identifying, of the plurality of sections, a section with a greatest calculated average of the pressure. Each of the structures allows appropriate estimation of the position at which the suction head can stably pick up any workpiece deviating from the predetermined position.
In the control apparatus according to the above aspect, the spiral rotational movement may include a plurality of turns each with a different diameter. The estimator may further estimate a distance between the predetermined position and a position of the workpiece based on comparison between pressure values of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor in different turns of the plurality of turns in the identified section. In response to the determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, the movement controller may cause the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction by the estimated distance. After the suction head is further moved in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, the suction controller may cause the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head. This structure allows more appropriate estimation of the position at which the suction head can stably pick up any workpiece deviating from the predetermined position.
In the control apparatus according to the above aspect, comparison between the pressure values of the compressed air detected in the different turns may include identifying, of the plurality of turns, a turn with a highest pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor in the identified section. The estimator may estimate the distance between the predetermined position and the position of the workpiece based on the diameter of the identified turn. This structure allows more appropriate estimation of the position at which the suction head can stably pick up any workpiece deviating from the predetermined position.
In the control apparatus according to the above aspect, estimating the direction in which the workpiece is located may include identifying a detection point with a highest pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor, and using a direction in which the identified detection point is located with respect to the predetermined position as the direction in which the workpiece is located. This structure allows appropriate and easy estimation of the position at which the suction head can stably pick up any workpiece deviating from the predetermined position.
In the control apparatus according to the above aspect, the spiral rotational movement may include a plurality of turns each with a different diameter. The estimator may further estimate a distance between the predetermined position and a position of the workpiece based on a distance between the predetermined position and the identified detection point. In response to the determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, the movement controller may cause the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction by the estimated distance. After the suction head is further moved in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, the suction controller may cause the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head. A spiral including one turn may include any point with further higher pressure. Thus, the detection point with the maximum pressure in the search may not be the optimal position for picking up the workpiece. The structure including the multiple turns with different diameters can reduce the likelihood of any detection point with higher pressure left unsearched. This allows more appropriate estimation of the position at which the suction head can stably pick up any workpiece deviating from the predetermined position. In this case, the distance between the predetermined position and the detection point may be directly used as the estimated distance.
The control apparatus according to the above aspect may further include a calibrator that calibrates the detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor. The searcher may cause the robot device to further displace the suction head vertically while causing the suction head to rotationally move spirally in the horizontal direction Calibrating the detection result may include eliminating a difference between variations in pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the vertical displacement of the suction head and variations in pressure of the compressed air expected based on the vertical displacement of the suction head. The estimator may use a calibrated result to estimate the direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position.
The detection result (detection value) of the pressure detected by the pressure sensor may be delayed on a time axis from the point of search with the suction head. Without such a difference on the time axis between the point at which the pressure detection result is obtained and the search point, the suction head moved in the vertical direction is expected to cause the greatest pressure detection value (local maximum) at its lowest point and cause the least pressure detection value (local minimum) at its highest point. When the pressure detection result is delayed from the search point, the pressure detection value reaches the local maximum at a time delayed from the time point at which the suction head reaches the lowest point. Similarly, the pressure detection value reaches the local minimum at a time delayed from the time point at which the suction head reaches the highest point. The structure including the calibration process can eliminate the difference. The structure thus allows more appropriate estimation of the position at which the suction head can stably pick up any workpiece deviating from the predetermined position.
In the control apparatus according to the above aspect, the workpiece may include a screw. The robot device may further include a screwdriver to rotate the screw sucked to the suction head about an axis of the screw. The structure increases the productivity of the robot device that performs the process of turning screws.
Another implementation of the control apparatus according to the above aspects may be an information processing method, a program, or a storage medium storing the program readable by, for example, a computer for implementing the components described above. The computer-readable storage medium herein includes a medium storing a program or other information in an electrical, magnetic, optical, mechanical, or chemical manner. A robotic system in one aspect of the present invention may include the control apparatus and the robot device according to any of the above aspects.
For example, a control method according to one aspect of the present invention is an information processing method for a motion of a robot device. The robot device includes a suction head to pick up a workpiece using compressed air and a pressure sensor to detect pressure of the compressed air. The method is implementable by a computer. The method includes causing the robot device to move the suction head to a predetermined position at which the workpiece is fed, causing the robot device to attempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head at the predetermined position, determining whether the suction head has picked up the workpiece in the attempt based on a detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor, in response to determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, causing the robot device to rotationally move the suction head spirally in a horizontal direction while causing the suction head to perform a suction operation for the workpiece using the compressed air, estimating a direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position based on a change in the pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the rotational movement of the suction head, causing the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction, and causing, after further moving the suction head in the estimated direction, the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head.
For example, a control program according to one aspect of the present invention is a program for controlling a motion of a robot device. The robot device includes a suction head to pick up a workpiece using compressed air and a pressure sensor to detect pressure of the compressed air. The control program causes a computer to perform operations including causing the robot device to move the suction head to a predetermined position at which the workpiece is fed, causing the robot device to attempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head at the predetermined position, determining whether the suction head has picked up the workpiece in the attempt based on a detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor, in response to determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, causing the robot device to rotationally move the suction head spirally in a horizontal direction while causing the suction head to perform a suction operation for the workpiece using the compressed air, estimating a direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position based on a change in the pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the rotational movement of the suction head, causing the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction, and causing, after further moving the suction head in the estimated direction, the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head.
Advantageous Effects
The structures according to the above aspects of the present invention allow appropriate and easy estimation of the position at which the suction head can stably pick up any workpiece deviating from the predetermined position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a structure according to an embodiment of the present invention used in one example situation.
FIG. 2 is diagram describing an example relationship between the trajectory of a suction head and the pressure of compressed air during a search.
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a control apparatus according to an embodiment showing its example hardware configuration.
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an example robot device in the embodiment.
FIG. 5A is a diagram of an example motion of the robot device in the embodiment.
FIG. 5B is a diagram of an example motion of the robot device in the embodiment.
FIG. 5C is a diagram of an example motion of the robot device in the embodiment.
FIG. 5D is a diagram of an example motion of the robot device in the embodiment.
FIG. 5E is a diagram of an example motion of the robot device in the embodiment.
FIG. 5F is a diagram of an example motion of the robot device in the embodiment.
FIG. 5G is a diagram of an example motion of the robot device in the embodiment.
FIG. 5H is a diagram of an example motion of the robot device in the embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the control apparatus according to the embodiment showing its example software configuration.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a procedure performed by the control apparatus according to the embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a set of graphs schematically showing an example relationship between the variations in compressed air pressure detected by a pressure sensor during vertical displacement of the suction head at a position and the variations in compressed air pressure expected based on the vertical displacement of the suction head.
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of an example relationship between the trajectory of the suction head and each section.
FIG. 10 is a graph schematically showing example detected pressure (detection values).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
An embodiment of the present invention (hereafter, the present embodiment) will now be described with reference to the drawings. The present embodiment described below is a mere example of the present invention in all aspects. The embodiment may be variously modified or altered without departing from the scope of the present invention. More specifically, the present invention may be implemented as appropriate using the configuration specific to each embodiment. Although data used in the present embodiment is described in a natural language, such data may be specifically defined using any computer-readable language, such as a pseudo language, commands, parameters, or a machine language.
1. Example Use
One example use of a structure according to one embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to FIG. 1 . FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a robotic system in the present embodiment used in one example situation. As shown in FIG. 1 , the robotic system in the present embodiment includes a control apparatus 1 and a robot device 2.
The robot device 2 in the present embodiment grips a workpiece W by suction and transports the gripping workpiece W to an intended position. More specifically, the robot device 2 in the present embodiment includes a suction head 30, a compressor 31, and a pressure sensor 32.
The suction head 30 uses compressed air to pick up the workpiece W. The suction head 30 may be of any type that can pick up the workpiece W with compressed air and may be selected as appropriate in each embodiment. The suction head 30 may be, for example, elliptical, circular, or a multi-bellows head. The suction head 30 may include a Coanda gripper. The suction head 30 may be referred to as, for example, a suction head or a vacuum pad.
The compressor 31 supplies compressed air to the suction head 30. Compressed air may be supplied to the suction head 30 in other manners. Instead of the compressor 31, a vacuum pump may be used, for example. The structure for sucking including the compressor 31 may include, for example, known vacuum generators and vacuum regulators.
The pressure sensor 32 detects the pressure of compressed air. The pressure sensor 32 provides detection values of compressed air pressure. The pressure sensor 32 may be of any type that can detect compressed air pressure and may be selected as appropriate in each embodiment. For example, the pressure sensor 32 may include a known digital pressure sensor.
In the example in FIG. 1 , the pressure sensor 32 is installed on the path connecting the compressor 31 to the suction head 30. However, the pressure sensor 32 may be installed at any other positions at which the pressure of the compressed air acting on the suction head 30 can be detected. The position may be determined as appropriate in each embodiment.
The control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment includes a computer that controls the motion of the robot device 2. More specifically, the control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment causes the robot device 2 to move the suction head 30 to a predetermined position at which the workpiece W is fed and attempt to pick up the workpiece W with the suction head 30 at the predetermined position. The control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment determines, based on the detection result of the compressed air pressure from the pressure sensor 32, whether the suction head 30 has picked up the workpiece W in the attempt.
A workpiece W positioned accurately at the predetermined position can be picked up with the suction head 30. Upon determining that the suction head 30 has picked up the workpiece W based on the pressure detection result, the control apparatus 1 causes the robot device 2 to perform the motion in the next process, such as transporting the workpiece W held by the suction head 30 to an intended position. The motion in the next process may be any motion determined as appropriate in each embodiment.
A workpiece W greatly deviating from the predetermined position cannot be picked up with the suction head 30. Upon determining that the suction head 30 has yet to pick up the workpiece W based on the pressure detection result, the control apparatus 1 causes the robot device 2 to rotationally move the suction head 30 spirally in the horizontal direction while causing the suction head 30 to perform a suction operation for the workpiece W using compressed air. The control apparatus 1 thus searches for the true position of the workpiece W while causing the suction head 30 to rotationally move along a spiral trajectory T. The control apparatus 1 with the structure estimates the direction in which the workpiece W is located with respect to the predetermined position based on a change in the compressed air pressure detected during the rotational movement of the suction head 30. Upon determining that the suction head 30 has yet to pick up the workpiece W, the control apparatus 1 causes the robot device 2 to further move the suction head 30 in the estimated direction. After moving the suction head 30 further in the estimated direction, the control apparatus 1 causes the robot device 2 to reattempt to pick up the workpiece W with the suction head 30.
With reference to FIG. 2 , the relationship between the change in the detection values of compressed air pressure and the direction in which the workpiece W is estimated to be located is described. FIG. 2 schematically describes an example relationship between the trajectory T of the suction head 30 and the detection values of the compressed air pressure during the search with the rotational movement. For ease of explanation, the right of the page is referred to as right, the left as left, the back as front, and the front as rear in the example described below.
In the example in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the suction head 30 approaches the workpiece W from above and picks up the workpiece W on the upper surface of the workpiece W. In the example, the upper surface of the workpiece W is circular. The suction head 30 can pick up the workpiece W more stably nearer the center. In the example, the workpiece W is at a position deviating leftward to the rear from the predetermined position (the position of the suction head 30). Thus, the suction head 30 cannot pick up the workpiece W in the pickup attempt at the predetermined position.
The control apparatus 1 causes the robot device 2 to rotationally move the suction head 30 spirally in the horizontal direction. The spiral is a curve extending from the start point for the search as a central axis along an arc while increasing the diameter from the start point, or in other words, a curve extending away from the center as the curve turns. The control apparatus 1 causes the robot device 2 to rotationally move the suction head 30 along the spiral trajectory T. The rotational movement may include any number of turns, which may be determined as appropriate in each embodiment.
In the example in FIG. 2 , the rotational movement includes two turns. In other words, the spiral rotational movement includes two turns each with a different system. In this example, the trajectory T resulting from the two turns can be divided into four partial trajectories T1 to T4 based on whether the suction head 30 is near the workpiece W during the rotational movement. In the example in FIG. 2 , for ease of explanation, the suction head 30 being near the workpiece W is in the space above the workpiece W. The partial trajectories T2 and T3 correspond to the periods in which the suction head 30 is near the workpiece W, and the partial trajectories T1 and T3 correspond to the periods in which the suction head 30 is not near the workpiece W.
In the period for the first partial trajectory T1, the suction head 30 moves from the start point of the search to near the workpiece W. During this period, the suction head 30 is not near the workpiece W. Thus, the detection value of the compressed air pressure obtained with the pressure sensor 32 does not reach a large value (local maximum). When the suction head 30 moves away from the workpiece W, the pressure detection value decreases. When the suction head 30 is nearest the center of the workpiece W, the pressure detection value reaches the local maximum. As the suction head 30 moves nearer the workpiece W, the pressure detection value increases gradually from a less value.
In the period for the following partial trajectory T2, the suction head 30 moves near the workpiece W for the first time. During this period, the suction head 30 is near the workpiece W. Thus, the detection value of the compressed air pressure obtained with the pressure sensor 32 reaches a relatively large value. In particular, as the suction head 30 moves nearer the center of the workpiece W from the edge, the pressure detection value increases. When the suction head 30 is nearest the center of the workpiece W, the pressure detection value reaches the local maximum. As the suction head 30 moves away from around the center of the workpiece W toward the edge, the pressure detection value decreases.
In the period for the following partial trajectory T3, the suction head 30, which is once near the workpiece W, moves away from the workpiece W. The detection values of the compressed air pressure obtained with the pressure sensor 32 during this period vary in the same manner as the detection values obtained in the period for the partial trajectory T1. The pressure detection value does not reach a great value. When the suction head 30 moves away from the workpiece W, the pressure detection value decreases. When the suction head 30 is farthest from the workpiece W, the pressure detection value reaches the local minimum. As the suction head 30 moves nearer the workpiece W, the pressure detection value increases gradually from a less value.
In the period for the following partial trajectory T4, the suction head 30 moves near the workpiece W for the second time. The detection values of the compressed air pressure obtained with the pressure sensor 32 during this period vary generally in the same manner as the detection values obtained in the period for the partial trajectory T2. As the suction head 30 moves nearer the center of the workpiece W from the edge, the pressure detection value increases. When the suction head 30 is nearest the center of the workpiece W, the pressure detection value reaches the local maximum. As the suction head 30 moves away from around the center of the workpiece W toward the edge, the pressure detection value decreases.
The suction head 30, which moves rotationally in a spiral shape, turns with different diameters between the partial trajectory T2 and the partial trajectory T4. Thus, the suction head 30 comes near the center of the workpiece W by a different degree between the period for the partial trajectory T2 and the period for the partial trajectory T4. In the period in which the suction head 30 is nearer the center, the pressure detection value is greater. For example, the suction head 30 is nearer the center of the workpiece W in the period for the partial trajectory T4 than in the period for the partial trajectory T2. In this case, the local maximum of the pressure detected in the period for the partial trajectory T4 is greater than the local maximum of the pressure detected in the period for the partial trajectory T2.
In this manner, during the search with the rotational movement, the suction head 30 nearer the workpiece W causes higher pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor 32, and the suction head 30 farther from the workpiece W causes lower pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor 32. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 2 , the workpiece W is located, with respect to the start point of the search, in the direction of the phase in which the pressure detection value increases. The control apparatus 1 can thus appropriately estimate the direction in which the workpiece W is located with respect to the predetermined position based on the change in the compressed air pressure detected during the rotational movement of the suction head 30.
As shown in FIG. 2 , the suction head 30 also turns once or more than once to move rotationally in a spiral shape. The suction head 30 can thus search for the workpiece W in all directions of 360 degrees from the predetermined position. In other words, the structure in the present embodiment reduces (possibly eliminates) the likelihood of any direction with respect to the predetermined position being unsearched for the workpiece W. The search for the workpiece W is performed by controlling the relatively simple motion of the spiral rotational movement of the suction head 30. The structure in the present embodiment thus allows easy and appropriate estimation of the position at which the suction head 30 can stably pick up any workpiece W deviating from the predetermined position.
The spiral rotational movement reduces inefficient motions for the workpiece search, such as returning to a fixed position to search in a different direction. This allows relatively rapid identification of the position at which the workpiece W can be picked up. The control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment further moves the suction head 30 using the estimation result from the search before causing the robot device 2 to reattempt to pick up the workpiece W with the suction head 30. This allows the suction head 30 to stably hold the workpiece W and causes the robot device 2 to perform an intended task (process) appropriately. The robot device 2 can thus have higher productivity.
2. Example Structure
Hardware Configuration
Control Apparatus
The hardware configuration of the control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 3 . FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment showing its example hardware configuration.
As shown in FIG. 3 , the control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is a computer including a control unit 11, a storage 12, an external interface 13, an input device 14, an output device 15, and a drive 16 that are electrically connected to one another. In FIG. 3 , the external interface is abbreviated as an external I/F.
The control unit 11 includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) as a hardware processor, a random-access memory (RAM), and a read-only memory (ROM). The control unit 11 performs information processing based on programs and various items of data. The storage 12, as an example of a memory, includes, for example, a hard disk drive or a solid-state drive. In the present embodiment, the storage 12 stores various items of information including a control program 81.
The control program 81 causes the control apparatus 1 to perform information processing described later (FIG. 7 ) for the control over the motion of the robot device 2. The control program 81 includes a series of commands for the information processing. This will be described in detail later.
The external interface 13 is an interface for connection to an external device and may be, for example, a universal serial bus (USB) port or a dedicated port. The type and the number of external interfaces 13 may be selected as appropriate for the type and the number of external devices to be connected. In the present embodiment, the control apparatus 1 is connected to the robot device 2 through the external interface 13. The control apparatus 1 can thus control the motion of the robot device 2. The control apparatus 1 can obtain, through the external interface 13, pressure data 121 indicating the detection values of the compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32 in time series and trajectory data 123 indicating the trajectory T of the suction head 30 during its rotational movement.
The configuration for controlling the robot device 2 and the configuration for obtaining the various items of data are not limited to the above examples, and may be determined as appropriate in each embodiment. For example, for the control apparatus 1 and the robot device 2 each including a communication interface, the control apparatus 1 may be connected to the robot device 2 through the communication interface. When another information processor (e.g., another controller) is connected to the robot device 2, the control apparatus 1 may be connected to the robot device 2 through the other information processor. The control apparatus 1 may obtain the pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123 through such connections.
The input device 14 is, for example, a mouse or a keyboard. The output device 15 is, for example, a display or a speaker. An operator may operate the control apparatus 1 using the input device 14 and the output device 15.
The drive 16 is, for example, a compact disc (CD) drive or a digital versatile disc (DVD) drive for reading a program stored in a storage medium 91. The type of drive 16 may be selected as appropriate for the type of storage medium 91. The control program 81 may be stored in the storage medium 91.
The storage medium 91 stores programs or other information in an electrical, magnetic, optical, mechanical, or chemical manner to allow a computer or another device or machine to read the recorded programs or other information. The control apparatus 1 may obtain the control program 81 from the storage medium 91.
In FIG. 3 , the storage medium 91 is a disc storage medium, such as a CD or a DVD. However, the storage medium 91 is not limited to a disc. One example of the storage medium other than a disc is a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory.
For the specific hardware configuration of the control apparatus 1, components may be eliminated, substituted, or added as appropriate in each embodiment. For example, the control unit 11 may include multiple hardware processors. Each hardware processor may include a microprocessor, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or other processors. The storage 12 may be the RAM and the ROM included in the control unit 11. At least one of the external interface 13, the input device 14, the output device 15, or the drive 16 may be eliminated. The control apparatus 1 may include multiple computers. In this case, each computer may have the same or a different hardware configuration. The control apparatus 1 may also be an information processing apparatus dedicated to an intended service, or may be a general-purpose personal computer (PC).
Robot
The hardware configuration of the robot device 2 in the present embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 4 . FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the robot device 2 in the present embodiment showing its hardware configuration.
The robot device 2 in the present embodiment is a vertically articulated industrial robot with a base 21 and four joints (22, 23, 25, 27). Each of the joints (22, 23, 25, 27) incorporates a servomotor (not shown) and is rotatable about its axis. The first joint 22 is connected to the base 21 and has its distal end rotatable about the axis of the base. The second joint 23 is connected to the first joint 22 and has its distal end rotatable in the back-forth direction. The third joint 25 is connected to the second joint 23 with a link 24 and has its distal end rotatable vertically. The fourth joint 27 is connected to the third joint 25 with a link 26 and has its distal end rotatable vertically.
Each of the joints (22, 23, 25, 27) further incorporates an encoder (not shown). The encoder measures the angle of the corresponding one of the joints (22, 23, 25, 27). The encoder may be of any type selected as appropriate in each embodiment. The measurement values from the encoder are used to control the angle of each joint (22, 23, 25, 27). The angle of each joint (22, 23, 25, 27) may be controlled in any manner selected as appropriate in each embodiment. Each joint (22, 23, 25, 27) may be controlled with a known method such as proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control and PI control. The transformation between the angle of each joint (22, 23, 25, 27) and the position of the suction head 30 may be performed based on forward kinematics and inverse kinematics.
The fourth joint 27 receives the suction head 30 attached to its distal end. The suction head 30 has an internal space 300 (hollow section) open at the distal end. The compressor 31 is connected to the internal space 300. The suction head 30 is thus fed with compressed air from the compressor 31 to the internal space 300 and can pick up an object (workpiece W) at the open end.
In the present embodiment, the task to be performed by the robot device 2 is to attach a screw into an object (described later in detail). The workpiece W in the present embodiment is thus a screw. The robot device 2 in the present embodiment further includes a screwdriver 305 to rotate the screw sucked to the suction head 30 about the axis of the screw. In the present embodiment, the screwdriver 305 is incorporated in the internal space 300 of the suction head 30 and includes a shaft extending along the axis and a motor (not shown) for rotating the shaft about its axis. The tip of the shaft is shaped appropriately to engage with a screw.
The workpiece W in the present embodiment is a screw having an axis 40. The screw includes a shaft 41 extending along the axis 40 and a head 43 at one end of the shaft 41. The shaft 41 has, at least on a portion of its side surface, a spiral groove to be an external thread (not shown). The head 43 has a larger diameter than the shaft 41. The head 43 has a drive (not shown) on its surface to engage with the tip of the screwdriver 305. The screw may be attached to any object selected as appropriate in each embodiment.
The robot device 2 may include a controller (not shown). In this case, the control apparatus 1 may transmit a motion command to the controller to indirectly control the motion of the robot device 2. The controller may include a hardware processor and a memory. The controller may interpret the command from the control apparatus 1 to control the angle of each joint (22, 23, 25, 27). The controller may be a dedicated information processor or a general-purpose PC. In some embodiments, the control apparatus 1 may function as the controller in the robot device 2. In this case, the control apparatus 1 may control the angle of each joint (22, 23, 25, 27) to directly control the motion of the robot device 2. In the present embodiment, either configuration can be used to control the motion of the robot device 2 in the same manner. For ease of explanation, the robot device 2 has control in the example described below.
Task
The task performed by the robot device 2 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 5A to 5H. FIGS. 5A to 5H each schematically show the robot device 2 performing the task in one situation. In the present embodiment, the control apparatus 1 causes the robot device 2 to perform the task of holding the workpiece W (screw) fed at a predetermined position P1 and attaching the holding workpiece W to an object at a target position P2. The object may be of any type selected as appropriate in each embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 5A, the robot device 2 is first controlled to move the suction head 30 to the predetermined position P1 at which the workpiece W is fed. Before this motion, the suction head 30 may be at a reference position set as appropriate. In this case, the robot device 2 is controlled to move the suction head 30 from the reference position to the predetermined position P1. The workpiece W may be fed to the predetermined position P1 in any manner selected as appropriate in each embodiment. For example, the workpiece W may be fed using known equipment such as a conveyor.
In response to the suction head 30 reaching above the predetermined position P1, the robot device 2 is controlled to move the suction head 30 toward the predetermined position P1 from above, as shown in FIG. 5B. As shown in FIG. 5C, the robot device 2 is then controlled to attempt to pick up the workpiece W with the suction head 30 at the predetermined position P1. As the workpiece W is picked up, the tip of the screwdriver 305 in the suction head 30 may engage with the drive on the head 43 of the workpiece W. When the pickup of the workpiece W fails in this situation, the control apparatus 1 causes the robot device 2 to perform the above search motion.
After the suction head 30 picks up the workpiece W, the robot device 2 holding (sucking) the workpiece W is controlled to separate the suction head 30 from the predetermined position P1, as shown in FIG. 5D. As shown in FIG. 5E, the robot device 2 is then controlled to move the suction head 30 to transport the holding workpiece W to the target position P2. In response to the suction head 30 moving to above the target position P2, the robot device 2 is controlled to move the suction head 30 holding the workpiece W toward the target position P2 from above, as shown in FIG. 5F.
At the target position P2 on the object, a hollow extends with an end in one direction being open. At least a part of the inner surface defining the hollow has a spiral groove to be an internal thread (not shown). After the suction head 30 approaches the target position P2, the robot device 2 is controlled to activate the motor to rotate the screwdriver 305 about the axis for tightening the screw, as shown in FIG. 5G. The workpiece W is thus attached to the object at the target position P2, as shown in FIG. 5H. The series of tasks is then complete.
After the completion of the series of tasks, the robot device 2 may be controlled to stop sucking the workpiece W and move the suction head 30 to the reference position to perform the series of tasks in the next cycle. After the suction head 30 returns to the reference position, the robot device 2 may be controlled to perform the series of tasks in the next cycle with the same procedure as above.
Software Configuration
Control Apparatus
The software configuration of the control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 6 . FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment showing its example software configuration.
The control unit 11 in the control apparatus 1 loads the control program 81 stored in the storage 12 into the RAM. The CPU in the control unit 11 then interprets and executes instructions included in the control program 81 loaded in the RAM to control each unit. As shown in FIG. 6 , the control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment thus operates as a computer including, as software modules, a data obtainer 110, a movement controller 111, a suction controller 112, a determiner 113, a searcher 114, an estimator 115, a calibrator 116, and a motion controller 117. In other words, in the present embodiment, each software module in the control apparatus 1 is implemented by the control unit 11 (CPU).
The data obtainer 110 obtains the pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123 to monitor the state of the robot device 2 (suction head 30). The pressure data 121 is obtained by the pressure sensor 32. The trajectory T of the suction head 30 indicated by the trajectory data 123 may be derived from the detected angle values of each joint (22, 23, 25, 27) or from observation data obtained from other sensors (e.g., cameras) that observe the behavior of the suction head 30. The data obtainer 110 may obtain the pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123 continuously or at limited time points or in limited periods.
The movement controller 111 causes the robot device 2 to move the suction head 30 to the predetermined position P1 at which the workpiece W is fed. The suction controller 112 causes the robot device 2 to attempt to pick up the workpiece W with the suction head 30 at the predetermined position P1. The determiner 113 determines whether the suction head 30 has picked up the workpiece W in the attempt by the suction controller 112 based on the detection result of the compressed air pressure from the pressure sensor 32. In response to the determination that the suction head 30 has picked up the workpiece W, the motion controller 117 causes the robot device 2 to perform intended processes shown in FIG. 5C and subsequent figures, such as moving the workpiece W held with the suction head 30 to an intended destination (target position P2).
In response to the determination that the suction head 30 has yet to pick up the workpiece W, the searcher 114 causes the robot device 2 to rotationally move the suction head 30 spirally in the horizontal direction while causing the suction head 30 to perform a suction operation for the workpiece W using compressed air. In this manner, the searcher 114 causes the robot device 2 to search for the true position of the workpiece W. The data obtainer 110 obtains the pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123 in the period of this rotational movement. Rotationally moving the suction head 30 spirally in the horizontal direction refers to moving the suction head 30 along the spiral trajectory T on a horizontal plane as viewed in the vertical direction. The suction head 30 may be at any height (or more specifically, remain at the same height or move between different heights). In the present embodiment, the searcher 114 varies the position of the suction head 30 vertically for a calibration process described later.
The estimator 115 refers to the obtained pressure data 121 and trajectory data 123 and estimates the direction in which the workpiece W is located with respect to the predetermined position P1 based on the change in the compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32 during the rotational movement. In response to the determiner 113 determining that the suction head 30 has yet to pick up the workpiece W, the movement controller 111 causes the robot device 2 to further move the suction head 30 in the estimated direction. After the suction head 30 is moved further in the estimated direction, the suction controller 112 causes the robot device 2 to reattempt to pick up the workpiece W with the suction head 30.
When the pressure change at the distal end of the suction head 30 takes time to reach the pressure sensor 32, the pressure detection results (detected values) from the pressure sensor 32 may be delayed on the time axis from the point of search with the suction head 30. The calibrator 116 thus calibrates the detection results of the compressed air pressure from the pressure sensor 32 (i.e., the time series of detected pressure values indicated by the pressure data 121). The calibrator 116 thus fits the time axis of the pressure data 121 to the time axis of the trajectory data 123. This calibration process may be performed on the pressure data 121 obtained at least in the period of the rotational movement of the suction head 30 in the search for the workpiece W.
More specifically, the searcher 114 causes the robot device 2 to further displace the suction head 30 vertically while causing the suction head 30 to rotationally move spirally in the horizontal direction. Calibrating the detection results includes eliminating the difference between the variations in the compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32 during the vertical displacement of the suction head 30 and the variations in the compressed air expected based on the vertical displacement of the suction head 30.
The lowest point in the vertical movement is the position at which the suction head 30 is expected to be nearest the workpiece W. The highest point is the position at which the suction head 30 is expected to be farthest from the workpiece W. Thus, the variations in the compressed air pressure expected to occur based on the vertical displacement of the suction head 30 include, for example, variations such as a pressure detection value being the local maximum when the suction head 30 reaches the lowest point and a pressure detection value being the local minimum when the suction head 30 reaches the highest point. This may be set by the operator or others as appropriate in each embodiment. The calibrator 116 calibrates the time series of the pressure detection values by shifting the time axis of the pressure data 121 to eliminate the difference between the obtained variations of the pressure detection values and the above expected variations. The estimator 115 uses the calibrated results (pressure detection values) to estimate the direction in which the workpiece W is located with respect to the predetermined position P1.
In the present embodiment, the estimator 115 further estimates the distance between the predetermined position P1 and the position of the workpiece W based on the change in the compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32 during the rotational movement of the suction head 30. In response to the determiner 113 determining that the suction head 30 has yet to pick up the workpiece W, the movement controller 111 causes the robot device 2 to further move the suction head 30 in the estimated direction by the estimated distance. After the suction head 30 is moved further in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, the suction controller 112 causes the robot device 2 to reattempt to pick up the workpiece W with the suction head 30.
Each software module in the control apparatus 1 will be described in detail in the operation example described below. In the present embodiment, each software module in the control apparatus 1 is implemented by a general-purpose CPU. However, some or all of the software modules may be implemented by one or more dedicated processors. For the software configuration of the control apparatus 1, software modules may be eliminated, substituted, or added as appropriate in each embodiment.
3. Operation Example
An operation example of the control apparatus 1 will now be described with reference to FIG. 7 . FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an example procedure performed by the control apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment for controlling the motion of the robot device 2. The procedure described below is an example of a control method in an aspect of the present invention. The procedure described below is a mere example, and each of its steps may be modified in any possible manner. In the procedure described below, steps may be eliminated, substituted, or added as appropriate in each embodiment.
Step S101
In step S101, the control unit 11 operates as the movement controller 111 and causes the robot device 2 to move the suction head 30 to the predetermined position P1 at which the workpiece W is fed.
The position of the suction head 30 at the start of the operation and the manner of controlling the position of the suction head 30 are not limited and may be determined as appropriate in each embodiment. In one example, the suction head 30 may be at a reference position at the start of the operation. In this example, the control unit 11 may provide a command to the robot device 2 to move the suction head 30 from the reference position to the predetermined position P1. The control unit 11 thus causes the robot device 2 to move the suction head 30 to the predetermined position P1 at which the workpiece W is fed, as shown in FIG. 5A. After moving the suction head 30 to the predetermined position P1, the control unit 11 advances the process to subsequent step S102.
Step S102
In step S102, the control unit 11 operates as the suction controller 112 and causes the robot device 2 to start the suction operation for the workpiece W with the suction head 30 at the predetermined position P1.
The manner of causing the robot device 2 to perform the suction operation may be determined as appropriate based on the structure of the robot device 2. In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 may provide a command to the robot device 2 to drive the compressor 31 for sucking the workpiece W with the suction head 30. The control unit 11 can thus cause the robot device 2 to start the suction operation for the workpiece W with the suction head 30 at the predetermined position P1, as shown in FIG. 5C.
The suction operation with the suction head 30 may be started at any time determined as appropriate in each embodiment. For example, the control unit 11 may cause the robot device 2 to start the suction operation for the workpiece W with the suction head 30 before or during the approaching motion shown in FIG. 5B. For example, the control unit 11 may cause the robot device 2 to start the suction operation for the workpiece W with the suction head 30 after the approaching motion shown in FIG. 5B. After causing the suction head 30 to start the suction operation for the workpiece W, the control unit 11 advances the process to subsequent step S103 while allowing the suction head 30 to continue the suction operation.
Step S103
In step S103, the control unit 11 operates as the data obtainer 110 to start obtaining the pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123.
In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 can obtain the pressure data 121 from the pressure sensor 32 in the robot device 2. The control unit 11 can also derive the trajectory data 123 based on the observation data obtained by the encoders in the joints (22, 23, 25, 27) of the robot device 2. The pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123 may be obtained through any other route selected as appropriate in each embodiment. For example, the pressure sensor 32 and the encoders may be connected to another computer. In this case, the control unit 11 may obtain the pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123 from the other computer. After starting to obtain the pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123, the control unit 11 advances the process to subsequent step S104.
Step S104
In step S104, the control unit 11 operates as the suction controller 112 and causes the robot device 2 to attempt to pick up the workpiece W with the suction head 30 at the predetermined position P1.
In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 causes the robot device 2 to perform the suction operation with the suction head 30 started in step S102 near the predetermined position P1 at which the workpiece W is fed, as shown in FIG. 5C. The control unit 11 can thus causes the robot device 2 to attempt to pick up the workpiece W with the suction head 30 at the predetermined position P1. After causing the suction head 30 to attempt to pick up the workpiece W, the control unit 11 advances the process to subsequent step S105.
Step S105
In step S105, the control unit 11 operates as the determiner 113 and determines whether the suction head 30 has picked up the workpiece W in the attempt in step S104 based on the detection result of the compressed air pressure from the pressure sensor 32.
The suction head 30 can pick up any workpiece W placed accurately at the predetermined position P1 in the attempt in step S104. In this case, the workpiece W is sucked at the open end of the suction head 30, causing the detection value of the compressed air pressure to be a predetermined value or greater. Thus, the control unit 11 may refer to the pressure data 121 and determine whether the suction head 30 has picked up the workpiece W depending on whether the detection value of the compressed air pressure is greater than or equal to a threshold. The threshold in the determination may be determined as appropriate.
In response to the detection value of the compressed air pressure being greater than or equal to the threshold, the control unit 11 determines that the suction head 30 has picked up the workpiece W. The control unit 11 then advances the process to subsequent step S121. In response to the detection value of the compressed air pressure being less than the threshold, the control unit 11 determines that the suction head 30 has yet to pick up the workpiece W. The control unit 11 then advances the process to subsequent step S106. For the detection value of the compressed air pressure being the same as the threshold, the determination may be performed in different manners. In the determination in step S105, being greater than or equal to may be replaced by being greater than, and being less than may be replaced by being less than or equal to.
Step S106
In step S106, the control unit 11 operates as the searcher 114 and causes the robot device 2 to rotationally move the suction head 30 spirally in the horizontal direction while causing the suction head 30 to perform the suction operation for the workpiece W using compressed air.
In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 causes the robot device 2 to further displace the suction head 30 vertically while causing the suction head 30 to rotationally move spirally in the horizontal direction. In other words, the control unit 11 causes the robot device 2 to displace the suction head 30 vertically and to rotationally move the suction head 30 spirally in the horizontal direction while causing the suction head 30 to perform the suction operation. The cycle for the vertical displacement may be set as appropriate in each embodiment. The vertical displacement may occur at constant or random intervals.
The amount of vertical displacement, the number of turns in the rotational movement, and the diameter of rotational movement are not limited to specific values, and may be determined as appropriate in each embodiment. In the present embodiment, the spiral rotational movement includes multiple turns each with a different diameter, as shown in FIG. 2 . The motion for the rotational movement may be generated as appropriate with any known method such as direct teaching, use of a teaching pendant, or programming. In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 provides a command to the robot device 2 to indicate the generated motion for the rotational movement. The control unit 11 can thus cause the robot device 2 to displace the suction head 30 vertically and to rotationally move the suction head 30 spirally in the horizontal direction while causing the suction head 30 to perform the suction operation. After causing the robot device 2 to perform the motion for the rotational movement, the control unit 11 advances the process to subsequent step S107. The rotational movement may be started at the predetermined position P1 or at a position shifted from the predetermined position P1 by any distance in any direction. In the present embodiment described below, for ease of explanation, the rotational movement is started at the predetermined position P1.
Step S107
In step S107, the control unit 11 operates as the calibrator 116 and calibrates the detection results of the compressed air pressure from the pressure sensor 32, or more specifically, the time series of pressure detection values indicated by the pressure data 121 obtained during the rotational movement.
An example calibration manner will now be described with reference to FIG. 8 . FIG. 8 schematically shows an example relationship between the variations in the compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32 during vertical displacement of the suction head 30 at a position and the variations in the compressed air pressure expected based on the vertical displacement of the suction head 30.
As shown in FIG. 8 , in a normal state, the suction head 30 is expected to be nearest the workpiece W when reaching the lowest point and farthest from the workpiece W when reaching the highest point. Thus, the variations VV in the compressed air pressure expected to occur based on the vertical displacement of the suction head 30 include variations such as a pressure detection value being the local maximum when the suction head 30 reaches the lowest point and a pressure detection value being the local minimum when the suction head 30 reaches the highest point.
When the pressure change at the distal end of the suction head 30 takes time to reach the pressure sensor 32, the detection result (detected value) of the pressure from the pressure sensor 32 may be delayed on the time axis from the point of search performed by the suction head 30. In other words, the variations MV in the compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32 during the vertical displacement of the suction head 30 may shift from the expected variations VV in a direction delayed on the time axis. The control unit 11 thus shifts the time axis of the pressure data 121 to eliminate the difference between the detected pressure variations MV and the expected pressure variations VV to calibrate the time series of the pressure detection values. In one example, the control unit 11 may calibrate the time series of pressure detection values indicated by the pressure data 121 by aligning the times of detected pressure extremes with the times of expected pressure extremes. The extremes to be aligned may be at least the local maxima or the local minima. After calibrating the detection results of the compressed air pressure from the pressure sensor 32, the control unit 11 advances the process to subsequent step S108.
In the example in FIG. 8 , for ease of explanation, the effect of the spiral rotational movement on the pressure detection results is not shown. However, the variations in the compressed air pressure based on the vertical displacement can occur in a manner superimposed on the variations in compressed air pressure based on spiral rotational movement. Thus, the effect of spiral rotational movement can be included to extract the variations based on the vertical displacement from the pressure detection results. The effect of spiral rotational movement can thus be included to calibrate the time series of the pressure detection values indicated by the pressure data 121 in the same manner as above.
Step S108
In step S108, the control unit 11 operates as the estimator 115 and refers to the pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123 obtained during the rotational movement of the suction head 30 to estimate the direction in which the workpiece W is located with respect to the predetermined position P1 (hereafter simply referred to as a workpiece-located direction) based on a change in the compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32 during the rotational movement.
In the present embodiment, the estimator 115 further estimates the distance between the predetermined position P1 and the position of the workpiece W (hereafter simply referred to as inter-distance) based on a change in the compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32 during the rotational movement of the suction head 30. In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 uses the pressure data 121 calibrated in step S107 to estimate the workpiece-located direction and the inter-distance.
The suction head 30 nearer the true position of the workpiece W (in particular, the position at which the workpiece W can be stably picked up) allows detection of higher compressed air pressure, whereas the suction head 30 farther from the true position of the workpiece W allows detection of lower compressed air pressure. Any method based on this expectation may be used as appropriate to estimate the workpiece-located direction and the inter-distance based on changes in detected pressure.
In the example described below, for ease of explanation, the predetermined position P1 is the reference position for the workpiece-located direction and the inter-distance. Any deviation of the apparent reference position for the workpiece-located direction and the inter-distance from the predetermined position P1 may be accommodated by moving the suction head 30 by the distance corresponding to the deviation, allowing movement control to be performed in the same manner as for the predetermined position P1 at the reference position. Thus, the apparent reference position for the workpiece-located direction and the inter-distance may deviate from the predetermined position P1. The apparent reference position for the workpiece-located direction and the inter-distance may deviate from the predetermined position P1 by any distance in any direction. This point deviating from the predetermined position P1 by any distance in any direction may be the center of the rotational movement performed in step S106. For the center of rotational movement in step S106 at the predetermined position P1, the apparent reference position for the workpiece-located direction and the inter-distance may deviate from the predetermined position P1 by any distance in any direction.
(A) Method for Estimating Workpiece-Located Direction
An example method for estimating the workpiece-located direction will now be described. In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 divides the trajectory of the rotational movement indicated by the trajectory data 123 into multiple sections about the axis of the rotational movement. The control unit 11 then identifies one section of the multiple sections with the highest compressed air pressure (hereafter also referred to as a maximum pressure section) detected by the pressure sensor 32. The maximum pressure section may be identified in any manner determined as appropriate in each embodiment. For example, the control unit 11 may identify the maximum pressure section with at least one of the two methods described below.
The first method uses a detection point at which the pressure detection value is the highest. More specifically, the control unit 11 may extract the detection point with the highest compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32 and identify one section including the extracted detection point as the maximum pressure section. The second method uses the average of the pressure detection values. More specifically, the control unit 11 may calculate the average of the compressed air pressure values detected by the pressure sensor 32 for each section. The control unit 11 may identify one section of the multiple sections with the highest calculated pressure average as the maximum pressure section.
The control unit 11 then uses the direction in which the identified section is located with respect to the predetermined position P1 as the direction in which the workpiece W is located. Each section extends in an area defined by an angle (8 in FIG. 9 described later) about the axis. The control unit 11 can thus select the direction in which the identified section is located based on this angular range. In other words, the control unit 11 may use any direction included in the range of the identified section as the workpiece-located direction. For example, each section may have a predefined direction used as the workpiece-located direction when being identified as the maximum pressure section. The direction used as the workpiece-located direction may be, for example, the direction to bisect the angle for each section, the direction along the edge of each section, or any direction defined as appropriate. The direction used as the workpiece-located direction may be defined in the same or a different manner for each section. The direction used as the workpiece-located direction may be defined by an operator input or by a description in the control program 81. In this case, the control unit 11 can determine, based on the definition in the identified section, the workpiece-located direction in the identified section. For example, the control unit 11 may extract the detection point with the highest compressed air pressure (pressure detection value) detected in the identified section and use the direction connecting the extracted detection point and the center of the search (predetermined position P1) as the workpiece-located direction. In this manner, the control unit 11 can estimate the direction in which the workpiece W is located.
(B) Method for Estimating Inter-Distance
An example method for estimating the inter-distance will now be described. In the present embodiment, the spiral rotational movement performed in step S106 includes multiple turns each with a different diameter. Each turn is a rotational movement of 360 degrees about a central axis. The control unit 11 compares the compressed air pressure values detected by the pressure sensor 32 in different turns in the above identified section. The spiral rotational movement includes multiple turns, thus allowing pressure detection values to be obtained at two or more detection points with different distances to the center of the search in all directions of 360 degrees. The comparison of the pressure detection values obtained at the detection points in each direction indicates that the detected pressure value is the greatest at the true position of the workpiece W, particularly at the detection point corresponding to the position allowing stable pickup of the workpiece W, or at the detection point nearest the true position. The control unit 11 can thus estimate the distance between the predetermined position P1 and the position of the workpiece W based on the results of the comparison between the pressure values in different turns detected in the above identified section.
The inter-distance may be derived from the comparison between the pressure values in different turns detected in the identified section in any manner determined as appropriate in each embodiment. In one example, the comparison between the compressed air pressure values detected in different turns may include identifying one turn of the multiple turns with the highest compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32 in the identified section. The control unit 11 may estimate the inter-distance based on the diameter of one identified turn.
The inter-distance may be estimated based on the diameter of the identified turn in any manner determined as appropriate in each embodiment. For example, the control unit 11 may extract the detection point with the highest compressed air pressure (pressure detection value) detected in the identified section and turn. The control unit 11 may then directly use, as the inter-distance, the distance between the extracted detection point and the center of the search (predetermined position P1), or more specifically, the diameter of the turn at the extracted detection point.
However, the pressure detection values obtained by the search are local maxima, and the detection point with the highest detection value may not be the optimal position for picking up the workpiece W. In other words, the identified section may include a point at which pressure is higher than at the detection points at which pressure detection value is currently obtained. The control unit 11 may thus use, instead of the above method, a computational model to estimate the inter-distance based on the diameter of the identified turn. The computational model defines the relationship between the diameter of one identified turn and its inter-distance.
The computational model may be constructed as appropriate to allow calculation of the inter-distance. For example, the computational model may estimate the true inter-distance based on the pressure detection value and the distance to the detection point. This computational model may be represented with a functional formula or provided as a data table. For the computational model including a functional formula or a data table, pressure detection values are collected by causing the suction head to attempt to pick up the workpiece W at various positions to derive the relationship of the obtained detection values and the distances to the detection point with respect to the true inter-distances. This allows generation of the functional formula and data table for calculation of the inter-distance.
The computational model may be a machine learning model such as a linear regression model, a neural network, or a support vector machine. For the computational model including a machine learning model, pressure detection values are collected by causing the suction head to attempt to pick up the workpiece W at various positions. The obtained detection values and the distances to the detection point are associated with true inter-distances to generate training datasets. The generated training datasets are then used in machine learning to train the machine learning model to output a true inter-distance in response to an input of a pressure detection value and a distance to the detection point. Machine learning may be performed with a known method such regression analysis or backpropagation. In this manner, a trained machine learning model is generated for calculation of the inter-distance.
The computational model may be described in the control program 81 or stored in a predetermined storage area. The predetermined storage area may be the storage 12, the storage medium 91, an external storage, or a combination of any of these. The control unit 11 obtains the computational model as appropriate. The control unit 11 inputs the global maximum of the extracted detection values and the distance to the detection point in the identified section and turn into the computational model to perform computation of the computational model. The control unit 11 can thus obtain the inter-distance as an output from the computational model.
The computational model may receive any other input selected as appropriate. For example, the computational model may receive inputs of detection values and distances at multiple detection points in an identified workpiece-located direction. Either the detection value or the distance may not be input into the computational model. For example, the computational model may estimate the deviation of the detection point with the highest pressure detection value from the true position of the workpiece W based on the pressure detection value at the detection point. In this case, the control unit 11 may extract, based on the above comparison result, the detection point with the highest compressed air pressure (pressure detection value) detected in the identified section. The control unit 11 then inputs the pressure detection value at the extracted detection point into the computational model and perform the computation of the computational model. In this manner, the control unit 11 obtains the value of the deviation as the output from the computational model. The control unit 11 can calculate the inter-distance by adding the obtained deviation value to the diameter of the turn at the extracted detection point.
(C) Specific Example
A specific example of estimating the workpiece-located direction and the inter-distance in a situation will now be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10 . FIG. 9 schematically shows an example relationship between the trajectory T of the suction head 30 and each of sections K1 to K8. FIG. 10 schematically shows example pressure detection values detected in the sections K1 to K8.
(1) Example of Estimating Workpiece-Located Direction
The control unit 11 first divides the trajectory T of the rotational movement into multiple sections (K1 to K8). In the example in FIGS. 9 and 10 , for ease of explanation, the control unit 11 equally divides the trajectory T of the rotational movement into eight sections K1 to K8. Each of the sections K1 to K8 extends in an area defined by an angle θ of 45 degrees. The sections K1 to K8 are arranged in order of the suction head 30 passing through the sections during the rotational movement. For example, the section K1 extends in an area defined by a range of 0 to 45 degrees (¼π). The suction head 30 passes through the section K1 first in each turn. The section K8 extends in an area defined by a range of 315 (7/4π) to 360 degrees (2π). The suction head 30 passes through the section K8 last in each turn.
The estimation method may be used independently of the angle θ defining the area for each section. The trajectory T may thus be divided in a manner other than the above example. The trajectory T may be divided into, rather than eight, two to seven sections or nine or more sections. The trajectory T may not be divided equally. At least one of the sections may extend in an area defined by an angle different from the angle for the other sections. Each section may extend in an area defined by any angle θ set as appropriate in each embodiment.
The control unit 11 then identifies one section of the sections K1 to K8 with the highest compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32. In the example in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the pressure detection value reaches the local maximum in the section K8, and the local maximum D2 of the pressure in the second turn is greater than the local maximum D1 of the pressure in the first turn. The average the pressure detection values is the greatest in the section K8 of the eight sections K1 to K8. When using the above first method to identify the maximum pressure section, the control unit 11 refers to the pressure data 121 and extracts the detection point at which the local maximum D2 is provided. The control unit 11 can identify the section K8 including the extracted detection point as the maximum pressure section. When using the above second method to identify the maximum pressure section, the control unit 11 calculates the average of the compressed air pressure values detected by the pressure sensor 32 for each of the sections K1 to K8. The control unit 11 can identify, of the eight sections K1 to K8, the section K8 with the highest calculated pressure average as the maximum pressure section.
The control unit 11 then uses the direction in which the identified section K8 is located with respect to the predetermined position P1 as the direction in which the workpiece W is located. For example, the control unit 11 may determine the workpiece-located direction within the angular range (315 to 360 degrees) defining the area for the section K8 based on predefined rules. For example, the control unit 11 may extract the detection point that provides the local maximum D1 or local maximum D2 and use the direction connecting the extracted detection point and the center of the search (predetermined position P1) as the workpiece-located direction. For the directions of the detection points providing the maxima being different in each turn, the control unit 11 may average the directions of the detection points and use the resultant direction as the workpiece-located direction. In the example in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the workpiece-located direction is the direction that bisects the angle between the segment connecting the center of the search (the predetermined position P1) and the detection point that provides the local maximum D1 and the segment connecting the center of the search (the predetermined position P1) and the detection point that provides the local maximum D2.
(2) Example of Estimating Inter-Distance
In the example in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the spiral rotational movement performed in step S106 includes two turns each with a different diameter. The control unit 11 compares the compressed air pressure values detected by the pressure sensor 32 in different turns in the section K8. The control unit 11 estimates the inter-distance based on the results of the comparison.
For example, the control unit 11 can determine, based on the comparison result between the pressure detection values detected in different turns in the section K8, that the local maximum D2 in the second turn is greater than the local maximum D1 in the first turn. In other words, the control unit 11 can identify, of the two turns, the second turn as the turn with the highest pressure detected in the section K8. The control unit 11 may estimate the inter-distance based on the diameter of second turn.
In one example, the control unit 11 may extract the detection point that provides the local maximum D2 as the detection with the highest detected pressure. The control unit 11 may then directly use the diameter of the turn (distance d2) at the extracted detection point (i.e., the detection point that provides the local maximum D2) as the inter-distance.
In some embodiments, the control unit 11 may use the above computational model to calculate the inter-distance. In this case, the computational model may estimate the true inter-distance based on the local maximum pressure in the turn with the highest detected pressure and the distance to the detection point that provides local maximum pressure. The control unit 11 inputs the local maximum D2 and distance d2 into the computational model to perform the computation of the computational model. The control unit 11 can thus obtain the inter-distance as an output from the computational model.
In another example, the computational model may estimate the true inter-distance based on each local maximum pressure values obtained in one identified section and the distance to the detection point providing each local maximum. In this case, the control unit 11 inputs each local maximum (D1, D2) and the distance (d1, d2) to each detection point into the computational model to perform computation of the computational model. The control unit 11 can thus obtain the inter-distance as an output from the computational model.
In still another example, the computational model may estimate the deviation of the detection point with the highest pressure detection value from the true position of the workpiece W based on the pressure detection value at the detection point. In this case, the control unit 11 inputs the local maximum D2 and the distance d2 into the computational model to perform the computation of the computational model. In this manner, the control unit 11 obtains the value of the deviation as the output from the computational model. The control unit 11 can calculate the inter-distance by adding the obtained deviation value to the distance d2.
(D) Brief Summary
In the manner described above, the control unit 11 can estimate the workpiece-located direction and the inter-distance based on a change in the compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32 during the rotational movement of the suction head 30. After estimating the workpiece-located direction and the inter-distance, the control unit 11 advances the process to step S109.
Step S109
In step S109, the control unit 11 operates as the movement controller 111 and causes the robot device 2 to further move the suction head 30 in the estimated workpiece-located direction.
In the present embodiment, the inter-distance is further estimated. The control unit 11 thus causes the robot device 2 to further move the suction head 30 in the estimated workpiece-located direction by the estimated inter-distance. This further movement may be started at any point. The control unit 11 may instruct the robot device 2 to move the suction head 30 from the final point of the above rotational movement (search) or from the predetermined position P1 or the center of the search.
In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 provides a command to the robot device 2 to move the suction head 30 in the estimated workpiece-located direction with respect to the predetermined position P1 by the estimated inter-distance. The control unit 11 can thus cause the robot device 2 to further move the suction head 30. After causing the suction head 30 to further move in the estimated workpiece-located direction by the estimated inter-distance, the control unit 11 advances the process to subsequent step S110.
Step S110
In step S110, the control unit 11 operates as the suction controller 112 and causes the robot device 2 to reattempt to pick up the workpiece W with the suction head 30 at the position resulting from the operation performed in step S109. The control unit 11 may cause the pickup attempt in the same manner as in step S104 described above. After causing the suction head 30 to reattempt to pick up the workpiece W, the control unit 11 advances the process to subsequent step S111.
Step S111
In step S111, the control unit 11 operates as the determiner 113 and determines whether the suction head 30 has picked up the workpiece W in the attempt in step S110 based on the detection result of the compressed air pressure from the pressure sensor 32. The control unit 11 may determine whether the suction head 30 has picked up the workpiece W in the same manner as in step S105 described above. After determining that the suction head 30 has picked up the workpiece W, the control unit 11 advances the process to subsequent step S121. After determining that the suction head 30 has yet to pick up the workpiece W, the control unit 11 advances the process to subsequent step S122.
Step S121
The operation in step S121 is performed in response to the workpiece W being picked up by the suction head 30. In step S121, the control unit 11 operates as the motion controller 117 and causes the robot device 2 to perform intended operations shown in FIG. 5C and subsequent figures, such as moving the workpiece W held with the suction head 30 to an intended destination (target position P2).
The motions in the intended operations may be generated as appropriate with any known method such as direct teaching, use of a teaching pendant, or programming. In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 provides a command to the robot device 2 to indicate the generated motions for the intended operations. The control unit 11 can thus cause the robot device 2 to perform the motions for the intended operations such as transporting the workpiece W to a destination. After the motions in the intended operations are complete, the control unit 11 ends the series of operations associated with this operation example. After ending the series of operations, the control unit 11 may repeat the process again from step S101 to cause the robot device 2 to perform the series of tasks in the next cycle.
Step S122
The operation in Step S122 is performed in response to the workpiece W not being picked up with the suction head 30 after the series of search operations performed in steps S106 to S110. In step S122, the control unit 11 performs error processing.
The error processing may be set as appropriate. For example, the error processing may include skipping the series of tasks to be performed. In this case, the control unit 11 skips picking up the workpiece W and the operations in the subsequent steps. For example, the control unit 11 may stop controlling the motion of the robot device 2 as the error processing. In this case, the control unit 11 may immediately stop controlling the motion of the robot device 2 or first causes the robot device 2 to perform a predetermined motion such as returning the suction head 30 to the reference position and then immediately stop controlling the motion of the robot device 2.
The error processing may also include outputting a notification to the operator, worker, supervisor, or other intended target persons to inform them that the pickup of the workpiece W has been unsuccessful. The notification may be output to any destination selected as appropriate in each embodiment. For example, the control unit 11 may output a notification through the output device 15 to inform the target person that the pickup of the workpiece W has been unsuccessful. For example, the control unit 11 may output a notification to, for example, a terminal carried by the target person or an output device (a display, a speaker, or an indicator lamp) near the target person to inform that the pickup of the workpiece W has been unsuccessful.
After performing the error processing, the control unit 11 ends the series of operations associated with this operation example. For the error processing being skipping the series of tasks to be performed, the control unit 11 after ending the series of operations may repeat the process again from step S101 to cause the robot device 2 to perform the series of tasks in the next cycle.
After repeating the series of operations in steps S106 to S111, the control unit 11 may perform the error processing in current step S122. In this case, the control unit 11 may count the number of times the series of operations in steps S106 to S111 is repeated. In response to determining in step S111 that the suction head 30 has yet to pick up the workpiece W, the control unit 11 may determine whether the count is greater than or equal to (or exceeds) a predetermined value. The predetermined value may be set as appropriate. In response to the count being less than the predetermined value, the control unit 11 returns to the process to step S106 and repeats the operations in steps S106 to S111. In response to the count being greater than or equal to the predetermined value, the control unit 11 may perform the error processing in current step S122.
Features
As described above, in the present embodiment, the spiral rotational movement of the suction head 30 in step S106 can reduce the likelihood of any direction with respect to the predetermined position P1 being unsearched for the workpiece W. In the present embodiment, the spiral rotational movement includes multiple turns, thus eliminating any direction with respect to the predetermined position P1 being unsearched for the workpiece W. The search for the workpiece W in step S106 is performed by controlling the relatively simple motion of the spiral rotational movement of the suction head 30. The structure in the present embodiment thus allows easy and appropriate estimation of the position at which the suction head 30 can stably pick up any workpiece W deviating from the predetermined position P1. This increases the productivity of the robot device 2. In the present embodiment, the structure increases the productivity of the robot device 2 that performs the process of turning screws.
In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 in step S108 divides the trajectory T of the rotational movement into multiple sections (K1 to K8) and identifies, from the resultant sections (K1 to K8) the section with the highest pressure detection value to estimate the direction in which the workpiece W is located. The control unit 11 also estimates the inter-distance based on the comparison between the pressure values detected in different turns in the identified section. In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 in step S106 further causes the robot device 2 to displace the suction head 30 vertically while causing the suction head 30 to rotationally move in a spiral shape. In step S107, the control unit 11 then calibrates, based on the motion in step S106, the time series of the pressure detection values indicated by the pressure data 121 obtained during the rotational movement of the suction head 30. The structure in the present embodiment with such features thus allows easy and appropriate estimation of the position at which the suction head 30 can stably pick up any workpiece W deviating from the predetermined position P1.
4. Modifications
The embodiment of the present invention described in detail above is a mere example of the present invention in all aspects. The embodiment may be variously modified or altered without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the embodiment may be modified in the following forms. In the modifications described below, like reference numerals denote like structural elements in the above embodiment, and such elements will not be described. The modifications described below may be combined as appropriate.
4.1
In the above embodiment, the workpiece W is a screw. However, the workpiece W may be of any type that can be held by sucking and selected as appropriate in each embodiment. The workpiece W may be, for example, a washer, other than a screw.
In the above embodiment, the robot device 2 includes the screwdriver 305 for rotating a screw about the axis. However, the robot device 2 may be structured in any manner different from this example. For the structure of the robot device 2, components may be eliminated, substituted, or added as appropriate in each embodiment. For example, the robot device 2 may include a sensor other than the encoder to observe the control quantity such as the angles of the joints (22, 23, 25, 27). For example, the robot device 2 may include other sensors to observe other attributes such as whether the suction head 30 is in contact with any object. The robot device 2 may have any number of axes other than in the above embodiment selected as appropriate in each embodiment.
In the above embodiment, the robot device 2 is a vertically articulated robot. However, the robot device 2 may be of any type that includes the suction head 30 and the pressure sensor 32 and may be selected as appropriate in each embodiment. The robot device 2 may be an industrial robot, such as a SCARA robot, a parallel link robot, a Cartesian coordinate robot, or a cooperative robot, other than a vertically articulated robot. The robot device 2 may be a known industrial robot.
In the above embodiment, an example task to be performed by the robot device 2 is screw installation. However, the task to be performed by the robot device 2 may be of any type that includes pickup of any workpiece with a suction head, other than screw installation. The task may be determined as appropriate in each embodiment. In another example, the robot device 2 may perform the task of placing a washer at a target position. In this case, the suction head 30 may include a Coanda gripper.
4.2
In the above embodiment, the spiral rotational movement includes two turns. However, the rotational movement may include any number of turns and angular range for the search determined as appropriate in each embodiment. The spiral rotational movement may include one or less than one turn, one to less than two turns, or more than two turns. The number of turns may be specified as appropriate with, for example, the operator's operation performed through the input device 14. For the spiral rotational movement including less than two turns, the control unit 11 may skip the comparison between different turns and estimate the inter-distance. In another example, the control unit 11 may skip estimating the inter-distance in step S108 described above.
4.3
In the present embodiment, the control unit 11 in step S108 divides the trajectory T of the rotational movement indicated by the trajectory data 123 into multiple sections (K1 to K8) about the axis of the rotational movement. The control unit 11 thus searches for the direction in which the workpiece W is located in each section (K1 to K8). However, the dividing operation may be skipped, and the workpiece W may be searched for in any unit set as appropriate.
With an example search method excluding dividing the direction into sections, the control unit 11 in step S108 described above may refer to the pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123 obtained during the rotational movement of the suction head 30 and identify the detection point with the highest compressed air pressure detected by the pressure sensor 32. The control unit 11 may then use the direction in which the identified detection point is located with respect to the predetermined position P1 as the direction in which the workpiece W is located. In this manner, the control unit 11 can estimate the direction in which the workpiece W is located.
In this case, as in the above embodiment, the spiral rotational movement in step S106 may include multiple turns each with a different diameter. The control unit 11 may further estimate the inter-distance based on the distance between the predetermined position P1 and the identified detection point. As in the above embodiment, the control unit 11 may directly use the distance to the detection point as the inter-distance or derive an estimated distance based on the distance to the detection point using a computational model. In step S109, the control unit 11 may cause the robot device 2 to further move the suction head 30 in the estimated workpiece-located direction by the estimated inter-distance. In step S110, the control unit 11 may causes the robot device 2 to reattempt to pick up the workpiece W with the suction head 30 at the position resulting from the operation performed in step S109. This allows easy and appropriate estimation of the position at which the suction head 30 can stably pick up any workpiece W deviating from the predetermined position P1.
4.4
In the above embodiment, the control unit 11 in step S108 estimates the inter-distance as well as the workpiece-located direction. However, the estimation of the inter-distance may be skipped. In this case, the travel distance by which the suction head 30 is moved in step S109 may be determined as appropriate. For example, the travel distance may be set to a predetermined value. The predetermined value may be set with an input performed by, for example, the operator through the input device 14 or set in the control program 81.
Estimating the inter-distance in the above embodiment may include any computation that calculates the travel distance based on the pressure detection value and the detected point. In other words, any travel distance calculated based on the pressure detection value (and the detection point), including the distance not explicitly calculated as the inter-distance, may be used as the estimated inter-distance. With an example simple method for estimating the inter-distance, the control unit 11 may determine the travel distance based on the pressure detection value to reduce the travel distance for greater pressure detection values and increase the travel distance for less pressure detection values. The reference pressure detection value may be the local maximum or the global maximum in the detection range.
4.5
In the above embodiment, the control unit 11 in step S106 further causes the robot device 2 to displace the suction head 30 vertically while causing the suction head 30 to rotationally move spirally. In step S107, the control unit 11 then calibrates, based on the motion in step S106, the time series of the pressure detection values indicated by the pressure data 121 obtained during the rotational movement. However, the series of calibration operations may be skipped.
For example, the control unit 11 may skip the operation in step S107. In this case, the control unit 11 may instruct the robot device 2 to maintain the height of the suction head 30 constant during the rotational movement performed in step S106. In another example, the control unit 11 skipping step S107 may further causes the robot device 2 to displace the suction head 30 vertically while causing the suction head 30 to rotationally move spirally in step S106. In this case, the calibrator 116 may be eliminated from the software configuration of the control apparatus 1.
4.6
In the above embodiment, in step S103 and the subsequent steps, the control apparatus 1 obtains the pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123. However, the pressure data 121 and the trajectory data 123 may be obtained in periods other than in the above example. The pressure data 121 may be obtained in any period that includes the period for the attempt of picking up the workpiece W and the period for the search performed in step S106. The period may be determined as appropriate in each embodiment. The trajectory data 123 may be obtained in any period that includes the period for the search performed in step S106. The period may be determined as appropriate in each embodiment. In the above procedure, upon determining in step S111 that the suction head 30 has yet to pick up the workpiece W, the control unit 11 may skip the operation in step S122 and repeat the process again from step S106.
1. A control apparatus for controlling a motion of a robot device, the robot device comprising a suction head to pick up a workpiece using compressed air and a pressure sensor to detect pressure of the compressed air, the control apparatus comprising a processor configured with a program to perform operations comprising:
operation as a movement controller configured to cause the robot device to move the suction head to a predetermined position at which the workpiece is fed; operation as a suction controller configured to cause the robot device to attempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head at the predetermined position; operation as a determiner configured to determine whether the suction head has picked up the workpiece in the attempt based on a detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor; operation as a searcher configured to cause, in response to determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, the robot device to rotationally move the suction head spirally in a horizontal direction while causing the suction head to perform a suction operation for the workpiece using the compressed air; and operation as an estimator configured to estimate a direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position based on a change in the pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the rotational movement of the suction head, wherein the processor is configured with the program to perform operations such that
in response to the determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, operation as the movement controller comprises causing the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction, and
after the suction head is further moved in the estimated direction, operation as the suction controller comprises causing the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head.
2. The control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the processor is configured with the program to perform operations such that
operation as the estimator further comprises estimating a distance between the predetermined position and a position of the workpiece based on a change in the pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the rotational movement of the suction head,
in response to the determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, operation as the movement controller further comprises causing the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, and
after the suction head is further moved in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, operation as the suction controller further comprises causing the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head.
3. The control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the processor is configured with the program to perform operations such that operation as the estimator configured to estimate the direction in which the workpiece is located further comprises:
dividing a trajectory of the rotational movement into a plurality of sections about an axis of the rotational movement,
identifying, of the plurality of sections, a section with a highest pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor, and
using a direction in which the identified section is located with respect to the predetermined position as the direction in which the workpiece is located.
4. The control apparatus according to claim 3, wherein
the processor is configured with the program to perform operations as the estimator such that identifying the section with the highest pressure of the compressed air comprises identifying a section comprising a detection point with a highest pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor.
5. The control apparatus according to claim 3, wherein
the processor is configured with the program to perform operations as the estimator such that identifying the section with the highest pressure of the compressed air comprises
calculating an average of pressure values of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor for each of the plurality of sections, and
identifying, of the plurality of sections, a section with a greatest calculated average of the pressure.
6. The control apparatus according to claim 3, wherein
the spiral rotational movement comprises a plurality of turns each with a different diameter, and the processor is configured with the program to perform operations such that
operation as the estimator further comprises estimating a distance between the predetermined position and a position of the workpiece based on comparison between pressure values of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor in different turns of the plurality of turns in the identified section,
in response to the determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, operation as the movement controller comprises causing the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, and
after the suction head is further moved in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, operation as the suction controller comprises causing the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head.
7. The control apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the processor is configured with the program to perform operations such that operation as the estimator comprising estimating the distance between the predetermined position and the position of the workpiece based on the comparison between the pressure values of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor in the different turns of the plurality of turns in the identified section comprises
identifying, of the plurality of turns, a turn with a highest pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor in the identified section, and estimating the distance between the predetermined position and the position of the workpiece based on the diameter of the identified turn.
8. The control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the processor is configured with the program to perform operations such that operation as the estimator configured to estimate the direction in which the workpiece is located further comprises:
identifying a detection point with a highest pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor, and
using a direction in which the identified detection point is located with respect to the predetermined position as the direction in which the workpiece is located.
9. The control apparatus according to claim 8, wherein
the spiral rotational movement comprises a plurality of turns each with a different diameter, and the processor is configured with the program to perform operations such that
operation as the estimator further comprises estimating a distance between the predetermined position and a position of the workpiece based on a distance between the predetermined position and the identified detection point,
in response to the determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, operation as the movement controller comprises causing the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, and
after the suction head is further moved in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, operation as the suction controller comprises causing the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head.
10. The control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the processor is configured with the program to perform operations further comprising operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor, and the processor is configured with the program such that
operation as the searcher comprises causing the robot device to further displace the suction head vertically while causing the suction head to rotationally move spirally in the horizontal direction,
operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result comprises eliminating a difference between variations in pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the vertical displacement of the suction head and variations in pressure of the compressed air expected based on the vertical displacement of the suction head, and
operation as the estimator comprises using a calibrated result to estimate the direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position.
11. The control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the workpiece comprises a screw, and the robot device further comprises a screwdriver to rotate the screw sucked to the suction head about an axis of the screw.
12. A method for controlling a motion of a robot device, the robot device comprising a suction head to pick up a workpiece using compressed air and a pressure sensor to detect pressure of the compressed air, the method being implementable by a computer, the method comprising:
causing the robot device to move the suction head to a predetermined position at which the workpiece is fed; causing the robot device to attempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head at the predetermined position; determining whether the suction head has picked up the workpiece in the attempt based on a detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor; in response to determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, causing the robot device to rotationally move the suction head spirally in a horizontal direction while causing the suction head to perform a suction operation for the workpiece using the compressed air; estimating a direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position based on a change in the pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the rotational movement of the suction head; causing the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction; and causing, after further moving the suction head in the estimated direction, the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head.
13. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a control program for controlling a motion of a robot device, the robot device comprising a suction head to pick up a workpiece using compressed air and a pressure sensor to detect pressure of the compressed air, the control program, when read and executed, causing a computer to perform operations comprising:
causing the robot device to move the suction head to a predetermined position at which the workpiece is fed; causing the robot device to attempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head at the predetermined position; determining whether the suction head has picked up the workpiece in the attempt based on a detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor; in response to determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, causing the robot device to rotationally move the suction head spirally in a horizontal direction while causing the suction head to perform a suction operation for the workpiece using the compressed air; estimating a direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position based on a change in the pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the rotational movement of the suction head; causing the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction; and causing, after further moving the suction head in the estimated direction, the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head.
14. The control apparatus according to claim 4, wherein
the spiral rotational movement comprises a plurality of turns each with a different diameter, and the processor is configured with the program to perform operations such that
operation as the estimator further comprises estimating a distance between the predetermined position and a position of the workpiece based on comparison between pressure values of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor in different turns of the plurality of turns in the identified section,
in response to the determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, operation as the movement controller comprises causing the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, and
after the suction head is further moved in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, operation as the suction controller comprises causing the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head.
15. The control apparatus according to claim 5, wherein
the spiral rotational movement comprises a plurality of turns each with a different diameter, and the processor is configured with the program to perform operations such that
operation as the estimator further comprises estimating a distance between the predetermined position and a position of the workpiece based on comparison between pressure values of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor in different turns of the plurality of turns in the identified section,
in response to the determination that the suction head has yet to pick up the workpiece, operation as the movement controller comprises causing the robot device to further move the suction head in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, and
after the suction head is further moved in the estimated direction by the estimated distance, operation as the suction controller comprises causing the robot device to reattempt to pick up the workpiece with the suction head.
16. The control apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the processor is configured with the program to perform operations further comprising operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor, and
the processor is configured with the program such that
operation as the searcher comprises causing the robot device to further displace the suction head vertically while causing the suction head to rotationally move spirally in the horizontal direction,
operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result comprises eliminating a difference between variations in pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the vertical displacement of the suction head and variations in pressure of the compressed air expected based on the vertical displacement of the suction head, and
operation as the estimator comprises using a calibrated result to estimate the direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position.
17. The control apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the processor is configured with the program to perform operations further comprising operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor, and
the processor is configured with the program such that
operation as the searcher comprises causing the robot device to further displace the suction head vertically while causing the suction head to rotationally move spirally in the horizontal direction,
operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result comprises eliminating a difference between variations in pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the vertical displacement of the suction head and variations in pressure of the compressed air expected based on the vertical displacement of the suction head, and
operation as the estimator comprises using a calibrated result to estimate the direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position.
18. The control apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the processor is configured with the program to perform operations further comprising operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor, and
the processor is configured with the program such that
operation as the searcher comprises causing the robot device to further displace the suction head vertically while causing the suction head to rotationally move spirally in the horizontal direction,
operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result comprises eliminating a difference between variations in pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the vertical displacement of the suction head and variations in pressure of the compressed air expected based on the vertical displacement of the suction head, and
operation as the estimator comprises using a calibrated result to estimate the direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position.
19. The control apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the processor is configured with the program to perform operations further comprising operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor, and
the processor is configured with the program such that
operation as the searcher comprises causing the robot device to further displace the suction head vertically while causing the suction head to rotationally move spirally in the horizontal direction,
operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result comprises eliminating a difference between variations in pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the vertical displacement of the suction head and variations in pressure of the compressed air expected based on the vertical displacement of the suction head, and
operation as the estimator comprises using a calibrated result to estimate the direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position.
20. The control apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the processor is configured with the program to perform operations further comprising operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result of the pressure of the compressed air from the pressure sensor, and
the processor is configured with the program such that
operation as the searcher comprises causing the robot device to further displace the suction head vertically while causing the suction head to rotationally move spirally in the horizontal direction,
operation as a calibrator configured to calibrate the detection result comprises eliminating a difference between variations in pressure of the compressed air detected by the pressure sensor during the vertical displacement of the suction head and variations in pressure of the compressed air expected based on the vertical displacement of the suction head, and
operation as the estimator comprises using a calibrated result to estimate the direction in which the workpiece is located with respect to the predetermined position.
| 2020-01-16 | en | 2023-03-02 |
US-54588606-A | Static random access memory with thin oxide capacitor
ABSTRACT
An SRAM includes an SRAM cell with a semiconductor substrate material, and a capacitor. The capacitor includes a first electrode adjacent the substrate material, a thin oxide adjacent the first electrode and a second electrode adjacent the thin oxide.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to static random access memory devices (SRAMs) and methods for forming SRAMs.
To provide proper capacitance, deep trench capacitors, often used in DRAMs, are known.
Various types of MOS capacitors (MOS caps) are also known. Most single transistor (1T) SRAM cell capacitances are implemented using such MOS caps, as are 2T and 3T SRAM cell capacitances. These MOS caps, however, consume additional substrate area for the capacitor realization. 6T and 8T SRAM cells also may use MOS caps.
FIG. 1 shows schematically a prior art 3T SRAM core cell showing the location of a capacitor 20 between transistor 10 and transistor 12. Bit line write pad 14 connects to the source of transistor 10 and word line write pad 16 connects to the gate of transistor 10. The drain of transistor 10 connects to the gate of transistor 12. Capacitor 20 is connected electrically between the drain of transistor 10 and the gate of transistor 12, and provides the source for transistor 12. The drain of transistor 12 connects to the source for transistor 18, whose gate is connected to rod line read pad 22. The drain of transistor 18 provides the SRAM cell value via bit line read pad 24.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)
The present invention will be further described with reference to a preferred embodiment, in which:
FIG. 1 shows schematically a prior art 3T SRAM core cell showing the location of the capacitor;
FIG. 2 shows schematically one embodiment in partial layout view of the capacitance for a 3T SRAM cell according to the present invention;
FIG. 3 shows schematically a variation of the 3T SRAM cell capacitance of FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 shows the first electrode for an SRAM capacitor to be formed, between the isolation sections;
FIG. 5 shows a high-K thin oxide deposited over the FIG. 4 material;
FIG. 6 shows a photo resist mask over the high-K thin oxide;
FIG. 7 shows etching of the thin oxide to allow the thin oxide to remain over the first electrode;
FIG. 8 shows the depositing of the metal1 layer over the thin oxide and in contact with the contact to provide a capacitance for the SRAM cell; and
FIG. 9 shows a possible layout for a 6T single port synchronous SRAM using the capacitors as shown in FIG. 8.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides an SRAM comprising:
an SRAM cell including a semiconductor substrate material and a capacitor having a first electrode adjacent the substrate material, a thin oxide adjacent the first electrode, and a second electrode adjacent the thin oxide.
The present invention also provides a method for forming a capacitor for an SRAM comprising:
providing a semiconductor substrate;
providing a first electrode over the semiconductor substrate;
providing a thin oxide over the first electrode; and
providing a second electrode over the thin oxide.
The present invention also provides an SRAM comprising: an SRAM cell including a MOS transistor and a capacitor, the capacitor including a first electrode, a high-K thin oxide adjacent the first electrode, and a second electrode adjacent the thin oxide.
FIG. 2 shows schematically one embodiment in a partial MOS layout view of a capacitor 40 for a 3T SRAM 30 according to the present invention. Two contacts 32, 34 are provided over diffusion 44, and a third contact 36 is provided over diffusion 42. Polysilicon areas 46, 48 and 50 are provided as shown. Contact 32 may correspond to the bit line write shown in FIG. 1, contact 34 to Vss, and contact 32 to the bit line read. A CABAR (also known as a long hole CA local interconnect) electrode 60 is provided above diffusion 42 and a polysilicon area 46. Contact 36 connects to bit line write and CABAR electrode 60 (which forms one plate of the capacitor 20) connects to the source side of the write access transistor 10 and to the gate side of transistor 12. Metall1 can be at Vss, and forms the second plate of capacitor 20.
FIG. 3 shows schematically a variation of the 3T SRAM cell of FIG. 2, where the polysilicon area 148, diffusion 142 and contact 136 are moved leftward from the configuration of FIG. 3. Capacitor 40 can extend in direction D or any other available direction to add capacitance.
FIG. 4 shows a CABAR electrode 160 for an SRAM capacitor about to be formed. Substrate 70, for example an n-base silicon substrate, has diffusions 162 and 164 thereon. Shallow trench isolations (STIs) 72, 172 are formed in the substrate 70. A contact 236 is provided over diffusion 164 and separated from CABAR electrode 160 by an intermetal oxide 74. Another intermetal oxide 174 isolates the electrode 160 on the side opposite intermetal oxide 74.
FIG. 5 shows a high-K thin oxide 180 deposited over the FIG. 4 material. The thin oxide may be deposited by a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process for example, and may be for example made of titanium oxide or aluminum oxides. Other thin oxides may be used.
FIG. 6 shows a photo resist mask 182 over the thin oxide 180, and FIG. 7 illustrates etching of the thin oxide 180 in parts not covered by mask 182, and the removal of the photo resist mask 182. This step allows the thin oxide 180 to remain over the CABAR electrode 160, but need not be over intermetal oxides 174 and 74 or anywhere else not needed or wanted.
FIG. 8 shows metal1 layer M1 deposited over the thin oxide 180 and contact 235. The M1 layer, thin oxide layer 180 and CABAR electrode 160 thus define a capacitor 140 for use for example as capacitor 40 in an SRAM cell. The capacitor 140 may be used in any type of SRAM cell, for example 1T, 2T, 3T, 6T and 8T cells. Alternate to the embodiment shown, the thin oxide layer also could be etched to remain solely over the CABAR electrode 160, and oxides could be grown over the intermetal oxides 174, 74 before the metal1 layer is deposited.
FIG. 9 shows a possible layout for a 6T single port synchronous SRAM using the capacitors as shown in FIG. 8. Capacitors 340, 440 are provided over diffusions 330, 332, 334, which connect to polysilicon areas 360, 362, 364 and 366 and contacts 370, 371, 372, 373, 374, 375, 376 and 377 as shown.
Contacts 372, 373, 374 and 375 can connect via metal1 layer M1 to capacitors 340, 440 for a standard 6T SRAM cell implementation.
The use of the CABAR electrodes in the 6T SRAM cell assists in stabilizing cell charging and can help in preventing the cell content from flipping when hit by alpha radiation (SER: soft error rate).
The capacitance according to the present invention can be used for analog as well as digital circuits. Modern chips have a strongly increasing demand for large high density memories. The area consumptions of embedded memory already reach 50% of the total chip area and will increase in the future. High density SRAM cells thus are used to keep the memory area as small as possible, decrease the overall chip size and thus the production costs. Currently, the semiconductor industry faces a trend from the conventional 6T SRAM cell to a 1T/2T/3T cell type SRAM, to achieve higher density, better yield, lower soft error sensitivity and lower leakage currents. In contrast to a 6T cell the 1T/2T/3T cell needs a capacitor for charge storage and a refresh. The refresh rate of embedded 1 T/2t/3T memories can be much higher than for DRAMs and thus a smaller capacitance is feasible. One issue for the success of 1 T/2T/3T cells is the formation of a proper capacitance. The present invention provides a low cost, area saving implementation of a 1 T/2T/3T cell capacitance. In addition, the capacitance can be used as an area neutral improvement in 6T single Port and 8T dual Port cells.
Capacitance can be varied using collector sizes of CABAR and Metal1 as well as high-k material selection and high-k material thickness between CABAR and Metal1. CABAR as defined herein is a long-hole contact formed on the same level as the contacts using a similar process. Tungsten or other metals may be used for example as the CABAR material.
Surrounding as defined herein means surrounding to the sides in a layer, but need not mean surrounding above or below.
1. An SRAM comprising:
an SRAM cell including a semiconductor substrate material, and a capacitor including a first electrode adjacent the substrate material, a thin oxide adjacent the first electrode, and a second electrode adjacent the thin oxide.
2. The SRAM as recited in claim 1 wherein the first electrode is a CABAR electrode.
3. The SRAM as recited in claim 2 wherein the SRAM cell includes an interlayer dielectric surrounding the CABAR electrode.
4. The SRAM as recited in claim 1 wherein the substrate material includes a diffusion, the diffusion at least partially adjacent the first electrode.
5. The SRAM as recited in claim 4 wherein the SRAM cell further includes shallow trench isolations adjacent the diffusion.
6. The SRAM as recited in claim 5 wherein the SRAM cell includes an interlayer dielectric surrounding the first electrode, and located adjacent the shallow trench isolation.
7. The SRAM as recited in claim 1 wherein the thin oxide is a high-K dielectric.
8. The SRAM as recited in claim 1 wherein the second electrode is a metal1 layer.
9. The SRAM as recited in claim 1 wherein the metal1 layer is in contact with a contact, the contact being adjacent the substrate material, the contact and the first electrode being in a same plane.
10. The SRAM as recited in claim 1 wherein the SRAM cell further includes a second capacitor having a further electrode adjacent the substrate material, a further thin oxide over the further electrode, and a further electrode over the further thin oxide.
11. A method for forming a capacitor for an SRAM comprising:
providing a semiconductor substrate; providing a first electrode over the semiconductor substrate; providing a thin oxide over the first electrode; and providing a second electrode over the thin oxide.
12. The method as recited in claim 11 further comprising providing a shallow trench isolation in the semiconductor substrate.
13. The method as recited in claim 12 further comprising providing an interlayer dielectric over the shallow trench isolation.
14. The method as recited in claim 11 wherein the first electrode is a CABAR electrode.
15. The method as recited in claim 11 wherein the providing of the thin oxide over the first electrode includes chemical vapor deposition of the thin oxide, masking of the thin oxide over the first electrode, and etching of the thin oxide.
16. The method as recited in claim 11 wherein the providing of the second electrode includes depositing a metal1 layer over the thin oxide.
17. An SRAM comprising:
an SRAM cell including a MOS transistor and a capacitor, the capacitor including a first electrode, a high-K thin oxide oxide adjacent the first electrode, and a second electrode adjacent the thin oxide.
| 2006-10-11 | en | 2008-04-17 |
US-201715602053-A | Automatic Wax Dipping System
ABSTRACT
An automatic wax dipping system is an apparatus that dips multiple bottles into wax without the manual input of a user. The apparatus includes a basin, a first receptacle, a second receptacle, a first set of heating elements, a track mechanism, and a motorized belt. The basin upholds components of the apparatus. The first receptacle houses oil and the second receptacle houses wax. The first set of heating elements heat the oil which in turn heats the wax. The track mechanism includes a plurality of rails and an at least one motorized belt. The plurality of rails upholds multiple bottles and directs the path of multiple bottles across the present invention. The at least one motorized belt forces the multiple bottles through the plurality of rails in specific lengthwise sections where the multiple bottles may require additional force.
The current application claims a priority to the U.S. Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 62/339,273 filed on May 20, 2016. The current application is filed on May 22, 2017 while May 20, 2017 was on a weekend.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to automatic wax dipping system. More specifically, the present invention is an automatic wax dipping system that seals and protects the contents within a bottle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The sealing of bottles prevents liquid or other contents from spilling out in unwanted circumstances. Additionally, seals prevent harmful bacteria from entering the bottle, while also providing aesthetic looks through the incorporation of different shapes, colors, and artistic designs. One such type of seal is that of the wax type, which is heated to a liquid form before bottle necks are dipped into wax. There are various techniques used which allow for the application of wax onto bottle necks with non-drip style seals, however, such methods generally require the use of human interaction which result in human error and more mess.
It is therefore an objective of the present invention to introduce an automatic wax dipping system for bottles. The system is an automated and hands free in-line wax dipping system configured to apply a non-drip design wax seal to the neck of any type of glass bottle by inverting the bottle upside down and passing the bottle neck through a specific chemically formulated type of hot wax. Utilization of the present invention provides a tamper-proof seal on glass bottles which satisfy the legal requirements that allow for safe consumer purchasing. The present invention can be used as a stand-alone wax dipping system or can be integrated into a full bottling line. The system works for any bottle application, evenly dipping bottles into wax and does not require a tare tab, as the wax is specifically formulated to allow for twist off. The system allows full fluid filled bottles of any kind to be wax dipped to a specific desired height on the bottle neck. The system will be adjustable to fit any bottle needs as long as the fluid inside is completely leak proof sealed with either a cork, cap, or other sealing means that the bottle may require. Use of the present invention is practical, safe, and effective, as it eliminates many man hours of hand wax dipping.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a top side view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 along line 3-3 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a schematic view of the track mechanism of the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a front side view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, including the cooling mechanism.
FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION
All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
The present invention is an automatic wax dipping system that uniformly seals multiple bottles. The present invention seals multiple bottles without the need for manual guidance from a user. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the present invention comprises a basin 1, a first receptacle 4, a second receptacle 5, a first set of heating elements 8, and a track mechanism 9. The basin 1 upholds the first receptacle 4, the second receptacle 5, the first set of heating elements 8, and the track mechanism 9. The first receptacle 4 contains a quantity of oil, and the second receptacle 5 contains a quantity of liquid wax. The first set of heating elements 8 heats the oil within the first receptacle 4 which consequently heats the wax within the second receptacle 5. The track mechanism 9 directs multiple bottles across the present invention. The track mechanism 9 comprises a plurality of rails 10 and at least one motorized belt 21. The plurality of rails 10 defines the path of multiple bottles into the basin 1, through the wax within the second receptacle 5, and out of the basin 1. The plurality of rails 10 comprises at least one first rail 11 and at least one second rail 12. The at least one first rail 11 and the at least one second rail 12 upholds and secures multiple bottles as each bottle traverses across the present invention and is dipped into the wax. The at least one motorized belt 21 drives multiple bottles through the plurality of rails 10.
The overall configuration of the aforementioned components evenly dips multiple bottles through the heated quantity of liquid wax within the second receptacle 5. The first receptacle 4 and the first set of heating elements 8 are mounted within the basin 1 as to uphold and contain both the first receptacle 4 and the first set of heating elements 8, as seen in FIG. 3. The basin 1 allows the first set of heating elements 8 to heat the oil within the first receptacle 4 without damaging any nearby objects or surfaces. The first set of heating elements 8 is in thermal communication with the first receptacle 4 in order to heat the oil within the first receptacle 4. The second receptacle 5 is mounted within the first receptacle 4 so that the heated oil inadvertently heats the wax within the second receptacle 5. The plurality of rails 10 is mounted adjacent to the basin 1 and is suspended across an opening 2 of the basin 1, as illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. This arrangement allows multiple bottles to traverse across both the basin 1 and the second receptacle 5. In order to brace each bottle from opposing sides and to guide each bottle along the plurality of rails 10, the at least one first rail 11 and the at least one second rail 12 are parallel and offset to each other. In order for the multiple bottles to be removed from the wax contained within the second receptacle 5, without the user manually removing the bottles, the at least one motorized belt 21 is operatively integrated into a specific lengthwise section of the plurality of rails 13. The specific lengthwise section of the plurality of rails 13 is the section of the plurality of rails 10 that require additional force to maneuver the multiple bottles through the plurality of rails 10. The at least one motorized belt 21 is used to assist in transporting a bottle along the plurality of rails 10.
In order for the plurality of rails 10 to direct the path of multiple bottles across the present invention without having a user manually insert the bottle into the heated wax within the second receptacle 5, each of the plurality of rails 10 comprises a dipping portion 14, a descending portion 15, an ascending portion 16, a first inverting portion 17, a second inverting portion 18, an entering portion 19 and an exiting portion 20, as shown in FIG. 4. The dipping portion 14 defines the path of multiple bottles across the second receptacle 5 and positions multiple bottles at a specific height within the second receptacle 5. The descending portion 15 defines the path of multiple bottles into the second receptacle 5, and the ascending portion 16 defines the path of multiple bottles out of the second receptacle 5. The first inverting portion 17 flips the multiple bottles upside down so that the desired ends of the multiple bottles come into contact with the wax within the second receptacle 5, before traversing into the basin 1 through the descending portion 15. The second inverting portion 18 flips the bottles upright, once having passed through the second container and out of the basin 1 through the ascending portion 16. The entering portion 19 receives the multiple bottles, and the exiting portion 20 releases the multiple bottles that have traversed across the present invention.
The configuration of each portion of each of the plurality of rails 10 allows for the unhindered passage of multiple bottles through the plurality of rails 10. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of rails 10 comprises a linear structure from the entering portion 19 to the exiting portion 20, as shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4. The descending portion 15 is positioned adjacent to the dipping portion 14, and the ascending portion 16 is positioned adjacent to the dipping portion 14, opposite to the descending portion 15. This arrangement allows a bottle to enter into the basin 1, traverse across the second receptacle 5, and out of the basin 1 due to gravitational force in the descent and momentum in the ascent. The first inverting portion 17 is positioned adjacent to the descending portion 15, opposite to the dipping portion 14, in order for the bottle to be flipped upside down thereby correctly orienting the bottles and accelerating the bottles through the plurality of rails 10. The entering portion 19 is positioned adjacent to the first inverting portion 17, opposite the descending portion 15, so that the bottles are readily received within the plurality of rails 10. The second inverting portion 18 is positioned adjacent to the ascending portion 16, opposite to the dipping portion 14, in order to flip the bottle upright before the bottle exits the plurality of rails 10. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the specific lengthwise section is the dipping portion 14 and the ascending portion 16 as the momentum of the bottles is decreased by the wax within the second receptacle 5. The exiting portion 20 is positioned adjacent to the second inverting portion 18, opposite to the ascending portion 16, so the bottles are guided out of the grasp of the plurality of rails 10. In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of rails 10 comprises a U-shaped structure from the entering portion 19 to the exiting portion 20. More specifically, the dipping portion 14 of this alternate embodiment is curved, and the ascending portion 16 is oriented in the same direction as the descending portion 15.
The arrangement of each of the portions guides a continuous path for the multiple bottles into the basin 1, across the second receptacle 5, and out of the basin 1. More specifically, the descending portion 15 traverses into an opening 6 of the second receptacle 5 as the second receptacle 5 is resting within the basin 1 and is lower than the opening 6 of the second receptacle 5. This arrangement is shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 3. The dipping portion 14 traverses across the opening 6 of the second receptacle 5 in order for the bottle to be dipped into the wax within the second receptacle 5. The ascending portion 16 traverses out of the opening 6 of the second receptacle 5 in order for the bottle to exit past the basin 1. As the bottle traverses across the ascending portion 16, the hot wax has not yet dried. In order to prevent any wax from being wasted and from creating a mess, the preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a drip-catching trough 22. The drip-catching trough 22 is connected adjacent to the second receptacle 5 as to direct any excess wax back into the second receptacle 5. More specifically, the drip-catching trough 22 is positioned offset and along the ascending portion 16 as bottle traverses the ascending portion 16 following the dipping portion 14 of the plurality of rails 10.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a wax-refilling trough 23 allows the second receptacle 5 to be refilled while the present invention is in use, as illustrated in FIG. 3 and FIG. 6. The wax-refilling trough 23 is connected adjacent to the second receptacle 5 and is peripherally positioned to an opening 7 of the second receptacle 5. This allows the user to refill the second receptacle 5 without pouring wax into the opening 6 of the second receptacle 5 that is adjacent to the path of the bottles along the plurality of rails 10, thereby reducing or eliminating any mess. A second set of heating elements 25 aids in the heating of newly added wax into the second receptacle 5. The second set of heating elements 25 is mounted adjacent to the second receptacle 5 and is in thermal communication with the wax-refilling trough 23. This arrangement allows the wax entering the second receptacle 5 via the wax-refilling trough 23 to be heated upon entry into the second receptacle 5.
The preferred embodiment of the present invention further comprises a cooling mechanism 25, as shown in FIG. 5. The cooling mechanism 25 facilitates the drying process of the wax around the multiple bottles that exit the plurality of rails 10, thereby sealing each of the bottles. In order to effectively dry the wax around the bottles, the cooling mechanism 25 is mounted adjacent and offset from the plurality of rails 10 and is in thermal communication with the second inverting portion 18 and the exiting portion 20.
An embodiment of the present invention comprises plurality of legs 26 that elevate the basin 1. The plurality of legs 26 further distances the hot wax and hot oil, that are upheld by the basin 1, from surrounding objects and surfaces, as seen in FIG. 1, FIG. 3, FIG. 5, and FIG. 6. The plurality of legs 26 is positioned external to the basin 1 and is connected normal to a base 3 of the basin 1 so as to raise the basin 1. Furthermore, the plurality of legs 26 is peripherally positioned about the base 3 of the basin 1 as to structurally support the basin 1 and the components that are upheld by the basin 1.
Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a thermally-insulative layer 27, seen in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIG. 6. The thermally-insulative layer 27 reduces the transfer of heat from the first receptacle 4 and the second receptacle 5 to the surrounding environment. The thermally-insulative layer 27 is superimposed onto an internal surface 7 of the basin 1 as the basin 1 surround both the first receptacle 4 and the second receptacle 5 and contains the first set of heating elements 8. In the same embodiment of the present invention, a temperature-measuring gauge 28 provides the current temperature of the hot oil so that a user may vary the temperature of the first set of heating elements 8. The user knows how much to increase or decrease the temperature of the first set of heating elements 8 based on the current temperature reading of the hot oil in order to heat the hot wax accordingly. The temperature-measuring gauge 28 is in thermal communication with the first receptacle 4 as the first set of heating elements 8 is in thermal communication with the first receptacle 4.
Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.
What is claimed is:
1. An automatic wax dipping system comprises:
a basin; a first receptacle; a second receptacle; a first set of heating elements; a track mechanism; the track mechanism comprises a plurality of rails and an at least one motorized belt; the plurality of rails comprises at least one first rail and at least one second rail; the first receptacle and the first set of heating elements being mounted within the basin; the first set of heating elements being in thermal communication with the first receptacle; the second receptacle being mounted within the first receptacle; the plurality of rails being mounted adjacent to the basin; the plurality of rails being suspended across an opening of the basin; the at least one first rail and the at least one second rail being parallel and offset to each other; and the at least one motorized belt being operatively integrated into a specific lengthwise section of the plurality of rails, wherein the at least one motorized belt is used to assist in transporting a bottle along the plurality of rails.
2. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
each of the plurality of rails comprises a dipping portion, a descending portion, an ascending portion, a first inverting portion, a second inverting portion, an entering portion, and an exiting portion;
the descending portion being positioned adjacent to the dipping portion;
the ascending portion being positioned adjacent to the dipping portion, opposite to the descending portion;
the first inverting portion being positioned adjacent to the descending portion, opposite to the dipping portion;
the entering portion being positioned adjacent to the first inverting portion, opposite to the descending portion;
the second inverting portion being positioned adjacent to the ascending portion, opposite to the dipping portion;
the exiting portion being positioned adjacent to the second inverting portion, opposite to the ascending portion;
3. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the specific lengthwise section being the dipping portion and the ascending portion.
4. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 2 comprises:
the descending portion traversing into an opening of the second receptacle;
the dipping portion traversing across the opening of the second receptacle; and
the ascending portion traversing out of the opening of the second receptacle.
5. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 2 comprises:
a drip-catching trough;
the drip-catching trough being connected adjacent to the second receptacle; and
the drip-catching trough being positioned offset and along the ascending portion.
6. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 2 comprises:
a cooling mechanism;
the cooling mechanism being mounted adjacent and offset from the plurality of rails; and
the cooling mechanism being in thermal communication with second inverting portion and the exiting portion.
7. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
a wax-refilling trough;
the wax-refilling trough being connected adjacent to the second receptacle; and
the wax-refilling trough being peripherally positioned to an opening of the second receptacle.
8. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 7 comprises:
a second set of heating elements;
the second set of heating elements being mounted adjacent to the second receptacle; and
the second set of heating elements being in thermal communication with the wax-refilling trough.
9. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
a plurality of legs;
the plurality of legs being positioned external to the basin;
the plurality of legs being connected normal to a base of the basin; and
the plurality of legs being peripherally positioned about the base of the basin.
10. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
a thermally-insulative layer; and
the thermally-insulative layer being superimposed onto an internal surface of the basin.
11. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
a temperature-measuring gauge; and
the temperature-measuring gauge being in thermal communication with the first receptacle.
12. An automatic wax dipping system comprises:
a basin; a first receptacle; a second receptacle; a first set of heating elements; a track mechanism; a motorized belt; the track mechanism comprises a plurality of rails and an at least one motorized belt; the plurality of rails comprises at least one first rail and at least one second rail; each of the plurality of rails comprises a dipping portion, a descending portion, an ascending portion, a first inverting portion, a second inverting portion, an entering portion, and an exiting portion; the first receptacle and the first set of heating elements being mounted within the basin; the first set of heating elements being in thermal communication with the first receptacle; the second receptacle being mounted within the first receptacle; the plurality of rails being mounted adjacent to the basin; the plurality of rails being suspended across an opening of the basin; the at least one first rail and the at least one second rail being parallel and offset to each other; the at least one motorized belt being operatively integrated into a specific lengthwise section of the plurality of rails, wherein the at least one motorized belt is used to assist in transporting a bottle along the plurality of rails; the descending portion being positioned adjacent to the dipping portion; the ascending portion being positioned adjacent to the dipping portion, opposite to the descending portion; the first inverting portion being positioned adjacent to the descending portion, opposite to the dipping portion; the entering portion being positioned adjacent to the first inverting portion, opposite to the descending portion; the second inverting portion being positioned adjacent to the ascending portion, opposite to the dipping portion; and the exiting portion being positioned adjacent to the second inverting portion, opposite to the ascending portion.
13. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 12, wherein the specific lengthwise section being the dipping portion and the ascending portion.
14. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
the descending portion traversing into an opening of the second receptacle;
the dipping portion traversing across the opening of the second receptacle; and
the ascending portion traversing out of the opening of the second receptacle.
15. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
a drip-catching trough;
the drip-catching trough being connected adjacent to the second receptacle; and
the drip-catching trough being positioned offset and along the ascending portion.
16. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
a wax-refilling trough;
a second set of heating elements;
the wax-refilling trough being connected adjacent to the second receptacle;
the wax-refilling trough being peripherally positioned to an opening of the second receptacle;
the second set of heating elements being mounted adjacent to the second receptacle; and
the second set of heating elements being in thermal communication with the wax-refilling trough.
17. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
a cooling mechanism;
the cooling mechanism being mounted adjacent and offset from the plurality of rails; and
the cooling mechanism being in thermal communication with second inverting portion and the exiting portion.
18. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
a plurality of legs;
the plurality of legs being positioned external to the basin;
the plurality of legs being connected normal to a base of the basin; and
the plurality of legs being peripherally positioned about the base of the basin.
19. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
a thermally-insulative layer; and
the thermally-insulative layer being superimposed onto an internal surface of the basin.
20. The automatic wax dipping system as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
a temperature-measuring gauge; and
the temperature-measuring gauge being in thermal communication with the first receptacle.
| 2017-05-22 | en | 2017-11-23 |
US-201414301356-A | Lamp with led light bulb
ABSTRACT
A lamp includes a light fixture mounted on a pole. The light fixture includes a transparent or translucent housing, and a solar energy collecting portion mounted on the light fixture. The solar energy collecting portion includes a top solar photovoltaic panel and side solar photovoltaic panels for collecting and converting incident solar energy to electricity. An electrical power source is mounted on the solar energy collecting portion. At least one LED light bulb is mounted on the base. The LED light bulb includes one or more LED lights mounted on a substrate provided with electrical wiring and housed in a transparent or translucent bulb enclosure. The substrate is mounted at one end of a slender stem.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to lamps, and particularly to a lamp with a light-emitting diode (LED) light bulb, such as for but not limited to, a street lamp or a garden lamp.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Outdoor solar lamps are known, such as for streets or gardens. These lamps generally consist of one or more solar modules, electrical storage means for storing electrical energy connected to the solar module and one or more bulbs that are illuminated by solar power.
Incandescent light bulbs are disadvantageous for use in such lamps. One reason is that incandescent light bulbs draw significant power, and since the lamp must work all night, the light bulb may not provide enough light towards the end of the night. The lifetime of the bulb is also shortened.
Solid state devices, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), have been used to replace conventional light sources such as incandescent, halogen and fluorescent lamps. LEDs have substantially higher light conversion efficiencies than incandescent and halogen lamps and longer lifetimes than all three of these types of conventional light sources. Some LEDs have higher conversion efficiencies than fluorescent light sources. LEDs require lower voltages than fluorescent lamps and contain no mercury or other potentially dangerous materials, therefore, providing various safety and environmental benefits.
However, the typical LED has a diffuse emission pattern that spans a hemispherical arc. This emission pattern may limit the use of LED light sources, or other solid state lighting devices, as replacements for conventional light sources for incandescent, halogen and fluorescent lamps, which emit light in all directions. An LED light source that is used in an incandescent light bulb, for example, may result in undesired dark spots in the downward direction.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention seeks to provide an improved lamp with an LED light bulb, such as a solar powered LED light bulb, as is described more in detail hereinbelow.
There is thus provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention a lamp including a light fixture mounted on a pole, the light fixture including a transparent or translucent housing, a solar energy collecting portion mounted on the light fixture, the solar energy collecting portion including a top solar photovoltaic panel and side solar photovoltaic panels for collecting and converting incident solar energy to electricity, an electrical power source mounted on the solar energy collecting portion, and at least one LED light bulb mounted on the base, the base providing electrical connection from the solar photovoltaic panels to the electrical power source, and from the electrical power source to LED light bulb, wherein the at least one LED light bulb includes one or more LED lights mounted on a substrate provided with electrical wiring and housed in a transparent or translucent bulb enclosure, the substrate being mounted at one end of a slender stem, whose opposite end is mounted on an end portion of the light bulb, and wherein electrical wires are disposed through the stem to electrically connect the substrate and the LEDs to the electrical power source.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention will be understood and appreciated more fully from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in which:
FIGS. 1-4 are simplified perspective illustrations of LED light bulbs, constructed and operative in accordance with different non-limiting embodiments of the present invention;
FIGS. 5 and 6 are simplified perspective and cutaway illustrations, respectively, of a lamp with LED light bulbs, constructed and operative in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a simplified perspective illustration of a solar energy collecting portion of the lamp, constructed and operative in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 8 is a simplified perspective illustration of an underside of the solar energy collecting portion, showing the mounting provision for the LEDs; and
FIG. 9 is a simplified perspective illustration of reflectors in the lamp, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
Reference is now made to FIGS. 1-4, which illustrate a LED light bulb 10, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
The light bulb 10 includes one or more LED lights 12 mounted on a substrate 14 provided with electrical wiring (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). Substrate 14 is mounted at one end of a slender stem 16, whose opposite end extends from an end portion of light bulb 10, such as a socket base 18. Socket base 18 has electrical contacts 20 (FIG. 4) for effecting electrical communication with an electrical power source (e.g., batteries, not shown here). Electrical wires 22 are disposed through stem 16 to electrically connect substrate 14 (and LEDs 12) to socket base 18 (and electrical contacts 20). Socket base 18 provides convenient electrical connection and allows easy replacement of the bulb. However, in an alternative embodiment, the light bulb 10 may be connected with no socket base and hard-wired to some base or motherboard in lamp 30 described below.
Light bulb 10 includes a transparent or translucent bulb enclosure 24 (e.g., fully transparent, semi-transparent, milky and others), which may be air-tight and water-proof, depending on the application. LED light bulb 10 thus mimics the structure of an incandescent light bulb. There is no need for filling the bulb enclosure 24 with inert gases or a making a vacuum therein. In an alternative embodiment, LED lights 12 are mounted on substrate 14 at the end of slender stem 16 with no bulb enclosure 24.
The LEDs 12 may be of any size, mcd rating, and color (e.g., white, red, green, blue, yellow or other non-white colors, or a RGB (red, green, blue) changing LED, or any combination thereof). “White” is defined as the color that has no or little hue, due to the reflection of all or almost all incident light. “White” in the specification and claims encompasses, bright white, warm white, “dirty” white, off-white, gray-white, snow white, hard-boiled-egg white and other shades of white. The colors of the lights may be programmed to change at predefined or random intervals, providing stunning lighting effects.
The LEDs 12 may be distributed in any mounting pattern on substrate 14. FIGS. 1-3 illustrate three examples of mounting patterns on substrate 14 and the possibilities are virtually limitless. A preferred pattern is shown in FIG. 3. In this embodiment, there are four LED lights 12 mounted at the east, south, west and north positions, plus another four LED lights 12 mounted at the northeast, northwest, southeast and southwest positions. The northeast, northwest, southeast and southwest LED lights 12 are tilted approximately 45° to face the northeast, northwest, southeast and southwest directions, respectively. There may be an additional number (without limitation, two or three) of LED lights 12 mounted at the central portion of substrate 14. In the pattern of FIG. 3, light emanates omnidirectionally (360°) out from the light bulb, enhancing the luminescence of the bulb.
The invention is not limited to the number of LEDs or light bulbs, which may be of any size.
Reference is now made to FIGS. 5-8, which illustrate a lamp 30 with LED light bulbs 10, constructed and operative in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.
Lamp 30 includes a light fixture 32 mounted on a pole 34. Light fixture 32 includes a transparent or translucent housing 36 on top of which is mounted a solar energy collecting portion 38, shown more in detail in FIG. 7.
The solar energy collecting portion 38 includes a top solar photovoltaic panel 40 and (preferably, but not necessarily, four) side solar photovoltaic panels 42 for collecting and converting incident solar energy to electricity. The top solar photovoltaic panel 40 is generally horizontal, although it could be slanted to face the majority of the sunlight that impinges thereon during the day. The side solar photovoltaic panels 42 are slanted to face the majority of the sunlight that impinges thereon during the day. In one embodiment, the light fixture 32 is static and the side solar photovoltaic panels 42 constantly face in four different directions. In another embodiment, the light fixture 32 is mounted for rotation on pole 34 and a motor with solar sensors and control electronics (not shown) are provided for rotating light fixture 32 during the day hours so the solar energy is distributed more evenly among the side solar photovoltaic panels 42.
The electricity is stored in batteries 44 (FIG. 7) mounted at a base 46 of solar energy collecting portion 38. Base 46 may include a PCB for providing the electrical connection from the solar photovoltaic panels 40 and 42 to the batteries 44, and from batteries 44 to LEDs 12. As seen in FIG. 8, the LED light bulb 10 is mounted on an underside of base 46. (More than one light bulb may be used.) The mounting provisions for batteries 44 are indicated in FIG. 8. LED light bulb 10 faces downwards, so that its emission pattern is also correctly directed downwards for optimal illumination.
The LEDs 12 and batteries 44 may advantageously be low voltage, such as but not limited to, 3-4 V (e.g., batteries 44 may be lithium phosphate batteries). In this manner, the invention advantageously uses low power in a solar outdoor application, in contrast with prior art outdoor solar systems that use 12 V LEDs and higher voltage batteries with more complicated circuitry.
An intermediate substrate 48 may be disposed in solar energy collecting portion 38 between the top solar photovoltaic panel 40 and base 46. The intermediate substrate 48 may be used to mount further control electronics and sensors thereupon. It may also provide support for the solar photovoltaic panels. The intermediate substrate 48 may also serve as a thermal-insulating barrier between the top solar photovoltaic panel 40 and base 46, so that electrical components are better cooled without getting heated by the sun.
As seen in FIG. 9, a first reflector 50, such as a conical or parabolic reflector, may be provided in light fixture 32 to reflect light from LEDs 12 to a second reflective surface 52 (FIG. 8), such as a reflective surface on the underside of base 46.
It is noted that in alternative embodiments, instead of solar power, the LEDs may be powered by AC or DC power from mains or other sources, with appropriate adaptors, inverters, rectifiers, converters, etc., as needed.
It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited by what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the features described hereinabove as well as modifications and variations thereof which would occur to a person of skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description and which are not in the prior art.
1. A lamp comprising:
a light fixture mounted on a pole, said light fixture comprising a transparent or translucent housing; a solar energy collecting portion mounted on said light fixture, said solar energy collecting portion comprising a top solar photovoltaic panel and side solar photovoltaic panels for collecting and converting incident solar energy to electricity; an electrical power source mounted on said solar energy collecting portion; and at least one LED light bulb mounted on a base, said base providing electrical connection from said solar photovoltaic panels to said electrical power source, and from said electrical power source to said at least one LED light bulb, wherein said at least one LED light bulb comprises LED lights mounted on a planar top surface of a substrate provided with electrical wiring and housed in a transparent or translucent bulb enclosure, said substrate being mounted at one end of a slender stem, whose opposite end extends from an end portion of said LED light bulb, and wherein electrical wires are disposed through said stem to electrically connect said LED lights to said electrical power source, and wherein at least one of said LED lights is mounted perpendicular to said top surface and projects light outwards parallel to said top surface, and at least one of said LED lights is mounted parallel to said top surface and projects light outwards perpendicular to said top surface.
2. The lamp according to claim 1, wherein said top solar photovoltaic panel is generally horizontal.
3. The lamp according to claim 1, wherein said side solar photovoltaic panels are slanted to face a majority of sunlight that impinges thereon during a day.
4. The lamp according to claim 1, wherein said light fixture is static and said side solar photovoltaic panels constantly face in different directions.
5. The lamp according to claim 1, further comprising an intermediate substrate disposed in said solar energy collecting portion between said top solar photovoltaic panel and said base.
6. The lamp according to claim 5, wherein said intermediate substrate serves as a thermal-insulating barrier between said top solar photovoltaic panel and said base.
7-8. (canceled)
9. A lamp comprising:
a light fixture comprising a transparent or translucent housing; an electrical power source; and at least one LED light bulb mounted in said light fixture and in electrical connection with said electrical power source, wherein said at least one LED light bulb comprises LED lights mounted on a planar top surface of a substrate provided with electrical wiring, said substrate being mounted at one end of a slender stem, and wherein electrical wires are disposed through said stem to electrically connect said LED lights to said electrical power source, and wherein at least one of said LED lights is mounted perpendicular to said top surface and projects light outwards parallel to said top surface, and at least one of said LED lights is mounted parallel to said top surface and projects light outwards perpendicular to said top surface.
10. The lamp according to claim 1, wherein the LED lights that are mounted perpendicular to said top surface and which project light outwards parallel to said top surface comprise a plurality of LED lights mounted at east, south, west and north positions.
11. The lamp according to claim 9, wherein the LED lights that are mounted perpendicular to said top surface and which project light outwards parallel to said top surface comprise a plurality of LED lights mounted at east, south, west and north positions.
| 2014-06-11 | en | 2015-12-17 |
US-3995808-A | Inhibition of paint-product skin formation
ABSTRACT
Paint in a container is inhibited against skinning by providing a layer of a barrier material comprising an inhibiting composition having a boiling point of at least 250° C. and optionally water on the upper surface the bulk paint in the container.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/892,685 filed Mar. 2, 2007 the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND
The formation of insoluble films on the interior surfaces of the lid and exposed wall surfaces of a paint container filled with paint is commonly referred to as “skinning.” The present invention relates to a composition and method for inhibiting the formation of such paint product skin inside a paint container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a container useful in connection with the present invention.
FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a container useful in connection with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Skinning in paint containers is believed to result from temperature differences between the bulk paint in the container and paint that splashes onto the lid and/or non-submerged interior walls of the container. Because the thermal heat capacity of the paint/lid combination is less than the heat capacity of the bulk paint/container combination, temperature differences will occur as the ambient temperature changes. Skinning may be a part of the drying process caused by the transfer of moisture from liquid paint adhering to the non-submerged surfaces of the paint container (e.g. lid and/or non-submerged walls of the container) to the bulk paint as a result of these temperature differences. Without being limited to any particular theory, it is believed that the present invention minimizes skin formation in a filled container of paint by slowing down the water transfer rate between the lid and exposed wall surfaces and the bulk paint when temperature gradients are present and/or serving as a barrier to minimize paint splashing onto the interior surfaces.
The present invention comprises a method and composition for preventing skin formation on the interior surfaces of the lid and exposed interior wall surfaces of a vessel filled with paint. The method of the present invention comprises delivering a paint composition to a vessel closeable at its top with a lid and delivering a sufficient quantity of a barrier material comprising a skin formation inhibiting composition to the open vessel to provide a layer of the barrier material, which substantially covers the top surface of the paint composition. Delivery of the barrier material can be accomplished prior to, simultaneously with, or after delivery of the paint composition to the vessel. In one useful embodiment, the barrier material is delivered to the vessel after delivery of the paint composition is completed. The delivery of liquid materials to the vessel can be accomplished by hand or by the addition of a barrier material delivery means to apparatus already appropriate for vessel filling as is known in the art. Examples of delivery means include shower head or faucet type dispensing means such as those illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 5,911,257 which is hereby incorporated by reference. After the barrier material is added to the container, the container is closed without intentionally mixing the barrier material into the paint composition so as to maintain a floating layer of barrier material on the upper surface of the latex paint.
Vessels employed to house paint compositions are known. In one embodiment, suitable vessels have a lid that securely closes the vessel. Paint vessels include metal cans as are known in the art. Such metal cans are typically cylindrical and are available in various sizes to hold different volumes of paint, such as quarts and gallons. In recent years, plastic paint containers have been introduced to the industry. Such plastic paint containers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,530,500 and 6,983,862, which are incorporated herein by reference. In addition, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate embodiments of such plastic paint containers. Such containers may comprise a container 2 with one or more sidewalls 4, for example four sidewalls. The containers may also comprise a neck 6 defining a container opening, which may be a wide-mouth opening, which mates with a lid 8. The neck may comprise threads 9 to mate with threads on the lid. The container may also have an integral handle 10 for lifting the container. In addition, in one useful embodiment, the container may have a spout 12. The spout 12 may be molded into the container neck 6 or may a separate piece added as an insert to the container. The lid 8 for such containers may be flat or may have a stepped surface such as the lid shown in FIG. 1 or in FIGS. 8 a-8 c of U.S. Pat. No. 6,983,862, which are incorporated by reference. In some embodiments, such paint containers may also include a bail handle 14. Plastic containers as discussed herein may be in various sizes including gallon and quart sizes and usually have an effective packing footprint similar to conventional metal paint cans.
The present invention also comprises a paint container containing a quantity of paint having and the barrier material of the present invention. In one embodiment of the invention, the barrier material floats on a substantial portion of the top surface of the bulk paint in the container. In one useful embodiment, the layer of barrier material is maintained as a distinct layer on the top of the paint and intentionally is not mixed with the paint. However, some mixing of the barrier material with the paint during normal movement of the paint containers.
A sufficient amount of the barrier material may be used to minimize or prevent skin formation by the paint during normal storing and transit activities. In one embodiment, about 0.4 ounce to about 8 ounces of the barrier material may be used, including but not limited to about 0.5, about 0.75, about 1, about 1.5, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, and about 7 ounces. For example, about 0.75 ounces may be appropriate for a quart container, about 2 ounces of barrier material may be appropriate for a one gallon container, while about 6 ounces of barrier material may be appropriate for a 5 gallon container. However, other amounts may be used as appropriate for the type and handling of a particular container. The barrier material may have a thickness of about 1/16 of an inch to about ½ inch, for example about ⅛ inch, further for example about ¼ inch.
The present invention is discussed as being useful in connection with latex paints. Such paints typically are air-drying aqueous coatings containing the organic polymeric binder, pigments and various known paint additives. The polymeric binders are typically prepared by emulsion polymerization and include for example, acrylic latexes including but not limited to vinyl acrylic and styrene acrylic and ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers (EVA or VAE). The present invention may also be useful with other types of paints where skinning may be an issue.
In one embodiment of the invention, the barrier material may comprise an inhibiting composition that is less dense than the paint composition and is sufficiently compatible with the paint composition to produce substantially no detrimental effects when mixed with the paint composition. It is useful for the barrier material and/or inhibiting composition to have lower volatility than the volatile portion of the paint being protected. For example, the barrier material may be used in connection with a latex paint wherein the volatile component typically comprises water and/or organic solvent.
The barrier material may comprise one or more inhibiting compounds that have a boiling point of at least about 250° C. or greater than about 250° C. at standard atmospheric pressure (760 mmHg). In one embodiment, the barrier material may comprise one or more inhibiting compounds that have a boiling point of at least or greater than about 250° C., for example, at least or greater than about 260° C., and further for example, at least or greater than about 280° C., and even further for example, at least or greater than about 285° C. In an alternative embodiment, the barrier material may comprise one or more inhibiting compounds that are solids at room temperature. Such high boiling compounds or solids are typically considered to be compliant with new more stringent standards relating to the content of volatile organic compounds (VOC) in paint compositions. Several of the inhibiting compositions mentioned herein are considered to have low or no VOC content.
In one embodiment, the barrier material may comprise one or more polyhydric polyols that have a boiling point of at least or greater than about 250° C., for example, at least or greater than about 260° C., and further for example, at least or greater than about 280° C., and even further for example, at least or greater than about 285° C. Examples of useful polyols having boiling points of at least about 250° C. including but are not limited to polyethylene glycol (Average molecular weight of at least 200), pentaerythritol, trimethylol ethane, trimethylol propane, glycerin, sorbitol, and triethanol ethane. In one embodiment, the barrier material may comprise a mixture of the high boiling polyols with water. Mixtures useful for inhibiting skin formation comprise mixtures of about 12.5% polyol with water up to 100% polyol alone. For example, in one embodiment of the invention, about 12.5% to about 75% by volume polyol may be mixed with water. Such mixtures may include about 25% polyol, about 37.5% polyol, and about 50% polyol, with the remainder of the mixture being water. In one embodiment, the mixtures are prepared mixing the components by volume. However, it is contemplated by the present invention that the barrier material can be prepared by mixing the components by weight as well.
In one useful embodiment of the invention, the barrier material comprises a mixture of glycerin with water wherein the glycerin comprises from about 12.5% glycerin up to about 75% glycerin (by volume). Such mixtures may include about 25% glycerin, about 37.5% glycerin, and about 50% glycerin.
In another useful embodiment, polyethylene glycol having a molecular mass of about 200 to about 600 may be useful. Such polyethylene glycols may be mixed with water up to about 50% by volume. In another embodiment, solids such as sorbitol, triethanol ethane, trimethylol propane, pentaerythritol, and trimethylol ethane dissolved in water may be useful. For example, these polyols may be mixed at about 10%, about 25%, or about 50% by weight with water may be used. In addition, various other water soluble polyhydric alcohols may also be useful in the present invention.
Another example of a compound useful as or as part of a barrier material is mineral oil. In some cases, mineral oil may be used alone or in combination with other materials as a defoamer in paint compositions. The mineral oil or mineral oil based defoamer may be used alone or mixed with up to about 50% by weight water, for example about 10% or about 25% by weight. In another useful embodiment, alcoholic amines, such as triethanol amine may be useful. The triethanol amine may be mixed with water to be used in a barrier material. Other commercially available additives may also be useful such as humectants or paint conditioners such as Humectant GRB2 available from Noveon or FLOETROL® paint conditioner available from Flood. Such additives may be mixed with up to 50% by volume water to be used as a barrier material in a paint container.
In another useful embodiment, the barrier material may contain a preservative composition. The preservative may be present in an effective amount to prevent, reduce or minimize bacterial and/or fungal growth in the paint or within the barrier material itself. Useful preservatives include but are not limited to bronopol (2-bromo-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol), glutaraldehyde, 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one/2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, 1-(3-chloroallyl)-3,5,7-triaza-1-azoniaadamantane chloride, hexahydro-1,3,5-tris(2-hydroxyethyl)-s-triazine, polyaminopropyl biguanide, and mixtures of the foregoing. Preservatives may be included in the barrier material at amounts such as up to about 10,000 ppm. As another example, the preservative may be included as amounts such as up to about 1%. Various preservative materials are commercially available such as DOWICIL 75 from Dow Chemical, KATHON CGICP and CGICP-II from Rohm & Haas, PROXEL GXL, TRIADINE 174, REPUTAIN B30 and K50, and VANTOCIL IB all from Arch Chemical.
In preparing the barrier materials for the present invention, the components could be mixed by simply stirring or by using equipment such as a high speed disperser or a thindown tank. The barrier material may be prepared by adding water, the skin-inhibiting material, such as glycerin, and the biocide in any order and mixing the components together. In some embodiments, it may be useful to mix the biocide and water first before adding the skin-inhibiting material to the mixture.
While the present invention has been illustrated by the description of embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicants to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the specific details, the representative apparatus, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant's general inventive concept.
1. A method of inhibiting non-dispersible paint skin formation on non-submerged surfaces of a container containing paint, wherein the paint has an upper surface exposed to air within the container, comprising:
(a) providing a barrier material comprising an inhibiting composition having a boiling point of at least about 250° C.; (b) disposing a layer of the barrier material over the upper exposed surface of the paint in the container to provide a layer of barrier material which floats on a substantial portion of the upper surface of the paint; (c) closing the container while maintaining the layer of barrier material on the upper surface of the paint.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the inhibiting composition comprises a polyol having a boiling point of at least about 250° C.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the inhibiting composition is selected from polyethylene glycol, glycerin, sorbitol, trimethylol ethane, triethanol ethane, trimethylol propane, and pentaerythritol.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein the barrier material further comprises water.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the inhibiting composition comprises mineral oil.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the inhibiting composition is glycerin and the barrier material further comprises water.
7. The method of claim 6 wherein the barrier material comprises about 12.5% to about 75% by volume glycerin.
8. The method of claim 7 wherein the barrier material comprises about 50% by volume glycerin.
9. The method of claim 7 wherein the barrier material comprises about 37.5% by volume glycerin.
10. The method of claim 1 wherein the inhibiting composition comprises triethanol amine.
11. The method of claim 1 wherein disposing a layer of the barrier material over the upper exposed surface of the paint comprises disposing about 0.4 to about 8 ounces of barrier material.
12. The method of claim 1 wherein disposing a layer of the aqueous glycerin mixture over the upper exposed surface of the paint comprises disposing about 2 to about 6 ounces of barrier material.
13. The method of claim 1 wherein the barrier material comprises a preservative.
14. The method of claim 13 wherein the preservative is selected from 2-bromo-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol, glutaraldehyde, 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one/2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, 1-(3-chloroallyl)-3,5,7-triaza-1-azoniaadamantane chloride, hexahydro-1,3,5-tris(2-hydroxyethyl)-s-triazine, polyaminopropyl biguanide, and mixtures thereof.
15. A method of inhibiting non-dispersible, water insoluble, paint skin formation on non-submerged surfaces of a container containing paint, wherein the filled paint has an upper surface exposed to air within the container comprising:
(a) delivering a paint composition to an open upright plastic container comprising a body having a bottom, at least four sidewalls and a neck, wherein said neck includes threads for receiving mating threads on a lid, said container body comprising an integral handle for lifting said container; (b) delivering a sufficient amount of a no VOC barrier material to the open upright plastic container to provide a layer of barrier material which substantially covers a top surface of the paint composition; (c) closing the container with a lid comprising threads to match the threads on the container neck.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein the barrier material comprises one or more of polyethylene glycol, glycerin, sorbitol, trimethylol ethane, triethanol ethane, pentaerythritol, trimethylol propane, triethanol amine, and mineral oil.
17. The method of claim 16 wherein the barrier material further comprises water.
18. The method of claim 15 wherein the barrier material further comprises a preservative.
19. The method of claim 15 wherein the barrier material is delivered to the open container after the paint composition is delivered to the container.
20. A paint container comprising:
(a) a container a lid assembly; (b) a paint composition in said container, wherein said paint composition has a top surface; (c) a barrier material comprising an inhibiting composition having a boiling point of at least 250° C. positioned as a layer on said top surface of said paint composition.
21. The paint container of claim 20, wherein the barrier material comprises one or more of polyethylene glycol, glycerin, sorbitol, trimethylol ethane, triethanol ethane, pentaerythritol, trimethylol propane, triethanol amine, and mineral oil.
22. The paint container of claim 21, wherein the barrier material further comprises water.
23. The paint container of claim 20 wherein the barrier material comprises a mixture of glycerin and water.
24. The paint container of claim 23 wherein the barrier material comprises about 12.5% to about 75% by volume glycerin.
25. The paint container of claim 24 wherein the barrier material comprises about 50% by volume glycerin.
26. The paint container of claim 24 wherein the barrier material comprises about 37.5% by volume glycerin.
27. The paint container of claim 20 wherein about 0.4 to about 8 ounces of barrier material is positioned as a layer on the top surface of the paint composition.
28. The paint container of claim 27 wherein about 2 to about 6 ounces of barrier material is positioned as a layer on the top surface of the paint composition.
29. The paint container of claim 20 wherein the barrier material comprises a preservative.
30. The paint container of claim 29 wherein the preservative is selected from 2-bromo-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol, glutaraldehyde, 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one/2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, 1-(3-chloroallyl)-3,5,7-triaza-1-azoniaadamantane chloride, hexahydro-1,3,5-tris(2-hydroxyethyl)-s-triazine, polyaminopropyl biguanide, and mixtures thereof.
31. The paint container of claim 20, the container and lid assembly further comprising a container having a body with a bottom wall, four sidewalls and a neck; said neck defining a wide mouth opening and including threads for receiving mating threads on said lid, said body having an integral handle for lifting said container.
| 2008-02-29 | en | 2008-09-04 |
US-36163103-A | Observation apparatus
ABSTRACT
An observation apparatus is disclosed that includes two projection devices, a display panel, and a retaining and supporting member. The two projection devices are each provided with an aperture, and are positioned and oriented so that images are projected onto the display panel through the apertures. The display panel either includes a pupil-forming optical system that is formed of an image-forming element having positive optical power that is integral to the display panel or is sufficiently nearby it such that conjugate positions of the projection apertures are formed at pupil positions for observation. The retaining and supporting member is provided with a retaining mechanism that enables the display panel to be detachably attached to the supporting member.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a related in subject matter to applicants' U.S. application Ser. No. 10/270,641 filed Oct. 16, 2002, entitled “Three-Dimensional Observation Apparatus”. Also, this application claims the benefit of foreign priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2002-034222, filed Feb. 12, 2002, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to an observation apparatus for use in an operating room to observe two-dimensional (hereinafter 2-D), three-dimensional (hereinafter 3-D), or both 2-D and 3-D images of endoscopic surgery without requiring the observer to wear special glasses in order to experience 3-D images.
[0003] Conventionally, the area to be operated on is imaged onto an image sensor that is positioned within a camera of an endoscope or, during detailed surgery, within a surgical microscope. The image data is then displayed as an enlarged image on an image display device, which can be either a 2-D or a 3-D display device. Surgeons routinely perform surgery while observing such display images.
[0004]FIG. 32 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the positional relationship between a surgeon, a patient and an image display device in a conventional operating room. In FIG. 32, 51 is a patient, 52 is an operating table, 53 is the main surgeon performing an operation, 54 1 to 54 3 are assistant surgeons, and 55 is an image display device. The operating room 56 is divided into a clean area 56 a which is free of bacteria (within the area enclosed by the dashed line) and an unclean area 56 b wherein a certain degree of bacterial contamination is allowed (the area surrounding the clean area 56 a). The clean area 56 a includes a predetermined space surrounding the surgeons 53, and 54 1 to 54 3, who perform surgery while standing or sitting at the periphery of the operating table 52 on which the patient 51 is lying. Sterilization procedures are performed on the operating table 52 and other equipment in order to prevent invasion of saprophytic bacteria into the patient 51. The surgeons 53, and 54 1 to 54 3 enter into the clean area clothed in operating gowns which have been sterilized and they then perform the surgery.
[0005] The image display device 55 includes electronic circuitry and optical members that are nearly impossible to make bacteria-free because they cannot be subjected to sterilization procedures such as high temperature/high pressure sterilization (autoclave) procedures or gamma-ray irradiation sterilization, etc., without damaging the electronic circuitry and the optical members. Therefore, these items must be positioned within the area where bacteria are allowed (i.e., the unclean area). Thus, the main surgeon is required to observe the displayed images from a position that is separated from the actual operating area, the position of the image display device 55 cannot easily be changed, and the surgery is difficult and tiresome because the observation positions are limited. Furthermore, by increasing the size of the image display device 55 in order to achieve easier observation from a distant position, the entire image display device 55 becomes larger, which not only increases the cost of the equipment but also causes the larger image display device to become an obstruction and to unnecessarily consume operating room space, which itself is an expensive commodity.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention will first be discussed in general terms which apply to both embodiments of the invention, which is an observation apparatus for use in an operating room and that can display, for example, 3-D images of a surgical procedure on a display device that can be positioned within the clean area of the operating room. Thus, the display device can be positioned within reach of the surgeons during an operation, thereby enabling the display surface of the display device to be smaller since it is viewed from nearby positions. Having the display device within reach of the surgeons enables it to be readily adjusted to accommodate a variety of viewing positions during the operation, thereby making the surgery easier and less tiresome to the surgeons. Furthermore, the present invention is an observation apparatus which allows the viewer to experience 3-D images without requiring the viewer to wear special glasses.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given below and the accompanying drawings, which are given by way of illustration only and thus are not limitative of the present invention, wherein:
[0008]FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of an observation apparatus of the present invention that uses a reflective display panel that is illuminated by projectors;
[0009]FIG. 2 shows a drape used in the observation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;
[0010] FIGS. 3(a)-3(c) show other examples of reflective display panels that may be used to display projected images using the observation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;
[0011]FIG. 4 shows the positional relationship between the image display device, the surgeon, the assistant surgeons, and the patient in an operating room when surgery is performed using the observation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;
[0012]FIG. 5 is an explanatory drawing that illustrates processing procedures (a)-(i) of a recycling system when an exchangeable display panel that may be used with embodiments of the invention that employ a projection of images onto the display device is configured so as to be reusable;
[0013]FIG. 6 is an explanatory drawing that illustrates alternative processing procedures between procedures (e) and (f), namely, from cleaning and drying, to γ radiation sterilization, of a recyclable display panel that is provided with a diffusive film;
[0014]FIG. 7(a) shows a second embodiment of an observation apparatus according to the present invention, which employs a self-luminous display device that may be positioned within the clean area and adjusted in position during surgery;
[0015]FIG. 7(b) is an explanatory drawing of a drape member 5′ of FIG. 7(a);
[0016] FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b) illustrate the arrangement of components of a projection-type, stereoscopic observation device, with FIG. 8(a) showing the arrangement where the display panel thereof is transmissive, and FIG. 8(b) showing the arrangement where the display panel thereof is reflective;
[0017]FIG. 9 illustrates how the observation pupils may be enlarged using a diffuser, this technique being applicable not only when a transmissive display panel is used (as illustrated), but also when a reflective display panel is used (not illustrated in this figure);
[0018] FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b) show the use of a transmissive display panel and a projection system, with FIG. 10(a) being a top view, and FIG. 10(b) being a side view;
[0019] FIGS. 11(a) and 11(b) show the use of a reflective display panel and a projection system, with FIG. 11(a) being a perspective view of the display panel and FIG. 11(b) being a side view of the display panel;
[0020]FIG. 12 is a side view of the reflective display panel and projection system of FIGS. 11(a) and 11(b) when in use, but as seen from the opposite side and in greater detail;
[0021] FIGS. 13(a)-13(c) illustrate various slightly modified display panels (as compared to the reflective display panel of FIGS. 11(a)-12) when in use, as seen in side views;
[0022]FIG. 14(a) shows a possible modification to the retaining and supporting member of the observation apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1, and
[0023]FIG. 14(b) shows a possible modification to the projection system of the observation apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0024] FIGS. 15(a) and 15(b) illustrate another example of a reflective display panel that may be used in an observation apparatus according to the invention which employs a reflective display panel arrangement, with FIG. 15(a) being a perspective view, and FIG. 15(b) being a side view;
[0025] FIGS. 16(a) and 16(b) relate to another example of a reflective display panel that may be used in an observation apparatus according to the invention which employs a reflective display panel arrangement, with FIG. 16(a) being a side view, and FIG. 16(b) being an enlarged view of a portion shown in FIG. 16(a);
[0026]FIG. 17 is a side view of another example of a reflective display panel that may be used in an observation apparatus according to the invention which employs a reflective display panel arrangement;
[0027]FIG. 18 is a side view of another example of a reflective display panel that may be used in an observation apparatus according to the invention which employs a reflective display panel arrangement;
[0028] FIGS. 19(a)-19(c) relate to other examples of reflective display panels that may be used in an observation apparatus according to the invention that employs a reflective display panel arrangement, with FIG. 19(a) being a side view of the display panel, FIG. 19(b) being a side view of a variation on the structure illustrated in FIG. 19(a), and FIG. 19(c) showing a diffusive structure inside the display panel that is used to diffuse the light;
[0029] FIGS. 20(a)-20(c) relate to another example of a reflective display panel that may be used in an observation apparatus according to the invention that employs a reflective display panel arrangement, with FIG. 20(a) being a side view of the display panel, FIG. 20(b) being a side view of a variation on the structure illustrated in FIG. 20(a), and FIG. 20(c) showing a diffusive structure inside the display panel;
[0030] FIGS. 21(a) and 21(b) relate to another example of a reflective display panel that uses a holographic optical element as a diffusive means, and that can be used in an observation apparatus according the invention that employs a reflective display panel arrangement, with FIG. 21(a) being an explanatory diagram and FIG. 21(b) showing the display panel in use;
[0031] FIGS. 22(a)-23(b) are explanatory diagrams which are used to explain the diffusive bending (i.e., diffraction) effect of the holographic optical element used in the display panel shown in FIGS. 21(a) and 21(b) that is used to diffuse the light;
[0032] FIGS. 24(a) and 24(b) relate to the positioning of a reflective display panel and a projection apparatus that can be used in an observation apparatus according to the invention that employs a reflective display panel arrangement, with FIG. 24(a) being a perspective view and FIG. 24(b) being a top view;
[0033]FIG. 25 shows an observation system that uses an observation apparatus according to the invention that employs a reflective display panel arrangement;
[0034]FIG. 26 illustrates a first example of a product that uses an observation apparatus according to the present invention;
[0035]FIG. 27 illustrates a second example of a product that uses an observation apparatus according to the present invention;
[0036]FIG. 28 illustrates a third example of a product that uses an observation apparatus according to the present invention;
[0037]FIG. 29 illustrates a fourth example of a product that uses plural observation apparatuses according to the present invention;
[0038]FIG. 30 illustrates a fifth example of a product that uses an observation apparatus according to the present invention;
[0039]FIG. 31 illustrates a sixth example of a product that uses an observation apparatus according to the present invention; and
[0040]FIG. 32 is a conceptual drawing showing the positional relationship between a conventional image display device, the surgeons, and the patient in an operating room.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0041] The observation apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention is provided with projection devices for projecting images onto the same, flat or slightly curved, surface of a display panel from two apertures; an image-forming element for forming images of the two apertures for observation at pupil positions, the image-forming element being positioned at, or in proximity to, the surface of the display panel; and a retaining and supporting member for retaining and supporting the display panel. Preferably, the retaining and supporting member also supports the projection devices and is configured such that the display panel is detachably attachable to the retaining and supporting member via a retainer mechanism. Also, preferably, the retainer mechanism is capable of being sterilized.
[0042] The operation of the observation apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention will now be described. Because, in this embodiment, the display panel is detachably attachable to the retaining and supporting member, a sterilized display panel can be used for each surgery by switching to a new, sterilized display panel just prior to beginning each surgery. Moreover, a sterilized retainer mechanism can also be used for each surgery by sterilizing the retainer mechanism before each surgery, as a result of the retainer mechanism itself being detachably attachable to the supporting member. Furthermore, saprophytic bacteria can be prevented from exuding to the exterior of the projection device because the projection device is configured so as to be covered with a drape that includes a transparent optical member having a size sufficient to cover the aperture member of the projection device, and thus the exterior of the projection device can be kept sterilized by using a sterilized drape which forms the exterior of the projection device. Thus, according to the present invention, the display panel can be positioned within the clean area in the vicinity of the operating region of the patient because the exterior surfaces associated with the observation apparatus within the clean area are sterilized. As a result, the display image can be more easily observed and the surgeons themselves can more easily change the position of the observation apparatus so as to enable a different posture to be assumed. This makes the surgery easier and reduces fatigue.
[0043] A display panel that provides a 3-D observation or a 2-D observation can be selectively attached to the observation apparatus of the present invention, since the display panel is detachably attachable to the retaining member. As a result, the display panel can be switched by selecting 3-D image observation for viewing by the main surgeon alone or by selecting 2-D image observation for viewing by a plurality of surgeons.
[0044] In the observation apparatus according to the present invention, the display panel can be repositioned at will without contaminating the display surface with saprophytic bacteria because holding members, such as a knob, a handle, etc., allow the display device to be grasped without contacting the display surface itself. The holding members may be provided, for example, at the left and right sides of the display panel.
[0045] In the observation apparatus of the present invention, the display panel can be prevented from falling due to an unexpected impact such as might be experienced during an earthquake, even when positioned above the surgical area, because means to prevent unintentional release of the display panel from the retaining mechanism are provided. Thus, surgery can be performed in a safe environment.
[0046] According to a second embodiment of the present invention, the observation apparatus includes a display device, a retaining and supporting member for retaining and supporting the display device, and a drape that includes a transparent plate. The display device and at least portions of the retaining and supporting member are configured so that they may be covered with the drape while permitting the display surface of the display device to be viewed through the transparent plate of the drape.
[0047] According to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, the observation apparatus includes a projection device for projecting images onto a display surface from two apertures, and observation pupil formation means form images of these two apertures at observation pupils. An observer is able to view 3-D images projected onto a display panel of the observation apparatus by placing his left and right eyes at the left and right observation pupils, respectively.
[0048] According to the observation apparatus of one embodiment of the present invention, by configuring the left and right projection images such that an image is formed at the same display surface position, the axial positions of the left and right pupils of the observer are aligned so that the viewing paths intersect at the image displayed on the display surface. This is the same phenomena as occurs in natural observation. Therefore the user has a quite natural feeling when observing, and this serves to reduce his fatigue. Also, the degree of freedom in positioning an observer may be increased by forming enlarged images of the two apertures at the pupil positions for observation. As a result, the observer can observe in more comfortable postures, and even change his posture while continuously observing the display.
[0049] When observation pupil enlarging means, such as a diffusive element, are provided at the display surface position, the pupils of the projection device can be smaller than when no enlarging means is provided. Thus, the image quality of the projection device can be maintained while reducing the size of the projection device. This is helpful in reducing the cost of the projection device and, especially where a reflective display panel is provided, helps reduce interference between the head of the observer and the projection device. Also, adverse effects resulting from differences in the luminous flux intensities and aberrations from the projection device are nullified by providing an enlarging means at the display surface. That is, the luminous flux can be made more uniform by the diffusive effect of the observation pupil enlarging means being located at the display surface and this enables the observer to observe display images without distortion so long as his eyes are positioned at the observation pupils.
[0050] According to the observation apparatus of one embodiment, the image quality does not deteriorate even if a Fresnel lens or a Fresnel mirror serves as the observation pupil formation means. Also, image quality does not deteriorate if a pupil enlarging effect is provided using various light diffusive means, so long as the diffusive means is formed at or very near the Fresnel lens or Fresnel mirror surface.
[0051] According to a another feature of the observation apparatus of one embodiment of the present invention, compactness is achieved using a single, flat or slightly curved, display panel and by positioning an imaging means for forming the observation pupils and a diffusive means for enlarging these observation pupils at or near the display panel surface. Marked deterioration of image quality can be controlled even when the display panel is configured so as to be tilted.
[0052]FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of an observation apparatus of the present invention that uses a reflective display panel that is illuminated by projectors which provide a stereoscopic view to an observer. This embodiment includes projection devices 1R and 1L, a display panel 2, a retaining and supporting member 6, and a drape 5. The retaining and supporting member 6 is formed of a retaining member 3 and a supporting member 4. The projection devices 1R and 1L are configured such that right and left images are projected onto a display panel 2 so as to form a 3-D display. The display panel 2 is provided with observation pupil forming means (not shown) for forming images of the respective apertures of the projection devices 1R and 1L. These images are the exit pupils, i.e., the location where display images can be viewed by the observer placing his eyes at the exit pupils.
[0053] The retaining member 3 is formed of a material that can be sterilized, and is provided with a clamp 3 a at one end. The clamp holds the display panel 2 in place in a detachable manner, and the other end 3 b of the retaining member 3 is attached to the supporting member 4 in a detachable manner. The supporting member 4 supports the projection devices 1R and 1L and also supports the retaining member 3 that holds the clamp 3 a. The drape 5 is sterilized and covers the projection devices 1R and 1L, as well as the supporting member 4.
[0054]FIG. 2 shows a drape used in the observation apparatus shown in FIG. 1. The drape 5 includes a transparent plate 5 a formed of transparent plastic or glass of a size sufficient to simultaneously cover the two apertures of the projection devices 1R and 1L, a bag-shaped cover 5 b for covering the projection devices 1R and 1L, and the supporting member 4. The bag-shaped cover 5 b is open at one end 5 b 1. A hole 5 b 2 is provided in one portion to allow the retaining member 3 to pass through when attaching the retaining member 3 to the supporting member 4.
[0055] FIGS. 3(a)-3(c) show other examples of reflective display panels that may be used with the observation apparatus shown in FIG. 1. The display panel 2 shown in FIG. 3(a) comprises a plastic plate that may be slightly curved and is provided with a Fresnel surface, for example, that is positioned so that images are projected onto the Fresnel surface. Further, the display panel 2 is detachable from the retaining member 3 shown in FIG. 1, and may be disposed of or may be reused after sterilization. The display panel 2 shown in FIG. 3(b) is provided with knobs 2 a and 2 a on the left and right sides of the display surface of the display panel 2 in FIG. 3(a). The position of the display panel 2 can be controlled and the display panel 2 is detachable from the retaining member 3 without touching the display surface by providing the display panel 2 with the configuration shown in FIG. 3(b). The display panel 2 shown in FIG. 3(c) is provided with holes 2 b and 2 b in the upper portion to prevent falling. It should be noted that, when using the display panel 2 configured as shown in FIG. 3(c), the clamp 3 a is configured with means (such as pins, rods, bolts, or screws) to prevent unintended release of the display panel, by one or more of these items being passed through the holes 2 b and 2 b. By using the display panel 2 and the retaining member 3 configured in such a manner, the display panel 2 can be prevented from falling from the clamp 3 a, even if the display panel 2 were to receive some sort of impact while the display panel 2 is attached to the retaining member 3. The Fresnel surface is eccentric in the display panels shown in FIGS. 3(a)-3(c). The display panel is preferably provided with diffusive means to enlarge the exit pupils, as will be discussed in detail later with reference to FIG. 9.
[0056]FIG. 4 shows the positional relationship between an image display panel, the surgeon and the assistant surgeons, and the patient in an operating room where surgery is performed using the observation apparatus embodiment shown in FIG. 1. In this figure, a patient 51, lying on an operating table 52 is operated on by a main surgeon 53 who is assisted by the assistant surgeons 54 1 to 54 3. It should also be mentioned that the other components of an observation apparatus of the present invention, other than the display panel portion shown in FIG. 4 in block diagram, have been omitted from FIG. 4.
[0057] According to the observation apparatus of Embodiment 1 of the present invention, a sterilized display panel 2 can be readily provided by exchanging the display panel 2 for a new, sterilized, display panel 2 before each surgery. The retaining member 3 is made of a material which is capable of being sterilized and is detachable from the supporting member 4, so a sterilized retaining member can be used for each surgery by sterilizing the retaining member 3 before each surgery.
[0058] In this case, the position of the display panel 2 can be controlled and the display panel 2 is detachable from the retaining member without touching the display surface by providing the display panel 2 with a configuration shown in FIG. 3(b). By using the display panel 2 and the retaining member 3 configured in the manner described in FIG. 3(c), the display panel 2 can be prevented from falling from the clamp 3 a even if the display panel 2 were to receive some sort of impact after the display panel 2 has been attached to the retaining member 3. As a result, surgery can be performed with safety assured even when the display panel 2 is positioned above the surgical area.
[0059] Because the display panel 2 is detachable from the retaining member, the display panel 2 may be switched depending on whether 3-D observation or 2-D observation is intended. Thus, 3-D image observation by the main surgeon 53 alone or 2-D image observation by a plurality of assistant surgeons 54 1 to 54 3 may be selected. As described above, an exchangeable display panel is used in Embodiment 1 of the present invention which may be either reusable or disposable so long as a sterile display panel is provided.
[0060] According to the observation apparatus of Embodiment 2 of the present invention, saprophytic bacteria can be prevented from escaping to the exterior of the display device by covering the display device with a sterilized drape having a transparent optical member of sufficient size to allow the display device to be viewed through the transparent optical member. Thus, according to this embodiment, the display images are easy to observe because the display device 2 can be positioned in the vicinity of the operation area of the patient 51, i.e., within the clean area 56 a. Surgery is also easier because the position of the observation device can easily be changed by the main surgeon 53.
[0061]FIG. 5 is an explanatory drawing that illustrates processing procedures (a)-(i) of a recycling system when an exchangeable display panel is configured so as to be reusable. The display panel 2 is sealed (procedure (a)) in a pack 11 in a sterilized condition. This is unsealed within the clean area of the operating room, and is then attached (procedure (b)) to the observation apparatus using a retaining member 3. After the display panel has been used during surgery, the display panel 2 is removed from the retaining member 3 and stored (procedure (c)) in a used display panel storage container 12. The used display panel storage container 12 is provided with a sensor (not shown) for counting the number of panels, and is configured so as to be capable of transmitting the detected panel count to a computer terminal 13 that is positioned at a reprocessing facility via wired or wireless transmitting means. The used panel count data is obtained for each surgical facility by operating computer terminal 13 at a reprocessing facility. Then, the used panels are collected (procedure (d)) and an equal number of sterilized display panels are delivered (procedure (i)) to the surgical facility. The used display panels which have been collected are then transported to a reprocessing facility. At the reprocessing facility, the used display panels are washed, rinsed in distilled water, and then dried (procedure (e)). The display panels are subsequently sterilized using γ radiation (procedure (f)). The sterilized display panels are then sealed in sterile packs 11 (procedure (g)), so as to safeguard them in a sterile state until they are unsealed. The sterilized and sealed display panels are then stored in a transport container 14 (procedure (h)). A predetermined number of sterilized display panels are then transported to the surgical facility (procedure (i)), and the used display panels are simultaneously collected, as discussed above. The display panels are made reusable by repeating this procedure.
[0062] Resources can be used effectively by using such a reprocessing system. Moreover, the required number of sterilized display panels is immediately available because the used display panels can be ascertained in real time at the reprocessing facility. In a recycling system such as that shown in FIG. 5, an example of the process from cleaning and drying to γ radiation sterilization, in the case that the display panels are provided with a diffusive film.
[0063]FIG. 6 is an explanatory drawing that illustrates additional processing which may be performed between procedures (e) and (f), namely, between cleaning and drying and γ radiation sterilization, of a recyclable display panel that is provided with a diffusive film. The display panels of the present example are formed of a Fresnel reflective plate that is made of a durable material and capable of reuse (the reusable portion), and a diffusive film which is a material of relatively poor durability that is not suitable for reuse (the disposable portion). After cleaning and drying (procedure (e)), the diffusive film is removed from the Fresnel reflective plate, a new film is positioned thereon, and γ radiation sterilization is performed (procedure (f)). The disposable portion is the film layer, which is inexpensive and easily replaced.
[0064]FIG. 7(a) shows a second embodiment of an observation apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 7(b) is an explanatory drawing of the drape member 5′ shown in FIG. 7(a). The observation apparatus of this embodiment includes a prior art, self-luminous, lenticular 3-D display device 2′, a retaining member 3′, supporting members 4′a and 4′b, and a drape 5′. The drape 5′ is formed of a transparent plate 5′a attached at its periphery to a bag-shaped cover 5′b. It should be noted that in FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b), 5′b 1 is an opening. The prior art display device 2′ in this embodiment is not illuminated by projectors as in Embodiment 1, but instead displays its images according to display data that it receives from picture image inputs obtained from sources such as an endoscope camera, microscope camera or a personal computer. These inputs may be 2-D, 3-D or both 2-D and 3-D. The display device 2′ in this embodiment is retained by retaining member 3′. The retaining member 3′ is supported in a rotatable configuration by a supporting member 4′a via a joint member 4′a 1, and the supporting member 4′a is supported in a rotatable configuration by a supporting member 4′b via a joint member 4′a 2. The lenticular display device 2′ has a thin, light configuration. However, the observation apparatus of the present embodiment is different from the observation apparatus shown in FIG. 1. The display device 2′ of Embodiment 2 is not detachable from the retaining member 3′, and the retaining member 3′ is not detachable from the supporting member 4′a. Moreover, the display device 2′ is self-luminous and cannot be sterilized because it is provided with an internal light source. In the present embodiment, the display surface of the 3-D display device 2′ is covered by a transparent plate 5′a using the drape 5′ that is provided with the large transparent plate 5′a. The retaining member 3′, the supporting members 4′a and 4′b, and the portions other than the display surface of the 3-D display device 2′ are covered by the bag-shaped cover 5′b. According to the observation apparatus of this embodiment, 3-D images can be observed while preventing the escape of saprophytic bacteria outside of the drape 5′.
[0065] Next, a preferred configuration for the display panel portion and the projection devices of the observation apparatus shown in FIG. 1 of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the drape 5 and the detachable configuration of the display panel have been omitted from the description below, but the configuration in FIG. 1 nevertheless applies.
[0066]FIG. 8(a) is a schematic diagram showing a transparent stereoscopic observation device, and FIG. 8(b) is a schematic diagram showing a reflective stereoscopic observation device. It should be noted that only the configuration for the right eye is shown in FIG. 8(b), with the configuration for the left eye having been omitted, for convenience of illustration. The stereoscopic observation devices shown in FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b) each employ projection optical systems 21L and 21R, and an observation pupil forming optical system 23. Although not shown in FIG. 8(a) or 8(b), a diffusive means, as will be discussed in detail later, may be attached or included in the Fresnel lens shown in FIG. 8(a) or in the Fresnel mirror shown in FIG. 8(b). The projection optical systems 21L and 21R are positioned and oriented such that images from the two apertures 22L and 22R are projected onto the same display surface region. The observation pupil forming optical system 23 is positioned such that the apertures 22L and 22R of the projection optical system form images at observation pupils which can then be observed by the observer placing his left and right eyes at observation pupils 24L and 24R. A diffusive means operates to enlarge these observation pupils. The observation pupil forming optical system 23 and the diffusive means are positioned at or very near the image plane of the projectors.
[0067] The display surface position is the image plane of the images projected from the projection device. In a transmissive observation apparatus that uses projectors, a Fresnel lens serves as the observation pupil forming optical system 23 that is positioned at the image plane; in a reflective observation apparatus, a Fresnel mirror serves as the observation pupil forming optical system 23. The Fresnel lens and the Fresnel mirror are positioned such that the apertures 22L, 22R of the projectors are imaged at exit pupil positions where an observer my observe the images formed on the display surface. The image quality of these Fresnel surfaces is not deteriorated because the Fresnel surfaces are positioned at the image plane of the projected images.
[0068]FIG. 9 is an explanatory drawing showing the basic principles used for enlarging the pupils for observation of the stereoscopic observation apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 9, for purposes of illustration, uses a transparent panel configuration of a stereoscopic observation apparatus, however, the operation is somewhat similar for a reflective configuration. As mentioned previously, a diffusive optical system 25 is positioned, along with the observation pupil forming optical system, at or in the vicinity of, the image plane of the projectors. The observation pupil forming optical system 23 in FIG. 9 has the effect of forming images in space of the left and right projection devices. These images in space comprise exit pupils for observation having a diameter φ20′. The diffusive optical system 25 enlarges the diameter of the pupils for observation from φ20′ to φ21. The left and right pupils for observation enlarged by the diffusive optical system 25 are positioned so as to not overlap at the observation position in order to prevent cross-talk among the left verses right stereo pair images. The diffusive effect of the diffusive optical system 25 occurs only once in a transparent stereoscopic observation apparatus because the projection light passes through the diffusive optical system 25 that is positioned at the display surface position only once. On the other hand, in a reflective stereoscopic observation apparatus, the diffusive effect occurs twice because the projection light passes through the diffusive optical system twice.
[0069] FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b) show the use of a transmissive display panel and projection system which is applicable to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, with FIG. 10(a) being a top view, and FIG. 10(b) being a side view. The stereoscopic observation device illustrated in these figures has a transmissive configuration. A Fresnel lens, serving as an observation pupil forming optical system 23 for imaging the apertures 22R and 22L at the observation pupils 24R and 24L, is positioned at the display surface position with the Fresnel surface thereof being on the observation pupil side. A light diffusive optical system 25 for enlarging the pupils is positioned in the vicinity of the Fresnel lens 23. The light diffusive optical system 25 includes a light diffusive surface 25 a adjacent the prism-like surfaces of the Fresnel lens 23.
[0070] The Fresnel lens 23 is positioned at the image plane of the images projected from the projection devices 21L,21R. The image quality, therefore, is not degraded as a result of the Fresnel surface. The diffusive surface 25 a is positioned in the immediate vicinity of the Fresnel surface so as to minimize blurring and thus maintain good image quality. In the present embodiment, the transparent display panel is an eccentric optical system. That is, the Fresnel surface in this case is an eccentric Fresnel lens surface, with the optical axis of the Fresnel surface being positioned below the center of the Fresnel lens surface, as shown in FIG. 10(b). It should be mentioned that the Fresnel surface has positive optical power. Because a Fresnel lens or Fresnel mirror is used for the Fresnel surface, the display panel itself does not increase in thickness when using an eccentric optical system to form the observation pupils. And, use of an eccentric optical system to form the observation pupils enables the display panel to be positioned with the projectors out of the line of sight to the display panel. It should also be noted that it is preferable to reduce image degradation by positioning the diffusive surface 25 a and the Fresnel surface very near to the image plane of the projected images.
[0071] FIGS. 11(a) and 11(b) show another example of a stereoscopic observation device which is applicable to the present invention; with FIG. 11(a) being a perspective view and FIG. 11(b) being a side view. The stereoscopic observation device illustrated in these figures has a reflective-type configuration, and the display panel is provided with a Fresnel mirror 23 serving as the observation pupil forming optical system for forming images of the apertures 22R and 22L of the projection optical system at the observation pupils 24R and 24L (for viewing by an observer). The display panel also includes a diffusive optical system 25 for enlarging the exit pupils in a manner as discussed previously.
[0072] In the case of a reflective stereoscopic observation apparatus, each optical member must be positioned such that the projection device and the head of the observer do not interfere. The display panel is also more easily viewed by an observer from the front (i.e., in the reflective mode).
[0073] An angle θ is provided between the light ray of the projection light that is incident at the center of the display panel and the optical axis of the outgoing light ray from the center of the display panel. The optical axis of the Fresnel mirror 23 is made eccentric (above, in FIGS. 11(a) and 11(b)) relative to the center of the display panel.
[0074]FIG. 12 is a side view showing an example of the display panel of FIGS. 11(a) and 11(b), but in greater detail. In FIG. 12, an aspheric lens system is used in the projection optical system 21R (21L), and the projection optical system is prevented from interfering with the position of the observer's head by having the display element surface 21Ra, (21La) in a position that is eccentric to the optical axis of the projection optical system 21R (21L). Further, the display panel normal is aligned with a line drawn mid-way between the eyes of the observer and the center of the display panel, and an aspheric Fresnel mirror forms the display panel surface.
[0075] As described above, the display panel is preferably configured so that the observer views the display panel with its normal aligned with the observer's line of sight to the center of the display panel. However, the display panel can also be positioned with eccentric orientations, such as with its normal inclined as much as ±30° to the line of sight, and good images can be obtained with its normal inclined as much as ±15° to the line of sight.
[0076] FIGS. 13(a)-13(c) are schematic diagrams showing alternative reflective display panel designs as viewed from the side, with the design shown in FIGS. 13(b) and 13(c) differing from the display panel design shown in FIGS. 12 and 13(a). In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 13(b) and 13(c), a line drawn normal to the display panel surface at its center is inclined to the horizontal plane. This allows the incidence angle of light projected onto the display panel to be adjusted, along with the amount of eccentricity of the Fresnel surface so as to provide optimal conditions for observation. The projection optical systems 21R and 21L are positioned with their midpoint within a vertical plane that contains the display panel normal and with a spacing corresponding to a viewer's interocular distance. In FIGS. 13(a)-13(c), 27 is a supporting arm that supports the two projection devices and the display panel. The inclination angle α of the display panel surface is the angle between a line drawn mid-way between the observation pupils of the display panel to the display panel center and the line drawn normal to the display panel surface at it center. If the surface normal is directed above the line drawn mid-way between the observation pupils of the display panel to the display panel center, the inclination angle α is positive. An inclination angle of ±30° or less is preferred for ease of viewing.
[0077] In the stereoscopic observation device of FIG. 13(a), the inclination angle α of the display panel surface is 0°. In the stereoscopic observation device of FIGS. 13(b) and 13(c), the inclination angle α has an absolute value of 30° or less. In any of FIGS. 13(a)-13(c), when the angle α is small, the observer can observe the displayed image with physiologically, optically natural feeling. However, even when the angle α is less than 30 degrees, the layout of FIG. 13(b) gives a more natural feeling to the observer than that of FIG. 13(c). In the layout of FIGS. 13(a) and 13(b), the decentering of the optical axis of the Fresnel mirror from the center of the display panel is relatively small. On the other hand, in the layout shown in FIG. 13(c), the decentering is relatively large, and this causes the tendency of producing large pupil aberration. However, in the layout of FIG. 13(c), the optical axis of the Fresnel mirror is outside of the display panel. This means that the center of fine rings of the Fresnel mirror does not appear on the display panel and this serves to improve the quality of the observed image.
[0078] FIGS. 14(a) and 14(b) show side views of a variation of the stereoscopic observation apparatus which is applicable to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The stereoscopic observation apparatus of FIGS. 14(a) and 14(b) uses projection devices with a reflective-type display panel configuration. The display panel includes a Fresnel mirror 23 and diffusive optical system 25. This stereoscopic observation apparatus provides separated right and left viewing pupils which are enlarged, making it easy for the viewer to position his eyes within the left and right viewing pupils.
[0079] The stereoscopic observation apparatus of FIG. 14(b) includes the projection devices 21R (21L) of FIG. 14(a) and also includes an optical relay system. More specifically, an optical relay system 26R (26L) is provided within the inner portion of the supporting arm 27 which supports the projection device and the display panel. In the example of FIG. 14(b), the relay system 26R (26L) is formed of lenses 26Ra to 26Rc (26La to 26Lc), mirrors 26Rd and 26Re (26Ld and 26Le), lens 26Rf (26Lf), mirror 26Rg (26Lg), and lens 26Rh (26Lh). When formed in this manner, adequate distance can be provided between the projection device and the observer. As a result, interference between the projection device and the observer can be avoided.
[0080] Next, a specific configuration of a display panel which may be used for a stereoscopic observation apparatus as in the Embodiment 1 of the present invention, will be described.
[0081] FIGS. 15(a) and 15(b) illustrate an example of a reflective display panel that may be used in those observation apparatuses of the present invention that employ projectors and a reflective display panel arrangement, with FIG. 15(a) being a perspective view, and FIG. 15(b) being a side view. This display panel includes a Fresnel surface 23 a that has a diffusive optical system 25 (in this case a diffusive surface 25 a) integrally formed thereon. The diffusive surface 25 a is formed with random wave patterns. More specifically, the display panel of this embodiment is integrally formed by pressing a plastic resin such as acrylic or polycarbonate between a metal mold to form a Fresnel surface on one side of the plastic and to form random wave patterns which act as a diffusive surface on the other side of the plastic. Aluminum is then coated as a reflective film onto the Fresnel lens surface 23 a, and a black coating is then applied to the aluminum, as indicated in FIG. 15(b). The Fresnel surface 23 a of the display panel operates to form the observation pupils, which are the images of the two projector apertures. The diffusive surface 25 a operates to enlarge the observation pupils for easier viewing of the images by an observer. As shown in FIG. 15(a) this display panel is configured as an eccentric Fresnel mirror with the Fresnel surface, reflective aluminum coating, and black coating on the back side thereof so as to form what will hereinafter be termed a “back-surface” mirror.
[0082] Next, the radii of curvature R associated with a Fresnel surface 23 a for each of a front surface mirror and a back-surface mirror will be considered. The radius of curvature R of a mirror surface when configured as a back-surface mirror is given by: R=2n·f, where n is the index of refraction and f is the focal length of the mirror. However, the radius of curvature of a mirror surface when configured as a front surface mirror is given by: R=2·f. Therefore, according to the display panel illustrated, aberrations are reduced when an image is formed at the pupil because a larger radius of curvature R of the Fresnel surface can be provided when the mirror configuration is that of a back-surface mirror. Furthermore, the Fresnel surfaces of the display panel of the present embodiment are configured so as to have the same shape as an aspheric lens, with the radii of curvature of the surfaces thereof increasing toward the periphery of the Fresnel surface 23 a. When configured in such a manner, aberrations can be more favorably corrected.
[0083] FIGS. 16(a) and 16(b) show another embodiment of a reflective display panel that is applicable to a reflective stereoscopic observation apparatus according to the present invention, with FIG. 16(a) being a side view of the reflective display panel, and FIG. 16(b) being an enlarged view of the diffusive means, in this case wave patterns 25 b on the reflective display panel surface. As best shown in FIG. 16(b), the display panel of the present embodiment is configured with an integrally formed, corrugated surface 25 b having wave patterns that are formed on the Fresnel surface 23 a. The corrugated surface 25 b formed directly on (i.e., superimposed with) the Fresnel prism surfaces, as in FIG. 16(b), may be used in lieu of the separate diffusive surface 25 a having a wave pattern that is positioned adjacent the Fresnel surface 23 a in FIG. 15(b). As shown in FIG. 16(a), a reflective film is coated on the Fresnel surface 23 a so that what is termed a back-surface, Fresnel mirror is formed. This allows the actual back surface of the display panel to be a smooth surface.
[0084] With a reflective display panel, as shown in FIG. 15(a), the projection light normally passes through the diffusive surface twice, both enroute to and from the mirror surface. However, in the reflective display panel shown in FIG. 16(a), this is not the case since the mirror surface and the diffusive surface are made as a single surface. Thus, the light is affected just once by the diffusive surface. Therefore, there is less diffusive effect for the arrangement as shown in FIG. 16(b) as compared with the arrangement as shown in FIG. 15(b) and thus the amount of blurring and image deterioration is reduced with the arrangement as shown in FIG. 16(b).
[0085]FIG. 17 is a side view of another example of a reflective 3-D display panel that can be used with the observation apparatuses of the present invention that employ a reflective display panel and projectors. The display panel shown in FIG. 17 includes a Fresnel mirror that serves as the observation pupil forming optical system, a diffusive means such as a diffusive optical system 25 that is formed of a plate with a diffusive surface 25 b′ that includes corrugations or waves. The diffusive surface 25 b′ is immediately adjacent to, or at least in close proximity to, the Fresnel surface 23 a, that is positioned at the focus position of the projected images. In this manner, blurring of the images is minimized despite the diffusive effect, used to enlarge the viewing pupils, occurring twice. Whereas FIG. 17 illustrates what is termed a “back-surface Fresnel mirror” having a diffusive plate in close proximity to the mirror surface, a configuration whereby a diffusive film (instead of a diffusive plate) is applied in close proximity to the mirror surface of such a mirror will be discussed next.
[0086]FIG. 18 is a side view of another example of a reflective 3-D display panel that can be used with the reflective 3-D observation apparatus of the present invention. The display panel of this example is formed by applying a diffusive film 25 c to the observation pupil forming optical system, which itself is immediately adjacent the eccentric, Fresnel back-surface mirror having a reflective surface 23 a. The diffusive film 25 c may be one that scatters the light using particles within the film or one that scatters light using corrugations as the film's surface structure.
[0087] FIGS. 19(a)-19(c) relate to other reflective, display panel designs that can comprise a component of a stereoscopic observation apparatus according to the present invention, with FIG. 19(a) being an enlarged, side view of one design, with FIG. 19(b) being an enlarged, side view of another design, and with FIG. 19(c) being an even more enlarged side view of a diffusive film showing the internal scattering of light that occurs within the film. The display panels illustrated are of the reflective-type that use a material within the film as a diffusive means. The internal diffusive material, as shown in FIG. 19(c), is formed by mixing fine, transparent particles 25 da, 25 db, etc., which differ in refractive index, into a transparent plastic material. When struck by light, these fine particles diffuse (i.e., scatter) the light as illustrated. The display panel shown in FIG. 19(a) employs an eccentric, Fresnel back-surface mirror 23 a with the transparent material that contains the diffusive particles 25 d being immediately adjacent the reflective surface of a Fresnel mirror. The display panel in FIG. 19(b) instead uses a planar layer of diffusive material 25 d as the diffusive optical system 25 that is applied to a transparent layer 23 that lies in contact with the reflective surface 23 a of the Fresnel mirror.
[0088] FIGS. 20(a)-20(c) show other reflective display panel designs that are similar to those shown in FIGS. 19(a)-19(c), respectively, with the exception of the material which is used to cause the light to diffuse. Whereas in FIGS. 19(a)-19(c), particles used have different refractive indexes, in FIGS. 20(a)-20(c), the diffusive effect is created by polymer liquid crystal which has been photo polymerized so as to be in a fixed but random internal arrangement.
[0089] Just as in FIG. 19(c), the diffusion occurs within the material rather than at its surface. Therefore, a display panel of this design, as well as the design shown in FIGS. 19(a)-19(c), can have a smooth surface which is much easier to wipe clean than is a display panel that diffuses the light by using corrugations or waves in a surface that forms an optical interface between two mediums of different refractive index, such as shown in FIGS. 15(b) and 16(b). In addition, it is easier to apply an anti-reflection film so as to reduce undesired reflection of incident light where the surface is smooth.
[0090] FIGS. 21(a) and 21(b) relate to another example of a reflective 3-D display panel that uses a holographic optical element as a diffusion means, with FIG. 21(a) being a side explanatory diagram and FIG. 21(b) showing the display panel in use. The stereoscopic observation device of this example is configured with the display panel and the projection devices positioned such that left and right images are projected from positions that are near the observer's head. The projection positions can be from either side, or from above, the observer's head. In FIG. 21(a), the Fresnel reflective surface of the display panel is eccentric to account for the positions of the projectors. This enables the projection optical systems 21L (21R) to be positioned out of the way.
[0091] FIGS. 22(a)-23(b) are explanatory diagrams which are used to explain the diffusion and bending (diffraction) effect of the holographic optical element used in the display panel embodiment of FIGS. 21(a) and 21(b). A description of the relationship between diffusion and the bending (diffraction) action of the diffusive plate 25 when the diffusive plate is a transmission hologram follows, and of the placement relationship of the diffusive plate 25 when formed of a transmission hologram and of the concave Fresnel mirror 23.
[0092] As is well known in the art, a transmission hologram diffusive plate is made by recording the interference pattern between a reference beam and object light from a diffused light source (a secondary light source). When the interference pattern between a reference beam and a diffused light source is recorded for a transmission hologram, with both being on the same axis (in-line placement) and on one side of the recording material, then the center light ray of the light beam 60 (FIG. 22(a)) from the projection optical system 21L (21R) initially enters into the diffusive plate 25 and passes directly through without being bent (diffracted) by the diffusive plate 25, as shown in FIG. 22(a). This light is often referred to as the “zero-order light”. Furthermore, after the light beam 60 has passed through the hologram, the ray directions are changed upon being reflected by the concave Fresnel mirror 23. These reflected light rays will then re-enter into the diffusive plate 25, but this time they are incident on the rear side. If the angle of incidence satisfies the reconstructed light incident angle (i.e., the angle where the diffraction efficiency approaches its peak) of the transmission hologram, then the light (other than the zero-order light) will be diffused by way of diffraction.
[0093] On the other hand, if the angle of incidence of the incident light at the time of the second incidence satisfies the reconstructed light incidence angle, then the main light beam 60 at the time of the first transmission passes directly through without diffraction, and the light around the center light ray that passes through at the time of the second transmission will be diffused. In either case, the zero-order light 610 and the central light beam 611 proceed in the same direction. FIG. 22(a) shows these elements but the diffused light is not shown. In this drawing, only the central light ray 611 from among the diffused light being diffracted and the zero-order light 610 that is not diffracted by the diffusive plate 25 are shown. The zero-order light 610 and center ray of the central light beam 611 proceed in the same direction and arrive at the center of the exit pupil ø21 (FIG. 21(b)) of the projection display device.
[0094] Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 22(a), in the case wherein the diffusive plate 25 formed of a transmission hologram has only a diffusive action and does not have a bending action on the optical path, not only the diffused light but also the zero-order light 610 arrives at the exit pupil ø21. The undesirable result is that a spot can be seen for the zero-order light 610 in the center of the projected image being observed.
[0095] For this reason, a diffusive plate 25 formed of an off-axis, transmission hologram is preferably used. With such a diffusive plate, a bending of the light beam together with diffusion occurs when the incident light satisfies the wavelength and incidence angle of the beam used to construct the transmission hologram. FIGS. 22(b) and 22(c) show the case where the incident light satisfies the wavelength and incidence angle of the beam used to construct the transmission hologram upon first incidence; and FIGS. 23(a) and 23(b) show the case where the incident light satisfies the wavelength and incidence angle of the beam used to construct the transmission hologram at second incidence. FIG. 22(b) and FIG. 23(a) illustrate the diffraction angle being toward the normal to the surface; and FIG. 22(c) and FIG. 23(b) illustrate the diffraction angle being away from the normal to the surface. In each drawing, the indication of the diffused light other than the central ray is omitted. Thus, only the central rays, of the diffused beams of wavelengths R, G, B that are diffracted by the diffusive plate 25, are shown by 61R, 61G, and 61B, respectively. As is evident from each of the drawings, when using a transmission hologram having a bending action on the light beam at the diffusive plate 25, it becomes possible to separate the zero-order light 610 that is not diffracted by the hologram from the diffracted beams 61R, 61G and 61B. As a result it is possible to provide a construction wherein the zero-order light is not visible from the exit pupil ø21 of the projection apparatus. More specifically, a construction is preferred wherein the positioning of the exit pupil ø21 of the projection apparatus is such that the zero-order light 610 enters after being separated by at least one-half the pupil diameter from the center of the exit pupil ø21.
[0096] FIGS. 24(a) and 24(b) show the arrangement of the reflection-type 3-D observation device that may form some components of the present invention, with FIG. 24(a) being a perspective view and FIG. 24(b) being a top view. The display panel 23,25 and the two projection devices 21L, 21R are attached to a supporting member 28. An attachment member (not illustrated) detachably attaches the display panel to the retaining member 28. The two projection devices 21L, 21R may be positioned on either the right or left side of the display panel 23,25, but for convenience of illustration are shown as positioned on the right side in FIGS. 24(a) and 24(b).
[0097] The Fresnel reflecting surface of the display panel has its optical axis de-centered with respect to the center of the display surface. The de-centering may be either to the right or left, but for convenience of illustration it is illustrated as being to the right in FIGS. 24(a) and 24(b). A sufficient angle is provided between the optical axis of the light entering the center of the display panel from the right and left projection devices versus the optical axis of the light emerging from the display panel to the viewer's respective right or left pupils 24R (24L) so that the projection devices and the viewer's head do not interfere with each other.
[0098]FIG. 25 illustrates a 3-D observation system. Right and left projection apparatuses 21L, 21R are connected to a projection control apparatus 29. The projection control apparatus 29 is made so that images photographed by right and left cameras provided in a 3-D image input apparatus, such as a 3-D endoscope or a 3-D microscope, are selectively input, and the selected images are then sent to the right and left projection apparatuses and are displayed. The projection control apparatus 29 can be configured so that a 3-D image having parallax and created by a personal computer can be projected and viewed by an observer, just as any other selectively input image.
[0099] Next, various products to which the observation apparatus of the present invention has been applied will be described.
[0100]FIG. 26 illustrates a first example of a product that uses an observation apparatus according to the present invention, wherein a reflective display panel 23, 25 is detachably supported by a retaining member 28 that also supports right and left projection apparatuses 21R, 21L. The 3-D display apparatus projects onto the display panel images from the right and left projection apparatuses that have parallax, and these images are then reflected by the display panel and displayed so that they can be viewed by an observer from observation pupils which have been enlarged by a diffusing means.
[0101] The retaining member 28 is connected to the support arm 30 via a connecting unit 30 a so as to be movable in the directions indicated by the double-headed arrow, and the support arm 30 is connected to the support unit main body 31 via a connecting unit 30 b so as to be movable in the directions indicated by the double-headed arrow. Furthermore, by moving the retaining member 28 and the support arm 30 in a desired direction, it is possible for the observer to change his observing posture. In addition, a handle 28 a is provided on the retaining member 28, for facilitating grasping and repositioning of the retaining member 28. Also, the support unit main body 31 may include casters 31 a. By moving the support unit main body 31 it is possible for the observer to change his observation position.
[0102]FIG. 27 illustrates a second example of a product that uses an observation apparatus according to the present invention, wherein a support unit main body 31 is attached to a ceiling 32. The support unit main body 31 supports the support arm 30. The support arm 30, in turn, supports the same structure as illustrated in FIG. 26. This product makes it possible to reduce the space needed by the observation apparatus.
[0103]FIG. 28 illustrates a third example of a product that uses an observation apparatus according to the present invention. This product is composed of a support arm 30 which is attached to a chair 33 that is used during surgery. The display panel in this embodiment is detachably attachable to a retaining member 28 b, and the projection apparatuses are attached to the supporting member 28 c. In addition, the retaining member 28 b is movably attached to a supporting member 28 c so as to be rotatable, as shown by the double-headed arrow. Consequently, it is possible to change the orientation of the display panel with respect to the projection apparatus. The supporting member 28 c, to which the projection apparatus is attached, is in turn attached to the support arm 30 via a connecting unit 30 c so as to be movable 360°, thereby making it possible to change the orientation of the display panel and projection apparatus as a unit, as indicated by the two double-headed arrows. Furthermore, handles 34 are attached to the right and left sides of the display panel. Consequently, the action of adjusting the orientation can be easily accomplished without touching the display surface of the display panel. In addition, casters 33 a are provided on the chair 33 which may be used during surgery. Consequently, it is possible to change the observation position by moving the chair.
[0104]FIG. 29 illustrates a fourth example of a product that uses plural reflective observation apparatuses according to the present invention. This product employs two 3-D observation apparatuses in which each display panel is detachably attached to a retaining member 28. The retaining members 28,28 are each attached to an image input unit 35 of a surgical microscope that is supported by two movable support arms 30,30 which are connected via a connecting unit 30 c. One of the support arms 30 is connected by another connecting unit 30 c to a support unit main body 31, on which casters 31 a are provided.
[0105] Two cameras are housed in the image input unit 35 of the surgical microscope, and input images are sent to the projection apparatuses of each of the 3-D observation apparatuses. Consequently, it is possible for the 3-D images of the surgical microscope to be observed simultaneously by a plurality of observers.
[0106]FIG. 30 illustrates a fifth example of a product that uses the observation apparatus according to the present invention, wherein the observation apparatus is a transmissive stereoscopic observation apparatus. In this case, the retaining and supporting member 6 is formed of retaining member 3 and supporting member 4. The retaining member 3 is detachable from the supporting member 4 so as to allow it to be easily sterilized.
[0107]FIG. 31 illustrates a sixth example of a product that uses the observation apparatus according to the present invention, wherein the observation apparatus is a transmissive stereoscopic observation apparatus. In this case the supporting member 4 is attached to the ceiling in order to conserve space. Once again, the retaining and supporting member 6 is formed of retaining member 3 and supporting member 4, and the retaining member 3 is detachable from the supporting member 4 so as to allow it to be easily sterilized.
[0108] Moreover, the 3-D observation apparatuses shown in FIGS. 26-31 can be applied variously to serve as observation apparatuses of surgical microscopes, endoscopes, general display apparatuses for 3-D information images related to medicine, general display apparatuses for entertainment products such as game equipment using computers, and display apparatuses for 3-D images related to business-related 3-D images such as all types of 3-D CAD images. In addition, the composition shown as a reflective 3-D observation apparatus may be applied in a transmission arrangement, and vice-versa, by selecting an appropriate observation pupil forming means formed of a reflective or a transmissive imaging means, as required for a given arrangement. Examples of 3-D observation apparatuses that use a transmissive arrangement are shown in FIGS. 30 and 31.
[0109] According to the observation apparatus of the present invention, an observation apparatus can be provided which can be made smaller and lighter, can be positioned inside the clean area during surgery, and is of a type that the surgeon can view 3-D images without wearing special glasses for stereoscopic viewing. Furthermore, a bright image can be obtained, and a type of personal stereoscopic observation device can be provided whereby the degree of freedom in positions from which the observer's eyes can observe is great, the image is not distorted even if the eyes move, and 3-D viewing in comfortable observation postures is possible.
[0110] The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. For example, a reflective liquid crystal or a DMD device may be used for the display device of the observation apparatus according to Embodiment 2 of the invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention. Rather, the scope of the invention shall be defined as set forth in the following claims and their legal equivalents. All such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.
What is claimed is:
1. An observation apparatus comprising:
two projection devices; a display panel; and a retaining and supporting member; wherein
said two projection devices are each provided with an aperture, and are configured such that images are projected through said apertures onto the display panel;
said display panel is provided with an image-forming element having positive optical power, said image-forming element being positioned in the vicinity of the display panel such that conjugate positions of the projection apertures are formed at pupil positions for observation; and
said retaining and supporting member is provided with a retaining mechanism, said retaining mechanism being configured such that said display panel is detachably attachable to the supporting member.
2. An observation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said retaining and supporting member comprises a retaining member for retaining said display panel and a supporting member for supporting said retaining member and the projection devices.
3. An observation apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said retaining member is configured so as to be detachable from said supporting member and may be subjected to high temperatures, without damaging the retaining member, for sterilizing the retaining member.
4. An observation apparatus according to claim 2, wherein at least one grasping member that enables the display panel to be repositioned without touching the display surface of the display panel is provided outside the display surface of the display panel.
5. An observation apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said display panel includes an engaging part to prevent unintentional release of the display panel from the retaining mechanism.
6. An observation apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said two projection devices are covered with a drape that includes at least a transparent plate, said transparent plate(s) being of a size sufficient to cover the apertures of the two projection devices.
7. An observation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said display panel includes a light diffuser.
8. An observation apparatus according to claim 7, wherein said display panel comprises reusable members and disposable members.
9. An observation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a display panel for 3-D observation is interchangeable with a display panel for 2-D observation.
10. An observation apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the light diffuser is a transmission hologram.
| 2003-02-11 | en | 2003-08-14 |
US-66440603-A | Mobile machine
ABSTRACT
A mobile machine, such as an industrial truck, includes at least two electrical drive systems ( 4, 5 ), at least one electrical control system ( 14 ) and at least one electrical power source ( 1 ). Excess electrical energy generated during deceleration of at least one of the electrical drive systems ( 4 ) is fed to at least one other electrical drive system ( 5 ).
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application corresponds to German Application No. 102 44 769.1 filed Sep. 26, 2002, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to a mobile machine, such as a fork lift truck, with at least two electrical drives, at least one electrical control system, and at least one electric power source.
[0004] 2. Technical Considerations
[0005] During the deceleration of an electrical drive system of a mobile machine, such as a traction drive system of an industrial truck for example, the electrical drive system functions as a generator and converts kinetic energy into electrical energy. If a battery is used as the energy source, this electrical energy can be used to recharge the battery. Because the energy to operate the electrical drive was previously taken from the battery, the charging capacity of the battery is generally sufficient to absorb the energy released during deceleration. However, if a heat engine with a connected generator or a fuel cell system is used as the energy source, for example, the battery is unable to absorb all of the electrical energy generated during deceleration and the generated electrical energy must be discharged in some other way. In addition to the direct conversion of the electrical energy into heat, it is also possible to use the generated energy to charge a conventional electrical buffer storage mechanism, such as a high-capacity capacitor, for example. Although such conventional buffer storage mechanisms are typically large enough to absorb a sufficient amount of the generated energy even during a long downhill run of the mobile machine and, thus, to ensure the braking action, these conventional buffer storage mechanisms are still expensive and take up a lot of space in the mobile machine. If the capacity of the buffer storage mechanism is insufficient to absorb all of the energy generated under all expected operating conditions, an additional braking resistance must be provided, which also takes up space and requires a complex cooling system.
[0006] Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide a mobile machine, such as an industrial truck, with at least two electrical drives and which safely diverts the electrical energy released during deceleration of one of the electrical drives easily and economically.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The invention teaches that at least a portion of the electrical energy (e.g., the excess electrical energy) generated during the deceleration of at least one of the electrical drive systems is fed to at least one other electrical drive system. It thereby becomes possible to divert the excess energy into a system that is already present in any case, as well as to omit braking resistances or buffer storage mechanisms that would otherwise have to be installed, or to significantly reduce the capacity of such systems.
[0008] The electrical drive system to be braked can advantageously be effectively connected with an electrical storage mechanism to absorb the braking energy. During brief decelerations, energy can thereby be absorbed in the electrical storage mechanism and can be available for the electrical drive systems.
[0009] The electrical energy storage mechanism is advantageously charged by the electrical drive system that is being braked with only the excess energy, i.e., the amount of energy that is not required by the drive system provided for the absorption of the electrical energy (e.g., second drive system) for its normal operation. Therefore, during a deceleration process, the drive system provided for the absorption of the electrical energy (e.g., second drive system) is supplied only if it actually requires energy.
[0010] It is particularly advantageous if the drive system provided for the absorption of the electrical energy (e.g., second drive system), if it is not already in operation, is activated to absorb energy only when the electrical energy storage mechanism is fully charged. The second electrical drive system, if it does not require energy for operation, is thereby put into operation during long-term decelerations and braking operations.
[0011] It is particularly advantageous if the drive system provided for the absorption of the electrical energy (e.g., second drive system) is effectively connected with a hydraulic system, such as a hydraulic pump. As a result, the energy absorbed by the second drive system can be transmitted to the hydraulic system.
[0012] It is also advantageous if the energy introduced into the hydraulic system from the drive system provided for the absorption of the electrical energy (e.g., second drive system) is converted into thermal energy by means of a pressure reducing valve. Because valves of this type are generally already present in hydraulic circuits, it is thereby possible to dissipate the braking energy easily and effectively.
[0013] Energy introduced into the hydraulic system by the drive system provided for the absorption of the electrical energy (e.g., second drive system) can be advantageously converted into thermal energy by means of a hydrodynamic braking device. Even large amounts of energy can thereby be dissipated efficiently and with a low rate of wear.
[0014] It is advantageous if at least one fuel cell system is used as the power source for the operation of at least one of the electrical drive systems. These systems are characterized by high efficiency and low emissions.
[0015] It is further advantageous if at least one heat engine, such as an internal combustion engine, with a connected generator is used as the power source for the operation of the electrical drive systems. These systems are easy to manufacture and maintain.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] Additional advantages and features of the invention are explained in greater detail below on the basis of the exemplary embodiment illustrated in the accompanying schematic figures, in which like reference numbers identify like parts throughout:
[0017]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a known mobile machine;
[0018]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a mobile machine incorporating features of the invention; and
[0019]FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a mobile machine of the invention with a hydrodynamic brake and an electrical energy storage mechanism.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0020]FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a known mobile machine. From the power source 1, lines 2 run to an electrical control system 3. Connected to the control system 3 are two motors 4, 5 (traction motors) as well as an electrical energy storage mechanism 6 and a braking resistance 7. The motor 4 is used as the traction drive system of the mobile machine. The motor 5 drives a hydraulic pump 8 of a hydraulic circuit. This pump 8 transports the hydraulic fluid from a reservoir 9 to a control valve block 10. The supply to the consumers of hydraulic energy is regulated by means of the control valve block 10. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, these consumers are represented by a cylinder 11. Hydraulic fluid that is not transported to the consumers is diverted to the reservoir 9 by means of a pressure reducing valve which, in this case, is integrated into the control valve block 10.
[0021] If the mobile machine is braked by means of the motor 4, the motor 4 functions as a generator and supplies electricity to the control system 3, which transmits the electricity to the electrical energy storage mechanism 6 or to the braking resistance 7. If the electrical energy storage mechanism 6 is fully charged, the energy can only be reduced by means of the braking resistance 7, which converts it into heat and must, therefore, be provided with sufficient cooling.
[0022]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary mobile machine incorporating features of the invention. FIG. 2 uses the same numbering system for the components already explained with reference to FIG. 1. New numbers are used for different components that have a similar function, such as the electrical control system 12 of the invention.
[0023] The power source 1 supplies the mobile machine, in particular the control system 12, with electrical energy during normal operation. As the power source 1, any conventional power source for known mobile machines can be used to take maximum advantage of their specific characteristics. For example, internal combustion engines are simple and heavy-duty energy sources, while fuel cells have high efficiency and advantageously low emissions. Fuel cells also offer a practically unlimited period of operation when they are supplied via the electric power grid.
[0024] The control system 12, as in the illustrated case, can be a one-part component that actuates both motors 4, 5, although there can also be separate control systems for the individual motors 4, 5 which are located spatially separated from each other and can also be effectively connected with each other by means of a third control unit. The motors 4, 5 can be traction motors of the types normally used for mobile machines, for example for operation using direct current, alternating current, or three-phase current. The commands for the actuation of the traction motor 4 can be received by the control system 12 from control elements (not shown here), such as an accelerator pedal or an electronic control system, while the motor 5 can be actuated as a function of the operating conditions, such as the fluid pressure in the hydraulic circuit.
[0025] If the mobile machine is braked by means of the motor 4, the motor 4, operating according to the generator principle, supplies electricity to the control system 12 which transmits the electricity to the motor 5. In particular, when fuel cell systems are used as the power source 1, the control system 12 also prevents current from being fed back to the power source 1. The hydraulic pump 8 driven by the motor 5 transports the hydraulic fluid to the control valve block 10. The control valve block 10 regulates the feed of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic consumers. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, these consumers are represented by the cylinder 11 and, on an industrial truck, can be, for example, the lifting and tilting cylinders of a lifting platform or a hydraulic steering actuator. The control valves in the control valve block 10 for the individual consumers can be actuated directly by an operator or also by means of conventional electronic control systems. If the hydraulic pump 8 supplies more hydraulic fluid than is required by the consumers 11, as will frequently be the case even during braking or deceleration, the excess fluid is transported via a pressure reducing valve into the reservoir 9 and the energy is thereby dissipated. The pressure reducing valve in this case can be integrated into the control valve block 10, although it can also be realized in the form of a separate component.
[0026] In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, it is therefore possible to do without a storage mechanism for the absorption of electrical energy as well as braking resistances altogether. The space required for the installation of these units can be used for other purposes, and the cost of their maintenance, especially the cooling of braking resistances, can likewise be eliminated altogether, which results in the simplest possible construction of the industrial truck.
[0027]FIG. 3 shows a circuit diagram for a mobile machine incorporating features of the invention with a hydrodynamic brake and an electrical energy storage mechanism. In addition to the components that are essentially identical to the ones already illustrated in FIG. 2 and identified by the same numbers, FIG. 3 also shows an electrical energy storage mechanism 13, which is electrically connected with the electrical control system 14, as well as a hydrodynamic braking device (retarder) 15.
[0028] If the mobile machine is decelerated and the motor 4 supplies electricity to the control system 14, the control system 14 transmits this energy, if and to the extent that the hydraulic consumers do not need any power just then, preferably first to the electrical energy storage mechanism 13. The electrical energy storage mechanism 13 can be one or more large-capacity capacitors, because capacitors can be charged particularly rapidly compared to batteries. As a result of the preferred charging of the electrical energy storage mechanism 13, the electrical energy generated during braking is again available for the motors 4, 5 when a load is applied to them once again, while it is lost when it is transformed into heat for the operation of the mobile machine. The energy consumption of the mobile machine is, therefore, reduced in comparison to an embodiment that does not have an electrical storage mechanism 13 (such as illustrated in FIG. 2). On the other hand, if the motor 5 requires energy during the braking process, for example because the hydraulic cylinder 11 is actuated simultaneously, the energy generated during the braking at the motor 4 is preferably supplied directly to the motor 5.
[0029] When the motors 4, 5 require energy again, the energy storage mechanism 13 can also be discharged with priority over the supply of power from the power source 1, so that sufficient capacity in the storage mechanism 13 will be available for the next braking operation. The control of the charging status of the electrical energy storage mechanism 13 is appropriately coordinated to the demand profile of the mobile machine. For example, a minimum charging status of the electrical energy storage mechanism 13 may be desirable during normal operation to meet peak load requirements with the electrical energy storage mechanism 13, thereby making it possible to install a power source 1 with a lower continuous output.
[0030] If the electrical energy storage mechanism 13 is no longer able to absorb additional energy, or if the absorption of additional energy is no longer desired for other reasons, the energy can be discharged via the hydraulic circuit. The discharge can be done only via the hydraulic braking device 15, only via the pressure relief valve, or via both simultaneously. The method selected will generally depend on the amount of energy to be dissipated. A discharge of energy via both paths will generally be selected to discharge particularly large amounts of energy, while for moderate amounts of energy, the hydraulic braking device 15 will normally absorb almost all of the energy, and for very small braking outputs, it may be advantageous to route the discharge exclusively via the pressure relief valve.
[0031] The exemplary embodiment illustrated here is particularly suited for mobile machines with high power requirements, i.e., for heavy machines or machines that travel at higher speeds, in which the dissipation of all the energy via a pressure relief valve alone cannot be guaranteed, because the hydrodynamic braking device 15 makes it possible to effectively dissipate large amounts of energy with low amounts of wear.
[0032] Other conceivable variants include the dissipation of the energy introduced into the hydraulic system solely by means of the hydrodynamic brake. Embodiments with hydrodynamic braking but without electrical energy storage mechanisms are also possible, however, as are embodiments without hydrodynamic braking but with electrical energy storage mechanisms.
[0033] It will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the concepts disclosed in the foregoing description. Accordingly, the particular embodiments described in detail herein are illustrative only and are not limiting to the scope of the invention, which is to be given the full breadth of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof.
What is claimed is:
1. A mobile machine, comprising:
at least two electrical drive systems; at least one electrical control system; and at least one electrical power source, wherein during deceleration, at least a portion of the electrical energy generated by at least one of the electrical drive systems being decelerated is fed to at least one other electrical drive system.
2. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrical drive system being decelerated is effectively connected with an electrical energy storage mechanism configured to absorb the energy generated during braking or deceleration.
3. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 2, wherein the electrical energy storage mechanism is charged by the electrical drive system being decelerated only with the amount of energy that is not required for normal operation of the at least one other drive system.
4. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 2, wherein the at least one other drive system, if it is not already in operation, is activated to absorb energy only when the electrical energy storage mechanism is fully charged.
5. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one other drive system is effectively connected with a hydraulic system.
6. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 5, wherein energy introduced into the hydraulic system by the at least one other drive system is converted into thermal energy by means of a pressure reducing valve.
7. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 5, wherein energy introduced into the hydraulic system by the at least one other drive system is converted into thermal energy by means of a hydrodynamic braking device.
8. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrical power source includes at least one fuel cell system.
9. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrical power source includes a heat engine with a connected generator.
10. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mobile machine is an industrial truck.
11. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 2, wherein the storage mechanism is a high-capacity capacitor.
12. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one other drive system, if it is not already in operation, is activated to absorb energy only when the electrical energy storage mechanism is fully charged.
13. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 5, wherein the at least one other drive system is connected to a hydraulic pump.
14. The mobile machine as claimed in claim 9, wherein the heat engine is an internal combustion engine.
| 2003-09-19 | en | 2004-07-01 |
US-201514695777-A | Shoe with Divided Ground Contact Surfaces
ABSTRACT
The invention relates to a shoe and method for making a shoe with divided ground contact surfaces including a toe area covered in part by a toe material; the toe material for contacting a ground; a heel area covered in part by a heel material; wherein the heel material is for contacting the ground. The shoe also has a flex member between the toe and heel areas; the flex member extends both in lateral and longitudinal directions for spreading the toe and heel materials toward a periphery of the shoe and for reducing friction between the ground and the toe and heel materials; and wherein the flex member is contoured for facilitating flexing of the shoe.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/984,368, filed on Apr. 25, 2014, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Bowling shoes have traditionally been constructed using the same surface material for all ground contact surfaces. Typically, this surface material has been leather, due to the necessity for the shoe to slide during parts of the approach. Increasingly it is being recognized, however, that bowlers benefit from different parts of the shoe having different traction characteristics, and indeed from the left and right shoe on the same bowler having different traction characteristics.
The term “traction characteristic” encompasses any quality of the traction surface of the shoe that affects the amount of traction between the shoe and the surface on which it is placed. The traction surfaces are those surfaces of the shoe which come into contact with the ground during use. Traction refers to the friction between the traction surface and the surface upon which it is placed. Traction characteristics can be varied by changing the material of the traction surface. For example, a traction surface made of rubber will typically have a higher coefficient of friction than a traction surface made of leather, leading to higher traction, and soft, spongy rubber typically has higher traction than hard, smooth rubber. Traction characteristics can also be varied by surface treatments smell as waxing, or oiling to reduce traction, or adding resins or adhesives to increase traction. Traction characteristics can be further varied and can be varied in directional manner by varying the surface texture of the traction surface by adding, for example, grooves, ridges, protrusions, or cavities.
The typical bowler will approach the foul line with the leading foot stopping just short of the foul line, and in many cases it is desirable to have a shoe for the leading foot having lower traction than the shoe for the trailing foot. The shoes are frequently referred to as having either a “traction sole” or a “sliding sole”, and a bowler will typically use a traction sole on the strong or trailing foot and a sliding sole on the weak or leading foot. The condition at the lane and the speed, height, weight, and shoe size of the bowler are just a few of the many factors which determine how much traction the bowler will need. A taller, heavier bowler with small foot and fast approach on a slick lane will require more traction than a shorter, lighter bowler with large feet and a slow approach on a rougher lane.
The amount of friction between the shoe and the ground surface also varies with the area of the shoe in contact with the ground surface and with the weight on that area of the shoe. Consequently, the traction characteristic of a shoe can be reduced by reducing the total area of the shoe that is in contact with the ground surface. Further, if the total ground contact surface of the shoe is comprised of smaller areas having different traction characteristics, the amount of friction between the shoe and the ground surface will depend on the distribution of the bowler's weight across the various traction surfaces. If more of the bowler's weight is distributed along higher traction areas of the sole, the traction will be greater than if it is distributed along lower traction areas of the sole.
It can be appreciated that different portions of the same foot are in contact with the ground during different parts of the approach, that a further improvement in performance may be realized by varying the traction characteristics in discrete portions of the same shoe, or by incorporating sections of ground-contact surface in which a traction characteristic varies across the section. During the bowling stride, a forepart of the shoe sole typically goes through a motion wherein different areas of the forepart make contact with the bowling lane at different times.
What is desired, therefore, is a shoe that flexes or bends in select, localized areas for allowing a bowler to vary and control the shoe's slide and shoe's coefficient of friction
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide a shoe with a plurality of ground contact surfaces, each having a selected traction characteristic, such that changes in the orientation and pressure of the foot against the lane will change the number, area, and orientation of ground contact surfaces in contact with the lane, and therefore the total friction between the shoe and the ground surface at that point in the bowler's stride. The traction characteristics of the plurality of ground contact surfaces could then be individually adjusted to provide a shoe with traction characteristics matched to the requirements of the bowler at each point in the bowling stride, depending on which portions of the sole were in contact with the lane at each point in the stride. At least one flex member on the bottom of the shoe facilitates the above described adjustment to the shoe's traction characteristics by permitting the bowler to bend the shoe and utilize the different ground contact surfaces
In one embodiment, a shoe with divided ground contact surfaces includes: a toe area covered in part by a toe material, wherein the toe material is for contacting a ground; a heel area covered in part by a heel material, wherein the heel material is for contacting the ground. The shoe also has a flex member between the toe and heel areas, wherein the flex member extends both in lateral and longitudinal directions for spreading the toe and heel materials toward a periphery of the shoe and for reducing friction between the ground and the toe and heel materials, and wherein the flex member is contoured for facilitating flexing of the shoe.
In some embodiments, the flex member follows a contour of a user's toes for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes. In another embodiment, the flex member is recessed and spaced apart from the ground for reducing friction.
In further embodiments, the shoe has a second flex member extending around a recessed area, wherein the recessed area is spaced apart from the ground.
In other embodiments, the flex member includes a general shape selected from the group consisting of a V shape, a U shape, a Y shape, a W shape, an X shape, a circular shape, a triangular shape, a saw tooth shape, a polygonal shape, and combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, the flex member extends in a generally diagonal direction. In other embodiments, the flex member bisects the toe material for facilitating flexing about an axis passing longitudinally through the flex member. In some of these embodiments, the flex member bisects the heel material for facilitating flexing about an axis passing longitudinally through the flex member.
In an optional embodiment, the flex member includes a spring selected from the group consisting of a leaf spring, a coil spring, a molded memory material spring, and combinations thereof.
In another embodiment, the toe material is located on one side of the first flex member. In a further embodiment, the flex member extends from a periphery of the toe material to a periphery of the heel material for bisecting the toe and heel materials.
In another aspect of the invention, a method for providing a shoe with divided ground contact surfaces includes the steps of providing a toe area; covering a part of the toe area with a toe material; providing a heel area; covering a part of the heel area with a heel material; placing a first flex member between the toe and heel areas; extending the first flex member in an arcuate direction; spreading the toe material towards a periphery of the shoe for reducing friction between the ground and the toe material; extending a second flex member longitudinally through the heel material; dividing the heel material; extending the second flex member around a recessed area; spacing the recessed area apart from the ground for reducing friction; and spacing the first and second flex members apart from the ground for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, the method includes the step of locating the toe material on one side of the first flex member. In another embodiment, the method extends the first flex member from a periphery of the toe material to a periphery of the heel material for bisecting the toe and heel materials.
In further embodiments, the method selects a general shape of the flex member from the group consisting of a V shape, a U shape, a Y shape, a W shape, an X shape, a circular shape, a triangular shape, a saw tooth shape, a polygonal shape, and combinations thereof.
In yet another embodiment, the method bisects the toe material with the first flex member for facilitating flexing about an axis passing longitudinally through the first flex member. In some of these embodiments, the method bisects the heel material with the second flex member for facilitating flexing about an axis passing longitudinally through the second flex member.
In other embodiments, the method uses a spring as the flex member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 depicts the shoe in accordance with the invention.
FIG. 2 more particularly depicts the shoe shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 more particularly depicts the shoe shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 more particularly depicts the shoe shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 5 more particularly depicts the shoe shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 6 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 7 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 8 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 9 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 10 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 11 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 12 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 13 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 14 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 15 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 16 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 17 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 18 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 19 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 20 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 21 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 22 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 23 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 24 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 25 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 26 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 27 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 28 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 29 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 30 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 31 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 32 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 33 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 34 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 35 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 36 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 37 more particularly depicts a flex member shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 38 depicts a method for providing the shoe shown in FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
As depicted in FIG. 1, the invention is a configuration for the sole of a slide shoe 10, comprising a plurality of slide soles 100, 300, 601, and 602 which may contact the ground, each slide sole composed of a material possessing a certain coefficient of friction.
As shown in FIG. 2, shoe 10 with divided ground contact surfaces includes toe area 40 covered in part by toe material or ground contact surface 101. Toe area 40 includes toe slide sole 100, wherein toe slide sole 100 includes toe material or ground contact surface 101.
Heel area 80 is covered in part by heel material or ground contact surface 603, 604 (see FIG. 5). Heel area 80 includes heel slide sole 601, 602, wherein heel slide sole 601, 602 includes heel material or ground contact surface 603, 604.
In some embodiments, a slide sole has a flex member dividing slide soles in a lateral direction. In other embodiments, the flex member divides the slide soles in a longitudinal direction. In further embodiments, the flex member divides the slide soles in an arcuate direction. Some embodiments have the slide soles divided by the flex member in any combination of lateral, longitudinal, and arcuate directions.
FIGS. 2 and 5 show first flex member 200 in a forepart of shoe 10 and second flex member 500 in a rearpart of shoe 10, respectively. In these embodiments shown, flex members 200 and 500 bisect the slide soles and spread slide sole contact surfaces 101, 301, 603, 604 to periphery 13 of the sole. The function of flex members 200 and 500 is to facilitate flexing of shoe 10 and to control which of the plurality of slide soles contacts the ground. In some embodiments, flex members 200 and 500 allow a user to control a total surface area of ground contact made by all of the plurality of contact surfaces 101, 301, 603, and 604 for slide soles 100, 300, 601, and 602.
As shown in FIG. 1, shoe 10 comprises four separate slide soles each with a different ground contact surface, namely toe slide sole 100, rear forefoot slide sole 300, medial heel slide sole 601, and lateral heel slide sole 602 with contact surfaces 101, 301, 603 and 604.
Toe slide sole 100 has ground contact surface or toe material 101 which provides a bowler a controllable amount of horizontal ground friction, determined by the coefficient of friction of toe slide sole's 100 selected surface material composition, and by the bowler's chosen amount of flexing of slide shoe 10 to vary the amount of toe slide sole's 100 surface area in contact with the ground.
Rear forefoot slide sole 300, also in toe area 40 and shown in FIG. 2, has ground contact surface 301 which provides the bowler a controllable amount of horizontal ground friction, determined by the coefficient of friction of the rear forefoot slide sole's 300 selected surface material composition, and by the bowler's chosen amount of flexing of slide shoe 10 to vary the amount of contact surface 301 in contact with the ground.
Medial heel slide sole 601 and lateral heel slide sole 602 collectively define heel area 80, as shown in FIG. 5. Like rear forefoot slide sole 300 and toe slide sole 100, each has ground contact surfaces 603 and 604, respectively, which collectively define heel material and provide the bowler a controllable amount of horizontal ground friction, determined by the coefficient of friction of the corresponding slide sole's selected surface material composition, and by the bowlers chosen amount at flexing of slide shoe 10 to vary the amount of heel material 603, 604 in contact with the ground.
FIG. 2 outlines the location of a space between toe slide sole 100 and the rear forefoot slide sole 300, wherein flex member 200 occupies. In some embodiments, flex member 200 is composed of a resilient material. In other embodiments, flex member 200 is contoured in order to further facilitate flexing of shoe 10.
In further embodiments, flex member 200 functions as a hinge along its axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to flex member's 200 centerline.
As FIG. 1 shows, flex member 200 extends in both lateral and longitudinal directions, serving to spread slide sole ground contact surfaces 101 and 301 toward periphery 13 of shoe 10. This advantageously spreads contact surfaces 101 and 301 over a greater extent of shoe 10 with a reduced amount (measured by volume or surface area) of contact surfaces 101 and 301. In some embodiments, flex member 200 spreads contact surfaces 101 and 301 over a greater portion of the shoe 10's footprint, thereby improving stability of shoe 10.
In other embodiments, flex member 200 provides a reduced total ground contact surface area of the two foregoing slide sole parts 100 and 300, and reduces friction as compared to a shoe 10 that does not spread the ground contact surfaces towards a periphery 13 of the shoe 10.
In further embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 13, flex member 200 facilitates transverse flexing of shoe 10 to the left or the right in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis. FIGS. 1-15 illustrate flex member 200 extending from periphery 13 to periphery 13 of shoe 10, thereby bisecting toe and rear forefoot materials 101 and 301, respectively.
In additional embodiments, flex member 200 facilitates diagonal flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis. See FIGS. 14-15.
To achieve the above desired flexing, whether transverse, diagonal, and combinations thereof, flex member 200 has various shapes and a variety of geometries.
FIGS. 6-21 show various embodiments of flex member 200 having different shapes and geometries for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in different directions for different bowlers.
In some embodiments, leaf spring 410 is embedded in a part of the length of flex member 200, as shown in profile view in FIGS. 22 and 25, leaf spring 410 having its equilibrium or neutral point adjusted so that shoe 10 is in a slightly flexed position, thereby facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of leaf spring 410.
In some embodiments, coil spring 414 is embedded in a part of the length of flex member 200, as shown in profile view in FIGS. 23 and 26, wherein coil spring 414 has its equilibrium or neutral point adjusted so that shoe 10 is in a slightly flexed position, thereby facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of coil spring 414.
In other embodiments, molded memory material spring structure 418 is embedded in a part of the length of flex member 200, as shown in profile view in FIGS. 24 and 27, molded memory material spring structure 418 having its equilibrium or neutral point adjusted so that shoe 10 is in a slightly flexed position, thereby facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of molded memory material spring structure 418.
Embodiments containing the spring structures shown in profile view in FIGS. 22-27 offer enhanced shoe 10 flexure capability. The various spring structures apply a certain initial amount of force to shoe 10 to deflect it slightly into the flexed position as its initial condition. This provides advantage in that there is less input force required to further flex shoe 10.
In some embodiments, in addition to the various springs 410, 414, and 418 used in the forepart of shoe 10, various springs 510, 514, and 518 are also used in heel area 80, as shown in FIGS. 25-27. In further embodiments, in lieu of the various springs 410, 414, and 418 in the toe area 40 and the various springs 510, 514, and 518 in the heel area 80 of shoe 10, various springs 511, 515, and 519 run essentially the entire length of shoe 10 from toe area 40 to heel area 80, as shown in FIGS. 28-30.
In some embodiments, flex member 200 approximates a V-shape in the plan view, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 5, 6, 16, and 17 for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, flex member 200 approximates a U-shape in the plan view, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 18, for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, flex member 200 approximates a W-shape in the plan view, as shown in FIG. 8, for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, flex member 200 approximates a Y-shape in the plan view, as shown in FIG. 9, for facilitating transverse, diagonal, and longitudinal flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, flex member 200 approximates a circular shape in the plan view, as shown in FIG. 10, for facilitating omnidirectional flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments flex member 200 approximates a triangular shape in the plan view, as shown in FIG. 11, for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, flex member 200 approximates an X-shape in the plan view, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in any direction in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, flex member 200 approximates a sawtooth shape in the plan view, as shown in FIG. 36, for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in any direction in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, flex member 200 approximates a polygon shape in the plan view, as shown in FIG. 37, for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in any direction in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, flex member 200 approximates a generally linear shape in the plan view, oriented on a diagonal from the medial midsole to the lateral toe, as shown in FIG. 14, for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot toward the big toe, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, flex member 200 approximates a generally linear shape in the plan view, oriented on a diagonal from the lateral midsole to the medial toe, as shown in FIG. 15, for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot toward the little toe, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
Both diagonally oriented flex member 200 embodiments shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 facilitate additional friction control to shoe 10 that is already flexed longitudinally, by offering the additional feature of facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction with a transverse component.
In some embodiments, flex member 200 is recessed and spaced apart from the ground for reducing friction, by functioning as a hinge along flex member 200's longitudinal axis.
As illustrated by FIG. 3, flex member 200 serves also to elongate the total slide area length SL 201, measured from the tip of the toe slide sole 100 to that part of the rear forefoot slide sole 300 closest to the heel contact surfaces 601 and 602. In this embodiment, flexing shoe 10 selects the portions of toe material 101 and rear forefoot slide sole contact surface 301 in contact with the ground, thereby providing friction control over a longer part of the forward portion of shoe 10.
FIG. 4 depicts three zones, Zone A 110, Zone B 210 and Zone C 310, each with a contact surface 111, 211, and 311, respectively, which occupy the surfaces of the toe slide sole 100 and the rear forefoot slide sole 300. This three zone configuration facilitates friction control by spreading selectable zones of friction across a longer longitudinal distance, and providing a middle transition zone.
As shown in FIG. 4, Zone A 110 encompasses the portion of the toe slide sole 100 closest to the tip of the toe.
As also shown in FIG. 4, Zone C 310 and its corresponding contact surface 311 encompasses the portion of the rear forefoot slide sole 300 closest to the heel contact surfaces 601 and 602. Zone B 210 with its corresponding contact surface 211 is the transition zone, which lies between Zone A 110 and Zone C 310, encompassing the rear portion of the toe slide sole 100 not included in Zone A 110 and the forward portion of the rear forefoot slide sole 300 not included in Zone C 310. Zone A 110 and its corresponding contact surface 111 occupies the forwardmost portion of the toe slide sole 100. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, it can be seen that, together, the three zones provide a gradual transition from the toe slide sole to the rear forefoot slide sole, spread across the entire distance SL 201, enhancing friction control.
A longitudinal second flex member 500, shown outlined in FIG. 5, and shown in the plan view in several embodiments in FIGS. 16, 17, and 18, extends around a recessed area which is spaced apart from the ground, reducing friction by eliminating surface contact area.
In some embodiments, second flex member 500 is itself recessed and spaced apart from the ground, reducing friction.
In some embodiments, second flex member 500 functions as a hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to flex member's 500's longitudinal centerline.
In some embodiments, second flex member 500 facilitates longitudinal flexing of shoe 10 over the full extent of second flex member's 500's length, by functioning as a hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to flex member's 500 longitudinal centerline.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5, 16, 17, and 18, second flex member 500 bisects the heel area of the sole, dividing heel area into a medial heel section slide sole 601, with corresponding contact surface 603 and a lateral heel section slide sole 602, with corresponding contact surface, reducing total heel contact surface area, thereby reducing friction.
In some embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 5, 16, 17, and 18, second flex member 500 spreads the medial heel section slide sole 601, with corresponding contact surface 503 and the lateral heel section slide sole 602, with corresponding contact surface 604, to the periphery 13 of shoe 10, providing greater stability than shoe 10 of equal contact surface area concentrated at its center.
In some embodiments, second flex member 500 facilitates transverse flexing of shoe 10 along the entire length of second flex member 500 by functioning as a hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In some embodiments, second flex member 500 facilitates longitudinal flexing of shoe 10 along the entire length of second flex member 500 by functioning as a hinge along its transverse axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction parallel to second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In some embodiments, second flex member 500 facilitates diagonal flexing of shoe 10 along the entire length of second flex member 500 by functioning as a hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to second flex member's 500's longitudinal centerline.
In some embodiments, second flex member 500 facilitates diagonal flexing of shoe 10 along the entire length of second flex member 500 by functioning as a hinge along its transverse axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction parallel to second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 18, second flex member 500 does not contact flex member 200, providing separate, independent areas to facilitate flexing of the shoe, by functioning as a hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 16, second flex member 500 terminates as it contacts flex member 200, providing a synergistic effect in that location to facilitate flexing of the shoe, by functioning as a hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In yet another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, second flex member 500 intersects and crosses flex member 200, providing a synergistic effect across a large area to facilitate flexing of the shoe, by functioning as a hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 17, second flex member 500 runs longitudinally for the entire length of the shoe from toe to heel, to facilitate flexing of shoe 10 over its entire length, by functioning as a hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 17, second flex member 500 runs longitudinally for the entire length of shoe 10 from toe to heel, dividing the toe slide sole 100 into a left part and a right part, and spreading them toward the periphery of shoe 10, reducing friction, saving surface contact material and reducing friction by reducing surface contact area.
In other embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, second flex member 500 is of a generally linear shape in the plan view, facilitating flexing of shoe 10 over second flex member's 500 length, by functioning as a hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 19, second flex member 500 is of a generally triangular shape in the plan view, facilitating flexing of shoe 10 over second flex member's 500 length, by functioning as a hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In still other embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 20, second flex member 500 is of a generally polygonal shape in the plan view, facilitating flexing of shoe 10 over second flex member 500's length, by functioning as of hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In further embodiments, as shown in FIG. 21, second flex member 500 is of a generally oval shape in the plan view, facilitating flexing of shoe 10 over second flex member 500's length, by functioning as a hinge along its longitudinal axis, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 34 flex member 200 or second flex member 500 approximate a U-shape in their cross section, for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 over flex member 200 or second flex member 500's length, by functioning as a hinge along their longitudinalaxes, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to flex member 200 or second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 35, flex member 200 or second flex member 500 approximate a V-shape in their cross sections, for facilitating flexing of shoe 10 over flex member 200 or second flex member 500's length, by functioning as a hinge along their longitudinal axes, thus facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in a direction perpendicular to flex member 200 or second flex member 500's longitudinal centerline.
In other embodiments, as shown in the profile view in FIG. 28, a leaf spring 511 is embedded in a portion of the length of second flex member 500, said leaf spring 511 having its equilibrium or neutral point adjusted so that the shoe is in a slightly flexed position, thereby facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot.
In some embodiments, as shown in the profile view in FIG. 29, a coil spring 515 is embedded in a part of the length of second flex member 500, said coil spring 515 having its equilibrium or neutral point adjusted so that the shoe is in a slightly flexed position, thereby facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot.
In some embodiments, as shown in the profile view in FIG. 30, a molded memory material spring structure 519 is embedded in a part of the length of second flex member 500, said molded memory material spring structure 519 having its equilibrium or neutral point adjusted so that shoe 10 is in a slightly flexed position, thereby facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot.
In some embodiments, as shown in the elevation view in FIG. 31, a leaf spring structure is embedded in a part of the transverse extent of flex member 200, said leaf spring having its equilibrium or neutral point adjusted so that shoe 10 is in a slightly flexed position, thereby facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot.
In some embodiments, as shown in the elevation view in FIG. 32, a coil spring structure is embedded in a part of the transverse extent of flex member 200, said coil spring having its equilibrium or neutral point adjusted so that shoe 10 is in a slightly flexed position, thereby facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot.
In some embodiments, as shown in the elevation view in FIG. 33, a molded memory material spring structure is embedded in a part of the transverse extent of flex member 200, said molded memory material spring structure having its equilibrium or neutral point adjusted so that shoe 10 is in a slightly flexed position, thereby facilitating flexing of shoe 10 in the area of the toes and the ball of the foot.
In some embodiments, second flex member 500 is composed of hard rubber.
In some embodiments, second flex member 500 is composed of flexible plastic.
In the preferred embodiment, the contact surface 111 of Zone A 110 is 100 percent fibrous material with cotton, the contact surface 311 of Zone C 310 is 100 percent microfiber, and the contact surface 211 of Zone B 210 is a mixture of 50 percent fibrous material with cotton and 50 percent microfiber.
In some embodiments, the contact surface 111 of Zone A 110 is felt, the contact surface 211 of Zone B 210 is leather, and the contact surface 311 of one C 310 is hard plastic. The contact surface 603 of the medial heel 601 and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel 602 is spongy rubber.
In some embodiments, the contact surface 111 of Zone A 110 is felt, the contact surface 211 of Zone B 210 is leather, and the contact surface 311 of Zone C 310 is hard plastic. The contact surface 603 of the medial heel 601 is spongy rubber, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel 602 is hard rubber.
In some embodiments, the contact surface 111 of Zone A 110 is felt, the contact surface 211 of Zone B 210 is leather, and the contact surface 311 of Zone C is hard plastic. The contact surface 603 of the medial heel 601 and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel 602 is spongy rubber.
In some embodiments, the contact surface 111 of Zone A 110 is hard plastic, the contact surface 211 of Zone B 210 is leather, and the contact surface 311 of Zone C is hard plastic. The contact surface 603 of the medial heel 601 and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel 602 is hard rubber.
In some embodiments, the contact surface 111 of Zone A 10 is hard rubber with a texture of large bump protrusions, the contact surface 211 of Zone B 210 is hard rubber with a texture of small bump protrusions, and the contact surface 311 of Zone C 310 is hard rubber with a smooth surface. The contact surface 603 of the medial heel 601 and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel 602 is hard rubber with a smooth surface.
In some embodiments, the contact surface 111 of Zone A 110 is hard rubber with a smooth surface, the contact surface 211 of Zone B 210 is hard rubber with a lateral grooved surface, and the contact surface 311 of Zone C 310 is hard rubber with a smooth surface. The contact surface 603 of the medial heel 601 and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel 602 is hard rubber with a longitudinal grooved surface.
In some embodiments, Zones A 110, B 210 and C 310 are eliminated. The surface contact material 101 of the toe slide sole 100 is fibrous material with cotton. The surface contact material 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300 is microfiber. The contact surface 603 of the medial heel 601 is hard rubber, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel 602 is microfiber.
In some embodiments, flex members 200 and 500 are composed of hard rubber.
In some embodiments, flex members 200 and 500 are composed of flexible plastic.
In some embodiments, the contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of material with a very low coefficient of friction, for greatly reducing friction.
In some embodiments, the contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300 the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of fibrous material with cotton material, for greatly reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of 50 percent fibrous material with cotton material and 50 percent microfiber material, for greatly reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of material with a low coefficient of friction, for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of microfiber material, for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of felt material, for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of satin material, for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of cotton material, for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of leather material, for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of wood material, for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of hard rubber material, for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 have concave dimples, for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 have large convex bumps, for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of spongy rubber, for increasing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of soft rubber, for increasing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 are composed of gel, for increasing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 have a nonskid texture, for increasing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 have transverse grooves, for increasing friction.
In some embodiments, contact surface 101 of the toe slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel slide sole 602 have longitudinal grooves, for increasing friction.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, Zone A 110 contact surface 111 is 100 percent ultra-low friction material.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, Zone B 210 contact surface 211 is 50 percent ultra-low friction material, and 50 percent low friction material.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, Zone C 310 contact surface 311 is 100 percent low friction material.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110, Zone B 210 and Zone C 310 surface contact materials 111, 211, and 311 have an extremely low coefficient of friction, to greatly reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110, Zone B 210 and Zone C 310 surface contact materials 111, 211, and 311 contain a mixture of a material that has an extremely low coefficient of friction and a material that has a low coefficient of friction, to moderately reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110, Zone B 210 and Zone C 310 surface contact materials 111, 211, and 311 have a low coefficient of friction, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110 surface contact materials 111, 211, and 311 are fibrous material with cotton, to greatly reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110 surface contact material 111 is 50 percent fibrous material with cotton and 50 percent microfiber, to greatly reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110 surface contact material 111 is microfiber, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110 surface contact material 111 is hard rubber, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110 surface contact material 111 is leather, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110 surface contact material 111 is wood, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110 surface contact material 111 is felt, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110 surface contact material 111 has concave dimples, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110 surface contact material 111 has convex bumps, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone A 110 surface contact material 111 has longitudinal grooves, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone C 310 surface contact material 311 is fibrous material with cotton, to greatly reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone C 310 surface contact material 311 is 50 percent fibrous material with cotton and 50 percent microfiber, to greatly reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone C 310 surface contact material 311 is microfiber, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone C 310 surface contact material 311 is hard rubber, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone C 310 surface contact material 311 is leather, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone C 310 surface contact material 311 is wood, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone C 310 surface contact material 311 is felt, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone C 310 surface contact material 311 has concave dimples, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone C 310 surface contact material 311 has convex bumps, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone C 310 surface contact material 311 has longitudinal grooves, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone B 210 surface contact material 211 is fibrous material with cotton, to greatly reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone B 210 surface contact material 211 is 50 percent fibrous material with cotton and 50 percent microfiber, to greatly reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone B 210 surface contact material 211 is microfiber, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone B 210 surface contact material 211 is hard rubber, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone B 210 surface contact material 211 is leather, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone B 210 surface contact material 211 is wood, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone B 210 surface contact material 211 is felt, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone B 210 surface contact material 211 has concave dimples, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone B 210 surface contact material 211 has convex bumps, to reduce friction.
In some embodiments, Zone B 210 surface contact material 211 has longitudinal grooves, to reduce friction.
In optional embodiments, the contact surface 101 of the toe section slide sole 100, the contact surface 301 of the rear forefoot section slide sole 300, the contact surface 603 of the medial heel section slide sole 601, and the contact surface 604 of the lateral heel section slide sole 602 surfaces are removable, to enable customization by means of choice of surface materials and textures.
In some of these embodiments, Zones A 110, B 210 and C 310 are eliminated. The surface contact materials 101, 301, 603, and 604 of the toe section slide sole 100, rear forefoot slide sole 300, medial heel 601 and lateral heel 602 are swatches that are removably attached to shoe 10 by means of a pile and loop mechanism. The surface contact materials of the said swatches are 100 percent fibrous material with cotton, 25 percent microfiber and 75 percent fibrous material with cotton, 50 percent microfiber and 50 percent fibrous material with cotton, 75 percent microfiber and 25 percent fibrous material with cotton, and 100 percent microfiber.
In other embodiments, Zones A 110, B 210 and C 310 are eliminated. The surface contact materials 101, 301, 603, and 604 of the toe section slide sole 100, rear forefoot slide sole 300, medial heel 601 and lateral heel 602 are appropriately sized and shaped swatches permanently affixed to flexible plastic backs that are removably attached to shoe 10 by means of a snap mechanism. The surface contact materials of the said swatches are 100 percent fibrous material with cotton 25 percent microfiber and 75 percent fibrous material with cotton, 50 percent microfiber and 50 percent fibrous material with cotton, 75 percent microfiber and 25 percent fibrous material with cotton, and 100 percent microfiber.
In another aspect of the invention, method 900 for providing shoe 10 with divided ground contact surfaces includes the step of providing 910 a toe area and covering 912 a part of the toe area with a toe material. Method 900 also includes providing 940 a heel area and covering 942 a part of the heel area with a heel material. Method 900 also places 950 a first flex member between the toe and heel areas; extends 952 the first flex member in an arcuate direction; and spreads 954 the toe material towards a periphery of shoe 10 for reducing friction between the ground and said toe material. In a further embodiment, method 900 extends 960 a second flex member longitudinally through the heel material; divides 962 the heel material; and extends 964 the second flex member around a recessed area. Method 900 also includes spacing 970 the recessed area apart from the ground for reducing friction; and spacing 972 the first and second flex members apart from the ground for reducing friction.
In some embodiments, method 900 includes locating 980 the toe material on one side of said first flex member. In another embodiment, method 900 extends 982 the first flex member from a periphery of the toe material to a periphery 13 of the heel material for bisecting the toe and heel materials.
In some embodiments, method 900 includes selecting 984 a general shape of the flex member 200 from the group consisting of a V shape, a U shape, a Y shape, a W shape, an X shape, a circular shape, a triangular shape, a saw tooth shape, a polygonal shape, and combinations thereof.
In further embodiments, method 900 bisects 986 the toe material with the first flex member for facilitating flexing about an axis passing longitudinally through the first flex member.
In other embodiments, method 900 bisects 988 the heel material with the second flex member for facilitating flexing about an axis passing longitudinally through the second flex member.
In an optional embodiment, method 900 includes 992 using a spring as the first or second flex member.
1. A shoe with divided ground contact surfaces, comprising:
a. A toe area covered in part by a toe material; b. Said toe material for contacting a ground; c. A heel area covered in part by a heel material; d. Said heel material for contacting the ground; e. A flex member between the toe and heel material; f. Said flex member extends both in lateral and longitudinal directions for spreading said toe and heel materials toward a periphery of the shoe and for reducing friction between the ground and said toe and heel materials; and g. Said flex member is contoured for facilitating flexing of the shoe.
2. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein said flex member follows a contour of a user's toes for facilitating flexing of the shoe in the area of the toes.
3. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein said flex member is recessed and spaced apart from the ground for reducing friction.
4. The shoe according to claim 1, further comprising a second flex member extending around a recessed area, wherein said recessed area is spaced apart from the ground.
5. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein said flex member includes a general shape selected from the group consisting of a V shape, a U shape, a Y shape, a W shape, an X shape, a circular shape, a triangular shape, a saw tooth shape, a polygonal shape, and combinations thereof.
6. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein said flex member extends in a generally diagonal direction.
7. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein said flex member bisects said toe material for facilitating flexing about an axis passing longitudinally through said flex member.
8. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein said flex member bisects said heel material for facilitating flexing about an axis passing longitudinally through said flex member.
9. The shoe according to claim 1, wherein said flex member includes a spring selected from the group consisting of a leaf spring, a coil spring, a molded memory material spring, and combinations thereof.
10. A shoe with divided ground contact surfaces, comprising:
a. A toe area covered in part by a toe material; b. Said toe material for contacting a ground; c. A heel area covered in part by a heel material; d. Said heel material for contacting the ground; e. A first flex member placed between the toe and heel areas; f. Said first flex member extending in an arcuate direction for spreading said toe material towards a periphery of the shoe and for reducing friction between the ground and said toe material; g. A second flex member extending longitudinally through the heel material for dividing the heel material; h. Said second flex member extending around a recessed area, wherein said recessed area is spaced apart from the ground for reducing friction; and i. Said first and second flex members are spaced apart from the ground for reducing friction.
11. The shoe according to claim 10, wherein said toe material is located on one side of said first flex member.
12. The shoe according to claim 10, wherein said flex member extends from a periphery of said toe material to a periphery of said heel material for bisecting said toe and heel materials.
13. The shoe according to claim 10, wherein said flex member includes a general shape selected from the group consisting of a V shape, a U shape, a Y shape, a W shape, an X shape, a circular shape, a triangular shape, a saw tooth shape, a polygonal shape, and combinations thereof.
14. A method for providing a shoe with divided ground contact surfaces, comprising the steps of:
a. Providing a toe area; b. Covering a part of the toe area with a toe material; c. Providing a heel area; d. Covering a part of the heel area with a heel material; e. Placing a first flex member between the toe and heel areas; f. Extending the first flex member in an arcuate direction; g. Spreading the toe material towards a periphery of the shoe for reducing friction between the ground and said toe material; h. Extending a second flex member longitudinally through the heel material; i. Dividing the heel material; j. Extending the second flex member around a recessed area; k. Spacing the recessed area apart from the ground for reducing friction; and l. Spacing the first and second flex members apart from the ground for reducing friction.
15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the step of locating the toe material on one side of said first flex member.
16. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the step of extending the first flex member from a periphery of the toe material to a periphery of the heel material for bisecting the toe and heel materials.
17. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the step of selecting a general shape of the flex member from the group consisting of a V shape, a U shape, a Y shape, a W shape, an X shape, a circular shape, a triangular shape, a saw tooth shape, a polygonal shape, and combinations thereof.
18. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the step of bisecting the toe material with the first flex member for facilitating flexing about an axis passing longitudinally through the first flex member.
19. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the step of bisecting the heel material with the second flex member for facilitating flexing about an axis passing longitudinally through the second flex member.
20. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the step of using a spring as the flex member.
| 2015-04-24 | en | 2015-10-29 |
US-201514637517-A | Soybean gapd promoter and its use in constitutive expression of transgenic genes in plants
ABSTRACT
The invention relates to gene expression regulatory sequences from soybean, specifically to the promoter of a soybean eukaryotic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenasegene and fragments thereof and their use in promoting the expression of one or more heterologous nucleic acid fragments in a constitutive manner in plants. The invention further discloses compositions, polynucleotide constructs, transformed host cells, transgenic plants and seeds containing the recombinant construct with the promoter, and methods for preparing and using the same.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/955,256, filed Mar. 19, 2014, now pending, and herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY
The official copy of the sequence listing is submitted electronically via EFS-Web as an ASCII formatted sequence listing with a file named 20150304_BB2233USPNP_ST25_SeqLst.txt created on Mar. 4, 2015, and having a size of 69 kilobytes and is filed concurrently with the specification. The sequence listing contained in this ASCII formatted document is part of the specification and is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a plant promoter GM-GAPD and fragments thereof and their use in altering expression of at least one heterologous nucleotide sequence in plants in a tissue-independent or constitutive manner.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Recent advances in plant genetic engineering have opened new doors to engineer plants to have improved characteristics or traits, such as plant disease resistance, insect resistance, herbicidal resistance, yield improvement, improvement of the nutritional quality of the edible portions of the plant, and enhanced stability or shelf-life of the ultimate consumer product obtained from the plants. Thus, a desired gene (or genes) with the molecular function to impart different or improved characteristics or qualities, can be incorporated properly into the plant's genome. The newly integrated gene (or genes) coding sequence can then be expressed in the plant cell to exhibit the desired new trait or characteristics. It is important that appropriate regulatory signals must be present in proper configurations in order to obtain the expression of the newly inserted gene coding sequence in the plant cell. These regulatory signals typically include a promoter region, a 5′ non-translated leader sequence and a 3′ transcription termination/polyadenylation sequence.
A promoter is a non-coding genomic DNA sequence, usually upstream (5′) to the relevant coding sequence, to which RNA polymerase binds before initiating transcription. This binding aligns the RNA polymerase so that transcription will initiate at a specific transcription initiation site. The nucleotide sequence of the promoter determines the nature of the RNA polymerase binding and other related protein factors that attach to the RNA polymerase and/or promoter, and the rate of RNA synthesis. The RNA is processed to produce messenger RNA (mRNA) which serves as a template for translation of the RNA sequence into the amino acid sequence of the encoded polypeptide. The 5′ non-translated leader sequence is a region of the mRNA upstream of the coding region that may play a role in initiation and translation of the mRNA. The 3′ transcription termination/polyadenylation signal is a non-translated region downstream of the coding region that functions in the plant cell to cause termination of the RNA synthesis and the addition of polyadenylate nucleotides to the 3′ end.
It has been shown that certain promoters are able to direct RNA synthesis at a higher rate than others. These are called “strong promoters”. Certain other promoters have been shown to direct RNA synthesis at higher levels only in particular types of cells or tissues and are often referred to as “tissue specific promoters”, or “tissue-preferred promoters” if the promoters direct RNA synthesis preferably in certain tissues but also in other tissues at reduced levels. Since patterns of expression of a chimeric gene (or genes) introduced into a plant are controlled using promoters, there is an ongoing interest in the isolation of novel promoters which are capable of controlling the expression of a chimeric gene or (genes) at certain levels in specific tissue types or at specific plant developmental stages.
Certain promoters are able to direct RNA synthesis at relatively similar levels across all tissues of a plant. These are called “constitutive promoters” or “tissue-independent” promoters. Constitutive promoters can be divided into strong, moderate and weak according to their effectiveness to direct RNA synthesis. Since it is necessary in many cases to simultaneously express a chimeric gene (or genes) in different tissues of a plant to get the desired functions of the gene (or genes), constitutive promoters are especially useful in this consideration. Though many constitutive promoters have been discovered from plants and plant viruses and characterized, there is still an ongoing interest in the isolation of more novel constitutive promoters which are capable of controlling the expression of a chimeric gene or (genes) at different levels and the expression of multiple genes in the same transgenic plant for gene stacking.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention concerns a recombinant DNA construct comprising at least one heterologous nucleotide sequence operably linked to a promoter wherein said promoter comprises the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 39, or said promoter comprises a functional fragment of the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 39, or wherein said promoter comprises a nucleotide sequence having at least 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% and 100% sequence identity, based on the Clustal V method of alignment with pairwise alignment default parameters (KTUPLE=2, GAP PENALTY=5, WINDOW=4 and DIAGONALS SAVED=4), when compared to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 39.
In another embodiment, this invention concerns a recombinant DNA construct comprising a nucleotide sequence comprising any of the sequences set forth in SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO:2, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:5, SEQ ID NO:6, or SEQ ID NO:39, or a functional fragment thereof, operably linked to at least one heterologous sequence, wherein said nucleotide sequence is a constitutive promoter.
In another embodiment, this invention concerns a recombinant DNA construct comprising a nucleotide sequence having at least 95% identity, based on the Clustal V method of alignment with pairwise alignment default parameters (KTUPLE=2, GAP PENALTY=5, WINDOW=4 and DIAGONALS SAVED=4), when compared to the sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:6.
In another embodiment, this invention concerns a recombinant DNA construct comprising at least one heterologous nucleotide sequence operably linked to a promoter region of a Glycine max eukaryotic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GM-GAPD) gene as set forth in SEQ ID NO:1, wherein said promoter comprises a deletion at the 5′-terminus of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195, 196, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 221, 222, 223, 224, 225, 226, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237, 238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247, 248, 249, 250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271, 272, 273, 274, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, 280, 281, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286, 287, 288, 289, 290, 291, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296, 297, 298, 299, 300, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, 320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325, 326, 327, 328, 329, 330, 331, 332, 333, 334, 335, 336, 337, 338, 339, 340, 341, 342, 343, 344, 345, 346, 347, 348, 349, 350, 351, 352, 353, 354, 355, 356, 357, 358, 359, 360, 361, 362, 363, 364, 365, 366, 367, 368, 369, 370, 371, 372, 373, 374, 375, 376, 377, 378, 379, 380, 381, 382, 383, 384, 385, 386, 387, 388, 389, 390, 391, 392, 393, 394, 395, 396, 397, 398, 399, 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405, 406, 407, 408, 409, 410, 411, 412, 413, 414, 415, 416, 417, 418, 419, 420, 421, 422, 423, 424, 425, 426, 427, 428, 429, 430, 431, 432, 433, 434, 435, 436, 437, 438, 439, 440, 441, 442, 443, 444, 445, 446, 447, 448, 449, 450, 451, 452, 453, 454, 455, 456, 457, 458, 459, 460, 461, 462, 463, 464, 465, 466, 467, 468, 469, 470, 471, 472, 473, 474, 475, 476, 477, 478, 479, 480, 481, 482, 483, 484, 485, 486, 487, 488, 489, 490, 491, 492, 493, 494, 495, 496, 497, 498, 499, 500, 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 507, 508, 509, 510, 511, 512, 513, 514, 515, 516, 517, 518, 519, 520, 521, 522, 523, 524, 525, 526, 527, 528, 529, 530, 531, 532, 533, 534, 535, 536, 537, 538, 539, 540, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, 547, 548, 549, 550, 551, 552, 553, 554, 555, 556, 557, 558, 559, 560, 561, 562, 563, 564, 565, 566, 567, 568, 569, 570, 571, 572, 573, 574, 575, 576, 577, 578, 579, 580, 581, 582, 583, 584, 585, 586, 587, 588, 589, 590, 591, 592, 593, 594, 595, 596, 597, 598, 599, 600, 601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607, 608, 609, 610, 611, 612, 613, 614, 615, 616, 617, 618, 619, 620, 621, 622, 623, 624, 625, 626, 627, 628, 629, 630, 631, 632, 633, 634, 635, 636, 637, 638, 639, 640, 641, 642, 643, 644, 645, 646, 647, 648, 649, 650, 651, 652, 653, 654, 655, 656, 657, 658, 659, 660, 661, 662, 663, 664, 665, 666, 667, 668, 669, 670, 671, 672, 673, 674, 675, 676, 677, 678, 679, 680, 681, 682, 683, 684, 685, 686, 687, 688, 689, 690, 691, 692, 693, 694, 695, 696, 697, 698, 699, 700, 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708, 709, 710, 711, 712, 713, 714, 715, 716, 717, 718, 719, 720, 721, 722, 723, 724, 725, 726, 727, 728, 729, 730, 731, 732, 733, 734, 735, 736, 737, 738, 739, 740, 741, 742, 743, 744, 745, 746, 747, 748, 749, 750, 751, 752, 753, 754, 755, 756, 757, 758, 759, 760, 761, 762, 763, 764, 765, 766, 767, 768, 769, 770, 771, 772, 773, 774, 775, 776, 777, 778, 779, 780, 781, 782, 783, 784, 785, 786, 787, 788, 789, 790, 791, 792, 793, 794, 795, 796, 797, 798, 799, 800, 801, 802, 803, 804, 805, 806, 807, 808, 809, 810, 811, 812, 813, 814, 815, 816, 817, 818, 819, 820, 821, 822, 823, 824, 825, 826, 827, 828, 829, 830, 831, 832, 833, 834, 835, 836, 837, 838, 839, 840, 841, 842, 843, 844, 845, 846, 847, 848, 849, 850, 851, 852, 853, 854, 855, 856, 857, 858, 859, 860, 861, 862, 863, 864, 865, 866, 867, 868, 869, 870, 871, 872, 873, 874, 875, 876, 877, 878, 879, 880, 881, 882, 883, 884, 885, 886, 887, 888, 889, 890, 891, 892, 893, 894, 895, 896, 897, 898, 899, 900, 901, 902, 903, 904, 905, 906, 907, 908, 909, 910, 911, 912, 913, 914, 915, 916, 917, 918, 919, 920, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925, 926, 927, 928, 929, 930, 931, 932, 933, 934, 935, 936, 937, 938, 939, 940, 941, 942, 943, 944, 945, 946, 947, 948, 949, 950, 951, 952, 953, 954, 955, 956, 957, 958, 959, 960, 961, 962, 963, 964, 965, 966, 967, 968, 969, 970, 971, 972, 973, 974, 975, 976, 977, 978, 979, 980, 981, 982, 983, 984, 985, 986, 987, 988, 989, 990, 991, 992, 993, 994, 995, 996, 997, 998, 999, 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003, 1004, 1005, 100 6, 1007, 1008, 1009, 1010, 1011, 1012, 1013, 1014, 1015, 1016, 1017, 1018, 1019, 1020, 1021, 1022, 1023, 1024, 1025, 1026, 1027, 1028, 1029, 1030, 1031, 1032, 1033, 1034, 1035, 1036, 1037, 1038, 1039, 1040, 1041, 1042, 1043, 1044, 1045, 1046, 1047, 1048, 1049, 1050, 1051, 1052, 1053, 1054, 1055, 1056, 1057, 1058, 1059, 1060, 1061, 1062, 1063, 1064, 1065, 1066, 1067, 1068, 1069, 1070, 1071, 1072, 1073, 1074, 1075, 1076, 1077, 1078, 1079, 1080, 1081, 1082, 1083, 1084, 1085, 1086, 1087, 1088, 1089, 1090, 1091, 1092, 1093, 1094, 1095, 1096, 1097, 1098, 1099, 1100, 1101, 1102, 1103, 1104, 1105, 1106, 1107, 1108, 1109, 1110, 1111, 1112, 1113, 1114, 1115, 1116, 1117, 1118, 1119, 1120, 1121, 1122, 1123, 1124, 1125, 1126, 1127, 1128, 1129, 1130, 11311, 1132, 1133, 1134, 1135, 1136, 1137, 1138, 1139, 1140, 1141, 1142, 1143, 1144, 1145, 1146, 1147, 1148, 1149, 1150, 11511, 1152, 1153, 1154, 1155, 1156, 1157, 1158, 1159, 1160, 1161, 1162, 1163, 1164, 1165, 1166, 1167, 1168, 1169, 1170, 1171, 1172, 1173, 1174, 1175, 1176, 1177, 1178, 1179, 1180, 1181, 1182, 1183, 1184, 1185, 1186, 1187, 1188, 1189, 1190, 1191, 1192, 1193, 1194, 1195, 1196, 1197, 1198, 1199, 1200, 1201, 1202, 1203, 1204, 1205, 1206, 1207, 1208, 1209, 1210, 1211, 1212, 1213, 1214, 1215, 1216, 1217, 1218, 1219, 1220, 1221, 1222, 1223, 1224, 1225, 1226, 1227, 1228, 1229, 1230, 1231, 12312, 1233, 1234, 1235, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1239, 1240, 1241, 1242, 1243, 1244, 1245, 1246, 1247, 1248, 1249, 1250, 1251, 1252, or 1253 consecutive nucleotides, wherein the first nucleotide deleted is the cytosine nucleotide [C] at position 1 of SEQ ID NO:1. This invention also concerns a recombinant DNA construct of the embodiments disclosed herein, wherein the promoter is a constitutive promoter.
In another embodiment, this invention concerns a recombinant DNA construct comprising at least one heterologous nucleotide sequence operably linked to the promoter of the invention.
In another embodiment, this invention concerns a cell, plant, or seed comprising a recombinant DNA construct of the present disclosure.
In another embodiment, this invention concerns plants comprising this recombinant DNA construct and seeds obtained from such plants.
In another embodiment, this invention concerns a method of altering (increasing or decreasing) expression of at least one heterologous nucleic acid fragment in a plant cell which comprises:
(a) transforming a plant cell with the recombinant DNA construct described above; (b) growing fertile mature plants from the transformed plant cell of step (a); (c) selecting plants containing the transformed plant cell wherein the expression of the heterologous nucleic acid fragment is increased or decreased.
In another embodiment, this invention concerns a method for expressing a yellow fluorescent protein ZS-GREEN1 (GFP) in a host cell comprising:
(a) transforming a host cell with a recombinant expression construct of the disclosure comprising at least one ZS-GREEN1 nucleic acid fragment operably linked to a promoter wherein said promoter consists essentially of the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NOs:1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 39; and (b) growing the transformed host cell under conditions that are suitable for expression of the recombinant DNA construct, wherein expression of the recombinant DNA construct results in production of increased levels of ZS-GREEN1 protein in the transformed host cell when compared to a corresponding nontransformed host cell.
In another embodiment, this invention concerns a recombinant DNA construct comprising a plant eukaryotic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPD) gene promoter.
In another embodiment, this invention concerns a method of altering a marketable plant trait. The marketable plant trait concerns genes and proteins involved in disease resistance, herbicide resistance, insect resistance, carbohydrate metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, plant development, plant growth regulation, yield improvement, drought resistance, cold resistance, heat resistance, and salt resistance.
In another embodiment, this invention concerns a recombinant DNA construct linked to a heterologous nucleotide sequence. The heterologous nucleotide sequence encodes a protein involved in disease resistance, herbicide resistance, insect resistance; carbohydrate metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, plant development, plant growth regulation, yield improvement, drought resistance, cold resistance, heat resistance, or salt resistance in plants.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS AND SEQUENCE LISTINGS
The invention can be more fully understood from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings and Sequence Listing that form a part of this application.
FIG. 1 is the relative expression of the soybean eukaryotic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPD) gene (PSO467143, Glyma06g18110.1) in twenty one soybean tissues by Illumina (Solexa) digital gene expression dual-tag-based mRNA profiling. The gene expression profile indicates that the GAPD gene is expressed similarly in all the checked tissues. Black bars show the expression mean (in PPTM) and grey bars show the expression standard deviation (STDV).
FIG. 2A is GAPD promoter copy number analysis by Southern and shows the image of a Southern blot hybridized with a 637 bp GAPD promoter probe made with primers QC690-S3 and QC690-A by PCR. FIG. 2B shows restriction enzyme recognitions sites in the GAPD probe region.
FIG. 3A-3D shows the maps of plasmids pCR2.1-TOPO (FIG. 3A), QC690 (FIG. 3B), QC478i (FIG. 3C), and QC699 (FIG. 3D). The 6897 bp Ascl-Ascl fragment of QC699 is used to produce transgenic soybean plants.
FIG. 4A-4D shows the maps of plasmids pCR8/GW/TOPO (FIG. 4A), QC690-1 (FIG. 4B), QC330 (FIG. 4C), and QC690-1Y (FIG. 4D) containing a full length 1469 bp GAPD promoter. Other promoter deletion constructs QC690-2Y, QC690-3Y, QC690-4Y, and QC690-5Y containing the 1148, 850, 637, 425, and 211 bp truncated GAPD promoters, respectively, have the same map configuration, except for the truncat)ed promoter sequences.
FIG. 5 is the schematic descriptions of the full length 1469 bp GAPD promoter in construct QC690 and its progressive truncations in constructs, QC690-1Y, QC690-2Y, QC690-3Y, QC690-4Y, and QC690-5Y of the GAPD promoter. The size of each promoter is given at the left end of each drawing. QC690-1Y has 1148 bp of the 1469 bp GAPD promoter in QC690 with the XmaI and NcoI sites removed and like the other deletion constructs with the attB site between the promoter and ZS-YELLOW N1 reporter gene.
FIG. 6A-FIG. 6H is the transient expression of the fluorescent protein reporter gene ZS-GREEN1 or ZS-YELLOW1 N1 in the cotyledons of germinating soybean seeds (shown as white dots in a black background). The reporter gene is driven by the full length GAPD promoter in QC690 (FIG. 6C) (with ZS-GREEN1) or by progressively truncated GAPD promoters in the transient expression constructs QC690-1Y to QC690-5Y (with ZS-YELLOW1 N1) (FIG. 6D, FIG. 6E, FIG. 6F, FIG. 6G and FIG. 6 H, respectively).
FIG. 7A-7P shows the stable expression of the fluorescent protein reporter gene ZS-GREEN1 (shown as white) in different tissues of transgenic soybean plants containing a single copy of GAPD:GFP DNA of construct QC699, comprising the full length GAPD promoter of SEQ ID NO:1. (FIG. 7A: Embryonic callus, FIG. 7B: Young somatic embryos, FIG. 7C: Cotyledon somatic embryos, FIG. 7D: Open flower, FIG. 7E: A part of a sepal showing stomata, FIG. 7F: Stamen, filaments, anthers, and style of a young flower, FIG. 7G: A part of a pistil showing stomata, FIG. 7H: Leaf showing stomata on adaxial and abaxial sides, FIG. 7I: Stem showing stomata, FIG. 7J: Stem, cross section showing vascular bundles, FIG. 7K: Petiole, cross section showing vascular bundles, FIG. 7L: Root, cross section showing vascular bundles, FIG. 7M: pod surface showing stomata with a close-up showing guard cells, FIG. 7N: Open pod with a R3 seed, FIG. 7O: Developing R3, R4, and R5 seeds, cross sections showing embryos and inner surface of seed coat, FIG. 7P: Cross section of a R6 seed showing embryos and seed coat).
FIG. 8 shows a nucleotide alignment of SEQ ID NO:1 (listed as GM-GAPD PRO in the figure), comprising the GAPD promoter of the disclosure, and SEQ ID NO:39 (listed as Gm06:14427908-14426438rev in the figure), comprising a 1471 bp native soybean genomic DNA from Gm06:14427908-14426438 (rev) (Schmutz J. et al., Genome sequence of the palaeopolyploid soybean, Nature 463:178-183, 2010). The percent sequence identity between the GAPD promoter of SEQ ID NO:1 and the corresponding native soybean genomic DNA of SEQ ID NO:39, based on the Clustal V method of alignment with pairwise alignment default parameters (KTUPLE=2, GAP PENALTY=5, WINDOW=4 and DIAGONALS SAVED=4) is 99.2%.
The sequence descriptions summarize the Sequence Listing attached hereto. The Sequence Listing contains one letter codes for nucleotide sequence characters and the single and three letter codes for amino acids as defined in the IUPAC-IUB standards described in Nucleic Acids Research 13:3021-3030 (1985) and in the Biochemical Journal 219(2):345-373 (1984).
SEQ ID NO:1 is the DNA sequence comprising a 1469 bp (base pair) soybean GAPD promoter flanked by Xma1 (cccggg) and NcoI (ccatgg) restriction sites.
SEQ ID NO:2 is a 1148 bp truncated form of the GAPD promoter shown in SEQ ID NO:1 (bp 317-1464 of SEQ ID NO:1).
SEQ ID NO:3 is a 850 bp truncated form of the GAPD promoter shown in SEQ ID NO:1 (bp 615-1464 of SEQ ID NO:1).
SEQ ID NO:4 is a 637 bp truncated form of the GAPD promoter shown in SEQ ID NO:1 (bp 828-1464 of SEQ ID NO:1).
SEQ ID NO:5 is a 425 bp truncated form of the GAPD promoter shown in SEQ ID NO:1 (bp 1040-1464 of SEQ ID NO:1).
SEQ ID NO:6 is a 211 bp truncated form of the GAPD promoter shown in SEQ ID NO:1 (bp 1254-1464 of SEQ ID NO:1).
SEQ ID NO:7 is an oligonucleotide primer used as a gene-specific sense primer in the PCR amplification of the full length GAPD promoter in SEQ ID NO:1 when paired with SEQ ID NO:8. A restriction enzyme XmaI recognition site CCCGGG is included for subsequent cloning.
SEQ ID NO:8 is an oligonucleotide primer used as a gene-specific antisense primer in the PCR amplification of the full length GAPD promoter in SEQ ID NO:1 when paired with SEQ ID NO:7. A restriction enzyme NcoI recognition site CCATGG is included for subsequent cloning.
SEQ ID NO:9 is an oligonucleotide primer used as an antisense primer in the PCR amplifications of the truncated GAPD promoters in SEQ ID NOs:2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 when paired with SEQ ID NOs: 10, 11, 12, 13, or 14, respectively.
SEQ ID NO:10 is an oligonucleotide primer used as a sense primer in the PCR amplification of the full length GAPD promoter in SEQ ID NO:2 when paired with SEQ ID NO:9.
SEQ ID NO:11 is an oligonucleotide primer used as a sense primer in the PCR amplification of the truncated GAPD promoter in SEQ ID NO:3 when paired with SEQ ID NO:9.
SEQ ID NO:12 is an oligonucleotide primer used as a sense primer in the PCR amplification of the truncated GAPD promoter in SEQ ID NO:4 when paired with SEQ ID NO:9.
SEQ ID NO:13 is an oligonucleotide primer used as a sense primer in the PCR amplification of the truncated GAPD promoter in SEQ ID NO:5 when paired with SEQ ID NO:9.
SEQ ID NO:14 is an oligonucleotide primer used as a sense primer in the PCR amplification of the truncated GAPD promoter in SEQ ID NO:6 when paired with SEQ ID NO:9.
SEQ ID NO:15 is the 1392 bp nucleotide sequence of the putative soybean eukaryotic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase GAPD cDNA (PSO467143).
SEQ ID NO:16 is the predicted 338 aa (amino acid) long peptide sequence translated from the coding region of the putative soybean eukaryotic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase GAPD nucleotide sequence SEQ ID NO:15.
SEQ ID NO:17 is the 4812 bp sequence of plasmid QC690.
SEQ ID NO:18 is the 8482 bp sequence of plasmid QC478i.
SEQ ID NO:19 is the 9411 bp sequence of plasmid QC699.
SEQ ID NO:20 is the 3965 bp sequence of plasmid QC690-1.
SEQ ID NO:21 is the 5286 bp sequence of plasmid QC330.
SEQ ID NO:22 is the 4806 bp sequence of plasmid QC690-1Y.
SEQ ID NO:23 is a sense primer used in quantitative PCR analysis of SAMS:HRA transgene copy numbers.
SEQ ID NO:24 is a FAM labeled fluorescent DNA oligo probe used in quantitative PCR analysis of SAMS:HRA transgene copy numbers.
SEQ ID NO:25 is an antisense primer used in quantitative PCR analysis of SAMS:HRA transgene copy numbers.
SEQ ID NO:26 is a sense primer used in quantitative PCR analysis of GM-GAPD:GFP transgene copy numbers.
SEQ ID NO:27 is a FAM labeled fluorescent DNA oligo probe used in quantitative PCR analysis of GM-GAPD:GFP transgene copy numbers.
SEQ ID NO:28 is an antisense primer used in quantitative PCR analysis of GM-GAPD:GFP transgene copy numbers.
SEQ ID NO:29 is a sense primer used as an endogenous control gene primer in quantitative PCR analysis of transgene copy numbers.
SEQ ID NO:30 is a VIC labeled DNA oligo probe used as an endogenous control gene probe in quantitative PCR analysis of transgene copy numbers.
SEQ ID NO:31 is an antisense primer used as an endogenous control gene primer in quantitative PCR analysis of transgene copy numbers.
SEQ ID NO:32 is the recombination site attL1 sequence in the GATEWAY® cloning system (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.).
SEQ ID NO:33 is the recombination site attL2 sequence in the GATEWAY® cloning system (Invitrogen).
SEQ ID NO:34 is the recombination site attR1 sequence in the GATEWAY® cloning system (Invitrogen).
SEQ ID NO:35 is the recombination site attR2 sequence in the GATEWAY® cloning system (Invitrogen).
SEQ ID NO:36 is the recombination site attB1 sequence in the GATEWAY® cloning system (Invitrogen).
SEQ ID NO:37 is the recombination site attB2 sequence in the GATEWAY® cloning system (Invitrogen).
SEQ ID NO:38 is the 1489 bp nucleotide sequence of a Glycine max glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPC1) mRNA mRNA DQ355800 similar to the 1392 bp eukaryotic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase GAPD gene (PSO467143) sequence SEQ ID NO:15.
SEQ ID NO:39 is a 1471 bp fragment of native soybean genomic DNA Gm06:14427908-14426438 (rev) from cultivar “Williams82” (Schmutz J. et al. Nature 463:178-183, 2010).
SEQ ID NO:40 is a 83 bp fragment of the 5′ untranslated region of the GAPD gene included in the GAPD promoter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The disclosure of all patents, patent applications, and publications cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.
As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a plant” includes a plurality of such plants, reference to “a cell” includes one or more cells and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.
In the context of this disclosure, a number of terms shall be utilized.
An “isolated polynucleotide” refers to a polymer of ribonucleotides (RNA) or deoxyribonucleotides (DNA) that is single- or double-stranded, optionally containing synthetic, non-natural or altered nucleotide bases. An isolated polynucleotide in the form of DNA may be comprised of one or more segments of cDNA, genomic DNA or synthetic DNA.
The terms “polynucleotide”, “polynucleotide sequence”, “nucleic acid sequence”, “nucleic acid fragment”, and “isolated nucleic acid fragment” are used interchangeably herein. These terms encompass nucleotide sequences and the like. A polynucleotide may be a polymer of RNA or DNA that is single- or double-stranded, that optionally contains synthetic, non-natural or altered nucleotide bases. A polynucleotide in the form of a polymer of DNA may be comprised of one or more segments of cDNA, genomic DNA, synthetic DNA, or mixtures thereof. Nucleotides (usually found in their 5′-monophosphate form) are referred to by a single letter designation as follows: “A” for adenylate or deoxyadenylate (for RNA or DNA, respectively), “C” for cytidylate or deoxycytidylate, “G” for guanylate or deoxyguanylate, “U” for uridylate, “T” for deoxythymidylate, “R” for purines (A or G), “Y” for pyrimidines (C or T), “K” for G or T, “H” for A or C or T, “I” for inosine, and “N” for any nucleotide.
A “soybean GAPD promoter”, “GM-GAPD promoter” or “GAPD promoter” are used interchangeably herein, and refer to the promoter of a putative Glycine max gene with significant homology to eukaryotic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenasegenes identified in various plant species including soybean that are deposited in National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. The term “soybean GAPD promoter” encompasses both a native soybean promoter and an engineered sequence comprising a fragment of the native soybean promoter with a DNA linker attached to facilitate cloning. A DNA linker may comprise a restriction enzyme site.
“Promoter” refers to a nucleic acid fragment capable of controlling transcription of another nucleic acid fragment. A promoter is capable of controlling the expression of a coding sequence or functional RNA. Functional RNA includes, but is not limited to, transfer RNA (tRNA) and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). The promoter sequence consists of proximal and more distal upstream elements, the latter elements often referred to as enhancers. Accordingly, an “enhancer” is a DNA sequence that can stimulate promoter activity, and may be an innate element of the promoter or a heterologous element inserted to enhance the level or tissue-specificity of a promoter. Promoters may be derived in their entirety from a native gene, or be composed of different elements derived from different promoters found in nature, or even comprise synthetic DNA segments. It is understood by those skilled in the art that different promoters may direct the expression of a gene in different tissues or cell types, or at different stages of development, or in response to different environmental conditions. New promoters of various types useful in plant cells are constantly being discovered; numerous examples may be found in the compilation by Okamuro and Goldberg (Biochemistry of Plants 15:1-82 (1989)). It is further recognized that since in most cases the exact boundaries of regulatory sequences have not been completely defined, DNA fragments of some variation may have identical promoter activity.
“Promoter functional in a plant” is a promoter capable of controlling transcription in plant cells whether or not its origin is from a plant cell.
“Tissue-specific promoter” and “tissue-preferred promoter” are used interchangeably to refer to a promoter that is expressed predominantly but not necessarily exclusively in one tissue or organ, but that may also be expressed in one specific cell.
“Developmentally regulated promoter” refers to a promoter whose activity is determined by developmental events.
“Constitutive promoter” refers to promoters active in all or most tissues or cell types of a plant at all or most developing stages. As with other promoters classified as “constitutive” (e.g. ubiquitin), some variation in absolute levels of expression can exist among different tissues or stages. The term “constitutive promoter” or “tissue-independent” are used interchangeably herein.
The promoter nucleotide sequences and methods disclosed herein are useful in regulating constitutive expression of any heterologous nucleotide sequences in a host plant in order to alter the phenotype of a plant.
A “heterologous nucleotide sequence” refers to a sequence that is not naturally occurring with the plant promoter sequence of the disclosure. While this nucleotide sequence is heterologous to the promoter sequence, it may be homologous, or native, or heterologous, or foreign, to the plant host. However, it is recognized that the instant promoters may be used with their native coding sequences to increase or decrease expression resulting in a change in phenotype in the transformed seed. The terms “heterologous nucleotide sequence”, “heterologous sequence”, “heterologous nucleic acid fragment”, and “heterologous nucleic acid sequence” are used interchangeably herein.
Among the most commonly used promoters are the nopaline synthase (NOS) promoter (Ebert et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 84:5745-5749 (1987)), the octapine synthase (OCS) promoter, caulimovirus promoters such as the cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) 19S promoter (Lawton et al., Plant Mol. Biol. 9:315-324 (1987)), the CaMV 35S promoter (Odell et al., Nature 313:810-812 (1985)), and the figwort mosaic virus 35S promoter (Sanger et al., Plant Mol. Biol. 14:433-43 (1990)), the light inducible promoter from the small subunit of rubisco, the Adh promoter (Walker et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 84:6624-66280 (1987), the sucrose synthase promoter (Yang et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 87:4144-4148 (1990)), the R gene complex promoter (Chandler et al., Plant Cell 1:1175-1183 (1989)), the chlorophyll a/b binding protein gene promoter, etc. Other commonly used promoters are, the promoters for the potato tuber ADPGPP genes, the sucrose synthase promoter, the granule bound starch synthase promoter, the glutelin gene promoter, the maize waxy promoter, Brittle gene promoter, and Shrunken 2 promoter, the acid chitinase gene promoter, and the zein gene promoters (15 kD, 16 kD, 19 kD, 22 kD, and 27 kD; Perdersen et al., Cell 29:1015-1026 (1982)). A plethora of promoters is described in PCT Publication No. WO 00/18963 published on Apr. 6, 2000, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
The present disclosure encompasses recombinant DNA constructs comprising functional fragments of the promoter sequences disclosed herein.
A “functional fragment” refer to a portion or subsequence of the promoter sequence of the present disclosure in which the ability to initiate transcription or drive gene expression (such as to produce a certain phenotype) is retained. Fragments can be obtained via methods such as site-directed mutagenesis and synthetic construction. As with the provided promoter sequences described herein, the functional fragments operate to promote the expression of an operably linked heterologous nucleotide sequence, forming a recombinant DNA construct (also, a chimeric gene). For example, the fragment can be used in the design of recombinant DNA constructs to produce the desired phenotype in a transformed plant. Recombinant DNA constructs can be designed for use in co-suppression or antisense by linking a promoter fragment in the appropriate orientation relative to a heterologous nucleotide sequence.
A nucleic acid fragment that is functionally equivalent to the promoter of the present disclosure is any nucleic acid fragment that is capable of controlling the expression of a coding sequence or functional RNA in a similar manner to the promoter of the present disclosure.
In an embodiment of the present invention, the promoters disclosed herein can be modified. Those skilled in the art can create promoters that have variations in the polynucleotide sequence. The polynucleotide sequence of the promoters of the present disclosure as shown in SEQ ID NOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 41, may be modified or altered to enhance their control characteristics. As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, modification or alteration of the promoter sequence can also be made without substantially affecting the promoter function. The methods are well known to those of skill in the art. Sequences can be modified, for example by insertion, deletion, or replacement of template sequences in a PCR-based DNA modification approach.
A “variant promoter”, as used herein, is the sequence of the promoter or the sequence of a functional fragment of a promoter containing changes in which one or more nucleotides of the original sequence is deleted, added, and/or substituted, while substantially maintaining promoter function. One or more base pairs can be inserted, deleted, or substituted internally to a promoter. In the case of a promoter fragment, variant promoters can include changes affecting the transcription of a minimal promoter to which it is operably linked. Variant promoters can be produced, for example, by standard DNA mutagenesis techniques or by chemically synthesizing the variant promoter or a portion thereof.
Methods for construction of chimeric and variant promoters of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, combining control elements of different promoters or duplicating portions or regions of a promoter (see for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,990,607; U.S. Pat. No. 5,110,732; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,097,025). Those of skill in the art are familiar with the standard resource materials that describe specific conditions and procedures for the construction, manipulation, and isolation of macromolecules (e.g., polynucleotide molecules and plasmids), as well as the generation of recombinant organisms and the screening and isolation of polynucleotide molecules.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the promoter fragments can comprise at least about 20 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 50 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 75 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 100 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 150 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 200 contiguous nucleotides of SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO:2, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:5, SEQ ID NO:6, or SEQ ID NO:39. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the promoter fragments can comprise at least about 250 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 300 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 350 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 400 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 450 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 500 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 550 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 600 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 650 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 700 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 750 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 800 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 850 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 900 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 950 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 1000 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 1050 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 1100 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 1150 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 1200 contiguous nucleotides, or at least about 1250 contiguous nucleotides, of SEQ ID NO:1. In another aspect, a promoter fragment is the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:2, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:5, SEQ ID NO:6, or SEQ ID NO:39. The nucleotides of such fragments will usually comprise the TATA recognition sequence of the particular promoter sequence. Such fragments may be obtained by use of restriction enzymes to cleave the naturally occurring promoter nucleotide sequences disclosed herein, by synthesizing a nucleotide sequence from the naturally occurring promoter DNA sequence, or may be obtained through the use of PCR technology. See particularly, Mullis et al., Methods Enzymol. 155:335-350 (1987), and Higuchi, R. In PCR Technology: Principles and Applications for DNA Amplifications; Erlich, H. A., Ed.; Stockton Press Inc.: New York, 1989.
The terms “full complement” and “full-length complement” are used interchangeably herein, and refer to a complement of a given nucleotide sequence, wherein the complement and the nucleotide sequence consist of the same number of nucleotides and are 100% complementary.
The terms “substantially similar” and “corresponding substantially” as used herein refer to nucleic acid fragments wherein changes in one or more nucleotide bases do not affect the ability of the nucleic acid fragment to mediate gene expression or produce a certain phenotype. These terms also refer to modifications of the nucleic acid fragments of the instant disclosure such as deletion or insertion of one or more nucleotides that do not substantially alter the functional properties of the resulting nucleic acid fragment relative to the initial, unmodified fragment. It is therefore understood, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, that the disclosure encompasses more than the specific exemplary sequences.
The isolated promoter sequence comprised in the recombinant DNA construct of the present disclosure can be modified to provide a range of constitutive expression levels of the heterologous nucleotide sequence. Thus, less than the entire promoter regions may be utilized and the ability to drive expression of the coding sequence retained. However, it is recognized that expression levels of the mRNA may be decreased with deletions of portions of the promoter sequences. Likewise, the tissue-independent, constitutive nature of expression may be changed.
Modifications of the isolated promoter sequences of the present disclosure can provide for a range of constitutive expression of the heterologous nucleotide sequence. Thus, they may be modified to be weak constitutive promoters or strong constitutive promoters. Generally, by “weak promoter” is intended a promoter that drives expression of a coding sequence at a low level. By “low level” is intended at levels about 1/10,000 transcripts to about 1/100,000 transcripts to about 1/500,000 transcripts. Conversely, a strong promoter drives expression of a coding sequence at high level, or at about 1/10 transcripts to about 1/100 transcripts to about 1/1,000 transcripts.
Moreover, the skilled artisan recognizes that substantially similar nucleic acid sequences encompassed by this disclosure are also defined by their ability to hybridize, under moderately stringent conditions (for example, 0.5×SSC, 0.1% SDS, 60° C.) with the sequences exemplified herein, or to any portion of the nucleotide sequences reported herein and which are functionally equivalent to the promoter of the disclosure. Estimates of such homology are provided by either DNA-DNA or DNA-RNA hybridization under conditions of stringency as is well understood by those skilled in the art (Hames and Higgins, Eds.; In Nucleic Acid Hybridisation; IRL Press: Oxford, U.K., 1985). Stringency conditions can be adjusted to screen for moderately similar fragments, such as homologous sequences from distantly related organisms, to highly similar fragments, such as genes that duplicate functional enzymes from closely related organisms. Post-hybridization washes partially determine stringency conditions. One set of conditions uses a series of washes starting with 6×SSC, 0.5% SDS at room temperature for 15 min, then repeated with 2×SSC, 0.5% SDS at 45° C. for 30 min, and then repeated twice with 0.2×SSC, 0.5% SDS at 50° C. for 30 min. Another set of stringent conditions uses higher temperatures in which the washes are identical to those above except for the temperature of the final two 30 min washes in 0.2×SSC, 0.5% SDS was increased to 60° C. Another set of highly stringent conditions uses two final washes in 0.1×SSC, 0.1% SDS at 65° C.
Preferred substantially similar nucleic acid sequences encompassed by this disclosure are those sequences that are 80% identical to the nucleic acid fragments reported herein or which are 80% identical to any portion of the nucleotide sequences reported herein. More preferred are nucleic acid fragments which are 90% identical to the nucleic acid sequences reported herein, or which are 90% identical to any portion of the nucleotide sequences reported herein. Most preferred are nucleic acid fragments which are 95% identical to the nucleic acid sequences reported herein, or which are 95% identical to any portion of the nucleotide sequences reported herein. It is well understood by one skilled in the art that many levels of sequence identity are useful in identifying related polynucleotide sequences. Useful examples of percent identities are those listed above, or also preferred is any integer percentage from 71% to 100%, such as 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% and 100%.
In one embodiment, the isolated promoter sequence comprised in the recombinant DNA construct of the present invention concerns an isolated polynucleotide comprising a promoter wherein said promoter comprises a nucleotide sequence having at least 71%. 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% and 100% sequence identity, based on the Clustal V method of alignment with pairwise alignment default parameters (KTUPLE=2, GAP PENALTY=5, WINDOW=4 and DIAGONALS SAVED=4), when compared to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:1. As described in Example 2, comparison of SEQ ID NO:1 to a soybean cDNA library revealed that SEQ ID NOs:1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 39 comprise a 5′ untranslated region (5′UTR) of at least 89 base pairs (SEQ ID NO:40). It is known to one of skilled in the art that a 5′ UTR region can be altered (deletion or substitutions of bases) or replaced by an alternative 5′UTR while maintaining promoter activity.
This 5′ UTR region represents (83/1469)*100=5.7% of SEQ ID NO:1, (83/1148)*100=7.2% of SEQ ID NO:2, (83/850)*100=9.8% of SEQ ID NO:3, (83/637)*100=13.0% of SEQ ID NO:4, (83/425)*100=19.5% of SEQ ID NO:5, and (83/211)*100=39.3% of SEQ ID NO:6, respectively, indicating that an isolated polynucleotide of 94.3% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO:1, or 92.8% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO:2, or 91.2% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO:3, or 87.0% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO:4, or 80.5% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO:5, or 60.7% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO:6 can be generated while maintaining promoter activity.
A “substantially homologous sequence” refers to variants of the disclosed sequences such as those that result from site-directed mutagenesis, as well as synthetically derived sequences. A substantially homologous sequence of the present disclosure also refers to those fragments of a particular promoter nucleotide sequence disclosed herein that operate to promote the constitutive expression of an operably linked heterologous nucleic acid fragment. These promoter fragments will comprise at least about 20 contiguous nucleotides, preferably at least about 50 contiguous nucleotides, more preferably at least about 75 contiguous nucleotides, even more preferably at least about 100 contiguous nucleotides of the particular promoter nucleotide sequence disclosed herein. The nucleotides of such fragments will usually comprise the TATA recognition sequence of the particular promoter sequence. Such fragments may be obtained by use of restriction enzymes to cleave the naturally occurring promoter nucleotide sequences disclosed herein; by synthesizing a nucleotide sequence from the naturally occurring promoter DNA sequence; or may be obtained through the use of PCR technology. See particularly, Mullis et al., Methods Enzymol. 155:335-350 (1987), and Higuchi, R. In PCR Technology: Principles and Applications for DNA Amplifications; Erlich, H. A., Ed.; Stockton Press Inc.: New York, 1989. Again, variants of these promoter fragments, such as those resulting from site-directed mutagenesis, are encompassed by the compositions of the present disclosure.
“Codon degeneracy” refers to divergence in the genetic code permitting variation of the nucleotide sequence without affecting the amino acid sequence of an encoded polypeptide. Accordingly, the instant disclosure relates to any nucleic acid fragment comprising a nucleotide sequence that encodes all or a substantial portion of the amino acid sequences set forth herein. The skilled artisan is well aware of the “codon-bias” exhibited by a specific host cell in usage of nucleotide codons to specify a given amino acid. Therefore, when synthesizing a nucleic acid fragment for improved expression in a host cell, it is desirable to design the nucleic acid fragment such that its frequency of codon usage approaches the frequency of preferred codon usage of the host cell.
Sequence alignments and percent identity calculations may be determined using a variety of comparison methods designed to detect homologous sequences including, but not limited to, the Megalign® program of the LASERGENE® bioinformatics computing suite (DNASTAR® Inc., Madison, Wis.). Unless stated otherwise, multiple alignment of the sequences provided herein were performed using the Clustal V method of alignment (Higgins and Sharp (1989) CABIOS. 5:151-153) with the default parameters (GAP PENALTY=10, GAP LENGTH PENALTY=10). Default parameters for pairwise alignments and calculation of percent identity of protein sequences using the Clustal V method are KTUPLE=1, GAP PENALTY=3, WINDOW=5 and DIAGONALS SAVED=5. For nucleic acids these parameters are KTUPLE=2, GAP PENALTY=5, WINDOW=4 and DIAGONALS SAVED=4. After alignment of the sequences, using the Clustal V program, it is possible to obtain “percent identity” and “divergence” values by viewing the “sequence distances” table on the same program; unless stated otherwise, percent identities and divergences provided and claimed herein were calculated in this manner.
Alternatively, the Clustal W method of alignment may be used. The Clustal W method of alignment (described by Higgins and Sharp, CABIOS. 5:151-153 (1989); Higgins, D. G. et al., Comput. Appl. Biosci. 8:189-191 (1992)) can be found in the MegAlign™ v6.1 program of the LASERGENE® bioinformatics computing suite (DNASTAR® Inc., Madison, Wis.). Default parameters for multiple alignment correspond to GAP PENALTY=10, GAP LENGTH PENALTY=0.2, Delay Divergent Sequences=30%, DNA Transition Weight=0.5, Protein Weight Matrix=Gonnet Series, DNA Weight Matrix=IUB. For pairwise alignments the default parameters are Alignment=Slow-Accurate, Gap Penalty=10.0, Gap Length=0.10, Protein Weight Matrix=Gonnet 250 and DNA Weight Matrix=IUB. After alignment of the sequences using the Clustal W program, it is possible to obtain “percent identity” and “divergence” values by viewing the “sequence distances” table in the same program.
In one embodiment the % sequence identity is determined over the entire length of the molecule (nucleotide or amino acid).
A “substantial portion” of an amino acid or nucleotide sequence comprises enough of the amino acid sequence of a polypeptide or the nucleotide sequence of a gene to afford putative identification of that polypeptide or gene, either by manual evaluation of the sequence by one skilled in the art, or by computer-automated sequence comparison and identification using algorithms such as BLAST (Altschul, S. F. et al., J. Mol. Biol. 215:403-410 (1993)) and Gapped Blast (Altschul, S. F. et al., Nucleic Acids Res. 25:3389-3402 (1997)). BLASTN refers to a BLAST program that compares a nucleotide query sequence against a nucleotide sequence database.
“Gene” refers to a nucleic acid fragment that expresses a specific protein, including regulatory sequences preceding (5′ non-coding sequences) and following (3′ non-coding sequences) the coding sequence. “Native gene” refers to a gene as found in nature with its own regulatory sequences. “Chimeric gene” or “recombinant expression construct”, which are used interchangeably, refers to any gene that is not a native gene, comprising regulatory and coding sequences that are not found together in nature. Accordingly, a chimeric gene may comprise regulatory sequences and coding sequences that are derived from different sources, or regulatory sequences and coding sequences derived from the same source, but arranged in a manner different than that found in nature. “Endogenous gene” refers to a native gene in its natural location in the genome of an organism. A “foreign” gene refers to a gene not normally found in the host organism, but that is introduced into the host organism by gene transfer. Foreign genes can comprise native genes inserted into a non-native organism, or chimeric genes. A “transgene” is a gene that has been introduced into the genome by a transformation procedure.
“Coding sequence” refers to a DNA sequence which codes for a specific amino acid sequence. “Regulatory sequences” refer to nucleotide sequences located upstream (5′ non-coding sequences), within, or downstream (3′ non-coding sequences) of a coding sequence, and which influence the transcription, RNA processing or stability, or translation of the associated coding sequence. Regulatory sequences may include, but are not limited to, promoters, translation leader sequences, introns, and polyadenylation recognition sequences.
An “intron” is an intervening sequence in a gene that is transcribed into RNA but is then excised in the process of generating the mature mRNA. The term is also used for the excised RNA sequences. An “exon” is a portion of the sequence of a gene that is transcribed and is found in the mature messenger RNA derived from the gene, but is not necessarily a part of the sequence that encodes the final gene product.
The “translation leader sequence” refers to a polynucleotide sequence located between the promoter sequence of a gene and the coding sequence. The translation leader sequence is present in the fully processed mRNA upstream of the translation start sequence. The translation leader sequence may affect processing of the primary transcript to mRNA, mRNA stability or translation efficiency. Examples of translation leader sequences have been described (Turner, R. and Foster, G. D., Molecular Biotechnology 3:225 (1995)).
The “3′ non-coding sequences” refer to DNA sequences located downstream of a coding sequence and include polyadenylation recognition sequences and other sequences encoding regulatory signals capable of affecting mRNA processing or gene expression. The polyadenylation signal is usually characterized by affecting the addition of polyadenylic acid tracts to the 3′ end of the mRNA precursor. The use of different 3′ non-coding sequences is exemplified by Ingelbrecht et al., Plant Cell 1:671-680 (1989).
“RNA transcript” refers to a product resulting from RNA polymerase-catalyzed transcription of a DNA sequence. When an RNA transcript is a perfect complementary copy of a DNA sequence, it is referred to as a primary transcript or it may be a RNA sequence derived from posttranscriptional processing of a primary transcript and is referred to as a mature RNA. “Messenger RNA” (“mRNA”) refers to RNA that is without introns and that can be translated into protein by the cell. “cDNA” refers to a DNA that is complementary to and synthesized from an mRNA template using the enzyme reverse transcriptase. The cDNA can be single-stranded or converted into the double-stranded by using the Klenow fragment of DNA polymerase I. “Sense” RNA refers to RNA transcript that includes mRNA and so can be translated into protein within a cell or in vitro. “Antisense RNA” refers to a RNA transcript that is complementary to all or part of a target primary transcript or mRNA and that blocks expression or transcripts accumulation of a target gene (U.S. Pat. No. 5,107,065). The complementarity of an antisense RNA may be with any part of the specific gene transcript, i.e. at the 5′ non-coding sequence, 3′ non-coding sequence, introns, or the coding sequence. “Functional RNA” refers to antisense RNA, ribozyme RNA, or other RNA that may not be translated but yet has an effect on cellular processes.
The term “operably linked” refers to the association of nucleic acid sequences on a single nucleic acid fragment so that the function of one is affected by the other. For example, a promoter is operably linked with a coding sequence when it is capable of affecting the expression of that coding sequence (i.e., that the coding sequence is under the transcriptional control of the promoter). Coding sequences can be operably linked to regulatory sequences in sense or antisense orientation.
The terms “initiate transcription”, “initiate expression”, “drive transcription”, and “drive expression” are used interchangeably herein and all refer to the primary function of a promoter. As detailed throughout this disclosure, a promoter is a non-coding genomic DNA sequence, usually upstream (5′) to the relevant coding sequence, and its primary function is to act as a binding site for RNA polymerase and initiate transcription by the RNA polymerase. Additionally, there is “expression” of RNA, including functional RNA, or the expression of polypeptide for operably linked encoding nucleotide sequences, as the transcribed RNA ultimately is translated into the corresponding polypeptide.
The term “expression”, as used herein, refers to the production of a functional end-product e.g., an mRNA or a protein (precursor or mature).
The term “expression cassette” as used herein, refers to a discrete nucleic acid fragment into which a nucleic acid sequence or fragment can be moved.
Expression or overexpression of a gene involves transcription of the gene and translation of the mRNA into a precursor or mature protein. “Antisense inhibition” refers to the production of antisense RNA transcripts capable of suppressing the expression of the target protein. “Overexpression” refers to the production of a gene product in transgenic organisms that exceeds levels of production in normal or non-transformed organisms. “Co-suppression” refers to the production of sense RNA transcripts capable of suppressing the expression or transcript accumulation of identical or substantially similar foreign or endogenous genes (U.S. Pat. No. 5,231,020). The mechanism of co-suppression may be at the DNA level (such as DNA methylation), at the transcriptional level, or at posttranscriptional level.
Co-suppression constructs in plants previously have been designed by focusing on overexpression of a nucleic acid sequence having homology to an endogenous mRNA, in the sense orientation, which results in the reduction of all RNA having homology to the overexpressed sequence (see Vaucheret et al., Plant J. 16:651-659 (1998); and Gura, Nature 404:804-808 (2000)). The overall efficiency of this phenomenon is low, and the extent of the RNA reduction is widely variable. Recent work has described the use of “hairpin” structures that incorporate all, or part, of an mRNA encoding sequence in a complementary orientation that results in a potential “stem-loop” structure for the expressed RNA (PCT Publication No. WO 99/53050 published on Oct. 21, 1999; and PCT Publication No. WO 02/00904 published on Jan. 3, 2002). This increases the frequency of co-suppression in the recovered transgenic plants. Another variation describes the use of plant viral sequences to direct the suppression, or “silencing”, of proximal mRNA encoding sequences (PCT Publication No. WO 98/36083 published on Aug. 20, 1998). Genetic and molecular evidences have been obtained suggesting that dsRNA mediated mRNA cleavage may have been the conserved mechanism underlying these gene silencing phenomena (Elmayan et al., Plant Cell 10:1747-1757 (1998); Galun, In Vitro Cell. Dev. Biol. Plant 41(2):113-123 (2005); Pickford et al, Cell. Mol. Life Sci. 60(5):871-882 (2003)).
As stated herein, “suppression” refers to a reduction of the level of enzyme activity or protein functionality (e.g., a phenotype associated with a protein) detectable in a transgenic plant when compared to the level of enzyme activity or protein functionality detectable in a non-transgenic or wild type plant with the native enzyme or protein. The level of enzyme activity in a plant with the native enzyme is referred to herein as “wild type” activity. The level of protein functionality in a plant with the native protein is referred to herein as “wild type” functionality. The term “suppression” includes lower, reduce, decline, decrease, inhibit, eliminate and prevent. This reduction may be due to a decrease in translation of the native mRNA into an active enzyme or functional protein. It may also be due to the transcription of the native DNA into decreased amounts of mRNA and/or to rapid degradation of the native mRNA. The term “native enzyme” refers to an enzyme that is produced naturally in a non-transgenic or wild type cell. The terms “non-transgenic” and “wild type” are used interchangeably herein.
“Altering expression” refers to the production of gene product(s) in transgenic organisms in amounts or proportions that differ significantly from the amount of the gene product(s) produced by the corresponding wild-type organisms (i.e., expression is increased or decreased).
“Transformation” as used herein refers to both stable transformation and transient transformation.
“Stable transformation” refers to the introduction of a nucleic acid fragment into a genome of a host organism resulting in genetically stable inheritance. Once stably transformed, the nucleic acid fragment is stably integrated in the genome of the host organism and any subsequent generation. Host organisms containing the transformed nucleic acid fragments are referred to as “transgenic” organisms.
“Transient transformation” refers to the introduction of a nucleic acid fragment into the nucleus, or DNA-containing organelle, of a host organism resulting in gene expression without genetically stable inheritance.
The term “introduced” means providing a nucleic acid (e.g., expression construct) or protein into a cell. Introduced includes reference to the incorporation of a nucleic acid into a eukaryotic or prokaryotic cell where the nucleic acid may be incorporated into the genome of the cell, and includes reference to the transient provision of a nucleic acid or protein to the cell. Introduced includes reference to stable or transient transformation methods, as well as sexually crossing. Thus, “introduced” in the context of inserting a nucleic acid fragment (e.g., a recombinant DNA construct/expression construct) into a cell, means “transfection” or “transformation” or “transduction” and includes reference to the incorporation of a nucleic acid fragment into a eukaryotic or prokaryotic cell where the nucleic acid fragment may be incorporated into the genome of the cell (e.g., chromosome, plasmid, plastid or mitochondrial DNA), converted into an autonomous replicon, or transiently expressed (e.g., transfected mRNA).
“Transgenic” refers to any cell, cell line, callus, tissue, plant part or plant, the genome of which has been altered by the presence of a heterologous nucleic acid, such as a recombinant DNA construct, including those initial transgenic events as well as those created by sexual crosses or asexual propagation from the initial transgenic event. The term “transgenic” as used herein does not encompass the alteration of the genome (chromosomal or extra-chromosomal) by conventional plant breeding methods or by naturally occurring events such as random cross-fertilization, non-recombinant viral infection, non-recombinant bacterial transformation, non-recombinant transposition, or spontaneous mutation.
“Genome” as it applies to plant cells encompasses not only chromosomal DNA found within the nucleus, but organelle DNA found within subcellular components (e.g., mitochondrial, plastid) of the cell.
“Plant” includes reference to whole plants, plant organs, plant tissues, seeds and plant cells and progeny of same. Plant cells include, without limitation, cells from seeds, suspension cultures, embryos, meristematic regions, callus tissue, leaves, roots, shoots, gametophytes, sporophytes, pollen, and microspores.
The terms “monocot” and “monocotyledonous plant” are used interchangeably herein. A monocot of the current disclosure includes the Gramineae.
The terms “dicot” and “dicotyledonous plant” are used interchangeably herein. A dicot of the current disclosure includes the following families: Brassicaceae, Leguminosae, and Solanaceae.
“Progeny” comprises any subsequent generation of a plant.
“Transgenic plant” includes reference to a plant which comprises within its genome a heterologous polynucleotide. For example, the heterologous polynucleotide is stably integrated within the genome such that the polynucleotide is passed on to successive generations. The heterologous polynucleotide may be integrated into the genome alone or as part of a recombinant DNA construct.
“Transient expression” refers to the temporary expression of often reporter genes such as β-glucuronidase (GUS), fluorescent protein genes ZS-GREEN1, ZS-YELLOW1 N1, AM-CYAN1, DS-RED in selected certain cell types of the host organism in which the transgenic gene is introduced temporally by a transformation method. The transformed materials of the host organism are subsequently discarded after the transient gene expression assay.
Standard recombinant DNA and molecular cloning techniques used herein are well known in the art and are described more fully in Sambrook, J. et al., In Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual; 2nd ed.; Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press: Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., 1989 (hereinafter “Sambrook et al., 1989”) or Ausubel, F. M., Brent, R., Kingston, R. E., Moore, D. D., Seidman, J. G., Smith, J. A. and Struhl, K., Eds.; In Current Protocols in Molecular Biology; John Wiley and Sons: New York, 1990 (hereinafter “Ausubel et al., 1990”).
“PCR” or “Polymerase Chain Reaction” is a technique for the synthesis of large quantities of specific DNA segments, consisting of a series of repetitive cycles (Perkin Elmer Cetus Instruments, Norwalk, Conn.). Typically, the double stranded DNA is heat denatured, the two primers complementary to the 3′ boundaries of the target segment are annealed at low temperature and then extended at an intermediate temperature. One set of these three consecutive steps comprises a cycle.
The terms “plasmid”, “vector” and “cassette” refer to an extra chromosomal element often carrying genes that are not part of the central metabolism of the cell, and usually in the form of circular double-stranded DNA fragments. Such elements may be autonomously replicating sequences, genome integrating sequences, phage or nucleotide sequences, linear or circular, of a single- or double-stranded DNA or RNA, derived from any source, in which a number of nucleotide sequences have been joined or recombined into a unique construction which is capable of introducing a promoter fragment and DNA sequence for a selected gene product along with appropriate 3′ untranslated sequence into a cell.
The term “recombinant DNA construct” or “recombinant expression construct” is used interchangeably and refers to a discrete polynucleotide into which a nucleic acid sequence or fragment can be moved. Preferably, it is a plasmid vector or a fragment thereof comprising the promoters of the present disclosure. The choice of plasmid vector is dependent upon the method that will be used to transform host plants. The skilled artisan is well aware of the genetic elements that must be present on the plasmid vector in order to successfully transform, select and propagate host cells containing the chimeric gene. The skilled artisan will also recognize that different independent transformation events will result in different levels and patterns of expression (Jones et al., EMBO J. 4:2411-2418 (1985); De Almeida et al., Mol. Gen. Genetics 218:78-86 (1989)), and thus that multiple events must be screened in order to obtain lines displaying the desired expression level and pattern. Such screening may be accomplished by PCR and Southern analysis of DNA, RT-PCR and Northern analysis of mRNA expression, Western analysis of protein expression, or phenotypic analysis.
Various changes in phenotype are of interest including, but not limited to, modifying the fatty acid composition in a plant, altering the amino acid content of a plant, altering a plant's pathogen defense mechanism, and the like. These results can be achieved by providing expression of heterologous products or increased expression of endogenous products in plants. Alternatively, the results can be achieved by providing for a reduction of expression of one or more endogenous products, particularly enzymes or cofactors in the plant. These changes result in a change in phenotype of the transformed plant.
Genes of interest are reflective of the commercial markets and interests of those involved in the development of the crop. Crops and markets of interest change, and as developing nations open up world markets, new crops and technologies will emerge also. In addition, as our understanding of agronomic characteristics and traits such as yield and heterosis increase, the choice of genes for transformation will change accordingly. General categories of genes of interest include, but are not limited to, those genes involved in information, such as zinc fingers, those involved in communication, such as kinases, and those involved in housekeeping, such as heat shock proteins. More specific categories of transgenes, for example, include, but are not limited to, genes encoding important traits for agronomics, insect resistance, disease resistance, herbicide resistance, sterility, grain or seed characteristics, and commercial products. Genes of interest include, generally, those involved in oil, starch, carbohydrate, or nutrient metabolism as well as those affecting seed size, plant development, plant growth regulation, and yield improvement. Plant development and growth regulation also refer to the development and growth regulation of various parts of a plant, such as the flower, seed, root, leaf and shoot.
Other commercially desirable traits are genes and proteins conferring cold, heat, salt, and drought resistance.
Disease and/or insect resistance genes may encode resistance to pests that have great yield drag such as for example, anthracnose, soybean mosaic virus, soybean cyst nematode, root-knot nematode, brown leaf spot, Downy mildew, purple seed stain, seed decay and seedling diseases caused commonly by the fungi—Pythium sp., Phytophthora sp., Rhizoctonia sp., Diaporthe sp. Bacterial blight caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. Glycinea. Genes conferring insect resistance include, for example, Bacillus thuringiensis toxic protein genes (U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,366,892; 5,747,450; 5,737,514; 5,723,756; 5,593,881; and Geiser et al (1986) Gene 48:109); lectins (Van Damme et al. (1994) Plant Mol. Biol. 24:825); and the like.
Herbicide resistance traits may include genes coding for resistance to herbicides that act to inhibit the action of acetolactate synthase (ALS), in particular the sulfonylurea-type herbicides (e.g., the acetolactate synthase ALS gene containing mutations leading to such resistance, in particular the S4 and/or HRA mutations). The ALS-gene mutants encode resistance to the herbicide chlorsulfuron. Glyphosate acetyl transferase (GAT) is an N-acetyltransferase from Bacillus licheniformis that was optimized by gene shuffling for acetylation of the broad spectrum herbicide, glyphosate, forming the basis of a novel mechanism of glyphosate tolerance in transgenic plants (Castle et al. (2004) Science 304, 1151-1154).
Antibiotic resistance genes include, for example, neomycin phosphotransferase (npt) and hygromycin phosphotransferase (hpt). Two neomycin phosphotransferase genes are used in selection of transformed organisms: the neomycin phosphotransferase I (nptI) gene and the neomycin phosphotransferase II (nptII) gene. The second one is more widely used. It was initially isolated from the transposon Tn5 that was present in the bacterium strain Escherichia coli K12. The gene codes for the aminoglycoside 3′-phosphotransferase (denoted aph(3′)-II or NPTII) enzyme, which inactivates by phosphorylation a range of aminoglycoside antibiotics such as kanamycin, neomycin, geneticin and paroromycin. NPTII is widely used as a selectable marker for plant transformation. It is also used in gene expression and regulation studies in different organisms in part because N-terminal fusions can be constructed that retain enzyme activity. NPTII protein activity can be detected by enzymatic assay. In other detection methods, the modified substrates, the phosphorylated antibiotics, are detected by thin-layer chromatography, dot-blot analysis or polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Plants such as maize, cotton, tobacco, Arabidopsis, flax, soybean and many others have been successfully transformed with the nptII gene.
The hygromycin phosphotransferase (denoted hpt, hph or aphIV) gene was originally derived from Escherichia coli. The gene codes for hygromycin phosphotransferase (HPT), which detoxifies the aminocyclitol antibiotic hygromycin B. A large number of plants have been transformed with the hpt gene and hygromycin B has proved very effective in the selection of a wide range of plants, including monocotyledonous. Most plants exhibit higher sensitivity to hygromycin B than to kanamycin, for instance cereals. Likewise, the hpt gene is used widely in selection of transformed mammalian cells. The sequence of the hpt gene has been modified for its use in plant transformation. Deletions and substitutions of amino acid residues close to the carboxy (C)-terminus of the enzyme have increased the level of resistance in certain plants, such as tobacco. At the same time, the hydrophilic C-terminus of the enzyme has been maintained and may be essential for the strong activity of HPT. HPT activity can be checked using an enzymatic assay. A non-destructive callus induction test can be used to verify hygromycin resistance.
Genes involved in plant growth and development have been identified in plants. One such gene, which is involved in cytokinin biosynthesis, is isopentenyl transferase (IPT). Cytokinin plays a critical role in plant growth and development by stimulating cell division and cell differentiation (Sun et al. (2003), Plant Physiol. 131: 167-176).
Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPK), a family of serine-threonine kinase found primarily in the plant kingdom, are likely to function as sensor molecules in calcium-mediated signaling pathways. Calcium ions are important second messengers during plant growth and development (Harper et al. Science 252, 951-954 (1993); Roberts et al. Curr. Opin. Cell Biol. 5, 242-246 (1993); Roberts et al. Annu. Rev. Plant Mol. Biol. 43, 375-414 (1992)).
Nematode responsive protein (NRP) is produced by soybean upon the infection of soybean cyst nematode. NRP has homology to a taste-modifying glycoprotein miraculin and the NF34 protein involved in tumor formation and hyper response induction. NRP is believed to function as a defense-inducer in response to nematode infection (Tenhaken et al. BMC Bioinformatics 6:169 (2005)).
The quality of seeds and grains is reflected in traits such as levels and types of fatty acids or oils, saturated and unsaturated, quality and quantity of essential amino acids, and levels of carbohydrates. Therefore, commercial traits can also be encoded on a gene or genes that could increase for example methionine and cysteine, two sulfur containing amino acids that are present in low amounts in soybeans. Cystathionine gamma synthase (CGS) and serine acetyl transferase (SAT) are proteins involved in the synthesis of methionine and cysteine, respectively.
Other commercial traits can encode genes to increase for example monounsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid, in oil seeds. Soybean oil for example contains high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids and is more prone to oxidation than oils with higher levels of monounsaturated and saturated fatty acids. High oleic soybean seeds can be prepared by recombinant manipulation of the activity of oleoyl 12-desaturase (Fad2). High oleic soybean oil can be used in applications that require a high degree of oxidative stability, such as cooking for a long period of time at an elevated temperature.
Raffinose saccharides accumulate in significant quantities in the edible portion of many economically significant crop species, such as soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill), sugar beet (Beta vulgaris), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), canola (Brassica sp.) and all of the major edible leguminous crops including beans (Phaseolus sp.), chick pea (Cicer arietinum), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), mung bean (Vigna radiata), peas (Pisum sativum), lentil (Lens culinaris) and lupine (Lupinus sp.). Although abundant in many species, raffinose saccharides are an obstacle to the efficient utilization of some economically important crop species.
Down regulation of the expression of the enzymes involved in raffinose saccharide synthesis, such as galactinol synthase for example, would be a desirable trait.
In certain embodiments, the present disclosure contemplates the transformation of a recipient cell with more than one advantageous transgene. Two or more transgenes can be supplied in a single transformation event using either distinct transgene-encoding vectors, or a single vector incorporating two or more gene coding sequences. Any two or more transgenes of any description, such as those conferring herbicide, insect, disease (viral, bacterial, fungal, and nematode), or drought resistance, oil quantity and quality, or those increasing yield or nutritional quality may be employed as desired.
Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (abbreviated as GAPDH) is an enzyme of ˜37 kDa that catalyzes the conversion of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate to D-glycerate 1,3-bisphosphate, the sixth step in the glycolytic breakdown of glucose, an important pathway of energy and carbon molecule supply which takes place in the cytosol of eukaryotic cells. GAPDH is highly conserved and predicted sequences very similar to the soybean full length GAPDH amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO:16) are identified in several species including lotus, rose, potato, tobacco, alfalfa, tomato, pea, and grape etc. It is demonstrated herein that the soybean glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenasegene promoter named GM-GAPD can, in fact, be used as a constitutive promoter to drive expression of transgenes in plants, and that such promoter can be isolated and used by one skilled in the art.
This invention concerns a recombinant DNA construct comprising a constitutive eukaryotic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase gene GAPD promoter. This invention also concerns a recombinant DNA construct comprising a promoter wherein said promoter consists essentially of the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:1, or an isolated polynucleotide comprising a promoter wherein said promoter comprises the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 39 or a functional fragment of SEQ ID NOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 39.
The expression patterns of GAPD gene and its promoter are set forth in Examples 1-7.
The promoter activity of the soybean genomic DNA fragment SEQ ID NO:1 upstream of the GAPD protein coding sequence was assessed by linking the fragment to a green fluorescence reporter gene, ZS-GREEN1 (GFP) (Tsien, Annu. Rev. Biochem. 67:509-544 (1998); Matz et al., Nat. Biotechnol. 17:969-973 (1999)), transforming the promoter:GFP expression cassette into soybean, and analyzing GFP expression in various cell types of the transgenic plants (see Example 7). GFP expression was detected in most parts of the transgenic plants. These results indicated that the nucleic acid fragment contained a constitutive promoter.
It is clear from the disclosure set forth herein that one of ordinary skill in the art could perform the following procedure:
1) operably linking the nucleic acid fragment containing the GAPD promoter sequence to a suitable reporter gene; there are a variety of reporter genes that are well known to those skilled in the art, including the bacterial GUS gene, the firefly luciferase gene, and the cyan, green, red, and yellow fluorescent protein genes; any gene for which an easy and reliable assay is available can serve as the reporter gene.
2) transforming a chimeric GAPD promoter:reporter gene expression cassette into an appropriate plant for expression of the promoter. There are a variety of appropriate plants which can be used as a host for transformation that are well known to those skilled in the art, including the dicots, Arabidopsis, tobacco, soybean, oilseed rape, peanut, sunflower, safflower, cotton, tomato, potato, cocoa and the monocots, corn, wheat, rice, barley and palm.
3) testing for expression of the GAPD promoter in various cell types of transgenic plant tissues, e.g., leaves, roots, flowers, seeds, transformed with the chimeric GAPD promoter:reporter gene expression cassette by assaying for expression of the reporter gene product.
In another aspect, this invention concerns a recombinant DNA construct comprising at least one heterologous nucleic acid fragment operably linked to any promoter, or combination of promoter elements, of the present disclosure. Recombinant DNA constructs can be constructed by operably linking the nucleic acid fragment of the disclosure GAPD promoter or a fragment that is substantially similar and functionally equivalent to any portion of the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 39 to a heterologous nucleic acid fragment. Any heterologous nucleic acid fragment can be used to practice the invention. The selection will depend upon the desired application or phenotype to be achieved. The various nucleic acid sequences can be manipulated so as to provide for the nucleic acid sequences in the proper orientation. It is believed that various combinations of promoter elements as described herein may be useful in practicing the present invention.
In another aspect, this disclosure concerns a recombinant DNA construct comprising at least one acetolactate synthase (ALS) nucleic acid fragment operably linked to GAPD promoter, or combination of promoter elements, of the present disclosure. The acetolactate synthase gene is involved in the biosynthesis of branched chain amino acids in plants and is the site of action of several herbicides including sulfonyl urea. Expression of a mutated acetolactate synthase gene encoding a protein that can no longer bind the herbicide will enable the transgenic plants to be resistant to the herbicide (U.S. Pat. No. 5,605,011, U.S. Pat. No. 5,378,824). The mutated acetolactate synthase gene is also widely used in plant transformation to select transgenic plants.
In another embodiment, this disclosure concerns host cells comprising either the recombinant DNA constructs of the disclosure as described herein or isolated polynucleotides of the disclosure as described herein. Examples of host cells which can be used to practice the disclosure include, but are not limited to, yeast, bacteria, and plants.
Plasmid vectors comprising the instant recombinant DNA construct can be constructed. The choice of plasmid vector is dependent upon the method that will be used to transform host cells. The skilled artisan is well aware of the genetic elements that must be present on the plasmid vector in order to successfully transform, select and propagate host cells containing the chimeric gene.
Methods for transforming dicots, primarily by use of Agrobacterium tumefaciens, and obtaining transgenic plants have been published, among others, for cotton (U.S. Pat. No. 5,004,863, U.S. Pat. No. 5,159,135); soybean (U.S. Pat. No. 5,569,834, U.S. Pat. No. 5,416,011); Brassica (U.S. Pat. No. 5,463,174); peanut (Cheng et al., Plant Cell Rep. 15:653-657 (1996), McKently et al., Plant Cell Rep. 14:699-703 (1995)); papaya (Ling et al., Bio/technology 9:752-758 (1991)); and pea (Grant et al., Plant Cell Rep. 15:254-258 (1995)). For a review of other commonly used methods of plant transformation see Newell, C. A., Mol. Biotechnol. 16:53-65 (2000). One of these methods of transformation uses Agrobacterium rhizogenes (Tepfler, M. and Casse-Delbart, F., Microbiol. Sci. 4:24-28 (1987)). Transformation of soybeans using direct delivery of DNA has been published using PEG fusion (PCT Publication No. WO 92/17598), electroporation (Chowrira et al., Mol. Biotechnol. 3:17-23 (1995); Christou et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 84:3962-3966 (1987)), microinjection, or particle bombardment (McCabe et al., Biotechnology 6:923-926 (1988); Christou et al., Plant Physiol. 87:671-674 (1988)).
There are a variety of methods for the regeneration of plants from plant tissues. The particular method of regeneration will depend on the starting plant tissue and the particular plant species to be regenerated. The regeneration, development and cultivation of plants from single plant protoplast transformants or from various transformed explants is well known in the art (Weissbach and Weissbach, Eds.; In Methods for Plant Molecular Biology; Academic Press, Inc.: San Diego, Calif., 1988). This regeneration and growth process typically includes the steps of selection of transformed cells, culturing those individualized cells through the usual stages of embryonic development or through the rooted plantlet stage. Transgenic embryos and seeds are similarly regenerated. The resulting transgenic rooted shoots are thereafter planted in an appropriate plant growth medium such as soil. Preferably, the regenerated plants are self-pollinated to provide homozygous transgenic plants. Otherwise, pollen obtained from the regenerated plants is crossed to seed-grown plants of agronomically important lines. Conversely, pollen from plants of these important lines is used to pollinate regenerated plants. A transgenic plant of the present disclosure containing a desired polypeptide is cultivated using methods well known to one skilled in the art.
In addition to the above discussed procedures, practitioners are familiar with the standard resource materials which describe specific conditions and procedures for the construction, manipulation and isolation of macromolecules (e.g., DNA molecules, plasmids, etc.), generation of recombinant DNA fragments and recombinant expression constructs and the screening and isolating of clones, (see for example, Sambrook, J. et al., In Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual; 2nd ed.; Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press: Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., 1989; Maliga et al., In Methods in Plant Molecular Biology; Cold Spring Harbor Press, 1995; Birren et al., In Genome Analysis: Detecting Genes, 1; Cold Spring Harbor: New York, 1998; Birren et al., In Genome Analysis: Analyzing DNA, 2; Cold Spring Harbor: New York, 1998; Clark, Ed., In Plant Molecular Biology: A Laboratory Manual; Springer: New York, 1997).
The skilled artisan will also recognize that different independent transformation events will result in different levels and patterns of expression of the chimeric genes (Jones et al., EMBO J. 4:2411-2418 (1985); De Almeida et al., Mol. Gen. Genetics 218:78-86 (1989)). Thus, multiple events must be screened in order to obtain lines displaying the desired expression level and pattern. Such screening may be accomplished by Northern analysis of mRNA expression, Western analysis of protein expression, or phenotypic analysis. Also of interest are seeds obtained from transformed plants displaying the desired gene expression profile.
The level of activity of the GAPD promoter is weaker than that of many known strong promoters, such as the CaMV 35S promoter (Atanassova et al., Plant Mol. Biol. 37:275-285 (1998); Battraw and Hall, Plant Mol. Biol. 15:527-538 (1990); Holtorf et al., Plant Mol. Biol. 29:637-646 (1995); Jefferson et al., EMBO J. 6:3901-3907 (1987); Wilmink et al., Plant Mol. Biol. 28:949-955 (1995)), the Arabidopsis ubiquitin extension protein promoters (Callis et al., J. Biol. Chem. 265(21):12486-12493 (1990)), a tomato ubiquitin gene promoter (Rollfinke et al., Gene 211:267-276 (1998)), a soybean heat shock protein promoter, and a maize H3 histone gene promoter (Atanassova et al., Plant Mol. Biol. 37:275-285 (1998)). Universal moderate expression of chimeric genes in most plant cells makes the GAPD promoter of the instant disclosure especially useful when moderate constitutive expression of a target heterologous nucleic acid fragment is required.
Another general application of the GAPD promoter of the disclosure is to construct chimeric genes that can be used to reduce expression of at least one heterologous nucleic acid fragment in a plant cell. To accomplish this, a chimeric gene designed for gene silencing of a heterologous nucleic acid fragment can be constructed by linking the fragment to the GAPD promoter of the present disclosure. (See U.S. Pat. No. 5,231,020, and PCT Publication No. WO 99/53050 published on Oct. 21, 1999, PCT Publication No. WO 02/00904 published on Jan. 3, 2002, and PCT Publication No. WO 98/36083 published on Aug. 20, 1998, for methodology to block plant gene expression via cosuppression.) Alternatively, a chimeric gene designed to express antisense RNA for a heterologous nucleic acid fragment can be constructed by linking the fragment in reverse orientation to the GAPD promoter of the present disclosure. (See U.S. Pat. No. 5,107,065 for methodology to block plant gene expression via antisense RNA.) Either the cosuppression or antisense chimeric gene can be introduced into plants via transformation. Transformants wherein expression of the heterologous nucleic acid fragment is decreased or eliminated are then selected.
This invention also concerns a method of altering (increasing or decreasing) the expression of at least one heterologous nucleic acid fragment in a plant cell which comprises:
(a) transforming a plant cell with the recombinant expression construct described herein; (b) growing fertile mature plants from the transformed plant cell of step (a); (c) selecting plants containing a transformed plant cell wherein the expression of the heterologous nucleic acid fragment is increased or decreased.
Transformation and selection can be accomplished using methods well-known to those skilled in the art including, but not limited to, the methods described herein.
Non-limiting examples of methods and compositions disclosed herein are as follows:
1. A recombinant DNA construct comprising a nucleotide sequence comprising any one of the sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO:2, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:5, SEQ ID NO:6, SEQ ID NO:39, or a functional fragment thereof, operably linked to at least one heterologous sequence, wherein said nucleotide sequence is a constitutive promoter.
2. The recombinant DNA construct of embodiment 1, wherein said nucleotide sequence has at least 95% identity, based on the Clustal V method of alignment with pairwise alignment default parameters (KTUPLE=2, GAP PENALTY=5, WINDOW=4 and DIAGONALS SAVED=4), when compared to any one of the sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO:2, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:5, SEQ ID NO:6, or SEQ ID NO:39.
3. A vector comprising the recombinant DNA construct of embodiment 1.
4. A cell comprising the recombinant DNA construct of embodiment 1.
5. The cell of embodiment 4, wherein the cell is a plant cell.
6. A transgenic plant having stably incorporated into its genome the recombinant DNA construct of embodiment 1.
7. The transgenic plant of embodiment 6 wherein said plant is a dicot plant.
8. The transgenic plant of embodiment 7 wherein the plant is soybean.
9. A transgenic seed produced by the transgenic plant of embodiment 7, wherein the transgenic seed comprises the recombinant DNA construct.
10. The recombinant DNA construct of embodiment 1 wherein the at least one heterologous sequence codes for a gene selected from the group consisting of: a reporter gene, a selection marker, a disease resistance conferring gene, a herbicide resistance conferring gene, an insect resistance conferring gene; a gene involved in carbohydrate metabolism, a gene involved in fatty acid metabolism, a gene involved in amino acid metabolism, a gene involved in plant development, a gene involved in plant growth regulation, a gene involved in yield improvement, a gene involved in drought resistance, a gene involved in cold resistance, a gene involved in heat resistance and a gene involved in salt resistance in plants.
11. The recombinant DNA construct of embodiment 1, wherein the at least one heterologous sequence encodes a protein selected from the group consisting of: a reporter protein, a selection marker, a protein conferring disease resistance, protein conferring herbicide resistance, protein conferring insect resistance; protein involved in carbohydrate metabolism, protein involved in fatty acid metabolism, protein involved in amino acid metabolism, protein involved in plant development, protein involved in plant growth regulation, protein involved in yield improvement, protein involved in drought resistance, protein involved in cold resistance, protein involved in heat resistance and protein involved in salt resistance in plants.
12. A method of expressing a coding sequence or a functional RNA in a plant comprising:
a) introducing the recombinant DNA construct of embodiment 1 into the plant, wherein the at least one heterologous sequence comprises a coding sequence or encodes a functional RNA; b) growing the plant of step a); and c) selecting a plant displaying expression of the coding sequence or the functional RNA of the recombinant DNA construct.
13. A method of transgenically altering a marketable plant trait, comprising:
a) introducing a recombinant DNA construct of embodiment 1 into the plant; b) growing a fertile, mature plant resulting from step a); and c) selecting a plant expressing the at least one heterologous sequence in at least one plant tissue based on the altered marketable trait.
14. The method of embodiment 13 wherein the marketable trait is selected from the group consisting of: disease resistance, herbicide resistance, insect resistance carbohydrate metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, plant development, plant growth regulation, yield improvement, drought resistance, cold resistance, heat resistance, and salt resistance.
15. A method for altering expression of at least one heterologous sequence in a plant comprising:
(a) transforming a plant cell with the recombinant DNA construct of embodiment 1; (b) growing fertile mature plants from transformed plant cell of step (a); and (c) selecting plants containing the transformed plant cell wherein the expression of the heterologous sequence is increased or decreased.
16. The method of Embodiment 15 wherein the plant is a soybean plant.
17. A method for expressing a green fluorescent protein ZS-GREEN1 in a host cell comprising:
(a) transforming a host cell with the recombinant DNA construct of embodiment 1; and,
(b) growing the transformed host cell under conditions that are suitable for expression of the recombinant DNA construct, wherein expression of the recombinant DNA construct results in production of increased levels of ZS GREEN1 protein in the transformed host cell when compared to a corresponding non-transformed host cell.
18. A plant stably transformed with a recombinant DNA construct comprising a soybean constitutive promoter and a heterologous nucleic acid fragment operably linked to said constitutive promoter, wherein said constitutive promoter is a capable of controlling expression of said heterologous nucleic acid fragment in a plant cell, and further wherein said constitutive promoter comprises any of the sequences set forth in SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO:2, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:5, SEQ ID NO:6, or SEQ ID NO:39.
EXAMPLES
The present invention is further defined in the following Examples, in which parts and percentages are by weight and degrees are Celsius, unless otherwise stated. Sequences of promoters, cDNA, adaptors, and primers listed in this invention all are in the 5′ to 3′ orientation unless described otherwise. Techniques in molecular biology were typically performed as described in Ausubel, F. M. et al., In Current Protocols in Molecular Biology; John Wiley and Sons: New York, 1990 or Sambrook, J. et al., In Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual; 2nd ed.; Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press: Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., 1989 (hereinafter “Sambrook et al., 1989”). It should be understood that these Examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only. From the above discussion and these Examples, one skilled in the art can ascertain the essential characteristics of this invention, and without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, can make various changes and modifications of the invention to adapt it to various usages and conditions. Thus, various modifications of the invention in addition to those shown and described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications are also intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims.
The disclosure of each reference set forth herein is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Example 1
Identification of Soybean Constitutive Promoter Candidate Genes
Soybean expression sequence tags (EST) were generated by sequencing randomly selected clones from cDNA libraries constructed from different soybean tissues. Multiple EST sequences could often be found with different lengths representing the different regions of the same soybean gene. If more EST sequences representing the same gene are frequently found from a tissue-specific cDNA library such as a flower library than from a leaf library, there is a possibility that the represented gene could be a flower preferred gene candidate. Likewise, if similar numbers of ESTs for the same gene were found in various libraries constructed from different tissues, the represented gene could be a constitutively expressed gene. Multiple EST sequences representing the same soybean gene were compiled electronically based on their overlapping sequence homology into a unique full length sequence representing the gene. These assembled unique gene sequences were accumulatively collected in Pioneer Hi-Bred Intl proprietary searchable databases.
To identify constitutive promoter candidate genes, searches were performed to look for gene sequences that were found at similar frequencies in leaf, root, flower, embryos, pod, and also in other tissues. One unique gene PSO467143 was identified in the search to be a moderate constitutive gene candidate. PSO467143 cDNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:15) as well as its putative translated protein sequence (SEQ ID NO:16) were used to search National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) databases. Both PSO467143 nucleotide and amino acid sequences were found to have high homology to eukaryotic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase genes discovered in several plant species including several Glycine max clones such as SEQ ID NO:38, NCBI accession DQ355800.
Solexa digital gene expression dual-tag-based mRNA profiling using the Illumina (Genome Analyzer) GA2 machine is a restriction enzyme site anchored tag-based technology, in this regard similar to Mass Parallel Signature Sequence transcript profiling technique (MPSS), but with two key differences (Morrissy et al., Genome Res. 19:1825-1835 (2009); Brenner et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 97:1665-70 (2000)). Firstly, not one but two restriction enzymes were used, DpnII and NlaI, the combination of which increases gene representation and helps moderate expression variances. The aggregate occurrences of all the resulting sequence reads emanating from these DpnII and NlaI sites, with some repetitive tags removed computationally were used to determine the overall gene expression levels. Secondly, the tag read length used here is 21 nucleotides, giving the Solexa tag data higher gene match fidelity than the shorter 17-mers used in MPSS. Soybean mRNA global gene expression profiles are stored in a Pioneer proprietary database TDExpress (Tissue Development Expression Browser). Candidate genes with different expression patterns can be searched, retrieved, and further evaluated.
The soybean glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenasegene PSO467143 (GAPD) corresponds to predicted gene Glyma06g18110.1 in the soybean genome, sequenced by the DOE-JGI Community Sequencing Program consortium (Schmutz J, et al., Nature 463:178-183 (2010)). The GAPD expression profiles in twenty one tissues were retrieved from the TDExpress database using the gene ID Glyma06g18110.1 and presented as parts per ten millions (PPTM) averages of three experimental repeats (FIG. 1). The GAPD gene is expressed in all checked tissues at similarly moderate levels to qualify as a candidate gene from which to clone a moderate constitutive promoter.
Example 2
Isolation of Soybean GAPD Promoter
The PSO467143 cDNA sequence was BLAST searched against the soybean genome sequence database (Schmutz J, et al., Nature 463:178-183 (2010)) to identify corresponding genomic DNA. The ˜1.5 kb sequence upstream of the PSO467143 start codon ATG was selected as GAPD promoter to be amplified by PCR (polymerase chain reaction). The primers shown in SEQ ID NO:7 and 8 were then designed to amplify by PCR the putative full length 1469 bp GAPD promoter from soybean cultivar Jack genomic DNA (SEQ ID NO:1). SEQ ID NO:7 contains a recognition site for the restriction enzyme XmaI. SEQ ID NO:8 contains a recognition site for the restriction enzyme NcoI. The XmaI and NcoI sites were included for subsequent cloning.
PCR cycle conditions were 94° C. for 4 minutes; 35 cycles of 94° C. for 30 seconds, 60° C. for 1 minute, and 68° C. for 2 minutes; and a final 68° C. for 5 minutes before holding at 4° C. using the Platinum high fidelity Taq DNA polymerase (Invitrogen). The PCR reaction was resolved using agarose gel electrophoresis to identify the right size PCR product representing the ˜1.5 Kb GAPD promoter. The PCR fragment was first cloned into pCR2.1-TOPO vector by TA cloning (Invitrogen). Several clones containing the ˜1.5 Kb DNA insert were sequenced and only one clone with the correct GAPD promoter sequence was selected for further cloning. The plasmid DNA of the selected clone was digested with XmaI and NcoI restriction enzymes to move the GAPD promoter upstream of the ZS-GREEN1 (GFP) fluorescent reporter gene in QC690 (FIG. 3A, SEQ ID NO:17). Construct QC690 contains the recombination sites AttL1 and AttL2 (SEQ ID NO:32 and 35) to qualify as a GATEWAY® cloning entry vector (Invitrogen). The 1469 bp sequence upstream of the GAPD gene PSO467143 start codon ATG including the XmaI and NcoI sites is herein designated as soybean GAPD promoter, GM-GAPD PRO (SEQ ID NO:1).
Comparison of SEQ ID NO:1 to a soybean cDNA library revealed that SEQ ID NO:1 comprised a 5′ untranslated region (UTR) at its 3′ end of at least 83 base pairs (SEQ ID NO:40). It is known to one of skilled in the art that a 5′ UTR region can be altered (deletion or substitutions of bases) or replaced by an alternative 5′ UTR while maintaining promoter activity.
Example 3
GAPD Promoter Copy Number Analysis
Southern hybridization analysis was performed to examine whether additional copies or sequences with significant similarity to the GAPD promoter exist in the soybean genome. Soybean ‘Jack’ wild type genomic DNA was digested with nine different restriction enzymes, BamHI, BgIII, DraI, EcoRI, EcoRV, HindIII, MfeI, NdeI, and SpeI and distributed in a 0.7% agarose gel by electrophoresis. The DNA was blotted onto Nylon membrane and hybridized at 60° C. with digoxigenin labeled GAPD promoter DNA probe in Easy-Hyb Southern hybridization solution, and then sequentially washed 10 minutes with 2×SSC/0.1% SDS at room temperature and 3×10 minutes at 65° C. with 0.1×SSC/0.1% SDS according to the protocol provided by the manufacturer (Roche Applied Science, Indianapolis, Ind.). The GAPD promoter probe was labeled by PCR using the DIG DNA labeling kit (Roche Applied Science) with primers QC690-S3 (SEQ ID NO:12) and QC690-A (SEQ ID NO:9) and QC690 plasmid DNA (SEQ ID NO:17) as the template to make a 637 bp long probe covering the 3′ half of the GAPD promoter (FIG. 2B).
Only two DraI and NdeI of the nine restriction enzymes would cut the 637 bp GAPD promoter probe region. DraI would cut the region once into 54, and 583 bp fragments so only the 3′ GAPD promoter fragment corresponding to the 583 bp probe fragment would be detected by Southern hybridization with the 637 bp GAPD probe (FIG. 2B). NdeI would cut the region only once into 83, and 554 bp fragments so only the 3′ GAPD promoter fragment corresponding to the 554 bp probe fragment would be detected. DNA fragments created by DraI or NdeI digestion containing 54 or 83 bp long sequences corresponding to the 5′ GAPD probe regions was too short to stably hybridize to the probe under stringent conditions. None of the other seven restriction enzymes BamHI, BgIII, EcoRI, EcoRV, HindIII, MfeI, and SpeI would cut the GAPD promoter probe region. Therefore, only one band would be expected to be hybridized for each of the nine digestions if only one copy of GAPD promoter sequence exists in soybean genome (FIG. 2B). The observation that only one band was detected in all nine digestions suggested that there is only one sequence with significant homology to the 637 bp probe region of the GAPD promoter in soybean genome (FIG. 2A). The DIGVII molecular markers used on the Southern blot are 8576, 7427, 6106, 4899, 3639, 2799, 1953, 1882, 1515, 1482, 1164, and 992 bp.
Since the whole soybean genome sequence is now publically available (Schmutz J, et al., Nature 463:178-183 (2010)), the GAPD promoter copy numbers can also be evaluated by searching the soybean genome with the 1469 bp promoter sequence (SEQ ID NO:1). Consistent with above Southern analysis, one sequence Gm06:14427908-14426438 (rev) very similar to the GAPD promoter sequence 7-1469 bp was identified. Parts of the 5′ end 6 bp and 3′ end 6 bp of the 1469 bp GAPD promoter may not match the genomic Gm06 sequence since they are artificially added XmaI and NcoI sites. The BLAST search did not detect any other sequence with significant homology to the GAPD promoter supporting the conclusion that there is only one GAPD promoter sequence in soybean genome.
FIG. 8 shows a nucleotide sequence alignment of SEQ ID NO:1, comprising the full length GAPD promoter of the disclosure, and SEQ ID NO:39, comprising a 1471 bp native soybean genomic DNA from Gm06:14427908-14426438 (rev) cultivar “Williams82” (Schmutz J. et al., Nature 463:178-183, 2010). As shown in FIG. 8, the GAPD promoter of SEQ ID NO:1 is 99.2% identical to SEQ ID NO:39, based on the Clustal V method of alignment with pairwise alignment default parameters (KTUPLE=2, GAP PENALTY=5, WINDOW=4 and DIAGONALS SAVED=4). Based on the data described in Examples 1-7, it is believed that SEQ ID NO:39 has promoter activity.
Example 4
GAPD:GFP Reporter Gene Constructs and Soybean Transformation
The GAPD:GFP cassette in QC690 (SEQ ID NO:17; FIG. 3A) was moved into a GATEWAY® destination vector QC478i (SEQ ID NO:18) by LR Clonase® (Invitrogen) mediated DNA recombination between the attL1 and attL2 recombination sites (SEQ ID NO:32, and 33, respectively) in QC690 and the attR1-attR2 recombination sites (SEQ ID NO:34, and 35, respectively) in QC478i to make the final transformation construct QC699 (SEQ ID NO:19; FIG. 3B).
Since the GATEWAY® destination vector QC478i already contains a soybean transformation selectable marker gene SAMS:HRA, the resulting DNA construct QC699 has the GAPD:GFP gene expression cassette linked to the SAMS:HRA cassette (FIG. 3B). Two 21 bp recombination sites attB1 and attB2 (SEQ ID NO:36, and 37, respectively) were newly created recombination sites resulting from DNA recombination between attL1 and attR1, and between attL2 and attR2, respectively. The 6897 bp DNA fragment containing the linked GAPD:GFP and SAMS:HRA expression cassettes was isolated from plasmid QC699 (SEQ ID NO:19) with Ascl digestion, separated from the vector backbone fragment by agarose gel electrophoresis, and purified from the gel with a DNA gel extraction kit (QIAGEN®, Valencia, Calif.). The purified DNA fragment was transformed to soybean cultivar Jack by the method of particle gun bombardment (Klein et al., Nature 327:70-73 (1987); U.S. Pat. No. 4,945,050) as described in detail below to study the GAPD promoter activity in stably transformed soybean plants.
The same methodology as outlined above for the GAPD:GFP expression cassette construction and transformation can be used with other heterologous nucleic acid sequences encoding for example a reporter protein, a selection marker, a protein conferring disease resistance, protein conferring herbicide resistance, protein conferring insect resistance; protein involved in carbohydrate metabolism, protein involved in fatty acid metabolism, protein involved in amino acid metabolism, protein involved in plant development, protein involved in plant growth regulation, protein involved in yield improvement, protein involved in drought resistance, protein involved in cold resistance, protein involved in heat resistance and salt resistance in plants.
Soybean somatic embryos from the Jack cultivar were induced as follows. Cotyledons (˜3 mm in length) were dissected from surface sterilized, immature seeds and were cultured for 6-10 weeks in the light at 26° C. on a Murashige and Skoog (MS) media containing 0.7% agar and supplemented with 10 mg/ml 2,4-D (2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid). Globular stage somatic embryos, which produced secondary embryos, were then excised and placed into flasks containing liquid MS medium supplemented with 2,4-D (10 mg/ml) and cultured in the light on a rotary shaker. After repeated selection for clusters of somatic embryos that multiplied as early, globular staged embryos, the soybean embryogenic suspension cultures were maintained in 35 ml liquid media on a rotary shaker, 150 rpm, at 26° C. with fluorescent lights on a 16:8 hour day/night schedule. Cultures were subcultured every two weeks by inoculating approximately 35 mg of tissue into 35 ml of the same fresh liquid MS medium.
Soybean embryogenic suspension cultures were then transformed by the method of particle gun bombardment using a DuPont Biolistic™ PDS1000/HE instrument (Bio-Rad Laboratories, Hercules, Calif.). To 50 μl of a 60 mg/ml 1.0 mm gold particle suspension were added (in order): 30 μl of 30 ng/μl QC589 DNA fragment GAPD:GFP+SAMS:HRA, 20 μl of 0.1 M spermidine, and 25 μl of 5 M CaCl2. The particle preparation was then agitated for 3 minutes, spun in a centrifuge for 10 seconds and the supernatant removed. The DNA-coated particles were then washed once in 400 μl 100% ethanol and resuspended in 45 μl of 100% ethanol. The DNA/particle suspension was sonicated three times for one second each. Then 5 μl of the DNA-coated gold particles was loaded on each macro carrier disk.
Approximately 300-400 mg of a two-week-old suspension culture was placed in an empty 60×15 mm Petri dish and the residual liquid removed from the tissue with a pipette. For each transformation experiment, approximately 5 to 10 plates of tissue were bombarded. Membrane rupture pressure was set at 1100 psi and the chamber was evacuated to a vacuum of 28 inches mercury. The tissue was placed approximately 3.5 inches away from the retaining screen and bombarded once. Following bombardment, the tissue was divided in half and placed back into liquid media and cultured as described above.
Five to seven days post bombardment, the liquid media was exchanged with fresh media containing 100 ng/ml chlorsulfuron as selection agent. This selective media was refreshed weekly. Seven to eight weeks post bombardment, green, transformed tissue was observed growing from untransformed, necrotic embryogenic clusters. Isolated green tissue was removed and inoculated into individual flasks to generate new, clonally propagated, transformed embryogenic suspension cultures. Each clonally propagated culture was treated as an independent transformation event and subcultured in the same liquid MS media supplemented with 2,4-D (10 mg/ml) and 100 ng/ml chlorsulfuron selection agent to increase mass. The embryogenic suspension cultures were then transferred to agar solid MS media plates without 2,4-D supplement to allow somatic embryos to develop. A sample of each event was collected at this stage for quantitative PCR analysis.
Cotyledon stage somatic embryos were dried-down (by transferring them into an empty small Petri dish that was seated on top of a 10 cm Petri dish containing some agar gel to allow slow dry down) to mimic the last stages of soybean seed development. Dried-down embryos were placed on germination solid media and transgenic soybean plantlets were regenerated. The transgenic plants were then transferred to soil and maintained in growth chambers for seed production.
Genomic DNA were extracted from somatic embryo samples and analyzed by quantitative PCR using a 7500 real time PCR system (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, Calif.) with gene-specific primers and FAM-labeled fluorescence probes to check copy numbers of both the SAMS:HRA expression cassette and the GAPD:GFP expression cassette. The qPCR analysis was done in duplex reactions with a heat shock protein (HSP) gene as the endogenous controls and a transgenic DNA sample with a known single copy of SAMS:HRA or GFP transgene as the calibrator. The endogenous control HSP probe was labeled with VIC and the target gene SAMS:HRA or GFP probe was labeled with FAM for the simultaneous detection of both fluorescent probes (Applied Biosystems). PCR reaction data were captured and analyzed using the sequence detection software provided with the 7500 real time PCR system and the gene copy numbers were calculated using the relative quantification methodology (Applied Biosystems).
The primers and probes used in the qPCR analysis are listed below.
SAMS forward primer: SEQ ID NO:23
FAM labeled ALS probe: SEQ ID NO:24
ALS reverse primer: SEQ ID NO:25
GFP forward primer: SEQ ID NO:26
FAM labeled GFP probe: SEQ ID NO:27
GFP reverse primer: SEQ ID NO:28
HSP forward primer: SEQ ID NO:29
VIC labeled HSP probe: SEQ ID NO:30
HSP reverse primer: SEQ ID NO:31
Only transgenic soybean events containing 1 or 2 copies of both the SAMS:HRA expression cassette and the GAPD:GFP expression cassette were selected for further gene expression evaluation and seed production (see Table 1). Events negative for GFP qPCR or with more than 2 copies for the SAMS:HRA qPCR were not further followed. GFP expressions are described in detail in EXAMPLE 7 and are also summarized in Table 1.
TABLE 1
Relative transgene copy numbers and YFP
expression of GAPD:GFP transgenic plants
GFP
GFP
SAMS:HRA
Clone ID
expression
qPCR
qPCR
8848.1.2
+
0.6
0.3
8848.1.3
+
1.5
1.4
8848.1.4
+
1.5
0.4
8848.1.5
+
1.8
1.7
8848.1.6
+
1.1
0.9
8848.3.1
+
1.5
0.9
8848.3.4
+
1.4
1.3
8848.6.1
+
1.2
1.1
8848.6.2
+
1.7
1.5
8848.6.4
+
1.8
0.6
8848.6.5
+
1.4
0.8
8848.6.6
+
1.7
0.5
8848.6.7
+
0.7
0.8
8848.6.10
+
0.7
1.1
8848.6.11
+
0.7
0.8
8848.6.12
+
0.6
0.5
8848.6.13
+
1.4
1.3
8848.6.15
+
1.3
0.6
Example 5
Construction of GAPD Promoter Deletion Constructs
To define the transcriptional elements controlling the GAPD promoter activity, the 1469 bp full length (SEQ ID NO:1) and five 5′ unidirectional deletion fragments 1148 bp, 850 bp, 637 bp, 425 bp, and 211 bp in length corresponding to SEQ ID NO:2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, respectively, were made by PCR amplification from the full length soybean GAPD promoter contained in the original construct QC690 (FIG. 3A). The same antisense primer QC690-A (SEQ ID NO:9) was used in the amplification by PCR of all the six GAPD promoter fragments (SEQ ID NOs: 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6) by pairing with different sense primers SEQ ID NOs:10, 11, 12, 13, and 14, respectively. Each of the PCR amplified promoter DNA fragments was cloned into the GATEWAY® cloning ready TA cloning vector pCR8/GW/TOPO (Invitrogen) and clones with the correct orientation, relative to the GATEWAY® recombination sites attL1 and attL2, were selected by sequence confirmation. The map of construct QC690-1 (SEQ ID NO:20) containing the 1148 bp GAPD promoter fragment (SEQ ID NO:2) is shown in FIG. 4A. The maps of constructs QC690-2, 3, 4, and 5 containing the truncated GAPD promoter fragments SEQ ID NOs:3, 4, 5, and 6 are similar to QC690-1 map and are not showed. The promoter fragment in the right orientation was subsequently cloned into a GATEWAY® destination vector QC330 (SEQ ID NO:21) by GATEWAY® LR Clonase® reaction (Invitrogen) to place the promoter fragment in front of the reporter gene YFP (see the example map QC690-1Y in FIG. 4B and SEQ ID NO:22). A 21 bp GATEWAY® recombination site attB2 (SEQ ID NO:37) was inserted between the promoter and the YFP reporter gene coding region as a result of the GATEWAY® cloning process. The maps and sequences of constructs QC690-2Y, 3Y, 4Y, and 5Y containing the GAPD promoter fragments SEQ ID NOs: 3, 4, 5, and 6 are similar to QC690-1Y map and sequence and are not shown.
The GAPD:YFP promoter deletion constructs were delivered into germinating soybean cotyledons by gene gun bombardment for transient gene expression study. A similar construct pZSL90 with a constitutive promoter SCP1 (U.S. Pat. No. 6,555,673) driving YFP expression and a promoterless construct QC330-Y were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. The GAPD promoter fragments analyzed are schematically described in FIG. 5.
Example 6
Transient Expression Analysis of GAPD:YFP Constructs
The constructs containing the full length and truncated GAPD promoter fragments (QC690, QC690-1Y, 2Y, 3Y, 4Y, and 5Y) were tested by transiently expressing the reporter gene ZS-GREEN1 (GFP) or ZS-YELLOW1 N1 (YFP) in germinating soybean cotyledons. Soybean seeds were rinsed with 10% TWEEN® 20 in sterile water, surface sterilized with 70% ethanol for 2 minutes and then by 6% sodium hypochloride for 15 minutes. After rinsing the seeds were placed on wet filter paper in Petri dish to germinate for 4-6 days under light at 26° C. Green cotyledons were excised and placed inner side up on a 0.7% agar plate containing Murashige and Skoog media for particle gun bombardment. The DNA and gold particle mixtures were prepared similarly as described in EXAMPLE 4 except with more DNA (100 ng/μl). The bombardments were also carried out under similar parameters as described in EXAMPLE 4. YFP expression was checked under a Leica MZFLIII stereo microscope equipped with UV light source and appropriate light filters (Leica Microsystems Inc., Bannockburn, Ill.) and pictures were taken approximately 24 hours after bombardment with 8× magnification using a Leica DFC500 camera with settings as 0.60 gamma, 1.0 gain, 0.70 saturation, 61 color hue, 56 color saturation, and 0.51 second exposure (shown in black and white in FIG. 6A-FIG. 6H).
The full length GAPD promoter constructs QC690 had strong yellow fluorescence signals in transient expression assay similar to the positive control pZSL90 bp showing bright yellow dots in red background (shown as white dots on a black background in FIG. 6A-6H). Each dot represented a single cotyledon cell which appeared larger if the fluorescence signal was strong or smaller if the fluorescence signal was weak even under the same magnification (FIG. 6A-FIG. 6H). The attB2 site inserted between the GAPD promoter and YFP gene did not seem to interfere with promoter activity and reporter gene expression for the deletion constructs. The deletion construct QC690-1Y (FIG. 6D) with the 1148 bp GAPD promoter showed slightly reduced yellow fluorescence signals though comparable to the full length 1469 bp GAPD promoter construct QC690 (FIG. 6C) that has the GFP reporter gene. Further deletions of the GAPD promoter to 850, 637, 425, and 211 bp in constructs QC690-2Y (FIG. 6E), QC690-3Y (FIG. 6F), QC690-4Y (FIG. 6G), and QC690-5Y (FIG. 6H) resulted in gradual reductions of the promoter strength. Faint yellow dots were still detectable in even the shortest construct QC690-5Y (shown as white dots on a black background in FIG. 6A-6H), suggesting that as short as 211 bp GAPD promoter sequence upstream of the start codon ATG was long enough for the minimal expression of a reporter gene.
This data clearly indicates that all deletion constructs are functional as a constitutive promoter and as such SEQ ID NO: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 are all functional fragment s of SEQ ID NO:1.
Example 7
GAPD:GFP Expression in Stable Transgenic Soybean Plants
The stable expression of the fluorescent protein reporter gene ZS-GREEN1 (GFP) driven by the full length GAPD promoter (SEQ ID NO:1, construct QC699) in transgenic soybean plants is shown as white tissues in FIG. 7A-FIG. 7P.
ZS-GREEN1 (GFP) gene expression was tested at different stages of transgenic plant development for green fluorescence emission under a Leica MZFLIII stereo microscope equipped with appropriate fluorescent light filters. Green fluorescence (shown as white in FIG. 7A-FIG. 7P.) was detectable in globular and young heart stage somatic embryos during the suspension culture period of soybean transformation (FIG. 7A). Moderate GFP expression was continuously detected in differentiating cotyledon somatic embryos placed on solid medium and then throughout later stages until fully developed drying down somatic embryos (FIG. 7B, FIG. 7C). The negative section of a positive embryo cluster emitted weak red color (shown as grey in FIG. 7A-FIG. 7P) due to auto fluorescence from the chlorophyll contained in soybean green tissues including embryos. The reddish green fluorescence indicated that the GFP expression was moderate since everything would be bright green if the GFP gene was driven by a strong constitutive promoter. When transgenic plants regenerated, GFP expression was detected in most tissues checked, such as flower, leaf, stem, root, pod, and seed (FIG. 7D-FIG. 7P). Negative controls for most tissue types displayed in FIG. 7A-FIG. 7P are not shown, but any green tissue such as leaf or stem negative for GFP expression would look red (illustrated as grey in the figures) and any white tissue such as root and petal would look dull yellowish under the GFP fluorescent light filter.
A soybean flower consists of five sepals, five petals including one standard large upper petal, two large side petals, and two small lower petals called kneel to enclose ten stamens and one pistil. The pistil consists of a stigma, a style, and an ovary in which there are 2-4 ovules. A stamen consists of a filament, and an anther on its tip. The filaments of nine of the stamens are fused and elevated as a single structure with a posterior stamen remaining separate. Pollen grains reside inside anther chambers and are released during pollination the day before the fully opening of the flower. Fluorescence signals were detected in sepals, petals, and pistils of both flower buds and open flowers and but hardly in stamens or ovules (FIG. 7D-FIG. 7G). Fluorescence signals were concentrated in the stromata guard cells of sepal and pistil as shown in close-up views (FIG. 7E, FIG. 7G).
Green fluorescence was detected mainly in the stromata guard cells and veins of fully developed leaf and stem (FIG. 7H, FIG. 7I), and the vascular bundles of stem, leaf petiole, and root of TO adult plant (FIG. 7J-FIG. 7L). Strong fluorescence signals were primarily detected in the phloem of the vascular bundles of stem, leaf petiole, and root as clearly shown in their cross sections. Fluorescence signals were detected in pod coat also concentrated in the stromata guard cells as clearly shown in the close-up view (FIG. 7M).
Moderate fluorescence signals were detected in developing seeds of the GAPD:GFP transgenic plants from young R3 pod of ˜5 mm long, to full R4 pod of ˜20 mm long, until elongated pods filled with R5, R6 seeds (FIG. 7N-FIG. 7P). Fluorescence signals were concentrated in seed coat only in young R3, R4 seeds (FIG. 7N) and then in cotyledons and the inside of seed coat of older seeds (FIG. 7O, FIG. 7P). The seed and pod development stages were defined according to descriptions in Fehr and Caviness, IWSRBC 80:1-12 (1977).
In conclusion, GAPD:GFP expression was detected moderately in most tissues throughout transgenic plant development indicating that the soybean GAPD promoter is a moderate constitutive promoter, specifically with preferred strong expression in stromata guard cells.
What is claimed is:
1. A recombinant DNA construct comprising a nucleotide sequence comprising any one of the sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO:2, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:5, SEQ ID NO:6, SEQ ID NO:39, or a functional fragment thereof, operably linked to at least one heterologous sequence, wherein said nucleotide sequence is a constitutive promoter.
2. The recombinant DNA construct of claim 1, wherein said nucleotide sequence has at least 95% identity, based on the Clustal V method of alignment with pairwise alignment default parameters (KTUPLE=2, GAP PENALTY=5, WINDOW=4 and DIAGONALS SAVED=4), when compared to any one of the sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO:2, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:5, SEQ ID NO:6, or SEQ ID NO:39.
3. A vector comprising the recombinant DNA construct of claim 1.
4. A cell comprising the recombinant DNA construct of claim 1.
5. The cell of claim 4, wherein the cell is a plant cell.
6. A transgenic plant having stably incorporated into its genome the recombinant DNA construct of claim 1.
7. The transgenic plant of claim 6 wherein said plant is a dicot plant.
8. The transgenic plant of claim 7 wherein the plant is soybean.
9. A transgenic seed produced by the transgenic plant of claim 7, wherein the transgenic seed comprises the recombinant DNA construct.
10. The recombinant DNA construct of claim 1 wherein the at least one heterologous sequence codes for a gene selected from the group consisting of: a reporter gene, a selection marker, a disease resistance conferring gene, a herbicide resistance conferring gene, an insect resistance conferring gene; a gene involved in carbohydrate metabolism, a gene involved in fatty acid metabolism, a gene involved in amino acid metabolism, a gene involved in plant development, a gene involved in plant growth regulation, a gene involved in yield improvement, a gene involved in drought resistance, a gene involved in cold resistance, a gene involved in heat resistance and a gene involved in salt resistance in plants.
11. The recombinant DNA construct of claim 1, wherein the at least one heterologous sequence encodes a protein selected from the group consisting of: a reporter protein, a selection marker, a protein conferring disease resistance, protein conferring herbicide resistance, protein conferring insect resistance; protein involved in carbohydrate metabolism, protein involved in fatty acid metabolism, protein involved in amino acid metabolism, protein involved in plant development, protein involved in plant growth regulation, protein involved in yield improvement, protein involved in drought resistance, protein involved in cold resistance, protein involved in heat resistance and protein involved in salt resistance in plants.
12. A method of expressing a coding sequence or a functional RNA in a plant comprising:
a) introducing the recombinant DNA construct of claim 1 into the plant, wherein the at least one heterologous sequence comprises a coding sequence or encodes a functional RNA; b) growing the plant of step a); and c) selecting a plant displaying expression of the coding sequence or the functional RNA of the recombinant DNA construct.
13. A method of transgenically altering a marketable plant trait, comprising:
a) introducing a recombinant DNA construct of claim 1 into the plant; b) growing a fertile, mature plant resulting from step a); and c) selecting a plant expressing the at least one heterologous sequence in at least one plant tissue based on the altered marketable trait.
14. The method of claim 13 wherein the marketable trait is selected from the group consisting of: disease resistance, herbicide resistance, insect resistance carbohydrate metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, plant development, plant growth regulation, yield improvement, drought resistance, cold resistance, heat resistance, and salt resistance.
15. A method for altering expression of at least one heterologous sequence in a plant comprising:
(a) transforming a plant cell with the recombinant DNA construct of claim 1; (b) growing fertile mature plants from transformed plant cell of step (a); and (c) selecting plants containing the transformed plant cell wherein the expression of the heterologous sequence is increased or decreased.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein the plant is a soybean plant.
17. A method for expressing a green fluorescent protein ZS-GREEN1 in a host cell comprising:
(a) transforming a host cell with the recombinant DNA construct of claim 1; and, (b) growing the transformed host cell under conditions that are suitable for expression of the recombinant DNA construct, wherein expression of the recombinant DNA construct results in production of increased levels of ZS GREEN1 protein in the transformed host cell when compared to a corresponding non-transformed host cell.
18. A plant stably transformed with a recombinant DNA construct comprising a soybean constitutive promoter and a heterologous nucleic acid fragment operably linked to said constitutive promoter, wherein said constitutive promoter is a capable of controlling expression of said heterologous nucleic acid fragment in a plant cell, and further wherein said constitutive promoter comprises any of the sequences set forth in SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO:2, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:5, SEQ ID NO:6, or SEQ ID NO:39.
| 2015-03-04 | en | 2015-09-24 |
US-87351404-A | Methods for making encapsulated stent-grafts
ABSTRACT
A method for making an encapsulated stent-graft having an essentially tubular configuration with a central longitudinal lumen and having a first diameter and a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter. The stent-graft may include a self-expanding stent and a first and second tube of biocompatible material between which the stent is positioned. The stent-graft may also include an interlayer member between the first and second tube. The method generally includes applying pressure and heat to a stent-graft assembly to form a monolithic layer of biocompatible material around the stent.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 10/242,160, filed Sep. 12, 2002, which is a division of application Ser. No. 08/833,797, filed Apr. 9, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,451,047, which is a continuation-in-part of two applications: 1) Ser. No. 08/508,033, filed Jul. 27, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,749,880, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/401,871, filed Mar. 10, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,523; and 2) Ser. No. 08/794,871, filed Feb. 5, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,039,755. This application expressly incorporates by reference the entirety of each of the above-mentioned applications as if fully set forth herein.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO A COMPACT DISK APPENDIX
[0003] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention relates generally to implantable intraluminal devices, particularly intraluminal stents. Because of the open lattice found in most intraluminal stents, a primary problem with these types of devices is occlusion of the vessel occurring after stent placement. Tissue ingrowth and neointimal hyperplasia significantly reduces the open diameter of the treated lumen over time, requiring additional therapies. The present invention incorporates the use of a biocompatible barrier material that prevents or delays the tissue ingrowth and neointimal hyperplasia, thus maintaining luminal patency for longer periods after initial treatment. The use of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) as a bio-inert barrier material is well documented. In accordance with certain of its preferred embodiments, the present invention utilizes a radially expandable ePTFE material, such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,039,755, to partially or fully embed the stent lattice, thereby providing a suitable barrier which improves stent patency.
[0005] The inventive intraluminal stent-graft device may be implanted either by percutaneous delivery using an appropriate delivery system, a cut-down procedure in which a surgical incision is made and the intraluminal device implanted through the surgical incision, or by laparoscopic or endoscopic or endoscopic delivery. More particularly the present invention relates to shape memory alloy and self-expanding endoluminal stents which are at least partially encapsulated in a substantially monolithic expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (“ePTFE”) covering. In accordance with the present invention, an endoluminal stent, which has a reduced diametric dimension for endoluminal delivery and a larger in vivo final diametric diameter, is encapsulated in an ePTFE covering which circumferentially covers both the luminal and abluminal walls along at least a portion of the longitudinal extent of the endoluminal stent. The endoluminal stent is preferably fabricated from a shape memory alloy which exhibits either shape memory or pseudoelastic properties or from an elastic material having an inherent spring tension.
[0006] In a first embodiment of the invention, the endoluminal stent is encapsulated in the ePTFE covering in the stent's reduced diametric dimension and is balloon expanded in vivo to radially deform the ePTFE covering. The endoluminal stent may be either one which exhibits thermal strain recovery, pseudoelastic stress-strain behavior or elastic behavior at mammalian body temperature. While in its reduced diametric dimension the ePTFE encapsulating covering integrally constrains the endoluminal stent from exhibiting either thermal strain recovery, pseudoelastic stress-strain behavior or elastic behavior at mammalian body temperature. Radial deformation of the ePTFE covering releases constraining forces acting on the endoluminal stent by the undeformed ePTFE covering and permits the stent to radially expand.
[0007] In a second embodiment of the invention, an endoluminal stent fabricated of a shape memory alloy is encapsulated in its final diametric dimension and the encapsulated intraluminal stent-graft is manipulated into its reduced diametric dimension and radially expanded in vivo under the influence of a martensite to austenite transformation.
[0008] In a third embodiment of the present invention, a self-expanding intraluminal stent, fabricated of a material having an inherent spring tension, is encapsulated in its final diametric dimension and manipulated to a reduced diametric dimension and externally constrained for intraluminal delivery. Upon release of the external constraint in vivo the spring tension exerted by the self-expanding stent radially expands both the stent and the ePTFE encapsulating covering to a radially enlarged diameter.
[0009] In a fourth embodiment of the invention, the endoluminal stent is fabricated from a material having an inherent elastic spring tension and is encapsulated at a reduced dimension suitable for endoluminal delivery and balloon expanded in vivo to radially deform the ePTFE covering.
[0010] Shape memory alloys are a group of metallic materials that demonstrate the ability to return to a defined shape or size when subjected to certain thermal or stress conditions. Shape memory alloys are generally capable of being plastically deformed at a relatively low temperature and, upon exposure to a relatively higher temperature, return to the defined shape or size prior to the deformation. Shape memory alloys may be further defined as one that yields a thermoelastic martensite. A shape memory alloy which yields a thermoelastic martensite undergoes a martensitic transformation of a type that permits the alloy to be deformed by a twinning mechanism below the martensitic transformation temperature. The deformation is then reversed when the twinned structure reverts upon heating to the parent austenite phase. The austenite phase occurs when the material is at a low strain state and occurs at a given temperature. The martensite phase may be either temperature-induced martensite (TIM) or stress-induced martensite (SIM).
[0011] When a shape memory material is stressed at a temperature above the start of martensite formation, denoted Ms, where the austenitic state is initially stable, but below the maximum temperature at which martensite formation can occur, denoted Md, the material first deforms elastically and when a critical stress is reached, it begins to transform by the formation of stress-induced martensite. Depending upon whether the temperature is above or below the start of austenite formation, denoted As, the behavior when the deforming stress is released differs. If the temperature is below As, the stress-induced martensite is stable; however, if the temperature is above As, the martensite is unstable and transforms back to austenite, with the sample returning to its original shape. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,597,378, 5,067,957 and 4,665,906 disclose devices, including endoluminal stents, which are delivered in the stress-induced martensite phase of shape memory alloy and return to their pre-programmed shape by removal of the stress and transformation from stress-induced martensite to austenite.
[0012] Shape memory characteristics may be imparted to a shape memory alloy by heating the metal at a temperature above which the transformation from the martensite phase to the austenite phase is complete, i.e., a temperature above which the austenite phase is stable. The shape of the metal during this heat treatment is the shape “remembered.” The heat treated metal is cooled to a temperature at which the martensite phase is stable, causing the austenite phase to transform to the martensite phase. The metal in the martensite phase is then plastically deformed, e.g., to facilitate its delivery into a patient's body. Subsequent heating of the deformed martensite phase to a temperature above the martensite to austenite transformation temperature, e.g., body temperature, causes the deformed martensite phase to transform to the austenite phase and during this phase transformation, the metal reverts back to its original shape.
[0013] The term “shape memory” is used in the art to describe the property of a material to recover a pre-programmed shape after deformation of a shape memory alloy in its martensitic phase and exposing the alloy to a temperature excursion through its austenite transformation temperature, at which temperature the alloy begins to revert to the austenite phase and recover its preprogrammed shape. The term “pseudoelasticity” is used to describe a property of shape memory alloys where the alloy is stressed at a temperature above the transformation temperature of the alloy and stress-induced martensite is formed above the normal martensite formation temperature. Because it has been formed above its normal temperature, stress-induced martensite reverts immediately to undeformed austenite as soon as the stress is removed, provided the temperature remains above the transformation temperature.
[0014] The martensitic transformation that occurs in the shape memory alloys yields a thermoelastic martensite and develops from a high-temperature austenite phase with long-range order. The martensite typically occurs as alternately sheared platelets, which are seen as a herringbone structure when viewed metallographically. The transformation, although a first-order phase change, does not occur at a single temperature but over a range of temperatures that varies with each alloy system. Most of the transformation occurs over a relatively narrow temperature range, although the beginning and end of the transformation during heating or cooling actually extends over a much larger temperature range. The transformation also exhibits hysteresis in that the transformations on heating and on cooling do not overlap. This transformation hysteresis varies with the alloy system.
[0015] A thermoelastic martensite phase is characterized by having a low energy state and glissile interfaces, which can be driven by small temperature or stress changes. As a consequence of this, and of the constraint due to the loss of symmetry during transformation, a thermoelastic martensite phase is crystallographically reversible. The herringbone structure of athermal martensite essentially consists of twin-related, self-accommodating variants. The shape change among the variants tends to cause them to eliminate each other. As a result, little macroscopic strain is generated. In the case of stress-induced martensite, or when stressing a self-accommodating structure, the variant that can transform and yield the greatest shape change in the direction of the applied stress is stabilized and becomes dominant in the configuration. This process creates a macroscopic strain, which is recoverable as the crystal structure reverts to austenite during reverse transformation.
[0016] The mechanical properties of shape memory alloys vary greatly over the transformation temperature range. Martensite phase alloys may be deformed to several percent strain at quite a low stress, whereas the austenite phase alloy has much higher yield and flow stresses. Upon heating after removing the stress, the martensite phase shape memory alloy will remember its unstrained shape and revert to its austenite phase.
[0017] Where a shape memory alloy is exposed to temperature above its transformation temperature, the martensite phase can be stress-induced. Once stress-induced martensite occurs, the alloy immediately strains and exhibits the increasing strain at constant stress behavior. Upon unloading of the strain however, the shape memory alloy reverts to austenite at a lower stress and shape recovery occurs, not upon the application of heat but upon a reduction of stress. This effect, which causes the material to be extremely elastic, is known as pseudoelasticity and the effect is nonlinear.
[0018] The present invention preferably utilizes an binary, equiatomic nickel-titanium alloy because of its biocompatibility and because such an alloy exhibits a transformation temperature within the range of physiologically-compatible temperatures. Nickel-titanium alloys exhibit moderate solubility for excess nickel or titanium, as well as most other metallic elements, and also exhibits a ductility comparable to most ordinary alloys. This solubility allows alloying with many of the elements to modify both the mechanical properties and the transformation properties of the system. Excess nickel, in amounts up to about 1%, is the most common alloying addition. Excess nickel strongly depresses the transformation temperature and increases the yield strength of the austenite. Other frequently used elements are iron and chromium (to lower the transformation temperature), and copper (to decrease the hysteresis and lower the deformation stress of the martensite). Because common contaminants such as oxygen and carbon can also shift the transformation temperature and degrade the mechanical properties, it is also desirable to minimize the amount of these elements.
[0019] As used in this application, the following terms have the following meanings:
[0020] Af Temperature: The temperature at which a shape memory alloy finishes transforming to Austenite upon heating.
[0021] As Temperature: The temperature at which a shape memory alloy starts transforming to Austenite upon heating.
[0022] Austenite: The stronger, higher temperature phase present in NiTi.
[0023] Hysteresis: The temperature difference between a phase transformation upon heating and cooling. In NiTi alloys, it is generally measured as the difference between Ap and Mp.
[0024] Mf Temperature: The temperature at which a shape memory alloy finishes transforming to Martensite upon cooling.
[0025] Ms Temperature: The temperature at which a shape memory alloy starts transforming to Martensite upon cooling.
[0026] Martensite: The more deformable, lower temperature phase present in NiTi.
[0027] Phase Transformation: The change from one alloy phase to another with a change in temperature, pressure, stress, chemistry, and/or time.
[0028] Shape Memory: The ability of certain alloys to return to a predetermined shape upon heating via a phase transformation.
[0029] Pseudoelasticity: The reversible non-linear elastic deformation obtained when austenitic shape memory alloys are strained at a temperature above As, but below Md, the maximum temperature at which pseudoelasticity is obtained.
[0030] Thermoelastic Martensitic Transformation: A diffuisionless, thermally reversible phase transformation characterized by a crystal lattice distortion.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0031] It is a principal objective of the present invention to encapsulate an intraluminal structural support with a substantially monolithic covering of ePTFE.
[0032] It is a further objective of the present invention to encapsulate a shape memory alloy intraluminal stent with a substantially monolithic covering of ePTFE.
[0033] It is another object of the present invention to provide a unique library of endoprostheses consisting generally of intraluminal structural supports made of shape memory alloys, which are at least partially encapsulated in a substantially monolithic expanded polytetrafluoroethylene covering, and which exhibit either thermal strain recovery, pseudoelastic stress-strain behavior or elastic behavior at mammalian body temperature.
[0034] It is a further objective of the present invention to encapsulate a shape memory alloy intraluminal stent at a reduced delivery diametric dimension and balloon expand the ePTFE encapsulated stent-graft to radially deform the ePTFE covering and release the radial constraint exerted by the ePTFE encapsulation on the shape memory stent thereby permitting the shape memory alloy stent to undergo transformation from its radially constrained dimension to an enlarged deployed dimension.
[0035] It is another objective of the present invention to encapsulate a shape memory alloy intraluminal stent at its enlarged diametric dimension, either with an at least partially unsintered tubular ePTFE extrudate having a diametric dimension comparable to the enlarged diametric dimension of the shape memory alloy intraluminal stent, or with a fully sintered ePTFE tubular member which has been radially expanded to a diametric dimension comparable to the enlarged diametric dimension of the shape memory alloy intraluminal stent, where the encapsulated intraluminal stent is then reduced in its diametric dimension for endoluminal delivery.
[0036] It is yet a further objective of the present invention to encapsulate a self-expanding intraluminal stent, such as a Gianturco stent or a pseudoelastic shape memory stent, at a reduced delivery diametric dimension and balloon expand the ePTFE encapsulated stent-graft to radially deform the ePTFE covering and release the radial constraint exerted by the ePTFE encapsulation on the self-expanding stent thereby permitting the self-expanding stent to elastically radially expand to its in vivo diameter.
[0037] It is another objective of the present invention to encapsulate a self-expanding intraluminal stent at its enlarged diametric dimension, either with an at least partially unsintered tubular ePTFE extrudate having a diametric dimension comparable to the enlarged diametric dimension of the shape memory alloy intraluminal stent, or with a fully sintered ePTFE tubular member which has been radially expanded to a diametric dimension comparable to the enlarged diametric dimension of the self-expanding intraluminal stent, and reducing the diametric dimension of the encapsulated stent for endoluminal delivery.
[0038] It is a still further objective of the present invention to encapsulate at a reduced delivery diametric dimension and balloon expand the ePTFE encapsulated stent-graft to radially deform the ePTFE covering and release the radial constraint exerted by the ePTFE encapsulation on the shape memory stent thereby permitting the stent to radially expand to a larger in vivo diametric dimension either by the shape memory property of the stent material or by elastic spring tension.
[0039] It is a further objective of the present invention to provide methods of encapsulating shape memory alloy intraluminal stents and self-expanding intraluminal stents, either at their reduced diametric dimension or at their in vivo diametric dimension.
[0040] It is another objective of the present invention to provide an ePTFE encapsulated intraluminal stent which is encapsulated between luminal and abluminal ePTFE tubular members, where the ePTFE tubular members may be applied to the intraluminal stent in their unsintered, partially sintered or fully sintered state.
[0041] It is a further objective of the present invention to employ an ePTFE interlayer positioned adjacent either the luminal or the abluminal surface of the intraluminal stent as a bonding adjuvant interlayer between the luminal and abluminal ePTFE tubular members.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0042]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the ePTFE encapsulated intraluminal stent in accordance with the present invention.
[0043]FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an ePTFE encapsulated intraluminal stent encapsulated at its reduced diametric dimension for intraluminal delivery and balloon assisted expansion in vivo.
[0044]FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the ePTFE encapsulated intraluminal stent of FIG. 2A illustrating the ePTFE encapsulated intraluminal stent after balloon assisted expansion.
[0045]FIG. 3 is a side elevational, longitudinal cross-sectional view of the inventive ePTFE encapsulated intraluminal stent encapsulated at its nominal in vivo dimension.
[0046]FIG. 4 is a side elevational, longitudinal cross-sectional view of the inventive ePTFE encapsulated stent, illustrating the ePTFE encapsulated intraluminal stent partially at a reduced intraluminal delivery diameter deformed to a relatively reduced diameter suitable for intraluminal delivery, mounted on a delivery catheter having an axially moveable constraining sheath which constrains the ePTFE encapsulated self-expanding intraluminal stent in its relatively reduced diametric dimension.
[0047]FIG. 5 is a scanning electron micrograph, taken at 300X magnification, of an outer surface of the radially expanded ePTFE material used to encapsulate the balloon assisted radially expandable encapsulated Nitinol stent of the present invention.
[0048]FIG. 6 is a scanning electron micrograph, taken at 300X magnification, of an inner surface of the ePTFE material used to encapsulate the balloon assisted radially expandable encapsulate Nitinol stent of the present invention.
[0049]FIG. 7 is a scanning electron micrograph, taken at 300X magnification, of an outer surface of the ePTFE material used to encapsulate a self-expanding Nitinol or spring tension stent in accordance with the present invention.
[0050]FIG. 8 is a scanning electron micrograph, taken at 300X magnification, of an inner surface of the ePTFE material used to encapsulate a self-expanding Nitinol or spring tension stent of the present invention.
[0051]FIG. 9A is a flow diagram illustrating the inventive process steps to thermomechanically deform a pre-programmed shape memory stent to a reduced diametric dimension for encapsulation or endoluminal delivery.
[0052]FIG. 9B is a flow diagram illustrating the inventive process steps to encapsulate a shape memory alloy stent and a self-expanding stent to make each preferred embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0053]FIG. 1 illustrates the ePTFE encapsulated intraluminal stent 10 of the present invention in a radially enlarged diametric dimension. The inventive ePTFE encapsulated intraluminal stent 10 of the present invention is best illustrated with reference to several preferred embodiments thereof. The first preferred embodiment is depicted in FIGS. 2A-2B and consists generally of an intraluminal stent 12 made of a shape memory alloy which is at least partially encapsulated in a substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 while in a relatively smaller diametric dimension D1 and is radially expandable in vivo under the influence of a radially outwardly directed force which radially deforms the ePTFE covering 14 and releases the stress exerted on the intraluminal stent 12 while at body temperature to permit the intraluminal stent to undergo deformation to a larger diametric dimension D2.
[0054]FIGS. 3-4 generically depict the second, third and fourth preferred embodiments of the present invention an intraluminal stent 20 which is at least partially encapsulated within a substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 over at least an entire circumferential portion of the luminal and abluminal surfaces of the intraluminal stent 12. The second, third and fourth preferred embodiments differ from one another based upon the type of intraluminal stent 20 utilized and whether the encapsulated stent device is intended to radially expand in vivo under the influence of the shape memory behavior or elastic spring tension behavior of the intraluminal stent 20 or whether in vivo delivery will be balloon catheter assisted. Optionally, as discussed in the fifth preferred embodiment, an interlayer member made of at least partially unsintered ePTFE, such as ring-like member 23, may be interdisposed between an inner and outer ePTFE layer adjacent the intraluminal stent 20 to assist with the adhesion of the layers and/or to serve as a barrier between a radiopaque marker (not shown) and the intraluminal stent 20.
[0055] The second preferred embodiment of the present invention consists generally of an intraluminal stent 20 made of a shape memory alloy, which is at least partially encapsulated in a substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 while in a relatively larger diametric dimension D2 and in the austenite phase. The at least partially encapsulated stent is then thermomechanically deformed at a temperature induced martensite phase to a smaller diametric dimension D1 and is constrained by a constraining sheath 22 for endoluminal delivery. Once at the delivery site, the external constraint 22 is removed and the intraluminal stent 20 undergoes martensitic transformation to the austenite state and thermoelastically deforms 24 to its predetermined shape while unfolding or decompressing, without plastically deforming, the ePTFE covering 14, making contact with the luminal tissue (not shown).
[0056] The third preferred embodiment of the present invention consists generally of a self-expanding intraluminal stent 20 made from either an elastic spring material or of a pseudoelastic shape memory material, and is at least partially encapsulated in a substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 while in a relatively small diametric dimension D1 such that the ePTFE encapsulating covering 14 acts to impart strain upon the intraluminal stent 20 and constrain the intraluminal stent from radial expansion to a relatively larger diametric dimension D2 until intraluminally delivered, wherein the ePTFE covering 14 is radially deformed at body temperature, thereby releasing the strain exerted by the ePTFE covering 14 on the intraluminal stent 20, permitting the self-expanding intraluminal stent 20 to radially expand to a relatively larger diametric dimension D2.
[0057] The fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention consists generally of a self-expanding intraluminal stent 20 made from either an elastic spring material or a pseudoelastic shape memory material, which is at least partially encapsulated in a substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 while in a relatively larger diametric dimension D2 such that the ePTFE encapsulating covering 14 restrains the intraluminal stent from further self-expansion. The assembly is then worked, such as by crimping, calendering, folding, compressing or the like to reduce its diametric dimension to the reduced diametric dimension D1, suitable for endoluminal delivery and constrained by an external constraining sheath 22. Once positioned at a desired intraluminal site, the constraining sheath 22 is removed to release the constraining force and the intraluminal stent is permitted to elastically expand as denoted by arrows 24, carrying the ePTFE covering 14 into contact with the intraluminal tissue (not shown).
[0058] As will be illustrated by the following examples and the accompanying process flow diagrams at FIGS. 9A and 9B, the methods for making each of the foregoing embodiments differ with each preferred embodiment. The difference in the methods is largely due to the selection of intraluminal stent type and whether the intraluminal encapsulated stent is intended for intraluminal delivery by balloon deformation of the ePTFE covering, whether delivery will occur due to the self-expanding property of the intraluminal encapsulated stent and non-deformation of the ePTFE covering or whether both delivery methods will be employed in succession.
First Embodiment
[0059] In accordance with a first preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, there is provided a balloon expandable encapsulated shape memory alloy intraluminal stent 10. The balloon expandable encapsulated shape memory alloy intraluminal stent 10 consists generally of an endoluminal stent 12 fabricated of a shape memory alloy, preferably one having an As value at a physiologically acceptable temperature compatible with tissue conservation, such as equiatomic nickel-titanium alloys known as Nitinol. The endoluminal stent 12 is at least partially encapsulated in a substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 while the endoluminal stent 12 is in a relatively smaller diametric dimension D1. The substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 is a continuous integral tubular structure, is free of seams and covers at least part of both the luminal and abluminal surfaces about an entire circumferential section of the endoluminal stent 12 along at least a portion of the longitudinal axis of the intraluminal stent 12.
[0060] As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 is characterized by having a node and fibril microstructure where the nodes are oriented generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 30 of the stent 12 and the fibrils are oriented generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 30 of the stent 12, with the distance between adjacent nodes being termed the “intemodal distance.” As more fully described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,749,880 and 6,124,523, which are incorporated by reference, the substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 is preferably radially deformable at applied pressures less than about six atmospheres, most preferably less than about three atmospheres, due to the deformable nature of the nodes along their longitudinal axis, i.e., radial relative to the substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 30 of the intraluminal stent 12. The encapsulated intraluminal stent 10 is radially expandable in vivo under the influence of a radially outwardly directed force, such as from a balloon catheter, which radially deforms the ePTFE covering to a second relative large diametric dimension D2, to release the constraining stress exerted on the intraluminal stent by the ePTFE covering while the encapsulated intraluminal stent 10 is at body temperature. The simultaneous release of the constraining force exerted by the ePTFE covering permits the intraluminal stent 12 to undergo thermomechanical deformation to a larger diametric dimension.
EXAMPLE 1
Balloon Assisted Thermally Deployed Stent
[0061] A balloon assisted encapsulated shape memory alloy stent was constructed by longitudinally slitting about 5 cm of a 60 cm length of a first seamless unsintered expanded PTFE tube having an inner diameter of 3.0 mm. The slit ends were gripped into a fixture allowing the tube to hang vertically. At the opposite end of the tube, a length of wire was attached to assist in threading the tubing through the inner diameter of the stent. The thickness of the ePTFE layer was measured to be about 0.35 mm using a snap gauge. The ePTFE tube exhibited a node-fibril microstructure in which the fibrils were oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tube throughout the wall thickness of the ePTFE tube.
[0062] A 10×40 mm shape memory endoluminal stent was placed in a cold, dry environment at approximately −40° C. and compressed about a mandrel having an outer diameter of 4.5 mm by mechanically deforming the stent to circumferentially conform to the outer diameter of the mandrel. The compressed stent was then removed from the cold, dry environment and concentrically passed over the outer diameter of the vertically hanging ePTFE tube, passing the wire through the stent lumen to assist in engaging the stent about the abluminal surface of the ePTFE tube without tearing or marring the ePTFE tube. A 3.3 mm diameter mandrel was then slid into the lumen of the ePTFE tube/stent assembly, and the tubing was secured to the mandrel using ½ inch strips of tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) tape. The assembly was then removed from the vertical hanging fixture.
[0063] A 60 cm length of a second seamless partially sintered ePTFE tube, having an inner diameter of 4.3 mm, slightly larger inner diameter than the outer diameter of the first ePTFE tube to provide an interference fit between the first and second ePTFE tubes, was slit longitudinally in the same manner as described above, and placed in the vertical hanging fixture. The mandrel bearing the first ePTFE tube and the shape memory stent was then passed into the lumen of the second tube, until the stent was approximately centered on the mandrel. The wall thickness of the second layer was measured as described above, and the thickness was found to be about 0.35 mm. Again, as with the first inner ePTFE layer, the fibrils were oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tube. The ends of the second tube were also wrapped with strips of TFE tape to secure to the mandrel.
[0064] The assembly was then placed in a helical winding wrapping machine which tension wraps the assembly with a single overlapping layer of ½ inch TFE tape. The overlap of the winding was about 70%. The tension exerted by the TFE wrapping tape compressed the ePTFE/stent/ePTFE composite structure against the mandrel, thereby causing the layers of ePTFE to come into intimate contact through the interstices of the shape memory stent. The tension wrap was set to exert 1.7 psi pressure circumferentially around the ePTFE/stent/ePTFE and mandrel assembly.
[0065] The wrapped assembly was placed into a radiant heat furnace, which had been preheated to a 337° C. set point. The assembly remained in the furnace for about 7 minutes, and was removed. The heated assembly was allowed to cool for a period of time sufficient to permit manual handling of the assembly. After cooling, the TFE helical wrap was unwound from the sample and discarded. The ePTFE encapsulated stent assembly was then concentrically rotated about the axis of the mandrel to release any adhesion between the inner ePTFE layer and the mandrel. The ePTFE encapsulated stent assembly, still on the mandrel, was placed into a laser trimming fixture to trim excess ePTFE materials away from the proximal and distal ends. After trimming, the trimmed encapsulated stent was removed from the mandrel.
[0066] Five encapsulated stent samples were prepared in accordance with the foregoing description and were each placed on a 10 mm by 4 cm PTA balloon dilation catheter. The device was then placed into a temperature controlled water bath maintained at 37° C. The balloon was pressurized using a saline filled inflator, thereby expanding the encapsulated stent. Each encapsulated stent device was radially expanded under the influence of balloon deformation of the ePTFE encapsulating covering with full radial deformation to a 10 mm inner diameter occurring at inflation pressures between 2 and 4 atmospheres.
EXAMPLE 2
Thin Wall Thermally Deployed Stent
[0067] The radially expanded encapsulated stents obtained from Example 1 were placed over a 10 mm diameter stainless steel mandrel, and spiral wrapped using ½ inch ePTFE tape as described above.
[0068] The wrapped assembly was placed again into a radiant heat furnace, which had been preheated to 337° C. set point. The assembly remained in the furnace for about 10 minutes and was removed. The heated assembly was allowed to cool for a period of time sufficient to permit manual handling of the assembly. After air cooling, the ends of the mandrel was engaged in two rings and the TFE helical wrap was unwound from the encapsulated stent samples and discarded. The encapsulated stents were concentrically rotated about the axis of the mandrel to release adhesion between the luminal ePTFE surface of the encapsulated stent and the mandrel.
[0069] The encapsulated stent was next cooled to about −20° C. in a cold dry environment and allowed to equilibrate for 30 minutes. The cooled encapsulated stent was then rolled between 2 plates to successively reduce the encapsulated stent inner diameter to about 3.5 mm, representing a reduction of about 40% from the radially expanded inner diameter of the encapsulated stent. The encapsulated stent at the reduced inner diameter of 3.5 mm was fully inserted into a constraining sheath having an inner diameter of approximately 3.7 mm.
[0070] The externally constrained encapsulated stent was then removed from the cold environment, and placed into a water bath maintained at a temperature of 37° C. A pusher rod was inserted into the constraining sheath and impinged upon one end of the constrained encapsulated stent. By passing the pusher rod through the constraining sheath, the encapsulated stent was ejected from the constraining sheath. As the stent was ejected, it radially dilated from its compressed state, and re-assumed the original fully expanded diametric dimension of about 10 mm inner diameter.
Second Embodiment
[0071] The second preferred embodiment of the present invention, depicted in FIGS. 3-4, consists generally of an intraluminal stent 20 made of a shape memory alloy which is at least partially encapsulated in a substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 while in a relatively larger diametric dimension D2 and in the austenite phase, which is thermomechanically deformed to a temperature induced martensite phase and to a smaller diametric dimension D1, and constrained by constraining sheath 22 for endoluminal delivery. Once at the delivery site, the constraint 22 is removed and the intraluminal stent 20 undergoes martensitic transformation to the austenite state and thermoelastically deforms 24 to its enlarged diametric dimension D2 while unfolding the ePTFE covering 14 into contact with the luminal tissue (not shown).
EXAMPLE 3
Thermally Self-deploying Encapsulated Stent
[0072] A thermally deployed encapsulated shape memory alloy stent was constructed by placing a 40 cm length of a first seamless expanded PTFE tube over a 10 mm cylindrical stainless steel mandrel. The inner diameter of the ePTFE tube was of a sufficient size to permit an interference fit with the mandrel. The thickness of the ePTFE layer was measured to be about 0.20 mm by taking a radial slice of the seamless tube, and evaluated by light microscopy incorporating a calibrated reticle. The ePTFE tube has a node-fibril microstructure in which the fibrils are oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mandrel throughout the wall thickness of the ePTFE tube. The ends of the ePTFE tube were wrapped with TFE tape to keep the tube from sliding along the mandrel for the next assembly step. A shape memory alloy stent having a nominal inner diameter of about 10 mm and being about 100 mm in length in its enlarged diametric configuration was concentrically placed over the ePTFE covered mandrel at about 22° C. and positionally centrally along the longitudinal length of the ePTFE tube. The inner diameter of the shape memory stent was toleranced to the outer diameter of the ePTFE tube on the mandrel and engaged about the ePTFE tube without tearing or disturbing the surface of the ePTFE tube. A second seamless ePTFE tube having a wall thickness of 0.20 mm, measured as described above, was concentrically engaged over the stent and the first ePTFE tube by first making diametrically opposed longitudinal slits in one end of the second ePTFE tube and concentrically inserting the mandrel/first ePTFE tube/stent assembly into the lumen of the second tube. Again, as with the first ePTFE tube, the second ePTFE tube exhibited a node-fibril microstructure in which the fibrils were oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second ePTFE tube throughout the wall thickness of the second ePTFE tube. The opposing ends of the second ePTFE tube were secured about the first ePTFE tube and the mandrel by tension wrapping with strips of TFE tape.
[0073] The entire assembly was then placed in a helical winding tension wrapping machine, which tension wrapped the assembly with a single overlapping layer of {fraction (1/2)} inch TFE tape in the same manner as in Example 1 to compress the ePTFE material from the first and second ePTFE tubes into intimate contact with one another through the wall openings of the stent. The wrapped assembly was placed into a radiant heat furnace, which had been preheated to about a 337° C. set point. The assembly remained in the furnace for about 10 minutes, and was removed. The heated assembly was allowed to cool for a period of time sufficient to permit manual handling of the assembly. After cooling, the ends of the mandrel were engaged in two rings and the TFE helical wrap was unwound from the encapsulated stent assembly and discarded. The encapsulated stent assembly was then circumferentially rotated about the axis of the mandrel to break any adhesion “occurring between the luminal ePTFE material and the mandrel. Excess ePTFE material from the proximal and distal ends of the encapsulated stent assembly was then laser trimmed in the manner described in Example 1 and the encapsulated stent assembly was removed from the mandrel.
[0074] The encapsulated stent was then cooled to about −20° C. in a cold dry environment and allowed to equilibrate for 30 minutes. The encapsulated stent was then flattened between 2 plates to bring diametrically opposed luminal wall surfaces of the encapsulated stent into contact with one another, thereby creating a flat structure without an inner lumen. The encapsulated stent was then folded over itself along its longitudinal axis once, and then again for a total of one flattening operation and two folding operations. Thus, the diameter of the embedded stent was reduced about 60% from its original post-encapsulated diameter. While still in the cold, dry environment, the device was fully inserted into a constraining sheath with an internal diameter of approximately 4.7 mm.
[0075] The folded and sheathed stent was then removed from the cold environment and placed into a water bath maintained at a temperature of 37° C. A pusher was inserted into the lumen of the constraining sheath and the encapsulated stent was ejected from the constraining sheath as described above in Example 2. As the stent was ejected, it unfolded from its flattened and folded state, and re-assumed the original tubular diametric configuration having a nominal inner diameter of 10 mm.
Third Embodiment
[0076] The third preferred embodiment of the present invention, depicted in FIGS. 2A-2B, consists generally of self-expanding intraluminal stent 12 made from either an elastic spring material or of a pseudoelastic shape memory material, and is at least partially encapsulated in a substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 while in a relatively small diametric dimension D1, such that the ePTFE encapsulating covering 14 acts to impart strain upon the intraluminal stent 12 and constrain the intraluminal stent 12 from radial expansion to a relatively larger diametric dimension D2. Until it is intraluminally delivered and the ePTFE encapsulation 14 radially deformed at body temperature to release the strain exerted by the ePTFE covering 14, the self-expanding intraluminal stent 12 cannot radially deform to a relatively larger diametric dimension D2.
EXAMPLE 4
Elastic Spring Balloon Deployed Encapsulated Stent
[0077] An encapsulated elastically self-expanding stainless steel stent was constructed by placing a 30 cm length of seamless unsintered ePTFE tube over a 3.3 mm cylindrical stainless steel mandrel. The inner diameter of the ePTFE tube was toleranced to provide a slight interference fit to the mandrel. The thickness of the ePTFE layer was measured to be about 0.35 mm by direct measurement of seamless tube wall using a snap gauge. The ePTFE tube exhibited a node-fibril microstructure in which the fibrils were oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis ePTFE tube throughout the wall thickness of the ePTFE tube. The ends of the ePTFE tube were wrapped with strips of TFE tape to retain the position of the ePTFE tube on the mandrel for the next assembly step. A second seamless sintered ePTFE tube was concentrically engaged over the first ePTFE tube by first longitudinally slitting opposing ends of the ends of the second tube, then 30 inserting the mandrel and first ePTFE tube into the lumen of the second ePTFE tube. One end of the second ePTFE tube was wrapped with strips of ½ inch TFE tape to secure it to the first ePTFE tube and the mandrel. The wall thickness of the second ePTFE tube was measured as described above, and the thickness was found to be about 0.35 mm. As with the first ePTFE tube, the second ePTFE tube exhibited a node-fibril microstructure in which the fibrils were oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the ePTFE tube.
[0078] An elastic spring stainless steel stent having a nominal inner diameter of about 15 mm and a length of about 24 mm in its enlarged diametric configuration was inserted into a constraining sheath to reduce the inner diameter to about 4.0 mm. A small length of the stent is left exposed from one end of the constraining sheath. The constraining sheath containing the radially constrained stent was inserted over the mandrel and forced between the first and second ePTFE tubes such that it was positioned intermediate to the first and second ePTFE tubes. The exposed end of the stent was then frictionally engaged through the second ePTFE tube wall and the constraining sheath was retracted, leaving the stent positioned between the first and second ePTFE tubes. The unsecured end of the second ePTFE tube was then secured to the first ePTFE tube and the mandrel with strips of ½ inch TFE tape.
[0079] The assembly was then placed in a helical winding machine to tension wrap a single overlapping layer of ½ inch TFE tape, and sintered in a radiant heat furnace, cooled, the TFE tape unwrapped and the excess ePTFE laser trimmed as described in Example 1 above. The resulting encapsulated stent was placed over the balloon on a 12 mm by 4 cm PTA balloon dilation catheter. The device was then placed into a temperature controlled water bath maintained at 45° C. The balloon was pressurized using a saline filled inflator which radially deformed the ePTFE encapsulation and permitted radial expansion of the elastically self-expanding stent. The encapsulated stent fully radially expanded to a 12 mm inner diameter at an applied pressure of 2.5 atmospheres.
Fourth Embodiment
[0080] The fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention, also representatively depicted in FIGS. 3-4, consists generally of a self-expanding intraluminal stent 20 made from either an elastic spring material or a pseudoelastic shape memory material, which is at least partially encapsulated in a substantially monolithic ePTFE covering 14 while in a relatively larger diametric D2 dimension, such that the ePTFE encapsulating covering 14 acts as to restrain the intraluminal stent 20 from further self-expansion. The encapsulated assembly is then worked, such as by crimping, calendering, folding, or the like, to its reduced diametric dimension D1, to achieve a profile suitable for endoluminal delivery, and the assembly is then constrained by an external constraining sheath 22. Once positioned at a desired intraluminal site, the constraining sheath 22 is removed to release the constraining force and the intraluminal stent 20 is permitted to elastically expand 24, carrying the ePTFE covering 14 into contact with the intraluminal tissue (not shown).
EXAMPLE 5
Stress-Induced Martensite Self-deploying Encapsulated Stent
[0081] A self deploying encapsulated shape memory alloy stent is constructed by placing a 40 cm length of seamless expanded PTFE tube over a 10 mm cylindrical stainless steel mandrel. The inner diameter of the ePTFE tube is closely toleranced to provide a slight interference fit to the mandrel. The thickness of the ePTFE layer is measured to be about 0.20 mm by taking a radial slice of the seamless tube, and evaluated by light microscopy incorporating a calibrated reticle. The tubing is constructed such that the fibrils are oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mandrel. The ends of the seamless tube are wrapped with strips of TFE tape to keep the tube from sliding along the mandrel for the next assembly step. A shape memory alloy stent about 10 mm inner diameter by 100 mm in length in its enlarged diametric configuration is placed over the ePTFE covered mandrel at about 22° C. and centered over the ePTFE layer. The inner diameter of the shape memory stent is closely toleranced to the outer diameter of the ePTFE covered mandrel. A second tube of seamless expanded PTFE is placed over the stent by slitting the ends of the second tube, and inserting the mandrel, ePTFE tube, and stent assembly into the second tube. The wall thickness of the second layer is measured as described above, and the thickness is found to be about 0.20 mm. Again, as with the first inner ePTFE layer, the fibrils are oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mandrel. The ends of the second tube are also wrapped with strips of TFE tape.
[0082] The assembly is then placed in a helical winding machine, which wraps the assembly with a single overlapping layer of ½ inch TFE tape. The overlap of the winding was about 70%. The wrapping material compresses the ePTFE/stent/ePTFE composite structure against the mandrel, causing the layers of ePTFE to come into intimate contact through the interstices of the shape memory stent.
[0083] The wrapped assembly is placed into a radiant heat furnace, which is preheated to a 337° C. set point. The assembly remains in the furnace for about 10 minutes, and is removed. The heated assembly is allowed to cool for a period of time sufficient to permit manual handling of the assembly. After cooling, the ends of the mandrel are engaged in two rings, allowing the TFE helical wrap to be unwound from the sample and discarded. The ePTFE/stent assembly is then rotated about the axis of the mandrel to break the grip of the inner ePTFE layer to the mandrel. The stent sample, while still on the mandrel, is placed into a fixture to allow for laser trimming of the ePTFE materials away from the embedded stent. Trimming operation is performed on both ends of the device. After trimming, the embedded and trimming stent was removed from the mandrel.
[0084] The encapsulated stent was then rolled between 2 plates, reducing the diameter of the stent to about 3.5 mm. Thus, the diameter of the embedded stent was reduced about 40% from its original post encapsulated diameter. While in the compressed state, the device was fully inserted into a constraining sheath with an internal bore of approximately 3.7 mm. The constrained stent was then placed into a water bath maintained at a temperature of 37° C. A pusher was inserted into the bore of the sheath, and the stent was ejected from the constraining sheath. As the stent was ejected, it unfurled from its flattened and folded state, and re-assumed the original post-encapsulation tubular diametric configuration.
Fifth Embodiment
[0085] In accordance with a fifth preferred embodiment of the inventive encapsulated stent, an at least partially unsintered tubular interlayer is interdisposed between the inner and outer ePTFE layers and adjacent the intraluminal stent along at least a longitudinal extent thereof. The interlayer member may consist of a single tubular member which extends along at least a portion of the longitudinal axis of the intraluminal stent. Alternatively, the interlayer member may consist of a plurality of ring-like members positioned along the longitudinal axis of the intraluminal stent and in spaced-apart relationship from one and other. The interlayer member may be preferably employed either: i) where at least one of the inner and outer ePTFE tubular members of the inventive encapsulated intraluminal stent is fully sintered to assist in formation of a monolithic joining of the inner and outer ePTFE tubular members, and/or 2) to serve as a barrier between a radiopaque marker and the intraluminal stent to insulate against galvanic corrosion resulting from contact of metal atoms in a radiopaque marker and metal in an intraluminal stent. The interlayer member may be employed with any type of intraluminal stent, i.e., a shape memory alloy which behaves in either a thermoelastic or pseudoelastic manner, a self-expanding stent in which radial expansion is a spring tension mediated event, or a balloon expandable stent.
EXAMPLE 6
Thermally Self-deploying Encapsulated Stent
[0086] A thermally deployed encapsulated shape memory alloy stent was constructed by placing a 40 cm length of a first sintered seamless expanded PTFE tube over a 10 mm cylindrical stainless steel mandrel. The inner diameter of the ePTFE tube was of a sufficient size to permit an interference fit with the mandrel. The thickness of the ePTFE layer was measured to be about 0.20 mm by taking a radial slice of the seamless tube, and evaluated by light microscopy incorporating a calibrated reticle. The ePTFE tube exhibited a node-fibril microstructure in which the fibrils were oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the mandrel throughout the wall thickness of the ePTFE tube. The ends of the ePTFE tube were wrapped with TFE tape to keep the tube from sliding along the mandrel for the next assembly step. A shape memory alloy stent having a nominal inner diameter of about 10 mm and being about 100 mm in length in its enlarged diametric configuration was concentrically placed over the ePTFE covered mandrel at about 22° C. and positionally centrally along the longitudinal length of the ePTFE tube. The inner diameter of the shape memory stent was toleranced to the outer diameter of the ePTFE tube on the mandrel and engaged about the ePTFE tube without tearing or disturbing the surface of the ePTFE tube. A pair of unsintered ePTFE rings, prepared by wrapping unsintered ePTFE films (sheets) concentrically about each of the opposing ends of the shape memory alloy stent and the first sintered ePTFE tube, were wrapped such that the node and fibril microstructure of the unsintered ePTFE rings had a fibril orientation perpendicular to the fibril orientation of the first ePTFE tube and the longitudinal axis of the stent.
[0087] A second sintered seamless ePTFE tube, having a wall thickness of 0.20 mm, measured as described above, was concentrically engaged over the entire length of the stent, the pair of unsintered ePTFE rings and the first ePTFE tube by first making diametrically opposed longitudinal slits in one end of the second ePTFE tube and concentrically inserting the mandrel/first ePTFE tube/stent assembly into the lumen of the second tube. Again, as with the first ePTFE tube, the second ePTFE tube exhibited a node-fibril microstructure in which the fibrils were oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second ePTFE tube throughout the wall thickness of the second ePTFE tube. The opposing ends of the second ePTFE tube were secured about the first ePTFE tube and the mandrel by tension wrapping with strips of TFE tape.
[0088] The entire assembly was then placed in a helical winding tension wrapping machine which tension wrapped the assembly with a single overlapping layer of ½ inch TFE tape in the same manner as in Example 1 to compress the ePTFE material from the first and second ePTFE tubes into intimate contact with one another through the wall openings of the stent.
[0089] The wrapped assembly was placed into a radiant heat furnace, which had been preheated to about a 337° C. set point. The assembly remained in the furnace for about 10 minutes and was removed. The heated assembly was allowed to cool for a period of time sufficient to permit manual handling of the assembly. After cooling, the ends of the mandrel were engaged in two rings and the TFE helical wrap was unwound from the encapsulated stent assembly and discarded. The encapsulated stent assembly was then circumferentially rotated about the axis of the mandrel to break any adhesion occurring between the luminal ePTFE material and the mandrel. Excess ePTFE material from the proximal and distal ends of the encapsulated stent assembly was then laser trimmed in the manner described in Example 1 and the encapsulated stent assembly was removed from the mandrel.
[0090] The encapsulated stent was then cooled to about −20° C. in a cold dry environment and allowed to equilibrate for 30 minutes. The encapsulated stent was then flattened between 2 plates to bring diametrically opposed luminal wall surfaces of the encapsulated stent into contact with one another, thereby creating a flat structure without an inner lumen. The encapsulated stent was then folded over itself along its longitudinal axis once, and then again for a total of one flattening operation and two folding operations. Thus, the diameter of the embedded stent was reduced about 60% from it original post encapsulated diameter. While still in the cold, dry environment, the device was fully inserted into a constraining sheath with an internal diameter of approximately 4.7 mm.
[0091] The folded and sheathed stent was then removed from the cold environment, and placed into a water bath maintained at a temperature of 37° C. A pusher was inserted into the lumen of the constraining sheath and the encapsulated stent was ejected from the constraining sheath as described above in Example 2. As the stent was ejected, it unfolded from its flattened and folded state, and re-assumed the original tubular diametric configuration having a nominal inner diameter of 10 mm.
[0092] While the interlayer member employed in the foregoing Example 6 were rings produced from wrapping sheets of unsintered ePTFE material, it will also be appreciated that tubular or ring-like unsintered ePTFE members may be employed. Where the interlayer member is a tubular or ring-like unsintered ePTFE member, the interlayer member will preferably have a node and fibril microstructure in which the fibril orientation of the interlayer member is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the interlayer member and parallel with the fibril orientation of the inner and outer ePTFE tubular members which the interlayer member is interdisposed between. This co-parallel arrangement of the fibril orientations of the interlayer member and the inner and outer ePTFE tubular members permits the resulting encapsulated stent device to be further radially expanded by balloon expansion in order to further model the in vivo profile to the receiving anatomical structure at radial expansion pressures comparable to that of the balloon assisted encapsulated stent embodiments described above.
[0093] Where a thermoelastic transformation of a shape memory intraluminal stent is desired, care must be taken to: 1) avoid imparting a secondary shape memory to the shape memory alloy during sintering of the ePTFE encapsulating covering, 2) avoid inducing stress-induced martensite formation during thermomechanical forming for either encapsulation or mounting onto a delivery catheter, and 3) avoid inducing non-recoverable strains by exceeding the strain limit of the shape memory alloy material used. Where the elastic behavior of a stent made of either a pseudoelastic shape memory alloy or a spring tension material, care must be taken to avoid plastically deforming the stent which would deleteriously effect the elastic deformation property of the intraluminal stent during intraluminal delivery. Finally, where the pseudoelastic behavior of an intraluminal stent made of a shape memory material is to be utilized in the encapsulated intraluminal stent, care must be taken to maintain the temperature of the shape memory alloy above Af, but below Md during either the process of encapsulating the stent at a reduced diameter, and before sintering, for balloon expansion in vivo or during deformation of the encapsulated stent to a reduced delivery diameter for loading onto a delivery catheter. In this manner, the stress-induced martensite phase will be induced in the shape memory alloy during deformation of the stent to a diametric dimension suitable for endoluminal delivery and maintained so that when the encapsulated stent, in the stress-induced martensite state, is delivered and either the ePTFE constraint or the constraining sheath is relieved, the strain is released and the stent, in the stress-induced martensite phase, is permitted to transform to austenite and the stent to elastically deform to its pre-programmed diametric dimension.
[0094] The methods described in the foregoing Examples are summarized in FIGS. 9A-9B, which are process flow diagrams setting forth the fundamental method steps of the methods to make each of the above-described preferred embodiments. Where a shape memory intraluminal stent is to be encapsulated in an ePTFE covering and thermoelastic transformation of the shape memory stent is desired, either in a balloon assisted expandable encapsulated stent embodiment or in a self-expanding encapsulated stent embodiment, the thermoelastic deformation of the shape memory stent from its enlarged diametric dimension D2, to its reduced diametric dimension D1, may be accomplished in accordance with the method 40 set forth in FIG. 9A. Thermoelastic deformation method 40 entails first providing an shape memory alloy intraluminal stent having a predetermined shape memory configuration 42. The intraluminal stent is then exposed to a temperature below the martensite transformation temperature Ms of the shape memory alloy 44 and allowed to equilibrate at the sub-martensite transformation temperature Ms 46. While still below the Ms temperature, the stent is mechanically deformed 48 to reduce its diameter from the enlarged diametric dimension D2 to a reduced diametric dimension D1 suitable for endoluminal delivery. The stent at its reduced diametric dimension 50 is now at a dimensional state suitable for encapsulation at its reduced diametric dimension D1.
[0095] The encapsulation method 60 is more fully set forth in FIG. 9B, and is applicable for either a shape memory alloy intraluminal stent which is to be encapsulated either at its reduced diametric dimension D1, or at its enlarged diametric dimension D2, as well as for a self-expanding stent which radially expands due to inherent spring tension in the stent. A luminal ePTFE tube 62 is concentrically engaged upon a mandrel 64 and secured to the mandrel. Either a shape memory stent 52 or a self-expanding stent 80 is selected at step 66. If a shape memory stent is selected 70, the shape memory stent 52 is engaged over the luminal ePTFE tube at step 54 while maintaining the stent at a temperature below As to prevent the stent. from radially expanding. If a self-expanding stent 80 is selected 68, an abluminal ePTFE tube is concentrically engaged over the luminal ePTFE tube and the self-expanding stent 80 interdisposed between the luminal and abluminal ePTFE tubes and secured there between 78. Where a shape memory alloy intraluminal stent is employed 74, the abluminal ePTFE tube is concentrically engaged over the stent. Once the stent is positioned intermediate between the luminal and abluminal ePTFE tubes, the entire assembly is then wrapped with TFE tape 82 to exert a circumferential pressure about the entire circumference of both the luminal and abluminal ePTFE tubes and the stent, causing the ePTFE tubes to be motivated into intimate contact with one and other through the interstices of the stent. The entire wrapped assembly is then sintered 84 and excess ePTFE overlaying ends of the stent may be trimmed 86.
[0096] Once trimmed, the encapsulated stent is then prepared for mounting onto a delivery catheter 88, either by mounting the encapsulated stent in its reduced diametric dimension D1 onto a balloon catheter for balloon-assisted delivery, or by thermomechanical deformation from the enlarged diametric dimension D2 to the reduced diametric dimension D1, following the method steps of thermomechanical deformation 40 or formation of stress-induced martensite for pseudoelastic recovery by crimping, folding or otherwise reducing the encapsulated stent to its reduced diametric dimension D1, mounting onto a delivery catheter and applying an external constraining sheath concentrically over the encapsulated stent.
[0097] Those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that while the present invention has been described with reference to its preferred embodiments and the examples contained herein, certain variations in material composition, shape memory alloy constitution, stent and ePTFE dimensional size and configuration, temperatures, times and other operational and environmental conditions may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention which is limited only by the claims appended hereto. For example, one skilled in the art will understand and appreciate from the foregoing that the methods for making each of the foregoing embodiments differs with each preferred embodiment. These differences in the methods are largely due to the selection of intraluminal stent type and whether the intraluminal encapsulated stent is intended for initial intraluminal delivery by balloon expansion or whether initial delivery will occur due to the self-expanding property of the intraluminal encapsulated stent.
What is claimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent of the United States:
1. A method for making an encapsulated stent-graft, the stent-graft comprising a self-expanding stent having an essentially tubular configuration with a central longitudinal lumen and having a first diameter and a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter, comprising the steps of:
placing a first tube of biocompatible material over a mandrel; manipulating said stent from said first diameter to said second diameter; concentrically engaging said stent about said first tube at said second diameter; positioning an interlayer member about said stent; concentrically engaging a second tube of biocompatible material about said interlayer member, said stent and said first tube, forming a stent-graft assembly; applying pressure to said assembly by winding a layer of tape over said second tube to compress said assembly against said mandrel; and heating said assembly, wherein said first tube is joined to said second tube through openings in the wall of said stent, forming a monolithic layer of biocompatible material that applies a constraining force on said stent, preventing said stent from expanding to said first diameter, the monolithic layer of biocompatible material being radially deformable to release said constraining force on said stent.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the biocompatible material in said first and second tubes comprises seamless expanded polytetrafluoroethylene having a node-fibril microstructure.
3. The method according to claim 2, wherein at least one of said first and second tubes is initially unsintered.
4. The method according to claim 2, wherein said node-fibril microstructure of said first and second tubes contains fibrils having a parallel orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of the stent.
5. The method according to claim 2, wherein said node-fibril microstructure of said first and second tubes contains fibrils having a perpendicular orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of the stent.
6. The method according to claim 1, wherein said stent is comprised of shape memory alloy having an Austenite phase and a Martensite phase, the manipulating step further comprising cooling said stent to a temperature below the martensitic transformation temperature thereof.
7. The method according to claim 1, wherein said stent is comprised of shape memory alloy having an Austenite phase and a Martensite phase, and wherein the manipulating step is performed at a temperature above the martensitic transformation temperature of the stent.
8. The method according to claim 2, wherein said interlayer member comprises a pair of unsintered rings of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene.
9. The method according to claim 8, wherein said positioning step comprises wrapping unsintered films of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene concentrically about opposing ends of said stent to create said rings, such that the node-fibril microstructure of said films contains fibrils having a perpendicular orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of said stent.
10. The method according to claim 2, wherein at least one of said first and second tubes is initially fully sintered.
11. The method according to claim 10, wherein said positioning step comprises wrapping unsintered films of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene concentrically about opposing ends of said stent to create a pair of rings, such that the node-fibril microstructure of said films contains fibrils having a perpendicular orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of said stent.
12. The method according to claim 4, wherein said positioning step comprises concentrically engaging at least one pre-formed tubular ring of unsintered expanded polytetrafluoroethylene about said stent, such that the node-fibril microstructure of said ring contains fibrils having a parallel orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of said stent.
13. The method according to claim 4, wherein at least one of said first and second tubes is initially fully sintered.
14. The method according to claim 13, wherein said positioning step comprises concentrically engaging at least one pre-formed tubular ring of unsintered expanded polytetrafluoroethylene about said stent, such that the node-fibril microstructure of said ring contains fibrils having a parallel orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of said stent.
15. A method for making an encapsulated stent-graft, the stent-graft comprising a self-expanding stent having an essentially tubular configuration with a central longitudinal lumen and having a first diameter and a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter, comprising the steps of:
placing a first tube of biocompatible material over a mandrel; concentrically engaging said stent about said first tube at said first diameter; positioning an interlayer member about said stent; concentrically engaging a second tube of biocompatible material about said interlayer member, said stent and said first tube, forming a stent-graft assembly; applying pressure to said assembly by winding a layer of tape over said second tube to compress said assembly against said mandrel; heating said assembly, wherein said first tube is joined to said second tube through openings in the wall of said stent, forming a monolithic layer of biocompatible material; and manipulating said assembly to said second diameter, wherein a constraining force in the form of a delivery sheath is applied to said assembly, preventing said assembly from expanding to said first diameter.
16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the biocompatible material in said first and second tubes comprises seamless expanded polytetrafluoroethylene having a node-fibril microstructure.
17. The method according to claim 16, wherein at least one of said first and second tubes is initially unsintered.
18. The method according to claim 16, wherein said node-fibril microstructure of said first and second tubes contains fibrils having a parallel orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of the stent.
19. The method according to claim 16, wherein said node-fibril microstructure of said first and second tubes contains fibrils having a perpendicular orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of the stent.
20. The method according to claim 15, wherein said stent is comprised of shape memory alloy having an Austenite phase and a Martensite phase, the manipulating step further comprising cooling said stent to a temperature below the martensitic transformation temperature thereof.
21. The method according to claim 15, wherein said stent is comprised of shape memory alloy having an Austenite phase and a Martensite phase, and wherein the manipulating step is performed at a temperature above the martensitic transformation temperature of the stent.
22. The method according to claim 16, wherein said interlayer member comprises a pair of unsintered rings of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene.
23. The method according to claim 22, wherein said positioning step comprises wrapping unsintered films of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene concentrically about opposing ends of said stent to create said rings, such that the node-fibril microstructure of said films contains fibrils having a perpendicular orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of said stent.
24. The method according to claim 16, wherein at least one of said first and second tubes is initially fully sintered.
25. The method according to claim 24, wherein said positioning step comprises wrapping unsintered films of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene concentrically about opposing ends of said stent to create a pair of rings, such that the node-fibril microstructure of said films contains fibrils having a perpendicular orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of said stent.
26. The method according to claim 18, wherein said positioning step comprises concentrically engaging at least one pre-formed tubular ring of unsintered expanded polytetrafluoroethylene about said stent, such that the node-fibril microstructure of said ring contains fibrils having a parallel orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of said stent.
27. The method according to claim 18, wherein at least one of said first and second tubes is initially fully sintered.
29. The method according to claim 27, wherein said positioning step comprises concentrically engaging at least one pre-formed tubular ring of unsintered expanded polytetrafluoroethylene about said stent, such that the node-fibril microstructure of said ring contains fibrils having a parallel orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis of said stent.
30. A method for making an encapsulated stent-graft, the stent-graft comprising a self-expanding stent having an essentially tubular configuration with a central longitudinal lumen and having a first diameter and a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter, comprising the steps of:
placing a first tube of biocompatible material over a mandrel; positioning an interlayer member about said first tube; manipulating said stent from said first diameter to said second diameter; concentrically engaging said stent about said first tube and said interlayer member at said second diameter; concentrically engaging a second tube of biocompatible material about said stent, said interlayer member and said first tube, forming a stent-graft assembly; applying pressure to said assembly by winding a layer of tape over said second tube to compress said assembly against said mandrel; and heating said assembly, wherein said first tube is joined to said second tube through openings in the wall of said stent, forming a monolithic layer of biocompatible material that applies a constraining force on said stent, preventing said stent from expanding to said first diameter, the monolithic layer of biocompatible material being radially deformable to release said constraining force on said stent.
31. A method for making an encapsulated stent-graft, the stent-graft comprising a self-expanding stent having an essentially tubular configuration with a central longitudinal lumen and having a first diameter and a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter, comprising the steps of:
placing a first tube of biocompatible material over a mandrel; positioning an interlayer member about said first tube; concentrically engaging said stent about said first tube at said first diameter; concentrically engaging a second tube of biocompatible material about said stent, said interlayer member and said first tube, forming a stent-graft assembly; applying pressure to said assembly by winding a layer of tape over said second tube to compress said assembly against said mandrel; heating said assembly, wherein said first tube is joined to said second tube through openings in the wall of said stent, forming a monolithic layer of biocompatible material; and manipulating said assembly to said second diameter, wherein a constraining force in the form of a delivery sheath is applied to said assembly, preventing said assembly from expanding to said first diameter.
| 2004-06-21 | en | 2004-11-25 |
US-201213535231-A | Signal Light Priority System Utilizing Estimated Time of Arrival
ABSTRACT
Systems and methods for requesting modification of traffic flow control systems that combine satellite position navigation systems and dead reckoning technology with secure radio communications to accurately report a vehicle's real-time location and estimated arrival times at a series of signal lights within a traffic grid or at a distant signal light, while enabling signal controllers to accommodate priority requests from these vehicles, allowing for these vehicles to maintain a fixed schedule with minimal interruption to other grid traffic.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/501,373, filed Jun. 27, 2011, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This disclosure is related to the field of systems for the management of traffic flow through the controlling of signal lights and monitoring the location of vehicles within a traffic grid.
2. Description of Related Art
In the perfect commuter utopia, signal lights would automatically switch to green every time a driver's vehicle approached an intersection, creating an unobstructed pathway towards the driver's final destination. In real life though, hitting a red light is a normal and inevitable part of any driver's commute. With the growth of modern cities and the reliance of much of the population on mass transit and personal automobiles for transportation, efficient control of the ebb and flow of traffic through efficient and smart signal light control and coordination systems has become increasingly important.
There are many substantial benefits to be reaped from improved traffic flow for personal, mass transit, and emergency motor vehicles. For many commuters, reclaiming part of their day would enhance their quality of life. Further, less congestion on the roads would generate fewer accidents, thereby saving lives. Moreover, traffic delays impinge on productivity and economic efficiency—time spent traveling to and from work is not time spent doing work. Further, many goods must be transported and many service providers must travel to their clients. Traffic delays all of these economic production factors. There is also a concern regarding the increased pollution that results from stop-and-go traffic flow in contrast to smooth flowing traffic. Further, longer commutes means longer running times and entails more greenhouse gases. Also, congested traffic and uncoordinated signal lights can cause delays in the mass transit system which, if not remedied, can throw off an entire mass transit schedule grid and disincentivise individuals from using mass transit systems. For example, it has been demonstrated that schedule adherence for mass transit vehicles results in an increase in ridership. Lastly, the importance of prioritizing and efficiently moving emergency vehicles through traffic lights is axiomatic.
Currently, a variety of different control and coordination systems are utilized to ensure the smooth and safe management of traffic flows. One commonly utilized mechanism is the traffic controller system. In this system, the timing of a particular signal light is controlled by a traffic controller located inside a cabinet which is at a close proximity to the signal light. Generally, the traffic controller cabinet contains a power panel (to distribute electrical power in the cabinet); a detector interface panel (to connect to loop detectors and other detectors); detector amplifiers; a controller; a conflict motor unit; flash transfer relays; and a police panel (to allow the police to disable and control the signal), amongst other components.
Traffic controller cabinets generally operate on the concept of phases or directions of movement grouped together. For example, a simple four-way intersection will have two phases: North/South and East/West; a four-way intersection with independent control for each direction and each left hand turn will have eight phases. Controllers also generally operate on the concept of rings or different arrays of independent timing sequences. For example, in a dual ring controller, opposing left-turn arrows may turn red independently, depending on the amount of traffic. Thus, a typical controller is an eight-phase, dual ring controller.
The currently utilized control and coordination systems for the typical signal light range from simple clocked timing mechanisms to sophisticated computerized control and coordination systems that self-adjust to minimize the delay to individuals utilizing the roadways.
The simplest control system currently utilized is a timer system. In this system, each phase lasts for a specific duration until the next phase change occurs. Generally, this specific timed pattern will repeat itself regardless of the current traffic flows or the location of a priority vehicle within the traffic grid. While this type of control mechanism can be effective in one-way grids where it is often possible to coordinate signal lights to the posted speed limit, this control mechanism is not advantageous when the signal timing of the intersection would benefit from being adapted to the changing flows of traffic throughout the day.
Dynamic signals, also known as actuated signals, are programmed to adjust their timing and phasing to meet the changing ebb and flow in traffic patterns throughout the day. Generally, dynamic traffic control systems use input from detectors to adjust signal timing and phasing. Detectors are devices that use sensors to inform the controller processor whether vehicles or other road users are present. The signal control mechanism at a given light can utilize the input it receives from the detectors to adequately adjust the length and timing of the phases in accordance with the current traffic volumes and flows. The currently utilized detectors can generally be placed into three main classes: in-pavement detectors, non-intrusive detectors, and detectors for non-motorized road users.
In-pavement detectors are detectors that are located in or underneath the roadway. These detectors typically function similarly to metal detectors or weight detectors, utilizing the metal content or the weight of a vehicle as a trigger to detect the presence of traffic waiting at the light and, thus, can reduce the time period that a green signal is given to an empty road and increase the time period that a green signal is given to a busy throughway during rush hour. Non-intrusive detectors include video image processors, sensors that use electromagnetic waves or acoustic sensors that detect the presence of vehicles at the intersection waiting for the right of way from a location generally over the roadway. Some models of these non-intrusive detectors have the benefit of being able to sense the presence of vehicles or traffic in a general area or virtual detection zone preceding the intersection. Vehicle detection in these zones can have an impact on the timing of the phases. Finally, non-motorized user detectors include demand buttons and specifically tuned detectors for detecting pedestrians, bicyclists and equestrians.
Above and beyond detectors for individual signal lights, coordinated systems that string together and control the timing of multiple signal lights are advantageous in the control of traffic flow. Generally, coordinated systems are controlled from a master controller and are set up so that lights cascade in sequence, thereby allowing a group or “platoon” of vehicles to proceed through a continuous series of green lights. Accordingly, these coordinated systems make it possible for drivers to travel long distances without encountering a red light. Generally, on one-way streets this coordination can be accomplished with fairly constant levels of traffic. Two-way streets are more complicated, but often end up being arranged to correspond with rush hours to allow longer green light times for the heavier volume direction. The most technologically advanced coordinated systems control a series of city-wide signal lights through a centrally controlled system that allows for the signal lights to be coordinated in real-time through above-ground sensors that can sense the levels of traffic approaching and leaving a virtual detection zone which precedes a particular intersection.
While cascading or synchronized central control systems are an improvement on the traditional timer controlled systems, they still have their drawbacks. Namely, priority vehicles in these systems are only able to interact with a virtual detection zone immediately preceding a particular intersection; there is no real-time monitoring of the traffic flows preceding or following this virtual detection zone across a grid of multiple signal lights. Stated differently, there is no real-time monitoring of how a vehicle or a group of vehicles travels through a traffic grid as a whole (i.e., approaching, traveling through and leaving intersections along with a vehicle's transit between intersections). Accordingly, these systems can provide for a priority vehicle, such as an emergency vehicle, to be accelerated through a particular signal at the expense of other vehicles, but they lack the capability to adapt and adjust traffic flows to keep a mass transit vehicle, or similar time scheduled vehicle, on time or adjust the lights in front of a mass transit vehicle to get it back on schedule. Virtual detection zone based systems only have the capability for control of a particular signal light to accelerate the movement of a single vehicle or a group of vehicles approaching that signal directly; they cannot offer an integrated control system with the capability of controlling the phases of multiple signal lights in a grid system, altering the length of particular phases at particular signal lights within the grid system to accommodate a particular vehicle traveling through the grid system according to a relatively fixed path and schedule.
Another problem with virtual detection zone based systems is their disruption of the overall traffic flow of the grid. As noted previously, detection zone based systems are focused on individual signal lights. If a priority vehicle is sensed in the virtual detection zone, the immediately upcoming light will either change to green to give the priority vehicle the right-of-way and potentially disrupt the entire system (something logical for allowing rapid passage of an emergency vehicle) or will not because the vehicle lacks sufficient priority to disrupt the system (as can be the case with a mass transit vehicle) simply to beat the next signal.
What detection zone based systems fail to take into account is the impact this immediate change in an immediately approached signal light phase, irrespective of other traffic at the light, has on the overall traffic flows of the grid as a whole. Thus, while aiding in getting a particular priority vehicle through an intersection, these systems can, on a broader basis, add to rather than decrease the traffic levels in a given area at a given time. Further, because of their focus on a single signal light and vehicles approaching a single signal light, these systems are generally incapable of adjusting a series of lights within the traffic grid based upon a vehicle's current position, speed, schedule and path of travel.
Another frequent traffic problem which cannot be addressed by these commonly utilized virtual detection zone based systems is mass transit vehicle bunching, also known as bus bunching, clumping or platooning. Bunching refers to a group of two or more transit vehicles along the same route, which are scheduled to be evenly spaced, such as buses, catching up with each other and, thus, running in the same location at the same time. Generally, bunching occurs when at least one of the vehicles is unable to keep to its schedule and therefore ends up in the same location as one or more other vehicles on the same route. Thus, the lead mass transit vehicle in the bunch typically slows to pick up passengers that would otherwise be boarding the trailing mass transit vehicle. This leads to overcrowding and further slowing of the lead vehicle. Conversely, the trailing mass transit vehicle encounters fewer passengers and, soon, both mass transit vehicles are in full view of each other—to the dismay of passengers on the overcrowded and behind schedule vehicles. It is no surprise that bunching is a leading complaint of regular transit riders and a headache for those operating and managing transit services. The currently utilized detection zone based systems—with their control methodology localized to individual lights—are simply incapable of controlling or preventing bunching.
Another failing of the currently utilized detection zone based systems is their inability to modify the conditions under which a vehicle may request priority. For example, under many of these currently utilized systems, priority is given to any flagged vehicle that enters a detection zone and is sensed by a detector (such as an in-pavement detector). These systems are generally incapable of granting priority on a more nuanced and conditional basis such as only granting priority when another mass transit vehicle has not requested priority within a specified time frame or only granting priority when an exit request has not been made for the next stop.
Thus, there is a need in the art of traffic flow management for a system that is capable of controlling and adjusting signal lights based on the movement, position and proposed schedules of one or more tracked vehicles within a traffic grid.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Because of these and other problems in the art, described herein, among other things, are methods and systems for requesting modification of traffic flow control systems wherein a vehicle's real-time location and estimated time of arrival (ETA) is utilized to modify the priority management cycles of multiple traffic lights in a traffic grid to assist a given vehicle in arriving at a predetermined destination on a predetermined time schedule.
Fill in when Claims are Finalized
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 provides a diagram of an embodiment of the fixed geographic detection method of the ETA priority system.
FIG. 2 provides a diagram of an embodiment of the time-point detection method of the ETA priority system.
FIG. 3 provides a diagram of an embodiment of an ETA configuration interface output table.
FIG. 4 provides a depiction of different orientations of the EVP thresholds to intersection-approach zones.
FIG. 5 provides a perspective view of the disclosed ETA priority system from a street-view perspective in an embodiment in which the system has a centralized server.
FIG. 6 provides a communication diagram of how the ETA traffic components interface through the traffic control network of the disclosed ETA priority system in an embodiment in which the system has a centralized server.
FIG. 7 provides a block diagram of the components of the disclosed traffic light ETA priority system in an embodiment in which the system has a centralized server.
FIG. 8 provides another block diagram of the components of the disclosed traffic light ETA priority system, particularly the vehicle components.
FIG. 9 provides a hypothetical example of how the disclosed system works in practice to modify the phases of the traffic lights within the grid in order to keep multiple mass transit vehicles on schedule.
FIG. 10 provides a communication diagram of an embodiment of the disclosed ETA priority system.
FIG. 11 provides a diagram of the hybrid fixed geographic detection method and time point detection method of the disclosed ETA priority system.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
This disclosure is intended to teach by way of example and not by way of limitation. As a preliminary matter, it should be noted that while the description of various embodiments of the disclosed system will discuss the movement of mass transit vehicles (such as, but not limited to, buses, light rail trains, and street cars) through signal lights, this in no way limits the application of the disclosed traffic control system to use in mass transit systems. Any vehicle which could benefit from the ETA traffic control system described herein is contemplated. For example, it is contemplated that the system could be applied to and utilized by taxis, first responders, emergency vehicles, snow plows and waste management vehicles.
In a broad sense, the ETA traffic control system combines satellite position navigation systems and dead reckoning technology with secure radio communications to accurately report a vehicle's real-time location and estimated arrival times at a series of signal lights within a traffic grid or at a distant signal light (e.g., one which is not the immediate next light that will be encountered), while enabling signal controllers to accommodate priority requests from these vehicles, allowing for these vehicles to maintain a fixed schedule with minimal interruption to other grid traffic. The ETA system disclosed herein also allows for the display of maps of vehicle and intersection activity on centrally-located monitors or in a vehicle in real-time and for the creation of detailed logs and reports of traffic flow patterns and activity in real-time for monitoring personnel. Thus, the system utilizes the Global Positioning System (GPS), or similar technology, and secure radio communication to enable transit vehicles to report location and activity data to traffic controllers and/or central locations in real time. Further, the system enables dispatchers or other monitoring personnel at a centralized or secondary remote location to see the time/distance between equipped vehicles in the traffic grid. The system also allows for the generation and sending of automatic or manual alerts to notify vehicle operators of changes in route status.
The ETA traffic control system described herein is generally structured as follows. In its basic form, the hardware components of the system include a vehicle equipment unit/vehicle computer unit (VCU) installed in vehicles and a priority detector installed in or near signal control cabinets (along with a cabinet- or pole-mounted antenna). As will be described further herein, the basic hardware components of the system (generally the VCU and the priority detector) generally communicate wirelessly using secure frequency hopping spread spectrum radio. The mobile-vehicle mounted hardware components, such as the VCU, utilize GPS or other known positioning technology to determine the precise real-time location of the VCU and the vehicle to which it is attached at all times.
As demonstrated in a street-view of an embodiment of the system provided in FIG. 5, the VCU (101) is installed in a monitored vehicle in the traffic grid. As noted previously, contemplated monitored vehicles include, but are not limited to, mass transit vehicles (buses, trains, light rail, etc.), emergency vehicles (fire tricks, police cars, ambulances, etc.), waste management vehicles, and road maintenance vehicles. It should be understood that the system disclosed herein contemplates the installation of one or more VCUs in various vehicles traveling and operating in the traffic grid.
Generally, the VCU (101) serves several functions in the disclosed traffic control system. The VCU (101) determines the real-time location data for the vehicle in which it is installed. This data includes the vehicle's velocity and coordinates. In certain embodiments, the VCU (101) will also include a map of the traffic grid and the map and schedule of the mass transit vehicle in which it is installed, along with other mass transit vehicles in the grid. In these embodiments, the VCU (101) will also have the capability of calculating and determining the vehicle's ETA at a future location and whether or not the vehicle is on schedule. The VCU (101) also is capable of sending information regarding its velocity, location and ETA to other components of the system to which it is communicatively attached, including a remote traffic control center (102), a plurality of secondary control centers (106), a plurality of other VCUs (101), and a plurality of priority detector units (103). In addition, the VCU (101) is also capable of receiving information from these other components in the system. In sum, the VCU (101) functions to determine the velocity and location of its attached vehicle in the overall traffic grid, transmits this information or utilizes it to determine the vehicle's ETA to a predetermined point (and tangentially, whether it is on or off schedule) and transmits and receives information regarding the position of the vehicle within the traffic grid to other component parts of the system.
One contemplated component part of the VCU (101) is a receiver for a satellite positioning navigation system. Generally, any satellite positioning system known to one of ordinary skill in the art is contemplated including, but not limited to, the GPS, the Russian Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS), the Chinese Compass navigation system and the European Union's Galileo positioning system. Further, any receiver technology known to those of skill in the art that is able to calculate its real-time position by precisely timing the signals sent by satellites, or by any other methodology known to those of ordinary skill in the art, is a contemplated receiver in the disclosed system. The installation of the receiver can be either permanent, by direct integration into the vehicle, or temporary, through a mobile receiver that can be taken into and removed from the vehicle. Generally, the receiver of the VCU (101) functions to determine the vehicle's position, direction and velocity in real-time at any given point during its travels. In alternative embodiments, it is contemplated that the VCU (101) will determine its position, direction and velocity through internal navigation systems known to those of ordinary skill in the art alternatively, or in addition to, satellite positioning driven systems. Contemplated internal navigation systems include, but are not limited to, gyroscopic instruments, wheel rotation devices, accelerometers, and radio navigation systems.
In addition to a receiver, the VCU (101) also generally contains a vehicle computer which is capable of transferring the location data, coordinates and speed of the vehicle to the other networked components of the system. Another contemplated component of the VCU (101) is a radio transceiver. Generally, any device for the transmission and receiving of radio signals including but not limited to the FHSS and/or FH-CDMA methods of transmitting radio signals is contemplated.
Notably, throughout this disclosure, the term “computer” will be used to describe hardware which implements functionality of various systems. The term “computer” is not intended to be limited to any type of computing device but is intended to be inclusive of all computational devices including, but not limited to, processing devices or processors, personal computers, work stations, servers, clients, portable computers, and hand held computers. Further, each computer discussed herein is necessarily an abstraction of a single machine. It is known to those of ordinary skill in the art that the functionality of any single computer may be spread across a number of individual machines. Therefore, a computer, as used herein, can refer both to a single standalone machine, or to a number of integrated (e.g., networked) machines which work together to perform the actions. In this way, the functionality of the computer of the VCU (101) may be at a single computer, or may be a network whereby the functions are distributed. Further, generally any wireless methodology for transferring the location data created by the VCU (101) to the other component parts of the system to which it is communicatively networked is contemplated. Thus, contemplated wireless technologies include, but are not limited to, telemetry control, radio frequency communication, microwave communication, GPS and infrared short-range communication.
Another component of the VCU (101), in certain embodiments, is a combination GPS/UHF antenna. In the embodiment with the combination antenna, the combo GPS/UHF antenna contains the antennas for both the transceiver and the GPS unit. Notably, however, this combo antenna is not required and in other embodiments two separate antennas can be utilized. Generally, the combo antenna or separate antennas will be mounted on the top of the priority vehicle, although this location is not determinative. Further, in certain embodiments, the antenna will be connected to the VCU (101) by two coax cable connections (one for UHF and one for GPS), although any method for connecting the antenna(s) to the VCU (101) (including both wired and wireless technologies) is contemplated.
Generally the VCU (101) will be programmed with preferred vehicle response settings, applicable intersections, the vehicle's schedule, a map of the overall grid, and vehicle detection zones for applicable signal lights in the grid. In certain embodiments, it is contemplated that the VCU will include a user interface known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Among other things, this user interface will provide a view of the map of the overall grid, vehicle detection zones for applicable signal lights in the grid, and the location of other VCU-equipped vehicles in the grid.
In one embodiment, the VCU (101) will be powered directly by the vehicle battery. For example, in one contemplated embodiment, the VCU (101) will be powered directly by 12 VDC from the vehicle battery. In other embodiments, the VCU (101) will be powered by a portable power unit known to those of skill in the art including, but not limited to, batteries and solar panels.
A second component of the traffic control system described herein is a plurality of priority detector units (103). The priority detector units (103) of the disclosed traffic control system generally function to modify and control the associated signal light based upon the velocity, location, coordinates, ETA and priority signals of VCU-equipped vehicles in the traffic grid. Generally, the priority detector units (103) receive ETA notifications from VCU-equipped vehicles in the grid and precondition their timing signals to the signal controller (105) based upon a VCU-equipped vehicle's arrival at the intersection. Receipt of advanced signals from VCU-equipped vehicles in the grid helps the controller gradually modify the timings of the signal light to reduce the impact on the intersection while also enabling the intersection to maintain coordination with other intersections along the corridor.
The priority detector units (103) will generally be located at or near particular traffic light signals and signal controllers (105) in the area controlled by the disclosed system. In one embodiment, each priority detector unit (103) will be co-located within a particular signal light controller (105) cabinet. However, this location is not determinative. It is contemplated that the priority detector unit (103) may be located at any proximity near a particular signal light that allows the priority detector unit (103) to receive applicable signals from the remote traffic control center (102), secondary control centers (106), other priority detector units (103) and/or the VCUs (101) and allows the priority detector (103) to send calls to the signal controller (105) to modify the phases of the respective signal light that it monitors.
One component of the priority detector units (103) is the intersection antenna (201). This antenna (201) is any antenna known to those of skill in the art that is capable of receiving radio or other electromagnetic signals. In one embodiment, the antenna will be co-located with the priority detector (103). In other embodiments, the antenna will be located at a position removed from the priority detector (103). Generally, it is contemplated that the intersection antenna (201) may be located at any place near the applicable intersection that would allow for the effective transmission and receipt of signals. For example, in certain embodiments it is contemplated that the intersection antenna (201) will be externally mounted on a signal light pole at the intersection. In one embodiment, the intersection antenna (201) will be connected to the priority detector unit (103) by wire connections, in one embodiment by two coax cable connections (e.g., for UHF and GPS). In another embodiment, the intersection antenna (201) will be connected wirelessly to the priority detector unit (103) in a manner known to those of ordinary skill in the art.
Further, different embodiments of the priority detector unit (103) include a shelf-mount version or a rack-mount version. In one embodiment of the rack-mount version, is it contemplated that the priority detector unit (103) will be able to be inserted directly into two adjoining card slots of a NEMA detector rack or Model 170 card file. However, it should be noted that any priority detector unit (103) design known to one of ordinary skill in the art that is able to perform the functionality described in this application is contemplated.
The priority detector unit (103) will generally send a variety of outputs using the standard North, South, East and West discreet outputs for a signal controller (105) based on information regarding a vehicle's geographical zone position, velocity and ETA, among other logistical information received from the VCUs (101), remote traffic control system (102), and/or secondary control centers (106).
In one embodiment, the priority detector unit (103) will control multiple geographical or virtual zones for a single light. For example, it may have a different zone pertaining to a light rail track, an in-street bus line, and a standard road signal even though all the various zones partially or totally overlap in a geographic sense. Generally, this standard output sent by the priority detector unit (103) (e.g., turn the North-bound light green) will be held until the vehicle leaves the detection zone. The priority detector units (103), in certain embodiments, generally will use auxiliary outputs (e.g., AUX1, AUX2, and AUX3) to communicate this standard output to the signal controller (105). However, any mode known to those of ordinary skill in the art for communicating the output signals from the priority detector unit (103) to the signal controller (105) is contemplated in this application. Further, in certain embodiments, a binary ETA status is applied to these three auxiliary outputs to designate the current ETA status of an approaching VCU-equipped vehicle. In certain embodiments, some status outputs will be held for one second, whereas other status updates will be held until the VCU-equipped vehicle checks out of the geographic detection zone.
Another component of the ETA traffic control system also generally located in the traffic control cabinet in certain embodiments is a high-speed data adapter. The high speed adaptor assists in the communication of output signals between the priority detector (103) and the signal controller (105). While any high-speed adapter known to one of ordinary skill in the art is contemplated, in one embodiment it is contemplated that the adaptor can use RS232, SDLC, Ethernet or other protocols to receive and output the large number of signals (such as ETA calls for each direction) from the priority detector (103) to the signal controller (105).
Generally, the priority detector unit (103) of the ETA traffic control system is capable of sending a variety of output calls to the signal controller (105) with which it is associated. Examples of contemplated calls include, but are not limited to, cancel calls, checkout calls, emergency vehicle priority (EVP) calls, transit signal priority (TSP) (0-3) calls and EVP threshold calls. Each of these calls controls or in some way modifies the functioning and operation of the signal controller (105) based upon the speed, location, ETA or other data received from VCU-equipped vehicles in the traffic grid. Generally a “cancel” call is a call output issued when the priority detector unit (103) is notified by the VCU (101) that the vehicle has gone into standby mode. For example, mass transit vehicles may be configured to enter standby mode when a stop is requested or when the doors open. In such situation, the vehicle has no need of any priority as it is no longer traveling towards the intersection. A “checkout” call is generally an output issued when the vehicle leaves the intersection approach zone. It is at this point that the vehicle has generally either arrived at the intersection or turned off the approach and therefore would no longer be affected by the relevant signal light(s). EVP calls are output calls issued when an equipped emergency vehicle enters the detection zone. The TSP (0-3) calls are the outputs issued at the intervals defined in the threshold TSP fields. The threshold TSP fields are various advanced detection zones preceding the signal light (such as zones A4-A1 in FIG. 1 or zones Z4-Z1 in FIG. 11) at which a VCU-equipped vehicle transmits its ETA to an applicable priority detector or other networked component of the system. Finally, the EVP threshold is the maximum number of seconds at which EVP requests should be sent to the signal controller (105). For an example, a “200” in this field would not allow EVP calls to be sent by the priority detector unit (103) to the signal controller (105) until the vehicle is no more than 200 seconds from the intersection. This keeps a light from changing too early to accommodate an emergency vehicle and being overly disruptive of traffic and possibly resulting in other driver's ignoring their red light in frustration.
Generally, the VCUs (101) and priority detector units (103) of the ETA traffic control system will be connected by a wireless technology known to those of skill in the art that allows for the free transfer of data and information between each of these components through a traffic control network (104). One embodiment of this ETA traffic control network (104) is provided in FIG. 6. The network (104) communicatively connects the different components of the system. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, the network (104) connects a plurality of intersection priority detectors (103), the signal light controllers (105) located in the grid (also referred to as the traffic system servers) and the remote traffic control center (102). In other contemplated embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 10, the traffic control network (104) communicatively connects a plurality of components in the system, as will be discussed in more detail later in this application.
In one embodiment of the ETA traffic control system, the actual control of the intersection continues to be performed by the particular signal light controllers (105) located at each respective traffic light in the controlled system; the present ETA traffic control system simply offers new inputs to the signal light controllers (105) regarding the timing and phase changes of each respective traffic signal light in the system in order to accommodate VCU-equipped vehicles and attempt to keep them on schedule.
In an embodiment of the ETA traffic control system in which a centralized control server is utilized, another component of the traffic control system is the remote traffic control center (102). Generally, the remote traffic control center (102) is a central server; i.e. a computer or series of computers that links other computers or electronic devices together. Any known combination or orientation of server hardware and server operating systems known to those of skill in the art for servers is contemplated as the remote traffic control center (102). As detailed more fully later in this application, in the centralized server embodiment of the system the remote traffic control center (102) is linked to the VCUs (101) and the priority detector units (103) of the system by a wireless network that allows for the free transmission of information and data therebetween allowing centralized control of a number of signals. Thus, the system of this embodiment can control signals that may be unrelated to the path taken by the vehicle while still accommodating the vehicle's passage. In other embodiments of the ETA traffic control system in which a centralized control server is utilized, the system will consist of a remote traffic control center (102) and a plurality of secondary control centers (106). It is contemplated that these secondary control centers (106) will be located at control or dispatch centers associated with the VCU-equipped vehicles operating in the traffic grid. Such locations include, but are not limited to, transit operation locations, fire departments, police stations, first responder/ambulance stations, snow/ice removal vehicle stations and waste removal management stations. Similar to the remote traffic control center (102), it should be understood that the secondary control centers (106) generally comprise a server and that any known combination or orientation of server hardware and server operating systems known to those of ordinary skill in the art for servers is contemplated. An embodiment of the ETA traffic control system with a remote traffic control center (102) and a plurality of secondary control centers (106) connected to the rest of the system by a network (104) is provided in FIG. 10.
In a broad sense, the ETA traffic control system disclosed herein, whether in the centralized server embodiment or the localized embodiment, is generally capable of reporting a vehicle's real-time location and ETA to a given location using fixed geographic detection, variable time-point-based detection or a combination of both mechanisms. Further, in additional embodiments, the system can be structured and customized to allow for timing changes or pre-conditions that must be satisfied before signal priority is granted to a vehicle.
In a fixed geographic detection method, the ETA traffic control system utilizes a satellite positioning navigation system, such as GPS, to create virtual “loops” that are set up at specific defined points along a vehicle's route. A series of these virtual loops or advanced detection zones leading to a particular ETA intersection are depicted in FIG. 1. As vehicles equipped with a VCU (101) enter and pass through these zones (labeled A4-A1 in FIG. 1), they place ETA calls to the appropriate priority detector units (103) (or central server (102) in the centralized embodiment). For example, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the VCU (101) would place ETA calls to the priority detector unit (103) associated with the ETA intersection when the vehicle entered each of the fixed detection zones preceding the ETA intersection; i.e., advanced detection zones A4, A3, A2 and A1. Thus, in one embodiment, the VCU-equipped vehicle would transmit a signal of its ETA (or simply its coordinates) to a given intersection to the priority detector unit (103) associated with that intersection upon reaching detection zones A4, A3, A2, and A1. The priority detector unit (103) will then send an output signal to the signal controller (105) for the ETA intersection as necessary to modify the light to keep the VCU-equipped vehicle on schedule. In embodiments in which the system is centralized, the VCU-equipped vehicle will send a signal of its ETA (or simply its coordinates) upon hitting the detection zones A4, A3, A2, and A1 to the priority detector unit (103) for the intersection and/or the remote traffic control center (102). Notably, in this method, the detection zone locations and configurations can be edited on the fly by administration of the system—i.e., the location of A4, A3, A2, and A1 can be modified by a user interfacing with the system at either a VCU (101) or a central (102) or secondary control center (106). Basically, in this method, the location of the vehicle is fixed at transmission, and the transmission records to the expected time to arrival are based on speed and related factors of the vehicle.
In the time-point detection method, a calculated ETA is used to determine when advance communications and priority requests are sent. In this method, the VCU (101) located within the priority vehicle calculates the vehicle's time-distance from a selected intersection (or other pre-defined location in the grid) and transmits that amount (or simply its coordinates) to the appropriate priority detector unit (103) (or central server (102) in the centralized embodiment) along with its position. In one embodiment, the transmission from the VCU (101) to the priority detector unit (103) (or the remote traffic control server (102) in the centralized embodiment) occurs once per second, however any time/signal allocation is contemplated. FIG. 2 provides a depiction of the time-point detection method. As demonstrated in FIG. 2, the VCU-equipped vehicle will send its ETA (or simply its coordinates) to the ETA intersection priority detector (103) (or the remote traffic control center (102) in the centralized embodiment) every second. The priority detector unit (103) will then send an updating output of the vehicle's ETA to the signal controller (105) at pre-defined intervals (such as every 90, 60, 35 and 15 seconds from the vehicle's ETA).
In the hybrid fixed geographic/time point detection method, both a mass transit vehicle's calculated ETA and the mass transit vehicle's current location within the approach zone to a particular intersection is used to determine when advanced communications and priority requests are sent. FIG. 11 offers a depiction of this hybrid method. As demonstrated in FIG. 11, in this method the approach zone leading up to a selected intersection (or pre-defined location within the traffic grid) is divided into a series of one or more fixed geographic zones. For example, in the approach zone depicted in FIG. 11, the approach zone is divided into four (4) zones (501); i.e., zones Z1-Z4. At the end of each of the designated approach zones is a check out-zone (500). Similar to the time-point detection method, in this method the VCU (101) located within the priority vehicle calculates the vehicle's time-distance from a selected intersection (or pre-defined location within the traffic grid). However, in this embodiment a vehicle within the first zone (501), in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 11 the Z4 90-second zone, would send a 90-second ETA to the appropriate priority detector unit (103) (or central server (102) in the centralized embodiment) only if the VCU (101) calculates a 90-second ETA while the vehicle is within the Z4 zone (501). If the vehicle does not achieve a 90-second ETA within Z4, it will transmit its actual calculated ETA call when it reaches the check-out zone (500) at the end of the zone (501). The same process would follow for each successive zone (but each successive zone would be assigned a different ETA time value, such as 60 seconds, 35 seconds or 15 seconds as depicted in FIG. 11). Stated differently, a VCU (101) equipped vehicle will transmit its calculated ETA to the appropriate priority detector unit (103) (or central server (102) in the centralized embodiment) in each respective zone (501) if the assigned ETA value for that zone (501) is achieved within that zone (501) and, regardless of whether the assigned ETA value for that zone is achieved within that zone, when the VCU (101) equipped vehicle reaches the check-out zone (500) within the zone (501). Thus, in this method, ETA signals are sent when a fixed geographic zone is reached (i.e., when a VCU (102) equipped vehicle reaches a check-out zone (500)) and when a certain ETA time point is reached within a certain zone (501) in the approach path. Notably, it should be understood that the orientation and number of zones (501) and the ETA time values proscribed to the zones (501) represented in FIG. 11 are not determinative. The assigned ETA times and the orientation and number of the zones (501) is only exemplary and it should be understood that any times and zone orientation can be specified by a user of the system described herein.
Further, it should be understood that the time-point detection method, the fixed geographic detection method and the hybrid method are not exclusive of each other. Thus, it is contemplated that the ETA system described herein may simultaneously utilize multiple detection methods, or different components of each of these detection methods, in its control of the traffic grid.
In one embodiment, the ETA transmitted in these methods is calculated and determined in the vehicle, not at the priority detector unit (103) or the centralized server (102). In this embodiment, the vehicle's time-distance, or ETA, is determined by the VCU (101) by utilization of an ETA calculation algorithm that takes into account the vehicle's continually changing speed and distance from the intersection. Upon receiving the ETA time-point data, the priority detector unit (103) then updates the intersection signal controller (105) at user defined timed-ETA or position points. The types of ETA calls which can be output by the priority detector unit (103) include “Cancel” calls (for cases where the approaching vehicle turns off the approach street) and “Checkout calls” (when the vehicle reaches the intersection and ETA is no longer applicable). Because these methods consider vehicle speed in their calculations (i.e., the vehicle's ETA is determined by utilization of an ETA calculation algorithm that takes into account the vehicle's continually changing speed both instantly and potentially within a period of history), it can be advantageous in heavy traffic areas with high variability in traffic flows throughout the day. Notably, in other embodiments of the system it is contemplated that a vehicle's ETA will be calculated and determined at the remote traffic control center (102) or the priority detector unit (103) via utilization of a similar ETA calculation algorithm.
In sum, utilizing a vehicle's future ETA at a pre-defined point as the trigger-point for determining the phases of the signal lights at applicable intersections within the grid, the system disclosed herein allows for the adjustment of various signal lights along the path to the ETA point in an efficient manner that keeps the priority vehicle on-time to its end destination with minimal disruption to the traffic grid as a whole. In contrast to the priority systems of the prior art, the disclosed system is not limited to only granting priority to the vehicle at the next light that it is approaching without any correlation to the other signal lights along its path on the grid. Thus, unlike the detection zone systems of the prior art that track a vehicle's ETA from a fixed location, the system disclosed herein reacts to changes in on-street congestion and vehicle approach speeds in real-time. As the traffic volumes fluctuate, so do the positions of ETA time-points. Further, upon receiving the vehicle ETA notifications, the traffic controller (103) preconditions its internal timings in preparation of a VCU-equipped vehicle's arrival at the intersection. The advanced time-points help the signal controller (105) gradually modify the timings to reduce the impact on the intersection while also enabling the intersection to maintain coordination with other intersections along the corridor.
Generally, the ETA time-points are user defined and can be set up to report at any number of time intervals or can be set per-intersection approach in a specifically defined orientation. In one embodiment in which the time-points are user defined, an ETA configuration interface window will be utilized to allow a user to set the time points in which ETA values are to be transmitted to the signal controller (105). An embodiment of this ETA configuration interface output table is depicted in FIG. 3. In the depicted output table of FIG. 3, the values in the top seven rows correspond to the appropriate priority detector unit (103) input channels on the signal controller (102). The remaining rows specify the number of seconds required to carry out the given action or status.
As noted previously, there are a number of different contemplated output calls from the priority detector unit (103) to the signal controller (105). As depicted in FIG. 3, these calls include the cancel call, the checkout call, the EVP call, the TSP (0-3) call and the EVP Threshold call. Generally, the “Cancel” call is the ETA output given when the priority detector unit (103) is notified by the VCU (101) that the vehicle has gone into standby mode. For example, mass transit vehicles may be configured to enter standby mode when a stop is requested or when the doors open. Generally, the parameters that put a vehicle in standby mode are defined in the VCU (101) and may need to be customized based on vehicle connections.
The “Checkout” call is the ETA output given when the vehicle leaves the intersection-approach zone. The intersection approach zone is the defined detection zone preceding a given signal light. Generally, at this point, the vehicle has either “arrived” at the target point (such as the stop or intersection) or has turned off the approach path to the point. In this situation, the vehicle is no longer regulated by the particular priority system to that target ETA point (although it may now be on a different system).
The “EVP” ETA output is generally the output call issued when an equipped emergency vehicle other vehicle that requires an immediate signal light change has entered the intersection-approach zone. In EVP scenarios, the ETA call is generally sent and held until the vehicle checks out of the approach. This allows an emergency vehicle to be given a different priority than a mass transit or other vehicle while still using the same system of vehicle detection in order to simplify signal transmission and better integrate different options.
The TSP (0-3) calls are generally the ETA output calls at the intervals defined in the Threshold TSP fields in the fixed-detection zone model. Typically, TSP-0 is the first call sent, followed in order by the remaining calls. Although this order may be reversed or otherwise altered in accordance with controller settings.
The EVP Threshold in the output chart represents the maximum number of seconds at which EVP requests should be sent to the signal controller (105). For example, a “200” in this field would not allow EVP calls to be sent to the signal controller (105) until the vehicle is no more than 200 seconds from the intersection. In one embodiment, it is contemplated that the EVP threshold will be located after the beginning of the intersection-approach zone, as depicted by the eastbound threshold point of FIG. 4. That is, the detection zone is relevant for only the immediately approaching signal. Under these circumstances, the vehicle would not report its ETA until it passed the EVP threshold within the detection zone. In another embodiment, it is contemplated that the EVP threshold would begin well before the approach zone, so the vehicle would report ETA as soon as it enters the approach zone to allow for interface with a number of signals and the pre-established target destination. This orientation of the EVP threshold is depicted in the westbound threshold point of FIG. 4.
The TSP Threshold is the total number of time points at which ETA will be output to the signal controller (105) in the time-point detection method. For example, a “4” in this field enables the priority detector unit (103) to update vehicle ETA status at four time points, for example at 90, 60, 30 and 15 seconds from the intersection. Finally, the Threshold TSP (0-3) in the output chart represents the number of seconds from the intersection at which ETA status is output to the signal controller (105). Typically, TSP-0 is the first call sent, followed in order by the remaining calls, TSP-1, TSP-2 and TSP-3.
In addition to the values entered into the ETA configuration output chart, there are a number of additional potential fields and user input positions in an embodiment of the ETA configuration interface that allow for a user to offer input and instructions into the system. For example, the Time To Wait for Transmission Continue field defines the amount of time the priority detector unit (103) waits before dropping the vehicle's ETA status. For example, if an equipped vehicle turns off the approach street after its first ETA point has been reported, the priority detector unit (103) will drop the vehicle status after four seconds. In most cases, it is not necessary for a user to change or manipulate this field as it is a system for simply clearing unnecessary priority requests.
Another notable field is the Progressive TSP Thresholds field. When this box is selected, ETA time-points that have already been called are not allowed to be called again. For example, if a 30-second ETA has already been called and traffic conditions slow down to the point where it will take over 30 seconds to arrive, the 30 second ETA will not be called again.
The Hold Last TSP Call Field is a field that, when selected, holds the last ETA call (e.g., the Threshold TSP-3 call) until the vehicle leaves the intersection approach. This operates similar to the way in which EVP calls are held as it relates to the final approach to the final signal prior to the destination point. The Send Test ETA controls enable a user to send ETA test calls by vehicle direction and specific call type. These calls are generally sent directly from the priority detector (103).
The Activate Detector field controls enable a user to send a specific detector value for specific controller input channels. For example, if the value used to send TSP-0 calls for a northbound approach is 36, 36 will be input into this field and “activate detector” will be pressed to send that last ETA call. These calls are sent directly from the priority detector unit (103). The Bus Interface Units for input list displays the current status of the Bus Interface Unit detectors (for the connected priority detector units (103)) that have been set up as inputs. Finally, the program receiver field assigns the entered ETA values to the connected priority detector unit (103).
Another signal option for the disclosed system in certain embodiments is a system of conditional transit signal priority. These conditional transit signal priority signals are generally based on the amount of time a VCU-equipped vehicle is behind schedule. To achieve conditional TSP, the system is generally configured to request signal priority only when activated through a connection to the onboard schedule-adherence system. For example, when a VCU-equipped vehicle lags behind schedule by a set amount of time, the schedule-adherence system enables the components of the system to request signal priority for upcoming intersection. If the VCU-equipped vehicle is on schedule, signal priority is not requested, allowing the buses to better maintain headway. Generally, in a conditional priority system, certain user-established pre-conditions must be met before the priority detector unit (103) will send a signal priority request to the signal controller (105). These conditions can be set and modified by the user and controller of the system. Examples of some of the pre-conditions which can be set by a user include, but are not limited to, not sending a signal priority request if: another VCU-equipped vehicle has not requested priority within a specified time frame (for example, eight minutes); the VCU-equipped vehicle doors are closed (i.e., the bus is not at a stop with open doors); or an exit request has not been made for the next stop.
Yet another signal option for the system described herein is automatic vehicle location. This option of the system helps to mitigate the problem of bunching along mass transit routes. To prevent this problematic occurrence, in the automatic vehicle location (AVL) mode both the drivers of the at-risk “bunched” vehicles and the supervisor of the vehicles can be notified and alerted of the potential problem. Then automated (or supervisor-actuated) commands can be issued for the lead bus to operate in express or skip-stop mode until an acceptable gap is reestablished. For example, the lead mass transit vehicle can be granted transit signal priority (to help keep it on schedule) while not granting priority for the trailing bus (to maintain the desired headway amount between the two vehicles). Thus, in this mode, the system only sends TSP requests to a signal controller (105) when pre-defined bunching conditions (such as a specific amount of time behind schedule) have been met. In this mode, the acceptable schedule variances and headway amounts can be determined by the transit agency and programmed into the system at the VCU (101), the remote control center (102), or secondary control centers (106). If further action is required to maintain an identified minimum headway, the central monitoring system at the remote control center (102) will recognize the reduced headway amount and will notify personnel at central locations who can respond accordingly (for example, by authorizing skip-stop mode for the leading mass-transit vehicle).
When used in conjunction with TSP, this mode is capable of protecting transfers and supporting schedule adherence for mass transit vehicles in the event of the non-recurring obstacles to normal transit operations which often lead to bunching such as road construction, traffic accidents, weather, double-parked vehicles, special-event travel demand, wheelchair lift use and so forth. Thus, in sum, the system in this mode allows for: transit vehicles to request signal priority when defined headway limits are reached, making schedule adherence easier to achieve; negative trends (such as reduced headway amounts) to be recognized by the system, allowing for automatic notifications to be set up to alert dispatchers when predefined trend rates or thresholds are reached; allowing vehicles and dispatchers to perform multiple actions (such as enabling TSP or enacting skip-stop modes) to reestablish headway amounts; and allowing for monitoring personnel to view headway amounts for all vehicles, thus enabling them to identify and troubleshoot issues from a centralized location.
Another contemplated feature of the disclosed system, in certain embodiments, is the monitoring of VCU-equipped vehicle activity and the creation of logs for this activity. It is contemplated, depending on the embodiment, that these logs may be viewed at the remote central control center (102), through a user interface location in the equipped-vehicle, or at the secondary central control centers (106). In one embodiment, this log creation will occur in real-time via transfer of the vehicle activity data through the network to the remote central control center (102) or a secondary control center (106). In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the downloaded logs will be saved on the remote central control center server (102) and will be accessible from other networked workstations and by authorized personnel via e-mail or some other data sharing service known to those of ordinary skill in the art.
In the embodiment of the ETA traffic control system in which the system is centralized, the communication and information exchange between the components of the disclosed ETA traffic control system generally functions as follows. The GPS receiver of the VCU (101) located in the mass transit vehicle, through inputs received from an applicable satellite system, determines the speed, direction, velocity and other pertinent geographic and coordinate information for the vehicle in all monitored approaches. This communication chain is depicted in the block diagrams of FIGS. 8 and 9. Then, either constantly or at fixed time intervals, the VCU (101) transmits either the raw applicable geographic and coordinate information for the vehicle or the pre-calculated ETA arrival time to the remote traffic control center (102), as seen in FIG. 8. Next, the remote traffic control center (102) transmits this data to the applicable priority detector units (103) in the traffic grid.
In this way, the centralized system allows for a robust Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) system that enables monitoring personnel to track vehicle activity in real time while vehicle locations are displayed on integrated maps. Thus, users of the system can designate key events to trigger alarms to notify workers at central locations of certain events. This ability to monitor equipped-vehicle activity and automatically detect driver violations provides a way for traffic grid supervisors to increase safety while holding mass transit operators accountable for running through stop signals (or other identified violations of the traffic grid). It is also contemplated, in certain embodiments, that this AVL interface and monitoring system will also be available in certain embodiments of the localized system. In these embodiments, a user interface in the vehicle itself can allow for real-time monitoring of equipped-vehicles in the grid.
In the embodiment of the centralized ETA traffic control system in which only the coordinates are sent from the VCU (101) to the remote traffic control center (102), once the coordinate information is received at the remote traffic control center (102), the remote traffic control center (102), based upon the received coordinates, information regarding the schedule of the mass transit system, and information regarding each of the traffic light signals in the system, determines if the ETA for the mass transit vehicle at the next stop or waypoint is on its schedule. In one embodiment, this transmission of coordinate information will be constant as long as the vehicle is within the applicable range. The remote traffic control center (102) then determines whether the mass transit vehicle is ahead, on, or behind schedule. If the mass transit vehicle is on schedule, in one embodiment of the system no further action will be taken other than continued monitoring. If the mass transit vehicle is on schedule, the system will still determine, based on other inputs into the system (such as inputs from other mass transit vehicles traveling in the grid) if a future delay on the vehicle's scheduled route is likely. If the mass transit vehicle is behind schedule, the remote traffic control center (102) will determine which phases of which traffic signal in the system need to be modified, and in what fashion they need to be modified, to attempt to get the mass transit vehicle back onto schedule with the least amount of disruption to the overall traffic flow. Alternatively, the system may allow another mass transit vehicle that is behind schedule to get on schedule at the expense of one moving ahead of schedule. Once the corrective action determination is made at the remote traffic control center (102), phase change signals are sent from the remote traffic control center (102) to the respective priority detectors (103). These phase change signals are then sent from the priority detector units (103) to the signal controllers (105) to modify the traffic light phases of the respective intersection in the manner necessary to get the mass transit vehicle back onto schedule.
The priority controller based system, where there is no central control, will generally operate along similar lines. However, the determination of which lights to alter is generally made at each individual signal and the signals may prepare for an alteration that is not implemented because it is no longer necessary based on what other signals have already done. In a still further embodiment, only the last signal will assume any priority adjustment is necessary, and will prepare for that adjustment, adapting the specifics of it as information becomes available from the vehicle reaching different ETAs from interaction with prior signals. A system whereby the signals make independent decisions is generally preferred if there is no central control grid system (and thus no universal system to be disrupted) and where the individual signals each make their own determinations already. For example, if a light will only turn red when a vehicle is detected at a particular cross street (and will do so very quickly), the detection of both the vehicle in the cross street and a behind schedule mass transit vehicle on the main street, can result in the signal delaying the cross street traffic to avoid hampering the mass transit vehicle further.
Notably, in both the vehicle-centered and centralized embodiments of this system, the traffic signals generally will continue to display normal sequences from green to yellow to red. What is often modified in the present systems is the period of time each sequence or phase is displayed. For example, if the overall system determines that the mass transit vehicle needs to hit a red light at traffic light A and a green light at traffic light B in order to get back on schedule without disrupting the traffic flow, even if this actually delays the vehicle further at light A, the priority detectors (103) at each of the traffic lights will receive signals from the remote traffic control center (102) commanding them to adjust the phases at each of their traffic lights in such a manner. As such, the present ETA traffic control system controls the phases of the traffic lights in the system based on the movement of equipped mass transit vehicles in the control grid, modifying the phases of each of the traffic lights in the system in order to ensure that each of the mass transit vehicles reaches each of its scheduled stops essentially on time.
The following offers an example of how the disclosed system would be utilized in the embodiment which utilizes a remote traffic control center and the impact it would have on the overall traffic patterns of the grid it controls. As depicted in FIG. 9, in this hypothetical example, there are two mass transit vehicles: vehicle A and vehicle B. Both vehicle A and vehicle B have specific scheduled routes. Both vehicle A and vehicle B have to travel through 3 traffic light intersections before they reach their next scheduled stop. In this hypothetical example, the coordinate information for vehicle A and vehicle B is received at the remote traffic control center (102) from each vehicle's respective VCU (101). Then, the remote traffic control center (102), based upon the received coordinates, information regarding the schedule of the mass transit system, and information regarding each of the traffic light signals in the system, determines the ETA for each of the mass transit vehicles at the next stop on their respective schedules.
In this hypothetical, the remote traffic control center (102) determines that the ETA for vehicle A is three minutes ahead of schedule and the ETA for vehicle B is two minutes behind schedule. From the information regarding the maps of the routes in the grid, the system is able to determine that the routes of vehicle A and vehicle B overlap for two traffic lights. Further, from the information regarding the traffic light signals in the system, the remote traffic control center (102) is able to determine that the default phase change timing for each of the traffic lights in the grid. From this information, the remote traffic control center (102) is able to determine in what manner the phases of the traffic lights in the grid need to be modified in order to get both vehicle A and vehicle B vehicle back onto schedule.
Further, in this hypothetical, the system determines that if it alters the phases of lights Z, Y and X to allow for vehicle B to travel through these intersections without incurring a red light, vehicle B will get back onto schedule. The system also determines that if it lets vehicle A turn left at traffic light X and holds vehicle A at traffic light Y with a red light (until vehicle B travels by) vehicle A will no longer be ahead of schedule (but will still be on schedule) while vehicle B can still go through light X on green as vehicle A has cleared the intersection before it needs to change. Thus, this pattern is implemented by the system as the best methodology to maintain schedules.
In a system without central control, light Z would generally give priority to vehicle B to help it get back on schedule making sure it had a green light. Light X may do nothing for vehicle A as it is ahead of schedule and does not need priority treatment. As these actions could alter the relative ETA of the vehicles, Light Y may take into account both approaching vehicles and any ETA change based on the effects of lights X or Z (for instance if A is now behind schedule because it did not get to turn at light X without waiting or if A is still ahead and B is still behind). It can then determine that A should be allowed to turn before B can go straight (or visa versa) depending on the impact on each vehicle. This determination may also take into account the possibility that the later light (W or X) of the appropriate vehicle (A or B) can assist to get them back on schedule if the current light Y action results in a delay to one of them.
As demonstrated by this example and the description offered above, ETA traffic control system allows for the free transmission of signals and information between and among the components of the system. Among other functions, this allows for the: 1) configuring of the priority detectors (103) remotely without traveling to each intersection to connect directly to the detectors (103); 2) retrieving of activity logs remotely; 3) monitoring of the specific priority detector (103) activity from the remote traffic control center (102) (in the embodiment in which the system is centralized); 4) remote monitoring of the priority detectors (103) to verify they are working properly; and 5) the connecting of vehicle computer units (101) to laptop computers for system set-up or log retrieval (as depicted in FIG. 8).
Further, in the centralized embodiment of the system, the remote traffic control center (102) generally functions to: 1) receive coordinate data from each of the respective vehicle equipment units (101) in the system; 2) store data and information related to the schedules of mass transit vehicles in the system; 3) store data regarding the location and default phase systems of each of the traffic lights in the system; 4) determine the ETA for each mass transit vehicle in the system at designated points along its scheduled route dependent upon the GPS coordinate data received; 5) determine how the phases of the traffic lights in the system need to be changed or manipulated in order to keep a mass transit vehicle on its defined schedule; and 6) modify the phases of the traffic lights in the system by sending priority control signals to the priority detectors (103) in the system to modify the phases in order to keep mass transit vehicles in the system on schedule.
In sum, in the disclosed system the phases of the traffic lights in the grid are controlled and modified in accordance to the coordinates and ETA calculations of the mass transit vehicles traveling in the grid or otherwise traveling through a predetermined route on a schedule. Thus, the focus is on the efficient and smooth operation of traffic flows in a series of signal lights to a later defined point related to a vehicle's route or in the entire grid system, not simply giving priority to a particular privileged vehicle that comes into a detection zone preceding a specific signal light (although such systems can operate in conjunction with the systems here, and can also utilize the ETA calculation as part of the priority determination). Accordingly, the benefits of the ETA system can be numerous.
First, ease of installation. The ETA traffic control system handles EVP, TSP and ETA seamlessly and without the requirement of major additional equipment. Thus, the ETA traffic control system can coexist with currently implemented systems without disrupting priority response for emergency vehicles or signal coordination for efficient current grid flow. Second, reliability. Wireless communication is generally not hampered by adverse weather conditions and is not limited to clear line-of-sight paths. Further, the location and activity data in the system is sent through secure radio channels and secure Ethernet connections. Third, flexibility. The agencies can reconfigure the system as needed. System edits may include (but are not limited to): time-point changes per-intersection approach, detection-zone settings for specific vehicles (to allow for route changes), and vehicle priority levels, amongst other things. The system also allows for different headway amounts (and acceptable variances) to be assigned along different paths of the corridor and for different routes. Fourth, precision and accuracy. Dead reckoning capability in conjunction with GPS provides continuous vehicle-position accuracy even in unfavorable urban environments. Fifth, timeliness. Vehicle positions in the system are updated on the map either in the vehicle, at the remote central control center or at secondary control centers very quickly. This enables dispatchers to proactively respond to potential issues quickly. Finally, the ETA traffic control system disclosed herein will improve schedule adherence by requesting priority only when specific conditions are met.
While the invention has been disclosed in conjunction with a description of certain embodiments, including those that are currently believed to be the preferred embodiments, the detailed description is intended to be illustrative and should not be understood to limit the scope of the present disclosure. As would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, embodiments other than those described in detail herein are encompassed by the present invention. Modifications and variations of the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
1. A system for requesting modification of signal light control of a traffic grid, the system comprising:
a vehicle computer unit, wherein the vehicle computer unit is installed in a vehicle and functions to determine the vehicle's position, direction, and velocity; a plurality of priority detector units, wherein each priority detector unit is communicatively attached to a signal light controller within the traffic grid; and a wireless network connecting the vehicle computer unit and the plurality of priority detector units; wherein the vehicle computer unit uses the vehicle's position, direction and velocity to calculate the vehicle's estimated time of arrival to a signal light within the traffic grid and sends the vehicle's estimated time of arrival to the signal light to a priority detector unit communicatively attached to a signal light controller associated with the signal light; and wherein the priority detector unit communicatively attached to the signal light controller associated with the signal light receives the vehicle's estimated time of arrival and requests modification of the signal light controller associated with the signal light based on the vehicle's estimated time of arrival.
2. The system of claim 1, the system further comprising:
a remote traffic control center, wherein the remote traffic control center is communicatively attached to the wireless network; and wherein the vehicle computer unit transmits information chosen from the group consisting of the vehicle's position, direction, velocity and estimated time of arrival to the remote traffic control center; and wherein the remote traffic control center determines which signal light controllers within the traffic grid need to be modified to keep the vehicle on schedule; and wherein the remote traffic control center sends a signal to one or more of the plurality of priority detector units to request modification of an associated signal light controllers based on the vehicle's estimated time of arrival.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the vehicle computer unit sends the vehicle's estimated time of arrival to the signal light to the priority detector unit communicatively attached to the signal light controller associated with the signal light at a plurality of advanced detection zones preceding the signal light.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the location of the advanced detection zones in the traffic grid can be modified by a user.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the vehicle computer unit sends its estimated time of arrival to the priority detector unit communicatively attached to the signal light controller associated with the signal light at pre-defined periods of time; and
wherein the priority detector unit communicatively attached to the signal light controller associated with the signal light receives the vehicle's estimated time of arrival and requests modification of the signal light controller associated with the signal light at pre-defined periods of time based on the vehicle's estimated time of arrival.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the pre-defined periods of time can be modified by a user.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the vehicle computer unit sends the vehicle's estimated time of arrival to the signal light to the priority detector unit communicatively attached to the signal light controller associated with the signal light at a plurality of advanced detection zones if the vehicle reached a certain pre-defined estimated time of arrival to the signal light while the vehicle is within the advanced detection zone; and
wherein the vehicle computer unit sends its estimated time of arrival to the signal light to the priority detector associated with the signal light at a check out zone within each of the plurality of advanced detection zones.
8. The system of claim 7, wherein the vehicle is a mass transit vehicle.
9. A system for requesting modification of signal light control of a traffic grid, the system comprising:
a vehicle computer unit, wherein the vehicle computer unit is installed in a vehicle and functions to determine the vehicle's position, direction, and velocity; a plurality of priority detector units, wherein each priority detector unit is communicatively attached to a signal light controller within the traffic grid; and a wireless network connecting the vehicle computer unit and the plurality of priority detector units; wherein the vehicle computer unit transmits information chosen from the group consisting of the vehicle's position, direction, velocity to at least one priority detector unit; and wherein the at least one priority detector unit receives the information and calculates the vehicle's estimated time of arrival to a signal light within the traffic grid associated with the at least one priority detector unit; and wherein the at least one priority detector unit is communicatively attached to a signal light controller associated with the signal light and sends a signal to request modification of the signal light controller associated with the signal light based on the vehicle's estimated time of arrival.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the vehicle is a mass transit vehicle.
11. A system for requesting modification of signal light control of a traffic grid, the system comprising:
a vehicle computer unit, wherein the vehicle computer unit is installed in a vehicle and functions to determine the vehicle's position, direction, and velocity; a plurality of priority detector units, wherein each priority detector unit is communicatively attached to a signal light controller within the traffic grid; a wireless network connecting the vehicle computer unit and the plurality of priority detector units; and a remote traffic control center, wherein the remote traffic control center is communicatively attached to the wireless network; wherein the vehicle computer unit transmits information chosen from the group consisting of the vehicle's position, direction, velocity to the remote traffic control center; and wherein the remote traffic control center receives the information and calculates the vehicle's estimated time of arrival to a signal light within the traffic grid; wherein the remote traffic control center sends a signal to one or more of the plurality of priority detector units requesting modification of an associated signal light controllers based on the vehicle's estimated time of arrival.
12. The system of claim 11, wherein the vehicle is a mass transit vehicle.
| 2012-06-27 | en | 2012-12-27 |
US-47076306-A | Communication method, communication apparatus and communication system and processing method and processing apparatus
ABSTRACT
A communication device selects one of a remote or local transmitters according to the destination of a message, transmits the message from the selected transmitter, receives the message at a receiver, and transmits the received message to the destination of the message.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a communication method, communication apparatus and communication system and a processing method and processing apparatus.
2. Description of the Related Art
There has been much interest in WEB service technology using SOAP in communication between computer programs via a network. The communication in the service using SOAP is generally used in an environment distributed on the network. Consider a client located on a network employs a Web service executed on another node located on the network. In this case, the client transmits a request to the service via the network and the service returns a reply via the network.
However, the node executing the service may be not only on the network but also may be the node including the client. In this case, in the service using SOAP, the client employs the service in its own node via the network. Therefore, a process in which a SOAP message is created and transmitted to a network and then the SOAP message is received from the network and interpreted would also be performed for the service executed in the node including the client. Therefore, overhead via the network will occurs even if an application program is executed on the same node.
It is also considered that a requesting client program directly executes an application program executed by the service. However, it is not easy to migrate from a system or program constructed as a service on a network to a client program executed by itself.
Creating a program with taking into account whether a service is used via a network or in its own node will be an extra burden on a programmer.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide a communication method, communication apparatus and communication system which can transmit a message to its own sender side of the message without overhead via a network.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a communication method, communication apparatus and communication system which can be provided with a service running on its own node without overhead via a network.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a communication method, communication apparatus and communication system which can be provided with a service running on its own node in a single process without overhead via a network and without taking into account whether the service is provided via the network or is a service provided by its own node.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a communication method, comprising the steps of: selecting one of remote and local transmitters according to the destination of a message, transmitting the message from the transmitter selected in the selection step, receiving the message at a receiver, and transmitting the message to the destination of the message received in the receiving step.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a communication apparatus, comprising selection means for selecting one of remote and local transmitters according to the destination of a message, first transmission means for transmitting the message from the transmitter selected by the selection means, reception means for receiving the message at a receiver, and second transmission means for transmitting the message to the destination of the message received by the reception means.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a communication method, comprising the steps of: acquiring a parameter from Web service description, and selecting a remote transmitter or an invocation unit in a local module according to the acquired parameter.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for processing Web service description, comprising the steps of: acquiring a parameter from the Web service description, and selecting a remote transmitter or an invocation unit in a local module according to the acquired parameter.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a device for processing Web service description, comprising processing means for acquiring a parameter from the Web service description, and selection means for selecting a remote transmitter or an invocation unit in a local module according to the acquired parameter.
Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing a data communication system according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a block diagram describing a hardware configuration of a communication apparatus according to the present embodiment;
FIG. 3 is a block diagram describing a remote communication in the communication system according to the present embodiment;
FIG. 4 is a block diagram describing a local communication in the communication system according to the present embodiment;
FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing a service utilization system according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 6 depicts a view illustrating a specific example of WSDL description extended to describe a service executed on the same node on a network as a client application;
FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing a service utilization system and its functions according to the present embodiment using a service employing SOAP Binding as an example;
FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram showing a service utilization system and its functions according to the present embodiment using a service on the same node on a network as a client application as an example; and
FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram showing more detailed functions of WSDL recognizer of a service utilization system and its functions according to the present embodiment.
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments below do not limit the present invention set forth in the claims and that all combinations of features described in the embodiments are not necessarily essential as means for attaining the objects of the invention. In the present invention, the method, system or apparatus may be implemented as a program usable in a computer. Therefore, the present invention may have an embodiment as hardware and/or software. The program may be recorded in any computer-readable medium such as a hard disk, CD-ROM, optical storage device, magnetic storage device or flash memory.
The system available in the following embodiments may be a general computer system. The computer system available in the present embodiments includes various computers such as a personal computer, workstation, main frame computer and device-embedded computer. Environments running the program described in the present embodiments have no particular restriction. OS and programming languages are also not limited.
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing a data communication system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
The data communication system performs data communication between a client program 101 in a sender side system 100 and a device-embedded function 157 in a receiver side system 150. The sender side system 100 has a transmission interface 106 which is common to a transmitter selector 102, a local transmitter 103 and a remote transmitter 104. A WSDL interpreter 105 verifies a data in an inputted XML message 110 and transmits it along with the destination as a SOAP message to a remote node. This allows the remote transmitter 104 to use a Web service in other nodes on a network.
The receiver side system 150 has a SOAP receiver 151, a remote receiver 152, a local receiver 153 and a message distributor 154. The receiver side system 150 further has one or more device-embedded functions 157 of the receiver side system 150 used by the client program 101. The receiver side system 150 has one or more device-embedded function adapters (adapter class) 156 for associating each device-embedded function 157 with a common reception interface 155.
Here, the transmission interface 106 and the reception interface 155 respectively receive an XML message 110 as an input and output it.
The local or remote device-embedded function 157 to be invoked is specified as an invoked party in the data required to be communicated by the client program 101. The communication data required to be communicated by the client program 101 is transmitted to the remote transmitter 104 or the local transmitter 103 selected by the transmitter selector 102 as the XML message 110. The remote transmitter (remote transmission class) 104 and the local transmitter (local transmission class) 103 implement the common transmission interface 106. Therefore, the client program 101 can transmit the XML message 110 without taking into account which transmitter is used.
Since it is not required to take into account whether the remote or local transmitter is used, the same client program 101 can be used regardless of whether the communication is local or remote, thus the program size can be reduced.
The XML message 110 transmitted in this manner is received at the remote receiver 152 or the local receiver 153. If the local device-embedded function is specified as the invoked party, the sender side system 100 and the receiver side system 150 are common. The message distributor 154 determines that the XML message 110 is transmitted to which of one or more device-embedded functions 157. Then depending on the result of the determination, the XML message 110 is transmitted to the device-embedded function 157 via the device-embedded function adapter 156. Each device-embedded function adapter 156 has a common reception interface 155. Therefore, the message distributor 154 can deliver the XML message 110 without taking into account the differences of the device-embedded functions 157.
The same device-embedded function 157 can be used regardless of whether it is invoked locally or remotely. This allows the program size to be reduced. Further, providing the local transmitter 103 and the local receiver 153 corresponding to the remote transmitter 104 and the remote receiver 152 respectively allows an implementation optimized for local invocation. This allows the processing time of the communication to be reduced without overhead via a network.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram describing a hardware configuration of a communication apparatus according to the present embodiment.
A CPU 201 controls operation of the entire apparatus according to the program loaded to a RAM 202 or stored in a ROM 203. The RAM 202 provides a work area for temporarily storing various data at control operation. The ROM 203 stores a boot program and various data. An input unit 204 has a keyboard and a pointing device such as a mouse, and is operated by a user and used to input various data and commands. A display unit 205 has a display panel such as a CRT or liquid crystal display and is used to display a message or data to a user. An external storage device (HDD) is a mass storage unit on which programs such as various applications and OS are installed. In response to these programs are invoked, they are read and loaded to the RAM 202, and is executed under the control of the CPU 201. The network interface (I/F) 207 controls the communication with a network 208.
The function of each unit in FIG. 1 is provided, for example, by executing programs by the CPU 201 loaded to the RAM 202.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram describing a remote communication in the communication system according to the present embodiment. Although a program execution environment, a utility program, a program library and the like are required for executing the data communication programs according to the present embodiment, these are not shown in the figure.
The client program 101 issues an acquisition request (301) for a transmitter (local transmitter 103 or remote transmitter 104) to the transmitter selector 102 by specifying a destination. Based on the destination, the transmitter selector 102 determines whether the destination is the same local node or another remote node. Based on the determination, the transmitter selector 102 returns to the client program 101, specification information (302) specifying that the transmitter to be used is local or remote. Here, if the destination is local, the local transmitter 103 is transferred to the client program 101. On the other hand, if the destination is remote, the remote transmitter 104 is transferred to the client program 101. As a result, the client program 101 sends the XML message 110 and the destination (303) to the transferred local transmitter 103 or remote transmitter 104 via the common transmission interface 106.
If the communication is destined for remote, the remote transmitter 104 is selected. The remote transmitter 104 receives the destination and the XML message 110 via the transmission interface 106 and transmits them (304) to the WSDL interpreter 105. Having received the destination and the XML message 110, the WSDL interpreter 105 formats them as a SOAP message and transmits it (305) to the remote SOAP receiver 151.
Having received the SOAP message, The SOAP receiver 151 transmits it (306) along with a reception notification of the message. The remote receiver 152 separates the SOAP message into the XML message 110 and the destination, and transmits (307) the destination, the XML message 110 and the reception notification of the message to the message distributor 154. Having received the reception notification of the message from the remote receiver 152, the message distributor 154 transmits (308) an XML message 110 and the reception notification of the message to the device-embedded function adapter 156 determined from the destination via the reception interface 155. In this manner, the device-embedded function adapter 156 invokes the device-embedded function 157 associated with it.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram describing a local communication in the communication system according to the present embodiment. Although a program execution environment, a utility program, a program library and the like are required for executing the data communication programs according to the present embodiment, these are not shown in the figure.
The client program 101 issues an acquisition request (401) for a transmitter to the transmitter selector 102 by specifying a destination. Based on the destination, the transmitter selector 102 determines whether the destination is the same local node or another remote node. Based on the determination, the transmitter selector 102 returns (402) to the client program 101, specification information specifying that the transmitter to be used is local or remote. Here, if the destination is local, the local transmitter 103 is transferred to the client program 101. As a result, the client program 101 transmits (403) the XML message 110 and the destination to the transferred local transmitter 103 via the common transmission interface 106.
Having received the destination and the XML message via the transmission interface 106, the local transmitter 103 directly invokes (404) the local receiver 153 within its own node using the XML message 110 and the destination. In this case, the sender side system 100 and receiver side system 150 are within the same node. The local receiver 153 invoked in this manner transmits (405) the destination, XML message 110 and the reception notification of the message to the message distributor 154.
Having received the reception notification of the message from the local receiver 153, the message distributor 154 transmits (406) the XML message 110, the reception notification of the message to the device-embedded function adapter 156 determined from the destination via the reception interface 155. In this manner, the device-embedded function adapter 156 invokes the device-embedded function 157 associated with it.
As described above, according to the present embodiment, in a program creation or maintenance environment, systems distributed in a network can communicate in a single process without taking into account whether the service is located on the same node as the client application program or another node in the network. If the service is located in the same network as the client application program, the overhead caused by using the network can be eliminated.
According to the present embodiment, a device-embedded function executed on the same node can be constructed as a service available to another node in a network without modification.
FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram schematically showing a data communication system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. A hardware configuration of the communication device according to the present embodiment is the same as FIG. 2.
A sender side system of the data communication system according to the present embodiment has the following configuration. A client application 5100 utilizes a service located on its own node or another node located in a network. A WSDL (Web Service Description Language) descriptor 5101 describes the interface of the service. A WSDL manager 5102 manages the WSDL descriptor 5101 of the service in a name space. A WSDL recognizer 5103 reads and recognizes the content of the WSDL descriptor 5101. A SOAP transmitter 5104 is used by the WSDL recognizer 5103 for transmitting a SOAP message. A module invocation unit 5105 invokes the service module executed on the node where the client application 5100 is executed.
FIG. 6 depicts an example of WSDL extended to be executed on the same node in a network as the node where the client application 5100 is executed.
A binding element qualified by a local qualifier enables to recognize whether the interface indicated by the WSDL descriptor 5101 is the service executed on the same node in the network as the client application 5100. Method attribute in an operation element qualified by the local qualifier allows method name (here, “print”) executed by the service to be recognized. Further, moduleName attribute (here, “libprint.so”) of a module element qualified by the local qualifier allows the program module describing the service to be recognized.
The service that the client application 5100 is required to communicate is managed by the WSDL manager 5102 associating the name space of the WSDL with the WSDL descriptor 5101. The WSDL descriptors 5101 include a WSDL descriptor extended to be executed on the node in a network where the client application 5100 is executed and a WSDL descriptor utilized by SOAPBinding. The WSDL descriptor extended to be executed on the node in a network where the client application 5100 is executed and the WSDL descriptor utilized by SOAPBinding have separate name spaces by targetNamespace attribute in a definition element shown in FIG. 6. This allows the service to be uniquely identified by each name space.
A data which is required to be communicated by the client application 5100 is transmitted to the WSDL recognizer 5103 for which WSDL is specified, and is processed according to the content of the WSDL descriptor 5101. That is, in the case of SOAPBinding, the data is transmitted to service of another node in the network via SOAP using the SOAP transmitter 5104. In the case of LOCALBinding, the data is invoked as a program on the same node in the network using the module invocation unit 5105.
FIGS. 7 and 8 are collaboration diagram showing an example of functions of the service utilization system, apparatus and program according to the present embodiment. FIG. 7 shows an invoking process when the service is used, and FIG. 8 shows an invoking process when the program to be executed on the same node in the network is invoked. Although a program execution environment, a utility program, a program library and the like are required for executing the data communication programs according to the present embodiment, these are not shown in the figure.
The client application 5100 requests (7300) the WSDL manager 5102 for a list of services. An implementation using some search expression to narrow the services is also possible. The WSDL manager 5102 which is requested for the list returns (7301) a list of URI identified in the name space to the client application 5100. This allows the client application 5100 to identify any URI to be utilized. The client application 5100 requests (7302) the WSDL manager 5102 for the WSDL descriptor 5101 with that URI. If the URI has been previously identified, the client application 5100 may request the WSDL descriptor 5101 without an issuance of an acquisition request 7300. The WSDL manager 5102 which has been requested for the WSDL descriptor 5101 returns (7303) it from the URI transmitted on its request to the client application 5100.
The client application 5100 specifies (7304) the WSDL descriptor 5101 returned from the WSDL manager 5102 for the WSDL recognizer 5103. At this point, the client application 5100 caches the WSDL descriptor 5101. This allows the client application 5100, for using the WSDL descriptor 5101 defined in the same name space the next time, to specify the WSDL descriptor 5101 for the WSDL recognizer 5103 using the WSDL descriptor 5101 stored in its own cache. Therefore, in this case, the client application 5100 is not required to query the WSDL manager 5102 for the WSDL descriptor 5101.
Next, the client application 5100 transmits the message (7305) that is the data to be communicated to the WSDL recognizer 5103. The WSDL recognizer 5103 acquires (7306) each parameter from the WSDL descriptor 5101 specified in its own. If there is a SOAPBinding element in the binding element, the WSDL recognizer 5103 transmits (7307) the message along with each parameter.
FIG. 8 shows an invocation process for invoking a program executed on the same node in a network in which the parts common to FIG. 7 described above are designated as the same reference numerals and not described again.
In FIG. 8, since the WSDL recognizer 5103 is executed on the same node in a network if there is a LOCALBinding element in the binding element, the WSDL recognizer 5103 transmits (8401) the message along with each parameter to the module invocation unit 5105. The other parts are same as those in FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram describing in more detail the internal operation of the WSDL recognizer 5103 according to the present embodiment.
The client application 5100 specifies the WSDL descriptor 5101 for the WSDL recognizer 5103. This corresponds to the processes 7304 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.
The WSDL recognizer 5103 acquires binding attribute (501) described in a service element in a definitions element from the WSDL descriptor 5101.
The WSDL recognizer 5103 acquires (502) from the descriptor 5101 a binding element in a definitions element having name as a string specified in the binding attribute acquired at (501).
The WSDL recognizer 5103 acquires (503) from the WSDL descriptor 5101 child elements of the binding element in the definitions element.
If there is a LOCALBinding element in the child elements of the binding element acquired by the WSDL descriptor 5101 at (503) (FIG. 8), the WSDL recognizer 5103 performs (504) a module invocation process.
The WSDL recognizer 5103 acquires (505) by the WSDL descriptor 5101 a LOCAL:module element in a port element in the service element in the definition element.
During the module invocation process, the WSDL recognizer 5103 acquires (506) by the WSDL descriptor 5101 library name from a module Name attribute in the LOCAL module element acquired at (505).
The WSDL recognizer 5103 acquires (507) by the WSDL descriptor 5101 method name transmitting the message from method attribute in a LOCAL operation element in the binding element acquired at (502).
During the module invocation process, the WSDL recognizer 5103 transmits (508) the message along with the library and method names to the module invocation unit 5105. This corresponds to the process shown at 8401 in FIG. 8.
The module invocation unit 5105 loads (509) the library transmitted from the library WSDL recognizer 5103.
The module invocation unit 5015 transmits the message (510) to a method having the method name transmitted from the WSDL recognizer 5103.
If there is a SOAPBinding element in child elements of the binding element acquired by the WSDL descriptor 5101 at (503) (FIG. 7), the WSDL recognizer 5103 performs a SOAP method transmission process (511) to the SOAP transmitter 5104. This corresponds to the process shown at 7307 in FIG. 7.
As described above, according to the present embodiment, in a program creation or maintenance environment, systems distributed in a network can communicate in a single process without taking into account whether the service is located on the same node as the client application or another node in the network.
If the service is located in the same network as the client application 5100, overhead associated with utilizing the network is eliminated.
Also, according to the present embodiment, the client application can identify the service without taking into account whether the service is located on the same node as the client application or another node in the network.
The present invocation may apply to a system composed of a plurality of devices (e.g., host computer, interface device, reader, printer, etc.) or a single device (e.g., copying machine, facsimile machine, etc.)
The objects of the present invention is achieved by attaching to a system or device a storage medium recording a software program code for providing the functions of the embodiments described above, and reading and executing the program code installed from the storage medium. In this case, the program code itself read out from the storage medium would provide the functions of the embodiments described above, and the storage medium storing the program code would constitute the present invention.
The storage medium providing the program include, for example, a hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, magnetic tape, non-volatile memory card and the like. Further, they also include ROM and DVD (DVD-ROM, DVD-R).
Further, it may be possible to connect a home page in the Internet using a browser in the client computer and to download the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including automatic installation function into the storage medium. Further, it may be possible to divide the program code constituting the program according to the present invention into a plurality of files and to download these files from different home pages. That is, the clams of the present invention include a WWW server allowing a plurality of users to download program files for implementing the functional process according to the present invention as a computer.
The present invention is not limited to the case where the functions according to the above-described embodiments are provided by executing the program code being read by a computer. That is, the present invention includes the case where OS (Operating System) or the like running on the computer performs some or all of the actual process, thereby the functions according to the above-described embodiments are provided.
Further, the present invention also includes the case where the program code being read from the storage medium is written into a memory included in a functional expansion board inserted into the computer or a functional expansion unit connected to the computer, then CPU included in the functional expansion board or unit performs some or all of the actual process, thereby the functions according to the above-described embodiments is provided.
While the embodiments according to the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and it may be modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2005-261099, filed Sep. 8, 2005, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2005-298097, filed Oct. 12, 2005, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
1. A communication method comprising the steps of:
selecting one of remote and local transmitters; transmitting a message from the transmitter selected in said selecting step; receiving the message at a receiver; and transmitting the message to the destination of the message received in said receiving step.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein in said transmitting step, the message is transmitted to an adapter for invoking function, the adapter being the destination.
3. A communication apparatus comprising:
selection means for selecting one of remote and local transmitters according to the destination of a message; first transmission means for transmitting the message from the transmitter selected by said selection means; reception means for receiving the message at a receiver; and second transmission means for transmitting the message to the destination of the message received by said reception means.
4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said second transmission means transmits the message to an adapter for invoking function, the adapter being the destination.
5. A communication system comprising:
a transmission interface configured to transmit a message; local transmission means for transmitting the message transmitted from said transmission interface to a local destination; remote transmission means for transmitting the message transmitted from said transmission interface to a destination on a network; local reception means for receiving the message transmitted to said local destination; remote reception means for receiving the message from the network; and an adapter configured to receive the message received by said local or remote reception means.
6. The system according to claim 5, wherein said local and remote reception means comprise transmission means for transmitting the message to the adapter invoking function, the adapter being the destination.
7. A communication method comprising:
a first transmission step of transmitting a message transmitted from a transmission interface to a local destination; a second transmission step of transmitting the message transmitted from the transmission interface to a destination on a network; a local reception step of receiving the message transmitted to the local destination; a remote reception step of receiving the message from the network; and a processing step of processing the message received in said local or remote reception step.
8. The method according to claim 7, wherein said processing step comprises a step of transmitting the message to an adapter for invoking function, the adapter being the destination.
9. A computer program for a computer making communication, comprising the steps of:
selecting one of remote and local transmitters according to the destination of a message; transmitting the message from the transmitter selected in said selection step; receiving the message at a receiver; and transmitting the message to the destination of the message received in said receiving step.
10. The program according to claim 9, wherein in said transmitting step, the message is transmitted to an adapter for invoking function, the adapter being the destination.
11. A processing method for processing Web service description, comprising the steps of:
acquiring a parameter from the Web service description; and selecting a remote transmitter or an invocation unit in a local module according to the parameter acquired in said acquiring step.
12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising a step of transmitting a message from the remote transmitter to a node on a network.
13. The method according to claim 11, wherein the Web service description selecting the remote transmitter and the Web service description selecting the invocation unit in the local module have different name spaces from each other.
14. A processing apparatus for processing Web service description, comprising:
processing means for acquiring a parameter from the Web service description; and selection means for selecting a remote transmitter or an invocation unit in a local module according to the parameter acquired by said processing means.
15. The apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising means for transmitting a message from the remote transmitter to a node on a network.
16. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the Web service description selecting the remote transmitter and the Web service description selecting the invocation unit in the local module have different name spaces from each other.
17. A computer program for a computer for processing Web service description, comprising the steps of:
acquiring a parameter from the Web service description; and selecting a remote transmitter or an invocation unit in a local module according to the parameter acquired in said acquiring step.
18. The program according to claim 17, further comprising a step of transmitting a message from the remote transmitter to a node on a network.
19. The program according to claim 17, wherein the Web service description selecting the remote transmitter and the Web service description selecting the invocation unit in the local module have different name spaces from each other.
| 2006-09-07 | en | 2007-03-08 |
US-201815985195-A | Force distribution method and apparatus for neonates at risk of cranial molding
ABSTRACT
A force distribution apparatus and method are presented. Various embodiments of the disclosed apparatus include a plurality of layers configured and oriented to be deployed on a subject in a manner that disperses forces and lowers peak pressures experienced by the subject when resting on a surface, which tends to minimize risks of deformation and local ischemia. An innovative combination of novel construction methods and material selections produce an apparatus that possesses an inherent three-dimensional shape despite being built from essentially flat components, while also retaining an ability to effectively distribute forces and reduce pressures.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of and claims priority benefit of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/854,774, filed Sep. 15, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/504,404, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,173,763, filed Oct. 1, 2015, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/012,795, filed Jun. 16, 2014, entitled “Pressure Distribution for Neonates at Risk of Cranial Molding”, to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/885,486, filed Oct. 1, 2013, entitled “Bonnet For Preventing & Treating Neonatal Cranial Molding & Skin Breakdown,” and to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/947,203 filed Mar. 3, 2014, entitled “Pressure Distribution for Neonates at Risk of Cranial Molding,” the contents of each of which are incorporated herein in their entireties by this reference. This application also references U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 13/642,034, filed Apr. 21, 2011, entitled “Neonatal Cranial Support Bonnet”, which claims priority to provisional application U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/327,647, filed Apr. 23, 2010, both of which are also incorporated herein in their entirely by this reference.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
1. Field of the invention
The present invention particularly relates to medical devices and methods that prevent, minimize and/or treat cranial molding in neonatal subjects, most especially for human subjects born prematurely. More particularly, the present invention relates to such medical devices and methods that distribute cranial interface pressures and corresponding forces routinely encountered during care of such neonatal subjects, primarily for reducing risks of cranial deformation and potentially associated developmental impairment or delay.
2. Description of Related Art
As a neonatal human subject lies in a supine position, forces are imparted at areas of contact between the subject and the surface on which the subject lies. When the subject is lying in a supine (back downward) position, a contact area exists generally on the occipital region of the subject's head.
In the mid-1990s, the “Back to Sleep” (BTS) campaign was initiated to address the problem of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). It was hypothesized that a risk factor associated with SIDS in infants was sleeping in a prone position and that switching infants to a supine position that the incidence of SIDS would decrease. In one study of 568 SIDS cases occurring before and after the initiation of the BTS campaign in about 1994, a sudden decrease in the rate of SIDS cases from 1.34 per 1,000 births in 1991 to 0.64 per 1,000 births in 2008 occurred. The study also showed that, over that same period, the percentage of SIDS infants placed to sleep prone decreased from 85.4% to 30.1% and that those found prone decreased from 84.0% to 48.5%, whereas those placed supine increased from 1.9% to 47.1%. Such findings indicate overall that more infants were placed supine at the time that the SIDS rate was declining precipitously (Trachtenburg FL et al, “Risk Factor Changes for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome After Initiation of Back-to-Sleep Campaign”, Pediatrics 2012;129;630).
Largely attributed to the BTS campaign, there has been a simultaneous increase in the occurrence of cranial molding, including deformational plagiocephaly. Deformational plagiocephaly (DP) refers to asymmetry or flattening of the infant skull secondary to external force. While DP has long been an occasional condition in neonatal subjects in general, the incidence of DP has steadily increased over the past twenty years, from an estimated 5% in the mid-1990s to 20-30% currently. Such cranial deformation, unfortunately, may not merely be a cosmetic condition. Evidence suggests that children with deformational plagiocephaly have an increased risk for developmental impairment or developmental delay, perhaps because brain parenchyma shifts to conform to positional skull deformities.
In spite of the long history and steady increase in the incidence of cranial molding, optimal solutions have not been presented. It is known that some orthotics are used in an attempt to ameliorate such conditions, yet the cranial molding rate remains high, and many other challenges and obstacles encountered with the prior art remain unresolved.
Many other advantages, disadvantages, problems and challenges of the prior art are known and will be evident to those of ordinary skill in the art, particularly after reading this specification and contemplating its implications.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is a fundamental object of the present invention to minimize and overcome the obstacles and challenges of the prior art, especially in ways that contribute to improved health and wellbeing of those who are suffering or are at risk of suffering from deformational plagiocephaly, as well as to facilitate and enable effective yet easy and affordable interventions and techniques for achieving such improved health and wellbeing. While numerous secondary objects may also be addressed, the most pressing objectives relate especially to the care of neonatal human subjects who are born prematurely and who suffer or are at risk of suffering complications due to cranial molding and related developmental conditions.
In the following descriptions and accompanying drawings, numerous details are set forth and illustrated to provide a more thorough understanding of preferred embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, “or” does not require mutual exclusivity.
In many embodiments of the invention, force-distributing apparatus are provided for use on a subject such as a human. Such force-distributing apparatus are generally adapted to disperse the forces imparted to the subject's tissue due to the weight of the subject on an external support surface, thereby reducing the pressure resulting from the applied force. Preferred embodiments of the present invention are often in the form of a force-distributing cranial support, which is sometimes referred to as a pressure reducing cranial support, a force-distributing apparatus, a “bonnet”, or a “protector.” In some embodiments, the force-distributing cranial support is designed, structured, sized, and secured to a subject's head in order to distribute cranial and skin interface pressures while reducing point loads encountered between the subject's head and a mattress, pad or other underlying support surface on which the subject's head is positioned to rest. In other embodiments, the pressure reducing cranial support is designed, structured, and sized to be positioned on a pediatric head and in other embodiments on an adult head. The pressure reduction apparatus may take other forms permitting the pressure reduction apparatus to be affixed over a bony protuberance of the human, the bony protuberance including but not limited to a pelvic region, an elbow, or the heel of the foot.
When so placed on the subject, the force-distributing apparatus, because of its particular features and characteristics, distributes external forces away from the area of contact between the tissue and an external surface, as smaller forces over a larger area. Such smaller forces over the larger area, in turn, result in less applied pressure. Accordingly, without being limited to any particular theory, by distributing the normal forces applied to the cranial bones when the infant is laying supine, the infant's brain parenchyma within the cranial cavity may be more likely to grow essentially in a radial manner and less likely to have growth restricted to cranial portions not experiencing high normal forces.
When affixed to the head of the infant, the force-distributing cranial support is configured to reduce compressive forces on soft, flexible cranial plates that define a cranial cavity. The force-distributing cranial support cradles the head, further promoting the proper development of the infant's head, reducing the incidence or preventing the development of plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and dolichocephaly (referred to collectively as, “positional cranial molding” or, simply, “cranial molding”), as well as other forms of skeletal deformation. Such reduction of the development of cranial molding is also thought to aid in the prevention and treatment of other related disorders and diseases in neonatal subjects—most notably by permitting the normal growth of brain tissue within the cranial cavity, perhaps positively affecting cognitive development.
Though not the primary object of the present invention, due to the surprising ability to distribute pressures with minimal encumbrance around the subject, embodiments of the invention are also able to reduce skin interface pressures and, hence, can also be used secondarily to prevent diseases and disorders caused by prolonged or excessive skin interface pressures. The distribution of pressure may also reduce skin interface pressures on areas of the soft tissue where compressive forces are otherwise concentrated and, hence, tend to cause partial or complete capillary collapse. Such capillary collapse may lead to pressure ulcers, pressure sores, skin breakdown, decubitus ulcers, or other pathophysiologic conditions. The force-distributing apparatus may thus be prophylactically affixed to the human in a manner to distribute pressure in an at-risk area to prevent such pathophysiology.
Beyond prevention, in the event that initial cranial molding or skin breakdown is observed, preferred methods of the invention prompt caregivers to interventionally secure the force-distributing cranial support in a corresponding position on the subject's head, both to help in treatment of the deformation or skin breakdown, as well as to prevent further harm. The treatment aspects are enabled by the ability of the force-distributing cranial support to distribute external cranial forces and to distribute and reduce skin interface pressures on the areas of the subject's head where compressive forces are otherwise concentrated and, hence, tend to cause partial or complete capillary collapse. By distributing and reducing as much, the force-distributing cranial support thereby helps treat and allow natural healing of tissue that has already partially deteriorated due to pressure points.
In some embodiments of the invention, a force-distributing cranial support has a concavely shaped occipital cup portion and a contiguous head strap portion shaped and sized to circumferentially envelope the head of an infant while leaving the crown and face of the head exposed. The occipital cup portion and the head strap portion each comprise a patient-oriented face configured to be proximate the skin of the head when in use and an environmental-oriented face configured to face away from the skin of the head when in use. The occipital cup portion further comprises a force-distributing assembly of one or more force-distributing elements where the force-distributing elements may be a semi-solid material or, more preferably a gel, or still more preferably a hydrogel.
The materials and dimensions of the force-distributing assembly of the force-distributing cranial support are such that when the head of the infant who is lying in a supine repose on a surface is so enveloped, the force-distributing assembly distributes the force applied at a contact point on the surface over a larger area and thus disperses the pressure associated with the weight of the infant's head. Further, the head strap portion is dimensioned and oriented to secure the occipital cup portion against the posterior aspect of the infant's head. The occipital cup portion and the head strap portion comprise a readily cleanable, hypoallergenic, biocompatible, and non-irritating material that is selectively coated with a grip-providing material. Preferably the grip-providing material is oriented on a side of the force-distributing cranial support that contacts the infant's head. In other embodiments of the invention, the force-distributing cranial support also includes a padded layer within, oriented essentially adjacent to the force-distributing assembly, both the force-distributing assembly and the padded layer assuming the concavity of the occipital cup portion.
These and many other aspects of the invention will be understood by those of skill in the art in light of any claims that are or may later be associated with this patent application, especially when contemplated in light of various embodiments of the invention that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and are further described on the following pages of this application, as well as the many other embodiments that could now or in the future also fall within the scope of those claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a force-distributing cranial support 100, which is representative of preferred embodiments constructed according to the teachings of the present invention, and which is formed to fit on a head 210 (shown in phantom lines) of a prematurely-born neonatal subject 200;
FIG. 2 shows a further perspective view of a representative preferred embodiment of the force-distributing cranial support 100 of FIG. 1, although FIG. 2 shows the support 100 laid flat in an opened state, not fitted to the head of the subject;
FIG. 3 shows an exploded diagram of many of the various layers and other elements that are united during manufacture to form the force-distributing cranial support 100 of FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a variation of force-distributing cranial support 100 in its operative orientation on neonatal head 210 much as in FIG. 1, while FIG. 2 further illustrates the incorporation of pressure sensors 164 (shown in hidden line) and an associated display 166 to enable feature enhancements not illustrated in FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 shows a variation 100′ of force-distributing cranial support 100 in a perspective view, as operatively oriented on the head of a neonatal subject, with particular detail to illustrate an anchor system 168 for an accessory securement system 172;
FIG. 6 shows a representative preferred embodiment of an anchor apparatus 170 in a perspective view, as part of the anchor system 168 and related components illustrated in FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 shows a representative preferred embodiment of a connecting member 184 in a front view, which forms part of the preferred accessory securement system 172 illustrated in the FIG. 5 variation 100′ of force-distributing cranial support 100;
FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a representative preferred embodiment of an accessory adapter 188, which is part of an alternative embodiment of the accessory securement system 172 illustrated in the FIG. 5 variation 100′ of force-distributing cranial support 100;
FIG. 9 shows a plot of the percent differences in peak pressures imparted to a subject positioned on a hard surface, the differences being between the peak pressures with and without the subject using a force-distributing cranial support comparable to support 100 of FIG. 1; and
FIG. 10 shows a plot of the percent differences in contact areas between a subject and a hard surface, the differences being between the contact areas with and without the subject using a force-distributing cranial support comparable to support 100 of FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
A good understanding of the broader aspects of the present invention can be gleaned from consideration of several of the presently preferred embodiments that are depicted in and described with reference to FIGS. 1-10 of the drawings, where like numerals are used for like elements in the various embodiments. Occasional paragraph or section headings have been used for ease of reference, but such headings generally should not be read as affecting the meaning of the descriptions included in those paragraphs/sections.
Referring to FIG. 1, in various preferred embodiments, a force-distributing cranial support 100 is shaped and adapted to conform to a subject's head 210 in an orientation as generally illustrated in FIG. 1, which is referred to as the “operative position” of force-distributing cranial support 100. As will be evident to those of skill in the art, particularly after contemplating the further descriptions of this specification, force-distributing cranial support 100 is especially adapted to protect the head 210 of a prematurely-born neonatal subject 200 against cranial molding and other complications.
The force-distributing cranial support 100 generally has an environmental oriented face 104 and a patient oriented face 106, which provide the outer surfaces surrounding a multi-layered cushion assembly 136, which preferably includes a gel assembly 138 as described further herein. In some embodiments, the environmental oriented face 104 further comprises a medial environmental-face component 108 and two lateral environmental-face components 110 a and 110 b (the latter being numbered in FIG. 3). The patient oriented face 106 is oriented opposite the environmental oriented face 104. The force-distributing cranial support 100 further comprises a cephalic edge 112 and a caudal edge 114, which in use orients the cephalic edge 112 towards a crown 211 of the subject's head 210 and the caudal edge 114 towards a neck 116 of the subject.
In part to help distribute forces encountered by the occipital region 212 of the head 210 of the subject 200 when the subject is lying supinely in a neonatal bassinet or neonatal incubator, the force-distributing cranial support 100 comprises an occipital cup portion 118, which in use is snugly positioned proximate the occipital bone in the occipital region 212 of the subject's head 210.
The force-distributing cranial support 100 also has a head strap portion 120, which preferably is formed by one or more integral portions of the force-distributing cranial support 100. The structure, shapes and configuration of the head strap portion 120 are such that, while the occipital cup 118 is snugly positioned in its operative position on the occipital region 212 of head 210, head strap portion 120 provides a circumferential closure around the forehead 214 of subject 210, thereby snugly enveloping the forehead 214, while also serving to further secure both the occipital cup 118 and the overall support 100 in their respective operative positions. Head strap portion 120 preferably includes conventional releasable closure adaptations such that portion 120 provides a releasable circumferential closure around the forehead 214 of subject 210, to secure both the occipital cup 118 and the overall support 100 in their respective operative positions.
In use, the force-distributing cranial support 100 adopts a three-dimensional structure that is essentially symmetrical about a vertical plane extending between the furthest points of the occipital cup portion 118 and the head strap portion 120, the vertical plane defining a first side and a second side of the force-distributing cranial support 100.
The occipital cup portion 118 may further comprise caudal tabs 122 bilaterally extending along the caudal edge 114 of a first side and a second side of the force-distributing cranial support 100, thus oriented proximate a jaw of the subject's head 210. The head strap portion 120 may further comprise a first wing 124 a and a second wing 124 b, the first wing 124 a and the second wing 124 b extending from the occipital cup portion 118 along the cephalic edge 112. The first wing 124 a and the second wing 124 b are releasably attachable, preferably carrying a hook and loop fastener material to provide a secure releasable attachment, together the releasably attached first and second wings 124 a and 124 b form the head strap portion 120. However, any suitable fastening mechanism such as snaps, for example, could be used instead. In other embodiments, the head strap portion 120 may include a band affixed to the occipital cup portion 118 proximate the cephalic edge 112. The band and the occipital cup portion 118 may each carry a releasable attachment mechanism, for example a hook and loop fastener material between the occipital cup portion 118 and the head strap portion 120. The head strap portion 120 may further comprise an elastic material to provide a compression force sufficient to maintain the force-distributing cranial support 100 on the subject's head 210.
Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, the occipital cup portion 118 may further comprise ear-accommodating arches 126 defined on one side by the caudal tabs 122 and on the other side by a lower aspect of the wings 124 a and 124 b. In use, the force-distributing cranial support 100 is positioned in its operative position on the head 210 of the subject, in an orientation such that the ear-accommodating arches 126 are proximate the posterior aspects of the ears 219 a and 219 b of the subject. In such operative position, the force-distributing cranial support 100 is positioned for distributing forces that would otherwise be encountered by the occipital region 212 of the head 210 of the subject 200 when the subject is conventionally lying in a supine position on a neonatal bassinet and/or neonatal incubator.
Referring now to FIG. 2, in one embodiment, the occipital cup portion 118 may comprise a caudal rim member 128 oriented essentially proximate the caudal edge 114 and positioned under the patient oriented face 106. So oriented, when in use, the caudal rim member 128 protrudes towards the subject's head 210 and below an occipital protuberance of the subject's head 210. The caudal rim member 128 is positioned and oriented relative to the occipital protuberance to resist migration of the force-distributing cranial support 100 off the subject's head 210 during ordinary movement. The caudal rim member 128 is preferably an elongated polyethylene foam element oriented between the patient oriented face 106 and the environmental oriented face 104, however, the caudal rim member 128 may also be any other foam or gel element or any other malleable bolster material. In dimension, the caudal rim member 128 is preferably essentially the width of the occipital cup portion 118 along the caudal edge 114 thereof, although the caudal rim member 128 may also be as narrow as about 2 cm, centered along the caudal edge 114 to the same effect. The extent to which the caudal rim member 128 protrudes from the patient oriented face 106 is preferably between about 0.2 cm and about 1 cm although in some circumstances this distance may be as large as about 1.5 cm.
In other embodiments (not shown), the occipital cup portion 118 may also comprise two ridge members secured to the environmental oriented face 104. The two ridge members are preferably elastic foam or foam-filled structures that protrude outwardly to serve as mini-bolsters to aid in positioning of the subject's head 210. The two ridge members are dimensioned and positioned to provide stability to the subject's head, resisting a rolling motion. In an embodiment, the two ridge members are located essentially on opposite sides of line L, oriented approximately parallel to line L and between about 1 cm and about 3 cm from line L. In other embodiments, the two ridge members are removably affixable to the environmental oriented face 104 with a hook and loop securement mechanism, configured to allow repositioning of the two ridge members to different positions on the environmental oriented face 104 to stabilize the subject's head 210 in a variety of positions as dictated or suggested by clinical care.
Referring now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, an embodiment of the force-distributing cranial support 100 is shown. A flexible piping 130 extends essentially around the perimeter of the force-distributing cranial support 100 secured to both the environmental oriented face 104 and the patient oriented face 106, or to a seam therebetween. The piping 130 may further comprise a cord or a foam rod-or tube-like structure and an elongated band of flexible fabric material. Although various piping techniques could be suitable, the band of flexible fabric material is preferably turned to define a general piping shape, and its longitudinal edges are preferably folded-under along its length, to provide opposite longitudinal edges for providing a felled seam, one along each of its longitudinal edges. As is conventional for piping, one such felled seam of the elongate fabric material may be sewn or otherwise joined around the perimeter of the patient oriented face 106, and the other such felled seam may be sewn or otherwise joined around the perimeter of the environmental face 104, and the cord or foam structure is then held within the turned band of material.
In other embodiments, the piping 130 extends essentially around the perimeter of the force-distributing cranial support 100 with the exception of the most distal portion of the first and second wings 124 a and 124 b, for instance, leaving the distal most one to five centimeters without any piping. This may allow the distal tip of each of the first and second wings 124 a and 124 b to taper to a thinner dimension than the rest of wings 124 a and 124 b, which in turn helps accommodate overlap of such distal tips as well as the incorporation of hook-and-loop or other releasable closure connections in such distal tips in order to render the tips releasably connectable to one another.
Referring now to FIG. 2, an embodiment of the force-distributing cranial support 100 is shown in an opened state and portraying the patient oriented face 106. A cephalic edge arch 132 is essentially centered on the force-distributing cranial support 100 along the cephalic edge 112. Similarly, a caudal edge arch 134 is oriented essentially in the center of the force-distributing cranial support 100 along the caudal edge 114.
Referring now to FIG. 3, an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown. The force-distributing cranial support 100 is fabricated from a plurality of layers that provide for novel shaping and force-distribution and pressure reduction characteristics. A cushion assembly 136 is oriented between the environmental oriented face 104 and the patient oriented face 106 within the occipital cup portion 118, the cushion assembly 136 preferably includes a gel assembly 138 cushioned with one or more pad layers. In other embodiments, the gel layer 144 comprises one or more cushion elements. In some embodiments, the cushion assembly 136 is a force-distributing assembly. Preferably, the gel assembly 138 is sandwiched between an inner pad layer 140 and an outer pad layer 142. In one embodiment, the gel assembly 138 comprises a gel layer 144 encapsulated between an inner envelope layer 146 and an outer envelope layer 148. In some preferred embodiments, the gel layer 144 further comprises a medial gel element 150, two lateral gel elements 152 a and 152 b, and an inferior gel element 153 or caudal gel element 153. In some embodiments, the medial gel element 150, the two lateral gel elements 152 a and 152 b, and the inferior gel element 153 are each a semi-solid material.
The inner envelope layer 146 and the outer envelope layer 148 may be sealed about a perimeter so as to encase the medial gel element 150, the two lateral gel elements 152 a and 152 b, and the inferior gel element 153. The inner envelope layer 146 and the outer envelope layer 148 may also be sealed or partially sealed between the medial gel element 150, the two lateral gel elements 152 a and 152 b, and the inferior gel element 153, such sealing serving to fix each gel element 150, 152 a, 152 b, and 153 in its proper position during use, while also serving to isolate or separate each of the gel elements 150, 152 a, 152 b, and 153 from one another. The sealing may be accomplished through a heat-sealing process, a welding process, an application of an adhesive, or any other suitable process or mechanism. These seals generate seams between the various components. The seams provide a flexible bend region to facilitate the assembly of the force-distributing cranial support 100.
In one embodiment, the inner pad layer 140 is positioned essentially parallel and proximate both the gel assembly 138 and the patient oriented face 106. The outer pad layer 142 may be positioned essentially parallel and proximate both the gel assembly 138 and the environmental oriented face 104. The inner pad layer 140 may be adhered to the patient oriented face 106 with an adhesive, and the outer pad layer 142 may be adhered to the environmental oriented face 104 with an adhesive, the adhesive preferably being an acrylic adhesive. Preferably, the outer pad layer 142 may further comprise a medial outer pad element 154, two lateral pad elements 156 a and 156 b. The outer pad layer 142 may also be laterally flanked by two outer wing pad elements, 158 a and 158 b. Similarly, the inner pad layer 140 may be laterally flanked by two inner wing pad elements 160 a and 160 b. The four wing pad elements 158 a, 158 b, 160 a, and 160 b are positioned thus lateral to the gel assembly 138 and positioned in the first wing 124 a and the second wing 124 b of the force-distributing cranial support 100 between the environmental oriented face 104 and the patient oriented face 106. The two inner pad wing elements 160 a and 160 b and the two outer pad wing elements 158 a and 158 b may be adhered to the appropriate proximate first wing 124 a and second wing 124 b with an acrylic adhesive or other suitable affixing agent. In other embodiments, two inner pad wing elements 160 a and 160 b and the two outer pad wing elements 158 a and 158 b may be adhered to the gel assembly 138 with an acrylic adhesive or other suitable affixing agent.
The environmental oriented face 104 and the patient oriented face 106 may be the same type of material or may be different. Both faces 104 and 106 may comprise a flexible textile that is preferably capable of stretching to conform to an externally applied force which can, thus, minimize or even prevent an accompanying increase in interface pressure. The textile may also recover from such aforementioned stretch, returning to its original condition and shape. In some preferred embodiments, the textile is configured to have a low friction surface that reduces shear when laterally shifted in relation to an interfacing surface. In some preferred embodiments, the textile is hypoallergenic, biocompatible, and non-irritating. By way of a non-limiting example, the textile may be Recovery 5™ Healthcare Fabric or preferably Recovery 5™ HF Healthcare Fabric (Staftex Textiles Limited, Toronto, Canada).
The textile of faces 104 and 106 may also permit water vapor transfer to facilitate the movement of perspiration from the human subject to and preferably through one or more of the plurality of layers of the force-distributing cranial support 100 and may be configured for moisture vapor transfer between about 200 gr/m2/24 hrs to about 900 gr/m2/24 hrs. By way of a non-limiting example, the textile may be Estane® 58245 (Lubrizol, Cleveland, Ohio, USA). The textile may also comprise a combination of these stretch and moisture vapor transfer characteristics in one or more segments.
The textile of faces 104 and 106 may further comprise an antimicrobial agent or may have antimicrobial properties. The antimicrobial agent may be Ultra-Fresh DW-30® (Thomson Research Associates, Toronto, Canada) although many other biocompatible antimicrobial agents may be suitable also.
In some embodiments, the force-distributing cranial support 100 further comprises a grip-providing substance 162 or gripping material affixed to the patient oriented face 106 and oriented proximate the subject's head 210 when in use. The grip-providing substance 162 may cover the entire patient oriented face 106, or the grip-providing substance 162 may be configured in a pattern, covering only a portion of the patient oriented face 106. The pattern of the grip-providing substance 162 may be one or more stripes, one or more ellipses, one or more regular polygons, one or more dots, one or more lines essentially parallel to or perpendicular to the cephalic edge 112, other shapes, or a combination of any of these. The grip-providing substance 162 may be generally oriented on the occipital cup portion 118, generally on the head strap portion 120, or on both. In some preferred embodiments, the grip-providing substance 162 is oriented both along a portion of the patient oriented face 106 of the head strap portion 120, in a pattern on the occipital cup portion 118, and over the caudal rim member 128. In some embodiments, the pattern of the grip-providing substance 162 on the occipital cup portion 118 assumes the shape of an ellipsis or a polygon oriented essentially around the center of the occipital cup portion 118 while leaving the center of the occipital cup portion 118 uncovered by the grip-providing substance 162.
In an illustrative embodiment, the grip-providing substance 162 so applied to the occipital cup portion 118 may help minimize movement of the force-distributing cranial support 100 when affixed to the subject's head 210. The grip-providing substance 162 in some preferred embodiments comprises a cured silicone such as Bluestar TCS 7536 Silicone (Bluestar Silicones, East Brunswick, N.J., USA). In other embodiments, the grip-providing substance 162 may comprise Mediderm 3200 or Mediderm 4000 (Mylan Technologies, St. Albans, Vt.), although other grip-providing materials such as polysiloxane may also be used. In some embodiments, the grip-providing substance 162 has a thickness between about 10 microns and about 10 millimeters, preferably between about 50 microns and about 250 microns.
The inner pad layer 140 and the outer pad layer 142 may each comprise a polyethylene foam known to be medical grade and hypoallergenic. In other embodiments, the inner pad layer 140 and the outer pad layer 142 may each comprise a polyurethane foam known to be medical grade and hypoallergenic. By way of a non-limiting example, the polyethylene foam may be MDFT3500 (CCT Tapes, Philadelphia, Pa., USA) although other foam material may be used in other embodiments. In other embodiments, the polyethylene foam may be TM-6563 (MacTac, Stow, Ohio, USA). The polyethylene foam may be coated on one or both sides with an adhesive such as an acrylic adhesive. In some embodiments, the inner pad layer 140 and the outer pad layer 142 are dimensioned less than about 10 millimeters, more preferably less than about 5 millimeters and more preferably about 1 millimeter in thickness. The thickness dimensioning of the inner pad layer 140 and the outer pad layer 142 provides sufficient flexibility to allow the force-distributing cranial support 100 to follow the contours of the subject's head 210.
In one embodiment the gel elements 150, 152 a, 152 b, and 153 of the gel layer 144 are comprised of a hydrogel. The hydrogel may contain between about 10% and about 99.9% water, preferably between about 15% and about 70% water, and more preferably between about 35% and about 50% water. More preferably still, the water content of the hydrogel is about 40%. The gel layer 144 may be a proprietary hydrogel KM501 from Katecho, Inc. (Katecho, Des Moines, Iowa, USA). The hydrogel provides a semi-solid viscoelastic gel material that is resistant to flow or oozing and yet, surprisingly, provides a soft resilience to compression from an externally applied force and simultaneously provides a distribution of that externally applied pressure. The gel layer 144 is relatively thin, being dimensioned to have a thickness between about 2 mm and 20 mm, or preferably between about 4 mm and about 15 mm, or more preferably still between about 6 mm and about 10 mm.
The inner envelope layer 146 and the outer envelope layer 148 may each comprise a thermoplastic elastomer, preferably configured as pliable and having an ability to be stretched without becoming deformed. Preferably, the thermoplastic elastomer possesses a moisture vapor transfer rate (MVTR) below about 15 grams per square meter per day such that the hydrogel contained therein will be less inclined to lose water concentration due to evaporation. The thermoplastic elastomer may be a thermoplastic elastomer alloy such as Versaflex™ CL2250 (PolyOne, McHenry, Ill., USA) and may be dimensioned between about 0.5 mm and 5 mm in thickness, preferably about 0.8 mm in thickness.
In other embodiments, a desiccant is contained within the force-distributing cranial support 100, preferably within the pad layer 140 or inner envelope layer 146, such desiccant is preferably adapted to absorb moisture from the subject that passes through the patient oriented face 106. As alternatives, the desiccant may be oriented with the inner pad layer 140, the outer pad layer 142, or as a powder or pellets situated between any of the plurality of layers of the force-distributing cranial support 100. So positioned, the desiccant may provide a moisture gradient from the subject to the force-distributing cranial support 100 to promote the transmission of moisture away from the subject. Other powered or non-powered means may also be substituted for, or used in conjunction with such desiccant to enhance the moisture gradient.
In other embodiments, the gel assembly 138 further comprises one or more regions wherein the inner envelope layer 146 and the outer envelope layer 148 are adhered or bonded together selectively, for instance by welding, in one or more regions to limit the effective thickness of the gel assembly 138 in that region thus preventing the gel layer 142 moving through or existing in the one or more regions. These one or more regions may be linear, circular, curvilinear, or any polygon in shape. In use, these one or more regions may limit the movement of the gel layer 142 within the gel assembly 138 in a manner so as to maintain gel throughout the gel assembly 138 even as an external force is applied locally thereon.
The force dispersing properties and the concave curvature of the occipital cup portion 118 are facilitated by the interacting shapes of each gel element 148, 152 a, 152 b, and 153, each outer pad layer element 154, 156 a, and 156 b, and each environment-face component 108, 110 a, and 110 b, which shapes are characterized in part by their various edges. The edges of the medial outer pad element 154 facing the two outer lateral pad elements 156 a and 156 b are essentially shaped as an obtuse angle. Similarly, the edges of each of the two lateral environmental-face components 110 a and 110 b facing the medial environmental-face component 108 are shaped as obtuse angles also.
Referring again to FIG. 1, the shape and other characteristics of the occipital cup 118 and wings 128 a, 128 b of force-distributing cranial support 100 allow the support 100 to be operatively positioned on the subject's head 210 in a way that distributes forces that would otherwise risk cranial molding, while simultaneously allowing open access to various key surfaces of the subject's head 210. Particularly, the force-distributing cranial support 100 has an inherent three-dimensional characteristic suited to circumferentially envelope or wrap around the head 210 of the subject 200 while preferably leaving the crown 211 of the subject's head 210 exposed for therapeutic or diagnostic access. As will also be appreciated from the operative position illustrated in FIG. 1, the preferred operative position of force-distributing cranial support 100 also leaves the subject's face 215, frontal neck 225, and ears 219 a and 219 b unobstructed. Hence, the subject 200 retains its natural abilities to use its hearing and vision senses, as well as its nose 217 and mouth 218, substantially unimpeded despite having force-distributing cranial support 100 secured in its operative position on head 200. To effectively distribute force externally applied to the subject's head 210, the force-distributing cranial support 100 will ideally be essentially in contact therewith. However, the environmental oriented face 104, the patient oriented face 106, the gel assembly 138, inner pad layer 140, and the outer pad layer 142 are all essentially flat, having no inherent concavity in preferred embodiments. Despite such lack of inherent concavity, the combined shapes, construction, and materials uniquely combine to promote a concave structure.
Referring again to FIG. 3, it was surprisingly found that by shaping the opposing edges of medial environmental-face component element 108 and the lateral environmental-face components 110 a and 110 b as obtuse angles, that when stitched together transform the individual two-dimensional elements into a three-dimensional concave form. Further, by matching the shapes and angles of the medial environmental-face component element 108 and the lateral environmental-face components 110 a and 110 b with the medial outer pad element 154 and the lateral outer pad elements 156 a and 156 b, the outer pad layer 142 can then be affixed to the concave shape of the environmental oriented face 104 maintaining this shape. Most surprisingly, it was also found that the gel assembly 138 with the gel elements 150, 152 a, and 152 b could be forcibly affixed to the concave shape of the outer pad layer 142, with the flexible seams between the gel elements 150, 152 a, and 152 b providing sufficient conformability because of the particular shapes of the seams and of the gel elements 150, 152 a, 152 b, and 153. In another embodiment, it was found that the gel assembly 138 with the gel elements 150, 152 a, and 152 b could be forcibly affixed directly to the concave shape of the environmental face 104, aligning the flexible seams between the medial gel element 150 and the first and second lateral gel elements 152 a and 152 b with the shapes and angles of the medial environmental-face component element 108 and the lateral environmental-face components 110 a and 110 b, thus resulting in the gel assembly 138 adopting the concavity of the so assembled environmental face 104.
The radius of the resulting concavity is such that the occipital cup portion 118 conforms to the convex shape of the subject's head 210, tucking under the occipital protuberance. It was also found that generating concavity from the two-dimensional materials of the force-distributing cranial support 100 was further promoted by dimensioning the height along line L of the environmental oriented face 104 and the patient oriented face 106 slightly differently. Specifically and surprisingly, dimensioning the height of the patient oriented face 106 between only about 2 mm to 5 mm less than the height of the environmental oriented face 104 contributed to a cupping effect when the two faces 104 and 106 are joined in construction.
In the gel layer 144, the medial gel element 150 may be between about 2 cm and about 8 cm at its widest dimension and between about 1 cm and about 4 cm at its narrowest dimension. The distance separating the medial gel element 150 and each of the lateral gel elements 152 a and 152 b is between about 0.2 cm and about 1 cm, approximately equidistant along a curved path. The overall width of each of the lateral gel elements 152 a and 152 b is between about 2 cm and about 10 cm. The encapsulated inferior gel element 153 follows a curve defined by the base of the medial gel element 150 and the two lateral gel elements 152 a and 152 b, separated by between about 0.2 cm and about 1 cm and extending in width between about 2 cm and about 10 cm. Orthogonal to the width of the medial gel element 150, the height of the medial gel element 150 is between about 2.5 cm and about 10 cm. When combined with the separation between the medial gel element and the encapsulated gel element of the inferior gel element 153, the height of the collection of gel elements 150, 152 a, 152 b, and 153 of the gel layer 144 is between about 4 cm and about 11 cm.
Another component of the gel assembly 138, the inner pad layer 140 is dimensioned with a similar aspect ratio to the gel assembly 138, scaled between about 110% and about 50% of the gel assembly 138, preferably between about 85% and about 75%. The medial outer pad element 154 is shaped similarly to the medial gel element 150 and is dimensioned between about 90% and about 120% of the medial gel element 150.
In some embodiments, taken together, the force-distributing cranial support 100 is dimensioned to fit a head. In some preferred embodiments, the force-distributing cranial support 100 is dimensioned to fit the head of an infant. To facilitate proper sizing to a range of infants from premature to toddler, the force-distributing cranial support 100 may be constructed in multiple sizes, for instance a small, a medium, and a large unit. By way of an illustrative example, the small size may be dimensioned to fit the head of an infant with a circumference at the widest plane from about 23 cm to about 30 cm, the medium from about 28 cm to about 33 cm, and the large from about 33 cm to about 38 cm. To provide for this, given sufficient overlap of the first and second wings 124 a and 124 b, in one preferred embodiment the tip-to-tip measurement of the patient oriented face 106 as shown in FIG. 2 may be about 34 cm for the small size, about 41 cm for the medium size, and about 48 cm for the large size. The height of the force-distributing cranial support 100 along line L of FIG. 2 from the caudal edge 114 to the cephalic edge 112, in some preferred embodiments, is about 60 mm for the small size, about 76 mm for the medium size, and about 90 mm for the large size. The width of the occipital cup portion 118, as defined by the edge-to-edge measurement at the bilateral ear accommodating arches 132, in an embodiment is about 7 cm for the small size, about 10 cm for the medium size, and about 15 cm for the large size. It is understood that to accommodate heads of other sizes, that appropriately proportioned dimensions could be readily used for the force-distributing cranial support 100 without deviating from the invention.
As noted in the description of the composition of the gel layer 144 previously, the gel layer 144 is thin. When combined with the other components of the cushion assembly 136, the cushion assembly 136 is also thin. The inner pad layer 140 and the outer pad elements 154, 156 a, and 156 b may have an uncompressed thickness of between about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm, preferably between about 1 mm and about 2 mm. Thus the combined thickness of the cushion assembly 136 is between about 3 mm and about 30 mm, preferably between about 6 mm and about 14 mm and the overall thickness of the force-distributing cranial support 100 at the occipital cup portion 118 is between about 5 mm and about 32 mm, preferably between about 8 mm and about 16 mm.
In other embodiments, the gel assembly 138 is adhered directly to the patient oriented face 106 in a manner than brings together the opposing edges of each notch caused the gel assembly 138 to cup into a concave shape. The outer pad layer 142 may be adhered to the gel assembly 138 in an essentially overlapping position and may also be adhered to the environmental oriented face 104.
In some embodiments, the cup-like combination of the gel assembly 138, in the inner pad layer 140, and the outer pad layer 142 are positioned between the patient oriented face 106 and the environmental oriented face 104, the environmental oriented face 104 comprising the medial environmental-face component 108 and the lateral environmental-face components 110 a and 110 b. In this manner, the patient oriented face 106 provides a continuous uninterrupted surface, without seams, folds, overlaps, or any other discontinuities, to the subject's head 210 when deployed thereby minimizing pressure concentrations on the skin of the subject's head 210.
As can be seen in FIG. 3, the medial edges 111 a and 111 b of the two lateral environmental-face components 110 a and 110 b, respectively, and the lateral edges 109 a and 109 b of the medial environmental-face component 108 are all preferably curvilinear and convex relative to their respective component panels 110 a, 110 b and 108 of environmental surface 104. Despite such convexly curvilinear nature, during fabrication of force-distributing cranial support 100, opposite ones of these convexly curvilinear edges 109 a-b and 111 a-b are essentially opposed to one another such that, if laid flat, they curve in opposite directions from one another. So positioned and shaped, the medial environmental-face component 108 and the lateral environmental-face components 110 a and 110 b are affixed along their facing edges 110 a-b and 111 a-b, for instance via sewing, in a manner such that the medial edge of each lateral environmental-face components 110 a and 110 b is affixed to the lateral edge of the medial environmental-face component 108. More specifically, the convexly curvilinear course of medial edge 111 a is assembled and joined to align with the oppositely-curved lateral edge 109 a. Likewise, medial edge 111 b is assembled and joined to align with the oppositely-curved lateral edge 109 a. As a result, in a seemingly incongruous manner, their respective curvilinear courses are assembled and permanently joined to align with one another despite their opposite curvature, to unite panels 108, 110 a and 110 b to form a unitary environmental face 104. The result also produces a three-dimensional contour for environmental face 104, which in turn creates a predisposition to flex various other layers of force-distributing cranial support 100 to thereby form the contour of occipital cup 118 in a manner that tends to conform with the occipital region 212 of a neonatal subject's head 210. In addition to the incongruous joinder of oppositely curved edges that form internal seams within environmental oriented face 104, cephalic edge 114 of force distributing cranial support 100 is also formed by the union of oppositely curved edges 109 c and 107 c. More particularly, the cephalic edge 109 c of the medial environmental panel 108 is concavely curved in the cephalic direction while the mating cephalic edge 107 c of patient oriented face 106 is convexly curved in the cephalic direction. Again, despite such opposite curvatures, edges 109 c and 107 c are flexed into alignment and sewn together during fabrication of force-distributing cranial support 100. Such incongruous joinder to form cephalic edge 114 further contributes to ensuring the three-dimensional concavity of occipital cup 118, as do other incongruous joinders within the construction of force-distributing cranial support 100.
The curves of the medial environmental-face component 108 and the lateral environmental-face components 110 a and 110 b are shaped and positioned in such a manner as to provide a similar amount of concavity as the cup-like combination of the gel assembly 138, the inner pad layer 140, and the outer pad layer 142. The piping 130 affixed, for instance via sewing, around the perimeter of both the environmental oriented face 104 and the patient oriented face 106, securing the plurality of layers therewithin. In other embodiments, the environmental oriented face 104 and the patient oriented face 106 are sown around the perimeter of both, effecting the assembly of the force-distributing cranial support 100.
When so placed on an infant, the force distribution apparatus, because of its particular features and characteristics, distributes external forces away from the area of contact between the tissue and an external surface as a smaller force over a larger area. Without being limited to any particular theory, this distribution of pressure may reduce skin interface pressures on areas of the soft tissue where compressive forces are otherwise concentrated and, hence, tend to cause partial or complete capillary collapse. Such capillary collapse may lead to pressure ulcers, pressure sores, skin breakdown, decubitus ulcers, or other pathophysiologic conditions. The force distribution apparatus may thus be prophylactically affixed to the human in a manner to reduce pressure in an at-risk area to prevent such pathophysiology.
When affixed to the head of the infant, the force-distributing cranial support 100 is configured to reduce compressive forces on soft, flexible cranial plates that define a cranial cavity. The force-distributing cranial support cradles the head, further promoting the proper development of the infant's head, reducing the incidence, preventing, or treating the development of plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and dolichocephaly (referred to collectively as, “positional cranial molding” or, simply, “cranial molding”). The reduction of the development of cranial molding may permit the normal growth of brain tissue within the cranial cavity, perhaps positively affecting cognitive developmental. In use, the force-distributing cranial support 100 can be applied to the head of a prematurely born infant, born less than 36 weeks gestational age (otherwise known as menstrual age), a full-term infant, a toddler, or any age in between. The force-distributing cranial support 100 can be applied at any time but is especially useful when the infant is lying in a supine position.
Irrespective of the particular purpose for using the force-distributing cranial support 100, its purpose is achieved by orienting and circumferentially securing the force-distributing cranial support 100 in place. To do so, referring again to FIG. 1, the force-distributing cranial support 100 is placed on the subject's head 210, and the first and second wings 124 a, 124 b are releasably affixed together to close the head strap portion 120 snugly or securely over the forehead 214 of the subject 200. As the first and second wings 124 a, 124 b come together, the force-distributing cranial support 100 achieves a deployed shape that is essentially elliptical as viewed from the cephalic—caudal projection. Surprisingly, the caudal edge arch 134 results in an essentially flat caudal edge 114 and the cephalic edge arch 132 results in an essentially flat cephalic edge 112 when so deployed.
In other embodiments, a thermal retention cap is removably attached to the force-distributing cranial support 100 with a fastening system. The fastening system may be positioned along the perimeter of the thermal retention cap and proximate the cephalic edge 112 and may comprise a hook and loop apparatus, magnets of opposite polarity, a tongue-and-groove mechanism, or any other system capable of removable attachment. A patient-facing surface of the thermal retention cap may be comprised of the textile of the force-distributing cranial support 100 and may be constructed of the same plurality of layers as the force-distributing cranial support 100. In other embodiments, the thermal retention cap may comprise an insulation material configured to retain heat from the subject's head near the subject rather than escaping to the environment. This may provide a therapeutic benefit to the subject, especially when the subject is an infant due to the poor inherent thermal regulation abilities of infants. In addition, the thermal retention cap may also be used in conjunction with a hypothermia-inducing fluid-filled headgear system in a manner to prevent environmental thermal conditions from influencing the cool therapeutic temperature of the headgear system.
Referring to FIG. 4, another preferred embodiment is shown, where the force-distributing cranial support 100 further comprises a sensor 164 and a processing unit (not shown). When the force-distributing cranial support 100 is deployed on a subject's head 210, the proximity of the force-distributing cranial support 100 to the subject's head 210 affords the opportunity to sense physical and physiologic variables associated with the use of the force-distributing cranial support 100 or the condition of the subject. The processing unit is in data communication with the sensor 164 and may be configured to transform data from the sensor 164 for a display 166 with which it is in data communication, for transmission to another device or system, or both. The display 166 may be a flexible liquid crystal display (LCD) affixed to the force-distributing cranial support 100. The physical and physiologic variables may be transmitted from the processing unit to the display 166 to provide clinical information for the user caring for the subject. The physical and physiologic variables may also be transmitted to a remote system such as a patient monitoring system, a remote display unit, a clinical network, a patient data management system, or similar information management system. The processing unit may also comprise a transmitting unit, configured to enable communication between the processing unit and the remote system. The transmitting unit may employ any electromagnetic mechanism for data communication. These electromagnetic mechanisms may include but are not limited to physical connection of lead wires whether digital or analog in nature, a radio-frequency transmission such as ultrahigh frequency radio waves as specified in the Bluetooth communication protocol, a radio-frequency query system such as radio-frequency identification (RFID) system, or an infrared transceiver such as specified by the Infrared Data Association (IrDA).
In some embodiments, the sensor 164 is a pressure sensor such as a strain gauge sensor adapted to detect and quantify the pressure between the subject's head and the patient oriented face 106 of the force-distributing cranial support 100. For minimal interference and readings that most closely reflect conditions at the head 210, such a pressure sensor 164 is preferably mounted within the multiple layers of force-distributing cranial support 100. For instance, as illustrated in phantom line in FIG. 3, sensor 164 is positioned between the gel layer 144 and patient oriented face 106. The processing unit is configured to transform data from the sensor 164 into a numeric value in appropriate units, for instance millimeters of mercury (mmHg), that are then shown on the display 166. In other embodiments, the processing unit compares the pressure detected by the sensor 164 with a threshold value that may be indicative of a pressure suitable for efficacious use of the force-distributing cranial support 100. When a pressure sensed exceeds the threshold value, the display 166 will so indicate. This may provide feedback to the user regarding the proper deployment of the force-distributing cranial support 100.
In other embodiments, the sensor 164 is a position-detecting sensor such as an inclinometer, a gyroscope, or an accelerometer. In some embodiments, the sensor 164 is a triple-axis gyroscope device such as an InvenSense ITG-3701 chip. In other embodiments, such a sensor 164 is a six-axis device that combines gyroscope and accelerometer functionality in the form of laser, fiber optic or solid state devices or the like that are suitable for being mountable on circuit boards, such as an InvenSense MPU-6500 chip. The sensor 164 detects the orientation of the head of the subject, for instance whether the subject is in a lying position and if so, whether the subject is laying prone, supine, or lateral. Alternately, the sensor 164 detects whether the subject is moving rapidly as my be the case if the subject is an infant and is moving in a rapid manner as would be expected during alert play or engagement with the environment. Periodically the processing unit communicates with the sensor 164, passing this orientation information from the sensor 164 to the processing unit where it is stored in memory within the processing unit. In some embodiments, the orientation information is processed within the processing unit, calculating approximate times during which the subject was asleep and awake, and for each of these states, asleep and awake, the fraction of time in a supine, a prone, and a lateral orientation. These data may be shown on display 166, appropriately labeled.
In other embodiments, such data may be communicated by the processing unit to a remote system. When these data are communicated to the remote system, the remote system may further process the fractions of time of sleep and wakefulness, of activity and repose, and of prone, supine and lateral orientation into a clinically engaging report that summarize the subject's activity and orientation. By way of an illustrative example, when the subject is an infant, the report may indicate that the infant was placed in a prone position for sleep twenty-eight days of the previous month. A clinician may consider using this information to guide the parents or caregiver of the infant to encourage them to place the infant in a supine position in compliance with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Safe-To-Sleep guidelines.
In other embodiments, the sensor 164 is an infrared spectroscope oriented within the force-distributing cranial support 100 to emit light towards the subject's head 210. Depending on the amount of light of various wavelengths that is absorbed by the subject's tissue, an amount of light at various wavelengths is reflected back to the infrared spectroscope. Since the absorption is related to the blood within the tissue, the infrared spectroscope provides an indication of local blood flow and the systemic cardiac cycle. The processing unit obtains the data from the sensor 164 and may quantify local blood flow in a region of the subject's head 210, the oxygen saturation of the arterial blood in the tissue proximate the sensor 164, the heart rate of the subject, the respiration rate of the subject, or an estimate of the fluid status of the subject, for instance by calculating the pulse pressure variation. Other calculations based on an infrared spectroscope care also possible. The aforementioned physiologic variables may be collectively referred to as cardiopulmonary variables. The cardiopulmonary variables may be transmitted from the processing unit to the display 166 and may also be transmitted to a patient monitoring system, a remote display unit, a clinical network, a patient data management system, or similar information management system.
In still other embodiments, the sensor 164 is an ultrasonic transceiver oriented to insonify the subject's head 210, often through a fontanel with ultrasound waves and to receive reflected ultrasound waves subsequently reflected from structures therewithin. The ultrasound transceiver is adapted to transmit and received wavelengths between about 20 KHz and about 1 GHz and more preferably between about 1 MHz and 20 MHz. The processing unit in data communication with the sensor 164 is configured to analyze Doppler shifts in a received signal to assess cranial anatomy, physiology, or pathophysiology. By way of non-limiting examples, this includes intracranial pressure, cranial cavity volume measurements, cerebral blood flow, cerebral blood volume, carotid artery occlusions, ventricle volume measurements, and parenchymal perfusion. Such measurements and data may be transmitted by the processing unit to a remote display unit, a clinical network, a patient data management system, or similar information management system.
In other embodiments, the sensor 164 is a temperature sensor such as a thermocouple or a thermistor. The sensor 164 may be positioned proximate a portion of the subject's head 210 such as by the forehead 214 or a temporal bone. The data from the sensor 164 is processed by the processing unit and communicated via a data communication to the display 166. Tracking the subject's temperature or changes in the subject's temperature, especially when the subject is an infant known to have poor intrinsic temperature regulation capabilities, may provide useful clinical guidance. The clinical guidance may result in a clinician deploying the thermal retention cap on the force-distributing cranial support 100 or, alternately, detaching the thermal retention cap from the force-distributing cranial support 100.
In other embodiments, the sensors 164 include a tympanic temperature sensor with a sensing element (not shown) connected to a surface of the force-distributing cranial support 100 at a location over or near one of the ear-accommodating arches 126, in an orientation that is directed toward the adjacent ear 219 of the subject 200. The tympanic temperature sensor may preferably include a soft memory foam surrounding an infrared temperature sensor element or other temperature sensor element including, for instance, a thermocouple or thermistor. The infrared temperature sensor element may be a ZTP-135BS Thermopile IR Sensor (GE Measurement & Control, Billerica, Mass.). The tympanic temperature sensor may be held in place in operation with the soft memory foam that is sized to fit snugly in the ear 219 of the subject, shielding the ambient environment from the sensor element in a manner that minimizes the interference with the measurement of the temperature of the subject. Alternative embodiments and configurations for sensors usable for detecting the temperature, Sa02 or other health related conditions of subject 200 will also be understood by those of skill in the art, which may also or alternatively be incorporated in force-distributing cranial support 100 as part of sensors 164.
Referring now to FIG. 5, in yet another representative embodiment, an accessory-ready variation 100′ of the force-distributing cranial support 100 further includes an anchor system 168 that allows for connecting and/or supporting accessories to cranial support 100′. But for the unique adaptations described here, the accessory-ready variation 100′ is generally identical to the force-distributing cranial support 100 of FIGS. 1-3. In some embodiments of the accessory-ready variation 100′, the anchor system 168 comprises one or more anchor apparatus 170 (FIG. 5 only showing two such apparatus 170, which are particularly designated as apparatus 170 a and 170 b). Each such anchor apparatus 170 are preferably securely integrated with the force-distributing cranial support 100′ on its environmental surface 104. The principle purpose for anchor apparatus 170 is for connecting and supporting accessories or other objects to the force-distributing 100′. Such anchor apparatus 170 are preferably three or more in number, to provide enhanced stability for the support of accessories that may be anchored to anchor apparatus 170, particularly for supporting accessories that may contribute to the health of the subject, such as for the support of a ventilator tube 300 or the like relative to the mouth 218 of the neonatal subject 200. More particularly, anchor apparatus 170 are most preferably four in number, located on environmental surface 104 in two positions on the left side and two positions on the right side of the subject's head 210—above and below each ear 219 when force-distributing cranial support 100 is in an operative position—as illustrated by the locations of the two anchor apparatus 170 shown in FIG. 5.
Referring to FIG. 6 in conjunction with FIG. 5, each of the anchor apparatus 170 preferably serve their general purpose by providing anchor positions for securely connecting an accessory securement system 172. Then, once securely connected to the multiple anchor apparatus 170, the accessory securement system 172 in turn supports an accessory such as tube 300 in a suitable position for its intended operation relative to the mouth 218 of neonatal subject 200.
In some embodiments, each anchor apparatus 170 has a main body 171 that defines a primary connection point 174 for connecting objects or accessories to force-distributing cranial support 100. Each such primary connection point 174 is preferably in the form of a female receptacle 174 that is sized to receive a corresponding end 188 of the struts 180, 182 of accessory securement system 172. The main body 171 of each anchor apparatus 170 may also incorporate a spring-based latch mechanism for releasably retaining the end 188 of the corresponding strut 180, 182 that is inserted into female receptacle 174. The spring-based latch mechanism of each main body 171 is spring-biased to retain the corresponding end 188 that is fully inserted in the female receptacle 174, preferably by spring-biasing a pawl or the like to securely engage a groove 189 or other feature of the strut end 188 when it is fully inserted in receptacle 174. As is conventional for spring-biased latch mechanisms, the latch mechanism of each main body 171 may be operated to selectively release the strut end 188 by actuating finger release tabs 176 on main body 171. Preferably, tabs 176 are embodied as opposing finger release tabs 176 a and 176 b, which are oriented on opposite sides of each main body 171. The latch mechanisms are configured to release the strut end 188 by manually squeezing the two opposite finger release tabs 176 a and 176 b toward each other, in a manner such that the travel of the finger release tabs 176 is essentially perpendicular to the female receptacle 174. In some preferred embodiments, the anchor apparatus 170 further comprise a cleat 178 located an outer surface of the anchor apparatus 170 for enabling a second mode of attaching objects or accessories relative to force-distributing cranial support 100.
Referring again to FIG. 7, in the illustrated preferred embodiment, four anchor apparatus 170 include a first pair of the anchor apparatus 170 a and a second pair of anchor apparatus 170 b. Although the view of FIG. 7 only shows one anchor apparatus of each such pair (170 a and 170 b, respectively), it should be understood that each such pair includes the one as shown on the right side of the head 210, together with another similar one (not shown) on the opposite, left side of the head 210.
Each anchor apparatus 170 a of the first pair is positioned proximate the cephalic edge 112 of force-distributing cranial support 100, generally either on the occipital cup portion 118 or on the head strap portion 120. That first pair of anchor apparatus 170 a is referred to collectively as the cephalic anchor apparatus 170 a. The female receptacle 174 of the cephalic apparatus is oriented towards the head strap portion 120. Similarly, each anchor apparatus 170 b of the second pair is positioned proximate the caudal tab 122 of the respective left and right sides of the force-distributing cranial support 100. That second pair of anchor apparatus 170 b is referred to collectively as the caudal anchor apparatus. The female receptacles 174 of the caudal anchor apparatus 170 b are oriented essentially parallel to the female receptacles 174 of the cephalic anchor apparatus 170 b.
In some embodiments, the accessory securement system 172 comprises cephalic arch member 180, a caudal arch member 182, and a connecting member 184, the caudal arch member 182 being essentially parallel to the cephalic arch member 180 and the connecting member 184 being affixed to the cephalic arch member 180 and the caudal arch member 182. The connecting member 184 may have the shape of a shaft, an ovoid, a triangle, a plurality of shafts, a stylized heart, a polygon, or other curvilinear projection. The connecting member 184 may be essentially centered relative to the cephalic arch member 180 and the caudal arch member 182. The cephalic arch member 180, caudal arch member 182, and connecting member 184 may each comprise a material or materials that provide a semi-rigid yet resilient structure, somewhat yieldingly resisting deflection. The cephalic arch member 180, caudal arch member 182, and connecting member 184 may each be coated with a soft, wipeably cleanable, hypoallergenic material that facilitates use in a clinical environment and reduces a risk of marring, scratching, injuring, or traumatizing a subject's head 210 or the skin thereon. The cephalic arch member 180 and the caudal arch member 182 each further comprise two proximal male ends oriented at the ends opposite of a medial aspect of the arch.
A cleat 178 similar to the cleat 178 of the anchor apparatus 170 may be oriented on the cephalic arc member or the caudal arch member 182. The cephalic arch member 180 and the caudal arch member 182 may also each further comprise a length of elastic material oriented between the medial aspect of the arch and each of the two proximal male ends, the elastic material that resists stretching the medial aspect from the two proximal male ends. In use, the elastic material may help keep the accessory securement system 172 proximate the subject's head 210 even as clinically indicated devices are introduced under, in, or on the accessory securement system 172. In an alternate embodiment, the material of the cephalic arch member 180 and the caudal arch member 182 comprises an elastic property that resists stretching the medial aspect away from the two proximal male ends. The two proximal male ends of the cephalic arch member 180 and the caudal arch member 182 are shaped and sized to be insertable into the female receptacle 174 of the anchor apparatus 170. The two proximal male ends of the cephalic arch member 180 and the caudal arch member 182 may also be configured to have a mating latch mechanism for the anchor apparatus 170. In some preferred embodiments, the cephalic arch member 180 is mateable to the cephalic anchor apparatus and the caudal arch member 182 is mateable to the caudal anchor apparatus 170.
Referring now to FIG. 7, the connecting member 184 comprises a plurality of pin receptacles 186 oriented along a face of the connecting member 184, the face being oriented distal to the force-distributing cranial support 100. The plurality of pin receptacles 186 may be configured as an internal indent.
Referring now to FIG. 8, the accessory securement system 172 further comprises an accessory adapter 188. The accessory adapter 188 is adapted with a transverse bar 190, which is formed integrally with an accessory receiver 192 as well as one or more bar connecting pins 194. The bar connecting pins 194 are located proximate to ends of the bar 190 and oriented perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the bar 190. In a preferred embodiment, the accessory adapter 188 comprises two bar connecting pins 194 proximate opposite ends of the bar 190 and parallel to one another. The accessory acceptor 190 may be a clasp, port, holder, clamp, or other mechanism suitable to secure a patient care accessory used in the treatment of the subject. Examples of such patient care accessories include endotracheal tubes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) masks, tracheostomy tubes, nasogastric tubes, sensor cables, or any other suitable catheter, cable, wire, mask, eyeshade, or other apparatus. The bar connecting pin 194 provides a secure but releasable connection to one of the plurality of pin receptacles 186 of the connecting member 184. In other embodiments, the connecting member 184 is hingedly connected to a covering element having the same shape as the connecting member 184, the covering element oriented to close down on the face of the connecting member 184 having the plurality of pin receptacles 186 in a latching manner to secure the bar 190 of the accessory adapter 188 in place.
Still referring to FIG. 8, the accessory acceptor 190, in an embodiment, comprises an acceptor body and an ovoid shaped aperture defined by the acceptor body, the acceptor body hingedly split in two pieces along a longitudinal axis of the aperture, permitting the acceptor body to accept one of the patient care accessories. The two pieces of the acceptor body are affixably connected via any acceptable method including latches, magnets, threaded screw and socket, clamps, elastic band, twist connector, or other suitable mechanism. In use, the accessory adaptor may be positioned on the connecting member 184 in a position to orient the patient care accessory appropriately for its intended use. By way of an example, the aperture of the accessory acceptor 190 may be positioned over a subject's mouth 218 in the event that the used patient care accessory is an endotracheal tube, or over a subject's nose 217 in the event that the used patient care accessory is a CPAP mask. In some embodiments, the acceptor body surrounding the aperture is coated in a colored marking material such as an ink that will mark the patient care accessory when the body of the accessory acceptor 190 is secured around the patient care accessory. In use, this may provide an indication if the patient care accessory position moves or changes relative to the acceptor body. By way of an example, should the endotracheal tube begin to become dislodged, the ink smears on the endotracheal tube now exposed from under the acceptor body, to provide a clearly visible indication to a clinician that the endotracheal tube may need to be repositioned in order to avert the risk of an unplanned extubation.
The use of the force-distributing cranial support 100 is now described. The force-distributing cranial support 100 may be deployed by a healthcare professional or a caregiver onto the subject's head 210. The deployment comprises selecting an appropriate size for the force-distributing cranial support 100 such that the patient oriented face 106 of the occipital cup portion 118 is essentially in contact with the back 213 of the subject's head 210 and the head strap portion 120 is able to fit around the forehead 214 of the subject's head 210. The healthcare professional or a caregiver places the occipital cup portion 118 on the back 213 (which encompasses the occipital region 212) of the subject's head 210 and affixes the first wing 124 a to the second wing 124 b.
In use, the head strap portion 120 is moderately tensioned so as to prevent or minimize shifting of the force-distributing cranial support 100. The healthcare professional or a caregiver may then rest the subject onto a surface such as a mattress, in an essentially supine position. This may be a prophylactic deployment if the healthcare professional or a caregiver believes that such a supine position may result in an unsuitable pressure concentration on the back 213 of the subject's head 210, leading perhaps to local ischemia and the subsequent risk of a pressure ulcer or to a pathophysiologic deformation of the subject's head 210 and the subsequent risk of plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and dolichocephaly (referred to collectively as, “positional cranial molding” or, simply, “cranial molding”).
The healthcare professional may periodically remove the force-distributing cranial support 100 from the subject's head 210 to visually assess the condition of the skin of the subject's head 210. This visual assessment may include an evaluation of signs of irritation, erythema, papules, edema, vesicular eruption, or diaphoresis. While the force-distributing cranial support 100 is removed from the subject's head 210, the healthcare professional may measure the circumference of the subject's head 210 to determine if a different sized force-distributing cranial support 100 is appropriate. Neonatal patients in particular and infants in general are likely to have a rapid rate of growth, necessitating the use of progressively larger implements. The force-distributing cranial support 100 may be constructed in a variety of sizes to accommodate subjects of different sizes.
The force-distributing cranial support 100, because of its various characteristics, disperses and distributes the pressure from the area of contact between the surface such as the mattress and the subject's head 210 to a broader area on the subject's head 210 thus lowering the imparted pressure. In other embodiments, the healthcare professional or a caregiver may interventionally deploy the force-distributing cranial support 100 in a similar manner upon observation of an onset of a pressure ulcer or other indication of local ischemia on the subject's head 210. In still other embodiments, the healthcare professional or a caregiver may interventionally deploy the force-distributing cranial support 100 in a similar manner upon observation of an onset of cranial molding.
A subject on whom the force-distributing cranial support 100 is deployed may be receiving critical medical care simultaneously. This care may include continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), mechanical ventilation either through a tracheostomy or an orally placed endotracheal tube, enteral feeding, induced hypothermia, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), light therapy for hyperbilirubinemia, or other therapies that may utilize one or more accessories for delivery of the medical care. Similarly, these subjects may be instrumented for monitoring of physiologic variables possibly including oxygen saturation (Sp02), cerebral oxygenation, electroencephalography (EEG), skin temperature, tympanic temperature, or other physiologic variables that may utilize one or more lead wires or cables. The accessories and lead wires associated with the aforementioned therapies and monitoring modalities will preferably be secured about the subject's head. By way of example, in use, in a preferred embodiment, patients treated with mechanical ventilation would be intubated with an endotracheal tube that would be secured with the accessory adaptor in a manner restricting the migration of the endotracheal tube either out of the trachea or into the right mainstem bronchus. This may be useful in the case when the subject is a neonate for whom the endotracheal tube is uncuffed, in contradistinction to endotracheal tubes sized for use on adult subjects. The uncuffed endotracheal tube is more likely to migrate out of the patient resulting in an unplanned extubation and the subsequent cessation of mechanical ventilation. The semi-rigid yet resilient structure of the accessory securement system 172 or the elastic material of the cephalic or caudal arch members 137 allows for sufficient movement to reduce the risk of blunt trauma to soft tissue of the subject. For instance, in a neonate, axial movement of a properly secured endotracheal tube may be limited to +/−15 mm or preferably +/−7 mm. By way of another example, the application of a multi-electrode EEG sensor with an associated lead wire set or cable may have its lead wire set or cable secured away from the skin of the subject on the accessory securement system 172 or on the cleat 178 of one of the anchor apparatus 170. Other monitoring modality lead wires or cables may be similarly secured. Similarly, tubing or catheters associated with enteral feeding, such as nasogastric tubes, may be secured to the accessory securement system 172 or on the cleat 178 of one of the anchor apparatus 170. Securing the aforementioned lead wires, cables, tubing, or catheters away from the subject may reduce the risk of pressure ulcers and may obviate the need for tape or adhesives to be applied to the skin of the subject.
EXAMPLES
In an unexpected finding, the gel layer 144 dimensioned between about 5 mm and about 10 mm in thickness was dramatically effective at distributing force in a simulated use both by decreasing peak pressure and by increasing the contact area. Indeed, it performs remarkably well in comparison to toroidal pressure distributing devices that are 50% to 400% thicker, dimensioned between about 15 mm and about 20 mm. However, despite being approximately two to three times thicker than the gel layer 144, toroidal pressure distributing devices provide no better pressure reduction. Moreover, the enveloping of the infant's head that the force-distributing cranial support 100 affords provides an inherent stability that may promote a safer or more comfortable environment.
Without being bound to a particular theory, the overall shape and fit of the force-distributing cranial support 100 in combination with the particular aqueous concentration of the gel layer 144 and relative thinness of the gel layer 144 are thought to contribute to the remarkable pressure reducing capabilities of the diminutive force-distributing cranial support 100.
The plots shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 further illustrate the remarkable pressure reducing capabilities of force-distributing cranial support 100. As reflections of offloading capability on the back 213 of the head 210 of a neonatal infant 200, FIGS. 9 and 10 respectively illustrate percentage differences for the peak pressures and contact areas encountered at the points of contact for an infant baby doll (head circumference 12″ and weight approximately 4 lbs) wearing a force-distributing cranial support 100 as generally described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-3.
To prepare the plots of FIGS. 9 and 10, pressure and contact area over time were evaluated using pressure sensors (Tekscan Fscan system) with and without the head 210 of the doll subject being fitted with force-distributing cranial support 100, and the difference with and without is represented in the respective FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. 9 shows the percent differences in peak pressure encountered on the occipital region 212 of the head 210, when comparing use with and without the pressure-distributing cranial support 100, and FIG. 10 shows the corresponding percent differences in contact area with and without the pressure-distributing cranial support 100.
For added perspective, four support conditions are shown in each of FIGS. 9 and 10 (from left to right in each): (1) the left-most bars 401 and 501 representing the comparisons when supported on a hard horizontal surface (designated “Bonn”); (2) the second bars 402 and 502 representing the comparisons when supported on a horizontal infant mattress (designated “Bonn Matt”); (3) the third bars 403 and 503 representing the comparisons when supported on a hard surface that was tilted from the horizontal (designated “Bonn Tilt”); and (4) the fourth, right-most bars 404 and 504 representing the comparisons when supported on an infant mattress that was tilted from the horizontal (designated “Bonn Matt Tilt”).
The study results illustrated in FIG. 9 revealed that all of the selected variables indicated significant off-loading of pressure and increased contact area on the back 213 of the baby doll head 210 for all conditions tested. The force-distributing cranial support 100 offloaded pressures 70% to 86% as illustrated by bars 401 and 402, respectively, in FIG. 9, and all peak pressure conditions were statistically significantly different from each other (see FIG. 9). When an infant mattress was introduced, as represented by both bars 402 and 404, the pressure offloading was further enhanced.
Moreover, despite the thin cross-sectional profile of the force-distributing cranial support 100, the contact area on the back 213 of the head increased between about a low of 220% and to a high of 340% for the conditions tested, as illustrated by bars 503 and 502, respectively, in FIG. 10, and all but one contact area variable was statistically significant from each other (see FIG. 10). When considering just the contact area, the force-distributing cranial support 100 on a mattress (bars 502 and 504) was not significantly different than the force-distributing cranial support 100 on a hard surface (bars 501 and 503, respectively), which may support a view that use of an infant mattress does not significantly influence the contact areas achieved through use of the force-distributing cranial support 100. While care was taken during data collection to reduce variability, the hard surface condition had higher levels of variability most likely due to variations on head and neck position of the baby doll. However, even with the variability, statistical significance was found.
A Tekscan pressure sensor was used to collect pressure profiles of the back of the head on an infant baby doll (head circumference 12″ and weight approximately 4 lbs) for the force-distributing cranial support 100 on different surfaces (Hard surface, Infant Mattress—1″ hard foam with vinyl cover) and for different positions (Laying down supine head vertical, Laying down supine head tilted between about 10° to 20°). The sensor was calibrated by wrapping it around a stainless steel cylinder and an air bladder was used to apply even pressure distribution to the sensor. The calibration was confirmed and adjusted by using a force transducer to apply a known force to the sensor.
During data collection, the sensor was taped to lessen sensor creasing prior to application of each condition. Twelve trials for each condition were collected for five minutes at one-second intervals. Variables of interest are total contact area, peak pressure value, and pressure mapping profile. Averages of the 12 trials for each surface and position were calculated.
The results for peak pressure showed a significant pressure reduction for all of the force-distributing cranial support 100 positions when compared to a hard surface. There was a significant difference in offloading peak pressures between the force-distributing cranial support 100 and a hard surface (69.8% and 78.7%) for both the vertical head and tilted head conditions. In the test condition with the mattress, the force-distributing cranial support 100 increases the reduction percentage to 83.7% for the head-vertical and 83.5% for the head-tilted condition relative to the hard surface. Range of peak pressure reduction for the head positions and surface conditions are from 69.8% to 83.7% reduction. A statistical t-test was used and statistical significance was found for all pressure variables.
In an unexpected finding, during a simulated infant movement test scenario, it was found that infant movement may dislodge the force-distributing cranial support 100. In the test scenario, the force-distributing cranial support 100 was secured to a head of a mannequin, shaped and sized similar to that of a neonatal infant, and this head was mechanically moved in a manner similar to that exhibited by a neonatal patient. A swaddling was placed in a position relative to base of the head of the mannequin as would be expected in a clinical environment. This dislodging of the force-distributing cranial support 100 occurred even as the force-distributing cranial support 100 was secured by means of the head strap portion 120 onto the mannequin, occurring either by the caudal edge 114 abutting swaddling typically used to wrap an infant during a back-arching movement or by the friction of the environmental oriented face 104 against bedding material during shifting of an infant, or both. It was surprisingly found that the separation of the caudal edge 114 of the force-distributing cranial support 100 relative to the proximate edge of the swaddling had a strong impact on the security and stability of the force-distributing cranial support 100. The measure of the caudal to cephalic curve of the occipital cup portion 118 then is a critical dimension. This critical dimension needs to extend sufficiently far to cover the occipital protuberance but not so far as to abut the expected position of swaddling. Further, the radius of the concavity of the occipital cup portion 118 is such that the occipital cup portion 118 is essentially in contact with the subject's head 210.
In another unexpected finding during this simulated infant movement test scenario, the low shear material of the patient oriented face 106 may have contributed to the force-distributing cranial support 100 becoming dislodged from the head of the mannequin in spite of the snug fit provided by the concave occipital cup portion 118 and the head strap portion 120. This finding was replicated in healthy human studies conducted under investigational review board oversight in which it was surprisingly found that the force-distributing cranial support 100 loosened as the infant moved over a sub-one hour period. The addition of the grip-providing substance 162 to the patient oriented face 106 in a revised design provided additional stability to the force-distributing cranial support 100 such that it remained secure on the head of the infant in the healthy human tests. This was a counterintuitive design change in that the focus had been on minimizing shear stress for the infant's skin until it was found that the addition of the grip-providing substance 162 to the patient oriented face 106 in an appropriate pattern resulted in no adverse events relative to skin integrity while providing sufficient stability of the force-distributing cranial support 100.
OTHER VARIATIONS AND COMMENTS
The invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. As particular examples, many aspects of the invention will be appreciated through use of alternative embodiments that incorporate particular apparatus and methods of the prior applications that have been referenced and incorporated herein, or by use of select parts and subassemblies of such apparatus. The embodiments understood from the foregoing descriptions are therefore to be considered in all respects illustrative rather than limiting on the invention described herein. Indeed, numerous other features, objects, advantages, alternatives, variations, equivalents, substitutions, combinations, simplifications, elaborations, distributions, enhancements, improvements or eliminations (collectively, “variations”) will be evident from these descriptions to those skilled in the art. Such variations will be especially evident when these descriptions are contemplated in light of a more exhaustive understanding of the numerous difficulties and challenges faced by the prior art.
All such variations should be considered within the scope of the invention, at least to the extent substantially embraced by the invention as defined in claims that may be associated with this application (including any added claims and any amendments made to those claims in the course of prosecuting this and related applications). In any case, the scope of the invention is thus indicated by such claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are, therefore, intended to be embraced therein.
All references cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. The discussion of the references herein is intended merely to summarize the assertions made by the authors and no admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. Applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinence of the cited references.
1. A force-distributing cranial support comprising:
a concave occipital cup portion and a head strap portion contiguously oriented with said occipital cup portion, said occipital cup portion and said head strap portion further comprising a patient oriented face and an environmental oriented face, said head strap portion adapted to fit around a forehead of an infant whereby said occipital cup is adapted to be brought into contact with a posterior aspect of a head of said infant; a caudal edge oriented towards a neck of said infant and a cephalic edge adapted to be oriented towards a crown of said head of said infant; and a gripping material, said gripping material affixed to said patient oriented face and adapted to be oriented to contact said head of said infant whereby said gripping material promotes resistance to movement of said head of said infant relative to said patient oriented face and, hence promotes resistance to movement of said head of said infant relative to said cranial deformation preventing device, wherein said gripping material has a thickness between 10 microns and 10 millimeters; wherein said occipital cup portion further comprises a force-distributing assembly of one or more force-distributing elements, said force-distributing assembly adapted to distribute a force at a contact point associated with a weight of said head of said infant when said head is placed in said occipital cup portion resting on a surface, whereby distributing the force over an area larger than said contact point reduces peak pressure; wherein said patient oriented face further comprises a material having hypoallergenic, biocompatible, non-irritating properties.
2. A force-distributing cranial support suitable for a head of an infant comprising:
a head strap portion; an occipital cup portion operatively attached to said head strap portion, said occipital cup portion further comprising bilateral caudal tabs and bilateral ear accommodating arches oriented between said bilateral caudal tabs and said head strap portion; a caudal edge adapted to be oriented towards a neck of an infant and a cephalic edge adapted to be oriented towards a crown of a head of said infant; a gel assembly formed to have a concave shape and comprising a gel element of a semi-solid material, said semi-solid material adapted to distribute a force of said head of said infant applied thereon, said gel element encapsulated within an envelope sealed around a perimeter of said envelope thereby maintaining said gel elements in a fixed orientation and location; a padded layer forcibly adhered to said gel assembly, said padded layer being flexible, whereby said padded layer takes on said concave shape of said gel assembly; and a patient oriented face and an environmental oriented face, said patient oriented face comprising a material having hypoallergenic, biocompatible, non-irritating properties, said patient oriented face having a grip-providing substance fixedly applied thereon, adapted to contact said head of said infant, and adapted to facilitate and promote the securement of the force-distributing cranial support during the normal movement of said infant, wherein said grip-providing substance has a thickness between 10 microns and 10 millimeters; wherein said padded layer and said adhered gel assembly are elements of said occipital cup portion of the force-distributing cranial support; wherein said head strap portion is oriented relative to said occipital cup portion such that said head strap portion is adapted to be snugly conformable to a forehead of said infant while said occipital cup portion is operatively positioned adjacent to an occipital region of said head of said infant, said cephalic edge configured to be positioned below said crown of said head, whereby said crown of said head of said infant is uncovered and each of said bilateral ear arches are positioned to be proximate a posterior aspect of an ear of said infant.
3. A force-distributing cranial support suitable for a head of an infant comprising:
an occipital cup portion and an operatively attached head strap portion, said occipital cup portion and said head strap portion having a caudal edge adapted to be oriented towards a neck of an infant and a cephalic edge adapted to be oriented towards a crown of said head of said infant, wherein said force-distributing cranial support has a patient oriented face and an environmental oriented face, said patient oriented face comprising a material having hypoallergenic, biocompatible, non-irritating properties; a gel assembly oriented within said occipital cup portion, said gel assembly comprising a semi-solid material, said semi-solid material adapted to distribute a force of said head of said infant applied thereon, said semi-solid material containedly oriented within said gel assembly; and a padded layer, said gel assembly proximate said padded layer, wherein said padded layer and said gel assembly are elements of said occipital cup portion of said force-distributing cranial support; wherein said head strap portion is configured relative to said occipital cup such that said head strap portion is snugly conformable to a forehead of said infant while said occipital cup portion is operatively positioned adjacent to an occipital region of said head of said infant, said cephalic edge positioned below said crown of said head, whereby said crown of said head of said infant is uncovered.
4. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 3, wherein said environmental oriented face further comprises a medial environmental-face component, a first lateral environmental-face component, and a second lateral environmental-face component, said medial environmental-face component, said first lateral environmental-face component, and said second lateral environmental-face component being shaped with convex mutually facing edges such that when said mutually facing edges are affixed, said first lateral environmental-face component to said medial environmental-face component and said second environmental-face component also to said medial environmental-face component, said combined components of said environmental oriented face adopt a concave three-dimensional shape.
5. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 4, said gel assembly further comprising a medial gel element, a first lateral gel element, and a second lateral gel element, said medial gel element, and said first and second lateral gel elements securely maintained within an envelope sealed around a perimeter of said envelope, said gel assembly having flexing seams between said medial gel element and said first and second lateral gel elements.
6. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 5, wherein said envelope comprises a thermoplastic elastomer.
7. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 5, wherein said gel assembly is affixed to an inner surface of said environmental oriented face, said flexing seams of said gel assembly aligning with said mutually facing edges of said medial environmental-face component, said first lateral environmental-face component, and said second lateral environmental-face component, whereby said gel assembly assumes said concave three-dimensional shape of said environmental oriented face.
8. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 3, wherein said occipital cup portion further comprises:
bilateral caudal tabs oriented on either side of said occipital cup portion along said caudal edge; and bilateral ear accommodating arches oriented between said bilateral caudal tabs and said head strap portion, wherein each of said bilateral ear accommodating arches are configured to be positioned proximate to a posterior aspect of an ear of said infant when said occipital cup portion is held adjacent to an occipital region of said head of said infant.
9. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 3, further comprising a grip-providing substance fixedly applied on a portion of said patient oriented face, said grip-providing substance oriented to contact said head of said infant and adapted to facilitate and promote the securement of said force-distributing cranial support during normal movement of said infant.
10. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 9, wherein said grip-providing substance is a silicone.
11. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 9, wherein said grip-providing substance is applied to said patient oriented face on said occipital cup portion in a pattern around a perimeter of said occipital cup portion that leaves a center area of said patient oriented face uncovered by said grip-providing substance, whereby the grip-providing substance is configured such that when said infant is lying in a supine position, the peak pressure exerted on said head of said infant is exerted directly onto said patient oriented face rather than directly onto said grip-providing substance, and is further configured such that said grip-providing substance remains in contact with said head around said perimeter of said occipital cup portion.
12. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 3, wherein said padded layer comprises a polyethylene foam.
13. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 3, wherein said padded layer further comprises a medial pad element, a first lateral paid element, and a second lateral pad element, said medial pad element, said first lateral pad element, and said second lateral pad element being shaped with convex mutually facing edges and being affixed to an inner surface of said environmental oriented face with said medial pad element aligned with said medial environmental-side component, said first lateral pad element aligned with said first lateral environmental-side component, and said second lateral pad element aligned with said second lateral environmental-side component.
14. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 3, wherein said occipital cup portion is dimensioned along an axis described from said cephalic edge to said caudal edge between about six centimeters and about nine centimeters.
15. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 8, wherein said occipital cup portion is dimensioned between said bilateral ear-accommodating arches between about seven centimeters and about fifteen centimeters.
16. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 1, wherein said gripping material has a thickness of between 50 microns and 250 microns.
17. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 1, wherein said gripping material covers a portion of said patient oriented face.
18. The force-distributing cranial support of claim 1, wherein said environmental-oriented face comprises a flexible textile.
| 2018-05-21 | en | 2018-12-06 |
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